Introduction

The concept of God's reward is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the relationship between divine justice, human obedience, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. God's rewards are often depicted as blessings, both temporal and eternal, granted to those who live in accordance with His will. This entry explores the biblical understanding of God's reward, examining key scriptures and theological insights.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, God's reward is frequently associated with obedience to His commandments and faithfulness to His covenant. The Hebrew word often translated as "reward" is "sakar," which implies wages or compensation. For instance, in Genesis 15:1, God assures Abram, "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward." Here, God Himself is presented as the ultimate reward for Abram's faith.

The Mosaic Law also emphasizes the concept of reward. In Deuteronomy 28, blessings are promised to Israel for obedience: "And all these blessings will come upon you and overtake you, if you will obey the voice of the LORD your God" (Deuteronomy 28:2). Conversely, disobedience results in curses, highlighting the conditional nature of these rewards.

The Psalms and Proverbs further illustrate the principle of divine recompense. Psalm 19:11 states, "By them indeed Your servant is warned; in keeping them is great reward." Proverbs 11:18 contrasts the deceptive wages of the wicked with the sure reward of the righteous: "The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward."

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament expands on the theme of God's reward, emphasizing both present and future aspects. Jesus Christ frequently taught about rewards in the context of the Kingdom of Heaven. In the Sermon on the Mount, He declares, "Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven" (Matthew 5:12). This heavenly reward is often linked to persecution and suffering for righteousness' sake.

Jesus also speaks of rewards in terms of stewardship and faithfulness. In the Parable of the Talents, the master commends his faithful servants, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your master" (Matthew 25:21). This parable underscores the principle that faithfulness in small matters leads to greater responsibilities and rewards.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the concept of reward, particularly in relation to Christian service and perseverance. In 1 Corinthians 3:8, he writes, "The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor." Paul also speaks of an "imperishable crown" as a reward for those who run the race of faith with endurance (1 Corinthians 9:25).

Eternal Perspective

The ultimate reward for believers is eternal life, a gift that transcends earthly rewards. In Romans 6:23, Paul contrasts the wages of sin with the gift of God: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This eternal perspective is central to the Christian understanding of reward, as it reflects the culmination of God's redemptive plan.

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the final reward for the faithful. Revelation 22:12 records the words of Christ: "Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one according to what he has done." This eschatological promise assures believers of the certainty of God's justice and the fulfillment of His promises.

Conclusion

The biblical concept of God's reward encompasses both temporal blessings and eternal life, contingent upon faithfulness, obedience, and perseverance. It serves as a powerful motivation for believers to live in accordance with God's will, trusting in His justice and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises.