The Saints’ Crowns
Introduction
The Apostle Paul compares the Christian life to an athlete preparing for the Olympics. An athlete trains for years for the opportunity to represent his country at the Olympics. They submit to their coaches to prepare them for the qualifying races. If they lose a race or break any of the rules, they lose their opportunity to represent their country at the Olympic games. But if they win, they receive a medal, gaining the praise of their country.
Paul urges believers to submit to spiritual discipline. He encourages us to train our bodies, minds, and spirits to conform to the will of God, so that we may represent the kingdom of God, winning an incorruptible crown for God’s glory. The purpose of winning crowns is to honor our God in eternity.
Thesis: God encourages us to live to win a crown.
God Promises the Crown of Life to Those Who Prove Faithful, James 1:12
A. God provides trials to strengthen faith, James 1: 2-4.
B. God limits temptations to prevent failure, 1 Corinthians 10:13.
C. God offers grace to perfect faith, 2 Corinthians 12:9.
God Promises the Crown of Righteousness to Those Who Do God’s Will, 2 Timothy 4:8
A. God rewards faith in Jesus, 2 Timothy 4:7 and Hebrews 12:1-3.
B. God rewards perseverance, 2 Timothy 4:7.
God Promises the Crown of Glory to Those Who Minister to God’s People, 1 Peter 5:4
A. God rewards willing service, 1 Peter 5:2.
B. God rewards servant-leaders, 1 Peter 5:3.
To help his son participate in worship, Jerry gave Tommy money for the offering every Sunday. Dutifully, Tommy places his offering in the offering plate. One day, Tommy realized that his offering was not his. He wanted to give God something from himself. Jerry explained, “Son, everything we have comes from God. God gives me strength to work. The money I earn comes from God. God always gives us what we need to worship Him” (Genesis 22:7-8).
One day, we will all lay our crowns of honor at the Lord’s throne to express our deepest worship and gratitude. Our efforts will not bring God honor. Only what He provides is worthy of God’s glory.
Conclusion
When you stand before God in eternity, will you have any crowns with which to honor God? Live to win crowns for your God and Savior!