Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Divine reward refers to the blessings, benefits, or recompense that God bestows upon individuals as a result of their faithfulness, obedience, and righteous living according to His will and commandments. It encompasses both temporal and eternal rewards, reflecting God's justice, mercy, and grace. Biblical Basis: The concept of divine reward is deeply rooted in Scripture, where God promises blessings to those who follow His ways. The Bible presents divine reward as both a present reality and a future hope, emphasizing the faithfulness of God in honoring His promises. Old Testament: In the Old Testament, divine reward is often associated with the covenant relationship between God and His people. Obedience to God's laws and commands is frequently linked to blessings. For instance, in Deuteronomy 28:1-2 , it is written, "If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. And all these blessings will come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the LORD your God." The Psalms and Proverbs also speak of divine reward. Psalm 19:11 states, "By them indeed Your servant is warned; in keeping them is great reward." Proverbs 11:18 adds, "The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward." New Testament: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ frequently taught about divine reward, emphasizing both the present and future aspects. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks of rewards for those who practice righteousness: "Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you" (Matthew 5:12). The Apostle Paul also addresses divine reward, particularly in the context of eternal life and the believer's inheritance. In Galatians 6:9 , Paul encourages believers, "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Eternal Reward: The ultimate divine reward is eternal life with God, promised to those who have faith in Jesus Christ. This is affirmed in passages such as John 3:16 , "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." The Book of Revelation also speaks of eternal rewards, portraying the final victory and inheritance of the saints. Revelation 22:12 declares, "Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one according to what he has done." Conclusion: While divine reward is a theme that runs throughout the Bible, it is important to understand it in the context of God's grace and the believer's relationship with Him. The rewards promised by God are not earned by human effort alone but are a result of living in faith and obedience to His will. |