A Crown Of Rejoicing
“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?
Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus
Christ at His coming?” (1 Thessalonians 2:19).
The Apostle Paul’s “crown of rejoicing” was his Thessalonian converts. They had been saved through his preaching and testimony and he looked forward to the day of glory and manifestation when he would see them in heaven. He referred to the believers at Philippi in the same way: “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved” (Philippians 4:1).
Paul will, no doubt have a vast “crown of rejoicing.” Many were saved and encouraged through his ministry. But what about you and me? Someone has called this crown the Soul Winner’s Crown. Will we be able to rejoice, like Paul and many others, as we see those there in the Father’s house, who are present because of our life and words? Solomon reminds us, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30).
