What does the Bible say about eternal rewards? What are they, how do we earn them, why should we want them?
The Bible's teaching on eternal rewards is generally ignored and (consequently) poorly understood, and yet Scripture addresses the concept commonly. In fact, few doctrines of the New Testament are more important to the believer.
As a general overview, Scripture teaches that God rewards believers for works done in faith and obedience. By offering the potential for rewards, the Lord wishes to incentivize us to abide in Him. These rewards are ours after we die, which is why they are called eternal or heavenly rewards. Furthermore, these rewards are assigned to us based on our willingness to serve Christ now according to His desires, not our own.
Therefore, the prospect of eternal rewards is an encouragement for the believer to diligently set Christ's will above his own. As Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15).
To get up to speed on this important area of Biblical truth, please read the following series of articles:
1. Are eternal rewards biblical?
2. What does God base our eternal rewards on?
3. How are eternal rewards conditional?
4. How will God judge our works?
5. When will we receive our eternal rewards?
