Five Biblical Crowns

FIVE BIBLICAL CROWNS

1) The Crown of Righteousness

⁸ Finally, 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 Tim 4:8, NKJV)

For believers who were ready and waiting for the return of Jesus - all those who have loved his appearing. Those people who die daily and seek after the Lord, awaiting his return. Those who speak to him constantly throughout the day and want to constantly have the most intimate time in prayer with him. Those who have the mindset "I'd rather be on my knees praying to God, or serving the poor rather than watching this TV show when Jesus comes."

2) The Incorruptible Crown

²⁵ And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate (Disciplined) in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an IMPERISHABLE (INCORRUPTIBLE) CROWN. ²⁶ Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. ²⁷ But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. (1 Cor 9:25-27, NKJV)

Known as the Victor's Crown. For those who disciplined their bodies, and brought their bodies unto subjection - and had self-control. People who say "I will do whatever God tells me to do" and follows through in action. Those who seek after His will daily and do it when they are called. You will be able to tell these people on earth by their fruit.

3) The Crown of Life

¹² God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the CROWN OF LIFE that God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12, NLT)

¹⁰ Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the CROWN OF LIFE. (Rev 2:10, NKJV)

This is the Martyr's Crown. Given to those who were faithful unto death - those who patiently endured testings, temptations, and trials. Those who patiently wait on the LORD when they are made fun of for their faith, attacked physically for their faith. Those that are tempted (ie. by media) but hold steadfast. Those in the Middle-East and Africa (and elsewhere) who suffer persecution, have their houses destroyed, are beat up because of their faith in Jesus Christ.  

4) The Crown of Rejoicing

¹⁹ For 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 Thess 2:19, NKJV)

This is the Soul Winner's Crown. Given to believers who were obeying Jesus' Great Commission. "'Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.' Amen" (Matt 28:20, NKJV). For those who were faithful witnesses of Christ Jesus to others in their life, who told others about Jesus. God will judge your willingness and desire to be used by Him to witness to others, not necessarily how many actually get saved, because we sow the seed and water but He is the one who grows. We must always remember that our joy in life comes from leading lost sheep to Jesus. 

³ Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever. (Dan 12:3, NLT)

5) The Crown of Glory

² Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. ³ Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. ⁴ And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a CROWN OF NEVER-ENDING GLORY AND HONOR. (1 Pet 5:2-4, NLT)

This is the Elder's Crown. For those leaders, pastors, elders, teachers who were Godly examples to the flock of believers that were entrusted and assigned to their care. Setting a good example to anyone who you are shepherding or under your care whether that is your spouse, children, friends, or students. Care for them because you are eager to serve God. Leaders should be servants, not as gentiles who "lord it over" people (Matt 20:25-27).

¹⁹ Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. (Matt 5:19, NKJV)

Date: Dec 24, 2012