Biblical Message

Part 3, Reward

Author: Wenger

Scripture Verse: Colossians

3:23, 24 - “Whatever you do; do it heartily as to the Lord not man. Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of inheritance for you serve the Lord Christ.”

The whole basis of our lesson is that in the everyday stuff that life is made up of; we are to do everything with excellence. We are to have the higher motive; we are serving the Lord and not man. This knowledge should bring enthusiasm, diligence, joy in the mundane knowing that it will now and later be rewarded...nothing we do is neutral.

There is reward for all work that is done heartily and with the correct motive “as unto the Lord not unto men.” Our works are done because of our salvation, not for our salvation. The Christian is commanded to be zealous for good works. Remember in Matthew 10:42 it states, “If anyone gives a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” As believers, we are to be engaged in good to those who are outside of the faith and especially to those who are within the faith. Look for ways to serve others and thereby imitate our Lord who came to serve, not to be served.

Be sure to clothe all good work for others in the message of salvation in Christ. Remember Colossians 3:17 ­ “Whatever you do in word or deed do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ giving thanks to the Father through Him.” The extemporary life serves not only as worship, but also as a good testimony that glorifies the Lord so we can deliver His message. I don’t see a silent testimony anywhere in the scripture. Matthew

5:16 says it clearly… “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” A shining light is both works and words. Our works give creditability to our words.

Reward/consequence is foundational to all behavior ­ it’s just built into life in general. We all know, the behavior that gets rewarded, gets repeated. Often our behavior brings reward/ consequence here and now. There are a lot of rewards for the obedient life; such as peace of mind, strength in trials, clarity of purpose, joy, the abundant life. Even though the fruit of the spirit is a gift of the Spirit, it is highly