Eternal Rewards

Eternal rewards are those promised by God to believers for their faithfulness and obedience, extending beyond this earthly life into eternity. These rewards are often described in the context of the believer's ultimate hope and inheritance in the Kingdom of God. The concept of eternal rewards is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, emphasizing the lasting nature of what God offers to those who follow Him.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks of storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, highlighting the imperishable nature of heavenly rewards: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19-20). This passage underscores the contrast between the temporary nature of earthly possessions and the enduring value of heavenly treasures.

The Apostle Paul also addresses eternal rewards, particularly in his letters to the Corinthians. In 1 Corinthians 3:12-14, Paul uses the metaphor of building materials to describe the quality of each believer's work: "If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward" . Here, Paul emphasizes that the nature of one's work for the Kingdom will be tested, and only that which is built on the foundation of Christ will endure and be rewarded.

Eternal rewards are also associated with the believer's inheritance as children of God. In 1 Peter 1:3-4, the apostle Peter speaks of a "living hope" and an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you" . This inheritance is a central aspect of the believer's eternal reward, signifying the fullness of life and communion with God that awaits in the age to come.

Temporal Rewards

Temporal rewards, in contrast, are those benefits or blessings experienced in this life. While not inherently negative, temporal rewards are limited by their nature and duration. They can include material wealth, social status, or personal achievements, and are often seen as blessings from God for obedience and faithfulness in this life.

The Bible acknowledges the existence of temporal rewards but warns against placing ultimate trust or value in them. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature often speaks of the blessings that come from living righteously: "The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD is riches and honor and life" (Proverbs 22:4). However, these rewards are not guaranteed and are subject to the uncertainties of life.

Jesus addresses the issue of temporal rewards in His teachings, particularly in the context of religious practices. In Matthew 6:1-4, He warns against performing acts of righteousness to be seen by others, stating that those who do so "have their reward" in full . This implies that the praise and recognition received from people are the only rewards they will receive, contrasting with the greater, unseen rewards from the Father.

The Apostle Paul also touches on the theme of temporal versus eternal rewards in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18: "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" . Paul encourages believers to focus on the eternal, unseen realities that far outweigh the temporary struggles and rewards of this life.

In summary, the Bible presents a clear distinction between eternal and temporal rewards, urging believers to prioritize the eternal and to live in light of the promises of God that transcend this present age.