Will Christians Receive Differing Eternal Rewards?
Contents
Part 1 – Scriptures that teach that all Christians receive the same Eternal Reward
- The Laborers in the Vineyard
- The Reward is Eternal Life
- Freely Given All Things
- Sins to be Remembered No More
- Heirs of Eternal Life
Part 2 – Considering Objections
- What about 1 Cor 3:12-15?
- What About the Judgment Seat of Christ?
- Rewards for Doing Good?
- What About John 4:36
- What About the Parable of the Minas?
- Treasures in Heaven
- What About the Special Reward for Pastors?
Part 3 – Why We All Receive the Same Reward
- God dwells in all true Believers
- God works in each Christian
- God uses the Word of God to make believers holy
Eternal Rewards and the Gospel
Introduction
The purpose of this essay is to carefully examine whether Christians will receive differing eternal rewards based on their life as a Christian. Also, the significance of believing in a doctrine that teaches differing eternal rewards will be examined.
Many in Evangelical Christianity believe that Christians receive different eternal rewards based on how devoted to God they are, how obedient they are or how much Christian service or prayer they have done. Sadly, there are many who teach that certain position in the church will receive special rewards (often know as special crowns). In other words, if one attains a supposedly higher state of service or spirituality, then they will be rewarded more in heaven.
They teach that if a Christian lives a rebellious life, yet has believed in Jesus, this Christian will be saved. However, he will not receive the amount of reward or glory that he could have received had been more obedient and lived a holier life. On the other hand, if a Christian works hard, serves the Lord, and is in constant prayer, he may receive great reward, more that other Christians.
The above philosophy does seem to make sense. In human terms, we are used to being rewarded according to how hard we work. For example, one who is willing to put on extra time at work should be rewarded with overtime pay. One who just works a little harder weeding the garden should be rewarded with a better yield. The one who serves the Lord tirelessly should be rewarded with more in heaven. Right?
No, not right. The doctrine is not Scriptural. The Bible teaches that all Christians receive the exact same reward: eternal life in glory. We must never allow our sin-tainted human minds to rationalize that God rewards Christians based on their performance in the flesh. Many well meaning theologians teach that the doctrine of differing eternal rewards is Scriptural and of great value. They isolate various verses from the Bible to support their view and rationalize that this doctrine is what makes Christians work extra hard so to incorrectly place emphasis on Christians desiring reward as a motive for obedience rather than an on-going desire to love God and , therefore, be obedient.
There are some verses in the Bible that are used to seemingly suggest differing eternal rewards. We will examine these Scriptures and see whether they really teach the doctrine of differing eternal rewards.
On the surface, one may think that this study is unimportant. However, we will see that understanding that eternal rewards are the same fir each Christian is a beautiful truth in understanding the nature of salvation, grace and the Gospel itself. We must be immediately very suspicious of a doctrine that teaches that the incentive of more glory is effective in making one more holy. Sadly, many prominent theologians use the doctrine of differing eternal rewards to try to get their flocks to be more holy.
It is important to note that these theologians are usually unable to describe exactly what the differences in eternal rewards may be. Although vehemently teach it, they are unable to articulate how a Christian who is in the presence of God and crowned with an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfadable (1 Pet 1:4) can in some way experience less glory than others. Some theologians have supposed that the difference in reward in heaven has to do with knowing more people who they have led to the Lord. These theologians recognize that the glory in eternal life is unfadable, so they conclude that the difference in reward is the experience and joy of knowing more people in heaven. They reason that the satisfaction of knowing that someone is in heaven because of me’ is great reward. Besides implying a salvation program that is theologically incorrect (i.e. based on works), this reasoning is also riddled with problems to mind (Is 65:17). Therefore, it seems somewhat strained to teach that our reward in heaven has to do with knowing we have brought others into the Kingdom. Finally, other theologians have taught that eternal rewards have to do with differing authority in the Kingdom (i.e. They will be in charge of many cities). However, this reasoning also seems to be lacking since equating reward with authority seems to imply a capitalistic system in which those who are in authority in heaven will own more possessions or will have more reward. The Bible teaches that he who would wish to lead must be servant of all. The Bible does not teach that those in authority will have more reward.
Let us turn and look at the Scriptures to find truth. First, we look at several Scriptures that teach that each believer receives the same reward: eternal life. Then, we will ex amine Scriptures used by some to teach differing eternal rewards and analyze them in their proper context to discover what they really teach. Finally, and most importantly, we will look at why all Christians receive the same reward.
Part 1 – Scriptures that teach that all Christians receive the same Eternal Reward
A. The Laborers in the Vineyard
The passage of Scriptures that teaches that all Christians receive the same eternal reward is the parable Jesus spoke concerning the laborers in the vineyard:
For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive. So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the laborers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny. And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.
Mat 20:1-16
We find this parable a landowner who went out early to hire laborers to work in his vineyard for a penny a day. The landowner also returned at other times of the day and hired other laborers to work in his vineyard. He also agreed with these supplemental workers to pay them a penny a day. Some of these laborers were hired just before the end of the day, but were still to receive the same wages as those who worked all day long.
The ones who worked all day long complained that it was not fair that they were to be paid the same as those who worked just a very short time. However, the landowner corrected them The landowner agreed with each other on what he would be paid. He told them that they would each receive the same wage of a day’s pay.
In our natural flesh condition, we would tend to agree with the workers that the landowner was being unfair. In our current day workplace, we might even file grievances for this seemingly inequitable treatment. It just does not seem right that the landowner should pay the same to those who worked less. However, we must remember that the landowner did not have to hire anyone for the day. He could have done his own work or just hired a few people. Those who stood idle in the marketplace were not on the path to make any money that day. If he decided to be generous with those who only worked a short time, who are we to complain? He did not need to hire anyone if he did not want to. He could have allowed no work to go on that day at all.
The significance of this passage for us is this. We find that the landowner who represents God has every right to reward each of his people equally. That is, God’s grace is free to begin with, so why should we question this grace. He has saved some young in life. He has save some old in age. Yet each are rewarded with eternal life. He has saved some that undergo great persecution even to the loss of their lives. Others are saved in a very pluralistic society where there is very little opposition or physical threat to their lives. Yet, both receive eternal life.
The point to this parable is that those Christians who think they work hard at the Christian life are deserving of more reward should never question the fact that they receive the same reward as every other Christian. We see this summarized in the phrase in verse 16: the last shall be first and the first last. In other words, we see that the last ones who had the lightest workload were rewarded first while the others were rewarded after them. This phrase serves to underscore the fact that there is equality of reward with no favorites played to those who worked longer and harder. All received the same reward: a penny.
By rewarding the ones who went out late in the day the same as the ones who went out early, God is revealing to us that it was His will that He chose to be generous. The actual work performed by those who were sent out into the field late in the day was not all that important. They really did not do all that much labor. But, God in His grace still rewards them with the day’s wage: eternal life.
As Christians, we must all consider ourselves unprofitable servants (Lk 17:7-10). That is, even if we appear to be laboring hard for the kingdom of God, we must still realize that these works are nothing outside the grace of God. We must not be prideful and think that because we hold some important position in the church or have labored very hard at the church that we will receive additional reward in heaven.
B. The Reward is Eternal Life
Let us go on and examine other Scriptures that emphasize the Biblical truth that all believers receive the same reward and that reward is eternal life. We can find this beautifully explained to us in three parallel passages in Matthew, Mark and Luke. Each of these passages helps build on and explain the others. Consider the Matthew passage:
Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, In the generation when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.
Mat 19:27-30
We find in tied passage, godly men who have forsaken all. The disciples of Jesus left all to follow Jesus. They even left behind their homes and families to follow the Lord. They, in effect ask the Lord: what shall we receive for our efforts? We find the Lord answers them in three rewards:
- To sit on 12 thrones judging the tribes of Israel
2 To receive a hundredfold of family and lands
- Everlasting life
Twelve Thrones
Jesus answered that they (12 disciples of Jesus) will sit on twelve thrones judging the 12 tribes. By this, Jesus only in part answered their question. By telling them this, He informed them that they would have responsibility and authority in heaven (see also the story of those sitting at the Lord’s hand in Mk 10:33-45, Mat 20:28). However, in the kingdom of God, responsibility or authority does not equate with reward. One can have great responsibilities, yet only be as a servant. We see this illustrated in the following passage:
And there are also a strife among them, which of them should he accounted the greatest. And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him as he sit at meat or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.
Luke22:24-27 (see also Mat 20:25-28, Mk 10:42-45)
We see here that those who wish to have great responsibility and authority are to be servants in the kingdom. On the sin- tainted earth, we normally equate authority and rulership with great wealth and reward. However, in the kingdom of God, this is not true at all. Those who will be great and have authority will be servants. There will be no special reward for those in authority.
Therefore, we see that just because the twelve disciples are to sit on twelve thrones judging the tribes of Israel, this does not equate with reward at all. Just the opposite is true. Nor does the fact that there are those who are to sit at the Lord’s hand equate to special reward (see Mk10:33-45, Mat 20:20- 28).They who will be in authority are to be servants of all!
Hundredfold of Families and Lands:
Continuing in Mat 19:27-30, Jesus went on to answer the crux of their question concerning rewards. Those who have left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, wife or children will receive a hundredfold eternal life. Now, on the surface, one may say: you see there is differing rewards those who are dedicated that they put the Lord before their own families will receive a hundredfold.
To answer this objection, consider this. First, we should note that Jesus ends his statement with the same phrase we looked at before: many shall be last, and those last shall be first. By this phrase, He was teaching that God’s ways achieve will not be rewarded more than others.
Also, when we examine the Scriptures, we find that differing eternal rewards cannot be the meaning to this passage. First, we see that, spiritually speaking, all believers leave their families (brothers, sisters, mother, father, wives, children) when they become saved. The Scriptures teaches that if one does not put Christ before his own family, this is a mark of an unbeliever (see Lk14:26, mat 10:37). Therefore, in God’s eyes, all true believers have left their families in the sense that Christ now comes first in their lives.
Secondly, when we look at the parallel verses in Mark and Luke, we find that receiving a ‘ hundredfold’ refers to rewards in life, not eternity.
Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.
Mk 10:28-31(emphasis added)
Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake, Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
Lk 18:28-30 (emphasis added)
We see Mark 10:30 and Luke 18:30 that the hundredfold of houses, brothers, sisters, children, and lands is what is received now in this time. This undoubtedly refers to the great blessing received when others are brought into the kingdom through salvation. The houses likely refer to the local bodies of believers (i.e. churches) and the blessing of the kingdom of God received in life. The land refers to the ‘promised land’ that relates to salvation itself. The brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers refers to the gained relationship of other believers in the Lord. Throughout the New Testament, other believers are referred to as being in our family.
Eternal Life:
For the purposes of our study, simply need to recognize that the only reward that is received in eternity is eternal life itself. The Scripture does not teach differing rewards in heaven! In the above parallel passages, we find that the hundredfold of families and lands refer to benefits received in this life of being in the body of Christ. The disciples sitting on thrones judging refers to differing authorities in heaven. We remember that differing authority does not equate with differing rewards as is the case on this sin-tainted earth. Finally, we see that the Lord’s response to the question concerning differing eternal rewards is this: we shall all receive the same reward of eternal life.
In summary, we have seen through these parallel passages that the reward received in eternity is eternal life. The ‘hundredfold reward’ is that reward received in this life as we blessed with the expanding effects of the kingdom of God. Therefore, these passages support the Scriptural truth that there are not differing rewards in eternity.
C. Freely Given All Things
He that spared not his own Son, delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.
Ro 8:32-33
We find here a bold declaration in verse 32 that we, as Christians are freely given all things. This is a grand promise to all Christians. The term ‘all things’ points to the fact there will not be differing rewards. Otherwise, the significance of this statement would be lost. If differing rewards were true, how could it be said that we are all to receive all things? The word freely points to the fact that it is by God’s grace that we are what we are. We all are deserving of hell, yet he condescends to freely give us all things. As verse 33 instructs us, how can anyone lay a charge to God’s elect? God is in the business of saving by His grace. How could we be deprived of all things? This is supported in the previous verses:
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we say then say to these things? If God before us, Who can be against us?
Ro 8:28-31
We see in these verses the sovereignty of God. God is sovereign in the salvation process. All things happen to the overall betterment of those in the kingdom of God. God is in control! How could it be that we can resist the will of God in His process of foreknowing, predestinating, calling, justifying, and glorifying?
We are called completely by the grace of God and according to his will (Ro 9:15-16, James 1:18, John 1:12-13). Therefore, God has also given us all things according to His unsearchable will. he has given us all things. All things includes our reward in heaven.
D. Sins to be Remembered No More
Another important Biblical fact to remember is that when we become saved, God will no more remember our sins that are past, present and future are no longer remembered. Consider the following Scriptures (see also Jer 31:34, Ps 25:7, Heb 8:12, Is 38:17):
This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write tem; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
Heb 10:16-17
He will turn again, He will have compassion upon us: he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depth of the sea.
Micah 7:19
I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgression for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.
Is 43:25
If it were the case that the doctrine of differing eternal rewards were true, then it would follow that God does remember our sins. If it were possible that we could gain rewards based on our Christian service then we God’s word not true.
Some will try to rationalize this point by saying that we are rewarded not according to our sins but rather, we are rewarded for our own good works. That is, they attempt to sidestep the Scripture that say God will not judge our sins since they are all covered by the blood of Christ. They sidestep it by asserting that loss of receiving rewards is due to the lack of doing good works. The major Problem with this reasoning is that they assumes that the lack of doing good works is not sin. However, the Bible teaches that we must love of God within all our hearts, soul, strengh5t, and mind (Lk 10:27, Mat 22:37). Therefore, if we do not love God and do not serve Him as much as we are able, then this is sin since it is transgression of what God’s word teaches us to do. Therefore, the lack of doing good works if we are able is sin. This is known as the sin of omission. He who knows to do well and does not do it, to him it is sin (James 4:17).
E. Heirs of Eternal Life
The spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ if so be that we suffer with Him, That we may be also glorified together.
Ro 8:16-17
When we were saved, we became joint heirs with Christ. That is, we have entered into the covenant relationship with God. We are as adopted sons who will receive an inheritance because of the death of the testator. Now, if we were true that there’re differing rewards, we would expect to find that, as heirs, we would receive differing inheritances. However, when we study the Bible concerning us being heirs, we find that this is not the case. Throughout the word of God, the inheritance has altogether to do with salvation itself. It never refers to differing rewards in the kingdom. Heb 1:14 Teaches us that we are heirs of salvation. In Hebrews 6:17 and Gal 3:29, we are heirs to the promise. The promise refers to the promise of the land to Abraham, which has to do with our salvation in the kingdom of God (see Gal 3:18, Ro 4:13, James 2:5, Acts 7:5). In 1 Pet 3:7, we see the inheritance to which all Christians are heirs to (see also Titus 3:7, Rev 21:7, Acts 20:32).
Moreover, Col 3:24 teaches us that our reward is that of inheritance:
Knowing that the Lord ye shall receive the reward of inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Col 3:24
We find in 1 Pet 1:4 that this inheritance is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away. If we were to receive different degrees of blessing in the kingdom, this Scripture would not seem to fit since there would be an inheritance that could fade away. But, this is not the case. In 1 Pet 1:4 the Scripture teaches that the inheritance will never fade away or be defiled by our failures in this life!
Moreover, if differing rewards were true, it would follow that we could at different times and stages in our Christian walk be due various rewards. That is, if we are in a valley in our Christian walk when we are not walking as close to the Lord as we should, do we have less reward accounted to us at all time then we did previously? Is reward given and taken depending on our current walk with the Lord? As should be evident from these questions, there is significant problems with the doctrine of different eternal rewards.
Finally, we see in Ro 8:17 that we are joint heirs with Christ. That is, whatever inheritance Christ has, we closely identified with it. In Heb 1:2, we find that the inheritance of Christ is all things. This accords with the truth we learned from Ro 8:32, that we shall receive all things. There is no differing rewards in the kingdom. As Christians, we receive eternal life as our reward.
Part 2 – Considering Objections
Let us turn to look at some popular passages used by those who teach differing rewards. It should be noted that as we study through these objections, it is important to maintain the Biblical principle of interpreting Scripture: Comparing Scripture with Scripture (1Cor 2:13). The reason many can use the Scripture to teach differing eternal rewards is because they either take them out of their context or they do not correctly define the words they are studying in the Bible passage.
A. What about 1 Cor 3:12-15?
Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
1 Cor 3:8, 12-15
This passage is often a classic one used to teach eternal rewards. It is asserted that this passage is teaching that we can build up rewards wit works that are gold, silver and precious stones. When judgment day comes, worthless works of wood, hay, and stubble will be burned away. This person without good works will still be saved but will not receive the reward that the one who did the works of gold, silver and precious stones Therefore, this passage is often used to teach that those who are building with wood, hay and stubble will suffer loss of reward (verse 15).That is, they teach that if we live out our Christian life slothful or in less than desirable way, then we are said to be building with wood, hay and stubble and will lose reward. The passage is used to teach that eternal rewards are earned by how well build on the foundation of Christ. The gold, silver and precious are understood to refer to God glorifying works while wood, hay and stubble are worthless works since they cannot endure the fire of judgment day. These teachers generally understand that those who build with wood, hay and stubble will be saved. Yet, they teach that additional rewards are available, although they usually do not specify what they might be.
The immediate problem with this teaching is that it is a private interpretation of what passage this passage is teaching (2 Pet 1:19-21). This is so since the terms gold, silver, precious stones, wood hay and stubble are incorrectly defined as ‘works’. Nowhere else in the Bible are these terms defined as symbols for the ‘works’ of God’s people. Therefore, this interpretation becomes a unique definition of these metaphors. This is invalid Biblical interpretation. Let us see what this passage is really trying to teach us.
Firstly, it should be observed that the context of the passage deals with the building of the church. That is, in verse 6 through 9, the Scripture relates how Apollos and Paul were both used in the salvation of the Corinthians. Paul planted and Apollos watered (v. 6). In verse 7, it is stated that neither the planter nor the waterer are anything or can take any credit in salvation. It is God who brings forth the growth. Verses 8-9 state that each one will receive reward according to his labor since we are God’s field and building. It should be observed that, in context, the reward here in verse 8 refers to believe as they enter the kingdom of God. God’s building in verse 9 is used throughout Scripture to refer to the body of believers, the church (e.g.1Tim3:15, 1 Pet 2:5, Heb 3:6, Eph 2:19-22,etc.).
The reward in verse 8 refers to rewards associated with bringing believers into the Kingdom. We find support for this elsewhere in Scripture. In the following passages, a believer’s reward is other people who are brought into the kingdom: 1 Thess 2:19, 2 Cor 1:14, Phil 4:1, Ps 127:3. The reade4r is encouraged to carefully study the passages in order to understand that the believer’s reward on earth is seeing other people being brought into the kingdom.
Returning to Lk 18:28-30, Mat 19:27-30, Mk 10:28-3 1, we see this fact confirmed. As we previously studied in these passages, believer’s eternal rewards are eternal life but, other rewards exist in the present time and are referred to as a ‘hundredfold’ of brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers. That is, those who are dedicated to seeing the Kingdom of God built are rewarded with other believers who have entered into the kingdom of God and now become united in the same family together.
This idea that rewards are actually other believers as they enter the kingdom of God is also confirmed in 1 Cor 3:12. Here we find that the elements that are built on the foundation are gold, precious stones, wood, hay, and stubble. When we study gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay and stubble as used throughout the Bible, we find an interesting fact. These terms are used often to describe people. The gold, silver, and precious stones refer to people who are truly being brought into the kingdom of God (see 2 Tim 2:20-21, Zech 13:9, Mal 3:3, Rev 21:18ff,Is 54:11ff). On the other hand the wood, hay, and stubble are those who are being placed into the church yet are not really saved. This is confirmed in the following Scriptures: Mat 4:1, 2 Tim 2, Jer 5:14.
This idea of gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, and stubble referring to people as they are brought in the church is confirmed in 1 Cor 3. We see that the foundation is Christ (v.11). The building being made is the universal church of believers. In verse 16, we are told that this temple being built is the church itself (e.g. 1 Tim 3:15, 1 Pet 2:5, Heb 3:6, Eph 2:19-22, etc). Throughout Scripture, the temple is often used as referring to the church.
We should see now that he remaining of 1 Cor 3:8-15 is this. We must be very careful of how we are building on the temple of the church. That is, when we bring people into the church, we must be sure that we are building a quality product. That is, we must not just putting people on the role to make a large organization by preaching a watered down non-offensive gospel. We must strive to insure that the product being brought into the church is gold, silver, and precious stones (i.e. true believers). We see that on judgment day (symbolized by the fire in verses 13-15), if the work, which we have built, is burned away, we will suffer loss (see also 1 Thess 3:5). That is, our energies in bringing these false brethren in the church is lost. Our hope, joy and crown of rejoicing of seeing others enter the kingdom of God will be lost (see1 Thess 2:19-20). We have lost the blessing that we thought we had of having those people in the eternal kingdom of God. However, if our work remains, we will have reward. That reward is that of having other believers with us in the kingdom of God.
In summary, we see in 1 Cor 3:12-15 that the work a believer is building the temple, the church of God. We build the church when we share the gospel and d our spiritual gifts with others. We receive the reward of other believers when our temple – building efforts result in true believers being placed into the kingdom.
However, if we bring a superficial, gospel (e.g. easy- believism), then we suffer the loss of the reward of having built on the foundation with worthless elements.
We see by comparing Scripture with Scripture that this passage does not teach a loss reward based on our good works. It pointedly warns us of how we build on the foundation of Christ. It warns us not to build a false organization based on a false doctrine that will only result on a loss later. Therefore, we see that this passage has nothing at all to do with believer’s good works gaining him a better personal reward in eternity. It has altogether to do with the loss of reward that occurs in that we do not actually have the other people who we thought were Christians and were really not present in the kingdom of God.
B. What About the Judgment Seat of Christ?
There are 2 passages in the New Testament that refer to the fact that Christians will stand before the judgment seat of Christ:
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad
2 Cor 5:10
But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ
Ro 14:10
Those who believe that Christians receive rewards often assert these passages as proof-texts. They teach that because we will be judged by our deeds, the implication is that we must receive differing rewards. However, this is a huge assumption! These passages nowhere state that the differing rewards will be given to believers.
When we compare Scripture with Scripture, we find that this passage refers to whether one will be saved or not, not how much reward we will receive. It points to the fact that we must be careful to maintain good works since this is the evidence of one who is truly saved. This is seen in Rev 22:11- 15:
He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.
Rev 22:11-15 (see also rev 20:12, mat 16:24-27, Rev 11:18, 2:23, Is 40:10, 62:11)
We see this is a parallel passage to 2 Cor 5:10 and Ro 14:10. In Rev 22- 12, we find that Jesus is coming with His reward. We find that the reward in verse 14 is the tree of life (i.e. eternal life). Those people that receive this reward are they who keep the commandments. Because we find in the bible that all Christians will practice keeping the commandments of God (e. g. 1 John 2:3-6), we see that the indwelling Holy Spirit and God working in the believer, all Christians have had their spirits transformed. They no longer are slaves to sin although we all still do occasionally sin (1 John 1:8-10). They will be obedient to the commands of God. Therefore, every person will be given according to his or her work. Christians will be seen as holy while unbelievers will be condemned for their wickedness. The reward for the holy ones is eternal life.
Returning to 2 Cor 5:10, we see that context also supports the fact that the recompense refers to eternal life or damnation, not differing rewards of a believer. We see in verse 11 that it is because of the judgment seat that we persuade men. That is, because of the eternity of damnation, we must be diligent to present the Gospel in order according to the grace of God men can be saved.
Concerning Romans 14:10, we find that the context again is referring to the fact that we are all equal in God, therefore why judge another brother. Romans 14 has to do with not judging a brother concerning debatable areas of behavior outside of the Biblical standards. That is, since we stand before the judgment seat of Christ to receive the reward of eternal life, we should not pass judgment on our brothers in debatable areas of Scripture. God is able to us stand (Jude 24). Again this passage nowhere states that differing rewards will be given at this judgment seat. Rather, we see in Rev22, that the rewards to eternal life or damnation. Since, we as brothers, are to obtain the same reward of eternal life, why should we pass judgment on our brothers in debatable areas of conduct.
Often, it is taught that the judgment seat of Christ in Ro 14:10 and 2 Cor 5:10 is taught to be a different judgment day. However, when we compare the language of Is 62:11, 40:10, Rev 20:17, 22:11-15, Mat 16:24-27 carefully, we find great harmony. In fact, we see no Scriptural proof at all the judgment seat of Ro 14:10 and 2 Cor 5:10 is a ‘different’ judgment for believers.
C. Rewards for Doing Good?
Another passage that needs to be addressed is the following:
Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart as unto Christ not with eye service, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ doing the will of God from the heart with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
Eph 6:5-8
In this passage, we find a command to submit in humility as a slave to his earthly master. We see in verse 8 that the good we do will be received back from the Lord. The argument for differing rewards asserts that depending on how much humility and service in this life that the slave does, he will be so rewarded in the same proportion from the Lord. However, we again find when we compare Scripture to Scripture that this is not the case. In the parallel passage in Col 3, we find the following:
Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye service, as men pleasers; but in singleness of heart fearing God and whatsoever ye do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.
Col 3:22-25
We see in this parallel passage that the reward to be received is that of the inheritance. As we have already studied, inheritance has altogether to do with eternal life, not differing rewards. Therefore, returning to the parallel passage in Eph 6:8, we can conclude that the good that we receive back from the Lord is eternal life. the sense of the passage in Ephesians 6 is that we, as Christians, are to always do what is proper and right, even in the face of unfairness. We must look to our ultimate reward which is eternal life with the Lord. We do not labor here on earth, hoping for greater reward in heaven. We already are heirs to the promise. We see this confirmed in Galatians:
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap, if faint not.
Gal 6:7-9
We see that our sowing is looking forward to eternal life. Notice that this passage does not say that we reap greater rewards for our sowing. We do not labor looking to get a little more reward than another Christian. Rather, we labor because we have eternal life. It is for the reason that we do not grow up weary in doing well as Christians. We have the hope of our ultimate reward: eternal life.
D. What About John 4:36
And that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathered fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.
John 4:36
Some use this verse to teach that people involved in evangelism will receive extra personal reward for their efforts. As we have already examined, it is true that there is a reward of seeing other people enter the kingdom of God. This is the ‘hundredfold gain of brothers and sisters’. John 4:36 teaches us that he that is involved with reaping souls is already receiving wages. That is, he is already experiencing the blessings of seeing people brought into the kingdom and having more ‘brothers and sisters’.
The phrase ‘and gathereth fruit unto life eternal’ points to the fact that believers will be known by their fruits (Mat 7:16-20, 12:33). That is, the fruit of participating in the temple building of the kingdom of God testifies to the fact that the temple builder has eternal life. As we saw in Gal 6:7-9, we see again that the Scripture state that the reward is eternal life
Nowhere in this passage does it say that this temple builder will receive a differing reward than any other in the kingdom
E. What About the Parable of the Minas?
Another parable used by some to teach differing rewards is that of the Minas (see Luke 19:11-27). In this parable, we find a certain nobleman (i.e. Christ), who was going into a far country (i.e. heaven) to receive a kingdom (i.e. kingdom of God). As he was going, he called ten of his servants (i.e. Christians) and gave them each a mina to do business until He came back (i.e. second coming of Christ).
We find when the nobleman returned, He called them to find out what business they did. One servant made ten more minas, another five more. These servants, were put over 10 and cities respectively. By this, some have taught that this proves differing rewards in the kingdom. However, as we have already studied, authority has nothing at all to do with reward. We saw that the 12 disciples will have a special function of judging the 12 tribes (Mat 19:27-28). We also, saw that he that is in authority is actually to be servant of all. That is, the kingdom is opposite of what man in his natural sin-tainted mind would think. In the kingdom, he that is authority, does not receive special rewards for being in the authority (see Lk 22:24-27 et al). Rather, he is to slave of all.
Continuing in the parable of the Minas, we find that the servant who did not do anything with his mina, lost his main and it was given to the one with ten:
And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds. (and they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.) For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given: and from him that hath not even that he hath shall be taken from him
Lk 19:24-26
We see in verse 26 that the one which hath not will have what he has taken away from him. On the surface, this seem a very enigmatic statement. However, as we compare Scripture with Scripture, we find the meaning of this in Mat 13:12. The one who has not is the one who is unsaved. That which he has taken away is the natural human ability to know of God. He is further blinded (see Ro 1:18- 32).That is, the one who is involved with religion, yet unsaved, will be further blinded by God. God gives them up to their worldly lusts and desires. Therefore, even the natural human ability that he could have used to increase the kingdom is taken from him. He is given up to his passions and desires. This is confirmed in taken from him. He is given up to his passions and desires. This is confirmed in verse 14 of the Parable of the Minas. We see that the countrymen hated the nobleman. The servant who hid away his mina feared the persecution of the world which testified of his unsaved condition (see e.g. mat 10:32-33).
The one who had ten minas and received one more minas from the one who had lost his does not teach additional rewards in glory for hard-working Christians. it testifies to the fact that the one who has shall more be given. That is, the one who is saved, will be given further ability to the Holy Spirit to work in the kingdom. However, nowhere does this parable teach differing rewards.
F. Treasures in Heaven
Many have used the verses in the Bible which speak of Christians as receiving treasures in heaven in order to teach differing eternal rewards. Presumably, they understand the treasures being given in direct proportion to the service that is performed on earth. The following are verses that are often used:
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, where thieves do not break through nor steal
Mat 6:19-20
Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasures in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me
Mk 10:21 (see also Mat 19:21, Lk 12:21, 18:22)
While it is very true that Christians are not to be concerned with laying up for themselves great earthly treasures and they should rather lay up treasures in heaven, Then question becomes this: Will Christians receive differing amounts of treasures in heaven or will receive the same amount of treasure?
Firstly, we should note that a Biblical definition of the treasure that we are laying up for ourselves could be found in Mat 13: 44. In this parable, we see that that the kingdom of God is referred to as a treasure. Therefore, since it has been granted to Christians to freely receive of all things in the kingdom (see Ro 8:32), we should be very wary of assuming that the treasure in heaven are given in varying amounts.
Next, it is important to note that the verses used above never say that treasures are given in varying amounts. The Scriptures do not say that depending on how much one works in Christian service on earth relates to how much treasure one will receive. Rather, Mat 6:20 is a grave warning to people to ensure that they are laying up treasures in heaven rather than treasures on earth. If one finds himself only interested in the things of the world, he may not be laying up treasures at all in heaven. In other words, he may not be saved. The Bible teaches us that if the love of the world and the things of the world is in us, then the love of God is not and we are not saved (1 John 2:15-17). if we have not forsaken the things of the world, then we are not Christ’s disciples (see Mat 10:34-39, 12;30, Lk 11:23, etc). Therefore, Mat 6: 19-20 should be viewed as a drawing a comparison between one who is saved or not, not between two saved persons who are receiving different eternal rewards. This confirmed in the context of Mat 6:19-20 where we read:
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve and mammon.
Mat 6:24
We see in this verse that one cannot serve God and mammon. In other words, if we find ourselves laying up worldly treasures and not interested in spiritual things, we are not saved. The same principle applies to Mk 10:21. We must be willing to give up all worldly possessions in order to follow Christ. It is when we have forsaken reliance on the world that we have become saved by trusting Christ.
Finally, we see 1 Tim 6:19, clear Biblical evidence that he treasures in heaven refer to eternal life and not to some other type of vague differences in reward amongst believers. Consider:
That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store [lit: treasure] for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
1 Tim 6:18-19 (annotation added)
We find we are to lay up treasures of ensuring a good foundation of eternal life. In other words, by doing well and sharing of material possessions, we bring forth evidence of one who is truly saved. The forsaking of reliance on the world’s goods underscores the fact that we have the ultimate treasure of eternal life. This passage, therefore, teaches us that the treasure in heaven is eternal life.
G. What About the Special Reward for Pastors?
One final area to be looked at briefly is that of a special reward for elders who have faithfully ministered:
The elders which are among you, I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the Glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.
1 Pet 5:1-4
Some have taught that elders are to receive a special reward for faithful ministry to the flock. The crown of glory is a special reward that is reserved for those who serve in full time ministry. This reasoning, however, is very flawed. When we compare Scripture with Scripture, we find the following:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ if so be that we suffer with that we may be also glorified together. Whereunto he called you by our gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thess 2:14
We find that all Christians are to be glorified. Glory is not reserved only for elders, but all true Christians. We find in Scripture, that crowns refer to royalty. All Christians are of a royal priesthood (1 Pet 2:9-10). Moreover, all Christians are to be kings and priests (see Rev 16, 5:10, Eph 2:12, Ro 5:17 etc). Additionally, the Scripture also teaches that all believers are to receive crowns (1 Cor 9:25, 2 Tim 4:8, Rev 2:10, 1 Thess 2:19), Therefore, it should be evident in 1 Pet 5:4 that the crowns of glory that elders receive are no different than the crowns that all believers receive. The meaning on 1 Pet 5:4 simply points to the same thing as is taught in many other places in Scripture. Elders, just like all other Christians, should seek well doing in the face of temporal difficulties because of the great reward in glory that awaits us: the crown of eternal life (see James 1:12, Rev 2:10, 3:11).
Part 3 – Why We All Receive the Same Reward
This brings us to climax of our study. Why is it that Christians all receive the same reward? Does it seem to make sense that God would offer differing rewards in order to encourage Christians to more godly service in this life? However, this questions may be turned to ask: Is it proper that a Christian do good because he or she thinks that they are going to receive a special reward? The importance of this issue cannot be underestimated. For in this lies an important doctrinal truth concerning eternal rewards. If we find ourselves doing good because we think that will gain us better standing with God and bring us more glory than others, then motives of our hearts are altogether wrong. Rather, we do well because we are compelled of our love of God to do well. And this burden to do well is a result of the fact that God works in Christians to lead them to do well.
The answers to the above questions focus into the essence of how believers are made holy (i.e. sanctified). Normally, we would think that a believer becomes holy by his abilities and efforts in the flesh. That is, the harder one tries to be a good Christian, the more holy he will become. However, when we look at the Bible, we find an entirely different plan of sanctification. It is God who is the cause to our sanctification, not us. Since our abilities and efforts are not the cause of our sanctification, it make sense that we all receive the same eternal rewards since our sanctification is dependent on God.
The Scripture is very clear that God dwells in the believer. Then following verses are offered to document the fact that if one does not have then Holy Spirit indwelling , he cannot be a Christian (see also Eph 1:13, 178-18, Col 1:27, 1 Cor 2:12, 2 Cor 5:5, 1 John 3:24, 4:4 Jude 19-20, 1 Cor 3:16, Luke 11:13):
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.
Ro 8:9
That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
2 Tim 1:14
I am crucified wit Christ: nevertheless I live ; yet not, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith of the son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Gal 2:20
And that day ye shall know that I am in my father, and ye in me, and I in you… Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
John 14:20,23
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, And ye are not your own?
1 Cor 6:19
From the above Scriptures, see that God indwells each and every believer. But, the fact that God indwells the believer is not , in and of itself, ample proof for learning why believers live a life of overcoming sin.
Next, it is important to observe from Scripture that besides indwelling each true believer, God also is at work in each believer. Notice the following verses:
For as many as are led by the Holy Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. the Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God
Ro 8:14-16
For it is the God which worketh in you both to do of his good pleasure.
Phil 2:13
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Eph 2:8-10
In these verses, it is evident that God is at work in the lives of believers in order to mold and shape them. God uses situations in life to teach the believer how to be more and holy. God also chastens His sons in order to teach them holiness (see Heb 12:3-11).
The reader is referred to the following verses for additional Scriptural proof that God is at work in every believer’s life: Ro 5:5, 2 Thess 2:13, 5:23, 2 Cor 2:14, 4;16, 5:14-15, 13:4, Luke 11:34, Heb 2:11, 9:14, 10:14, 13:20-21, Titus 2:11-12, 2 Pet1:3-4, Col 1:29, Ro 8:11, John12:24,, 14:26, 15:26, 16:13, Ps 16:2, 37:5-6, 23-24, Ez 36:27, Eph 1:3, 1:19,3:7, 4;16, 25-27, Gal 4:6, 4:19, 1 Cor 2:16, 12:6, 11, 13, Phil 1:6, 11, 1 pet 2:5, Gal 2:8, 21, Phil 3:21, 1 Cor 15:10
Finally, it is important to touch on the fact that it is the word of God (i.e. the Bible) that God uses as the instrument to instruct and lead believers. The Bible is very powerful and important in each believer’s life. The fact that God has indwelt and is actively at work in each believer results in the believer being a disciple of Christ. The following verses testify to the fact that it is the Bible that God uses to sanctify believers:
For this cause also thank we without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
1 Thess 2:13
Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in my heart , that I might not sin against thee.
Ps 119:9-11
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works
2 Tim 3:16-17.
Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
1 Pet 2:1-2
We are the clay and He is the potter. We are His workmanship created for good works. While it is true that God allows us free will in our daily decision-making and unfortunately, in that free will, we sometimes sin (1 John 1:8, Romans 7:14-250, it is also true that God works in all things for good (Ro 8:28). Even the downturns and efforts we make, He uses to teach us and to discipline us (Heb 12:3-11).
We find that God, although allowing us freedom, it is in control and sovereign. He will ultimately make us stand and make us holy. The Holy Spirit indwelling us is at work to lead us into holiness. In God’s sovereign will, He gives us varying abilities to perform work. Some will earn more minas than others, but all will earn some. Some will have varying spiritual gifts, but all are of the same Spirit (see 1 Cor 12).
By now it should become obvious why there are not differing eternal rewards for Christians. It is because we are God’s workmanship. It is not our abilities that make us holy, it is God’s work. He cannot reward us based on our own work since in the natural we are all unable and equally despicable in His sight. Just as He has sovereignty chosen to save us, he also continues to work in us to make us holy. In the natural, of man’s energies are as filthy rags in the sight of God (Is 64:6).
Just as we can take no credit at all in our salvation, similarly we can take no credit for our sanctification. The indwelling Holy Spirit leads Christians into a holy life. Besides contradicting Scripture, Believing in eternal rewards reveals a serious doctrinal error in one’s theology. Instead of understanding that the salvation and sanctification are a result of the work of God in believer’s lives, the person who believes in eternal rewards is repudiating the grace of God and asserts that man has a part in his salvation and sanctification.
Eternal Rewards and the Gospel
The significance of the doctrine of eternal rewards cannot be understated. We find that this doctrine is recorded in the Bible as being part of the Gospel itself! In the Bible, the Greek root euaggelion is translated ‘gospel’, good news’, and ‘preach’. This terms are used many times in the New Testament and help us understand the nature of what the Gospel is. Just as the Gospel includes the doctrine of Christ, His work, salvation, grace, faith, judgment and sanctification, it also includes the doctrine of eternal rewards. Consider the following Scriptures:
Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable richest of Christ
Eph 3:8
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the Glory of his inheritance in the saints
Eph 1:18
In Eph 3:8 we find that the Gospel (i.e. same Greek word as ‘preached’) is the riches of Christ. In Eph 1:18, we see further definition of the riches being the inheritance of the saints. As we previously studied, the inheritance is eternal life. Therefore, we see that the riches of Christ (i.e. the Gospel) is the same as eternal life. Eternal life is the reward of every believer. Therefore, by teaching that the reward of eternal life can be different measures, we are tampering the gospel itself.
For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth
Col 1:5-6
If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven: whereof I Paul am made a minister
Col 1:23
In Col 1:5-6 and 1:23, we find the hope of the Gospel referred to as being laid up for us in heaven. In Titus 1:2, 3:7, we see that the hope is directly referred to as eternal life:
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began
Titus 1:2
That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:7
By comparing Scripture with Scripture, we find additional Biblical data that the doctrine of rewards (i.e. eternal life) is equated with the Gospel. Therefore, it should be apparent that the Gospel has altogether to do with the hope of our eternal life that is laid up for us in heaven. We must be careful how we teach the doctrine of eternal rewards since it is altogether to do with the Gospel itself. If we are found to insist that man has something meritorious to do with gaining eternal reward, we maybe found to be teaching a gospel that is mixed with man’s abilities and works.
Summary
The teaching of differing rewards for Christians is a significant error in theology today teaches that man has the ability to make himself holy and that God rewards that ability. However, we have seen that the Scripture teaches that it is God that develops Christians into holy, perfect creatures. Just as God is in sovereign control of the salvation process, He is also in control of the sanctification process.
The Scriptures do not teach differing eternal rewards. On the contrary, they teach that the reward we receive in glory is the same: eternal life. This eternal life is far beyond anything we could conceive of with our limited human minds. In this current life, the reward we receive is the blessing of seeing the kingdom grow through Christians being added to the kingdom and seeing their maturity develop. As God’s workmanship, believers are laying up treasure of eternal life in the kingdom of God (Mat 6:19-21, Mat 13:44, Lk 12:32-34, 1 Tim 6:19). However, the treasure in heaven is not the same as earthly treasure (Mat 19:21, Mk 10:21, Lk 18:22).Nowhere does the Bible teach that the treasure given to believers is in varying amounts and depends on the believer’s earthly works. Rather, all true believers have forsaken their love of the world and its things (1 John 2:15-17) and instead they lay up the treasure of a good foundation for the future: eternal life (Tim 6:19).