Reward
“Wages, hire, recompense”
Summary
Reward in Scripture refers to the recompense God gives for faithfulness and obedience, serving as a powerful motivation for righteous living while never implying that salvation is earned by works.
☩God as Reward
The first mention of reward in Scripture establishes the highest concept: God Himself is the believer's reward. To Abram after his victory over the kings, God declared, 'Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.' This foundational truth means that the ultimate reward is not something God gives but God Himself—His presence, fellowship, and favor forever. All other rewards are subordinate to this supreme blessing of knowing and enjoying God.
☩Rewards in Jesus' Teaching
Jesus frequently spoke of rewards, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount. Those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake are to 'rejoice and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.' Yet Jesus warned against doing righteous deeds 'to be seen of men,' for such already have their reward in human praise. True rewards come from the Father who sees in secret. The cup of cold water given in Jesus' name, the smallest act of kindness, will not lose its reward.
☩Grace and Reward
Scripture maintains the paradox that salvation is entirely by grace, yet believers will be rewarded according to their works. Paul insists that salvation cannot be earned, yet he also speaks of rewards at the judgment seat of Christ, where each will receive according to what he has done. This apparent tension is resolved by understanding that rewards are given not to earn God's favor but as gracious acknowledgment of faithful service by those already saved by grace. The reward itself is the result of God working in us both to will and to do His good pleasure.
Related Verses136 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Reward," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Reward," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Reward," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).