Dictionary of Biblical Words:
These are as a rule future and in heaven as seen in Rev. 22:12, and in the parables of the talents and the pounds, although Luke 18:30 shows that oven now God will see that none who follow Him are really losers. Rewards are for faithful work, and will be awarded at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Cor. 5). Only that work which stands the fire will be rewarded (1 Cor. 3). Various things may be classed among rewards in heaven, such as “beholding God’s face” (Rev. 22:4), judging with Christ (Matt. 19:28), reigning with Christ (2. Tim. 2:12, &c.), reigning forever and ever (Rev. 22:5), crowns, incorruptible (1 Cor. 9:25) of ‘righteousness (2 Tim. 4:8), of glory (1 Peter 5:4). of life (James 1:12), shining as the stars (Dan. 12:3), entering into the joy of our Lord (Matt. 25:21), an eternal weight of glory (2 Cor. 4:17).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
Future rewards for the Christian are spoken of frequently in the New Testament. They are open to all. A cup of cold water given to a disciple because he belongs to Christ, shall not lose its reward (Mark 9:41); and the Lord Jesus said, “Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be” (Rev. 22:12). He who labors in the Lord’s service, if his work abides, will receive his reward (1 Cor. 3:8,14; compare 2 John 1:8). At the same time the Lord will reward the doer of evil with its fitting recompense (2 Sam. 3:39).
Rewards are not held out as a motive before the soul: each should be able to say, The love of Christ constraineth me (2 Cor. 5:14). But they are added, in the aboundings of love and grace, as an encouragement amid the dangers and difficulties of the way. Believers are warned that they be not beguiled of their reward (Col. 2:18; compare Rev. 3:11).
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