TV commercials from the 1960s included some for Imperial Margarine. Mom and Dad are gathered with their family around the dinner table. I know – ancient history, right?
Mother has purchased a new spread for their bread. Not butter – margarine fit for a king. When hubby takes his first bite, complete with trumpet fanfare, a crown suddenly appears on his head. The theme ran for 20 years.
Did you know some of us will soon be getting used to the new feel of a crown? The New Testament describes at least four crowns for faithful Christians – those who, by simple trust in the Lord Jesus and His death at Calvary, are heaven-bound.
These aren’t royal crowns but wreaths. In Roman society, woven garlands were presented as “a token of public honor, for distinguished service, military prowess, nuptial joy or festal gladness,” according to W.E. Vine.
These emblems of divine approval are contrasted with the fading plaudits of earth. “They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable” (1 Corinthians 9:25, BSB).
Obviously, these wreaths aren’t status symbols. They’re evidence that anything we accomplish is by God’s grace and for His glory. In fact, Scripture shows crowns cast at Jesus’ feet (Revelation 4:4, 10-11).
So what are these crowns?
1. A Crown of Rejoicing:
“What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?” (1 Thessalonians 2:19)
This is the soul-winner’s crown. What a thrill it will be to hear someone say, “Thank you for introducing me to Jesus and inviting me to heaven with you!”
2. A Crown of Life:
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him” (James 1:12, NIV).
Life’s troubles test the measure of our love for God. Am I just a fair-weather friend, or faithful through thick and thin? No doubt this will be a crown worn by many in the persecuted church.
3. A Crown of Righteousness:
“There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day – and not to me only, but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8).
Every true believer loves Christ, but do we love His appearing? While we work for Him, are we also waiting and watching for Him?
4. A Crown of Glory:
“To the elders among you, I appeal … shepherd the flock of God that is among you … being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Peter 5:1-4).
God’s people are His most precious possession on earth. Caring for them is caring for Him (see Matthew 25:34-40).
He says, “Hold fast what you have, so that no one may take your crown” (Revelation 3:11). The Lord takes seriously what we do for Him and asks us to be serious about His work, too.
He wants everyone to share in the joy of a job well done. And all the work will be completed – every crown handed out. Don’t miss your opportunity to give Him greater glory through your life’s work.
Jabe Nicholson of Starkville, an author and publisher, loves to engage with people on life’s key issues. Reach him at [email protected] or visit www.uplook.tv
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 34 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
