Evangelism and Mission

What kind of crown do we long for?

3 min read, approximately

“Do you not know that all the runners in the stadium run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to obtain it. Everyone who competes exercises restraint in all things; they do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.” (1 Corinthians 9: 24-25)

The crown of the elderly:

“Children’s children are the crown of old men; And the glory of children are their fathers.” (Proverbs 17:6)

The crown of glory:

“In that day will Jehovah of hosts become a crown of glory, and a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people; and a spirit of justice to him that sitteth in judgment, and strength to them that turn back the battle at the gate.” (Isaiah 28:5-6)

The crown of righteousness:

“henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8)

The crown of life:

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he hath been approved, he shall receive the crown of life, which [the Lord] promised to them that love him.” (James 1:12)

“Fear not the things which thou art about to suffer: behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)

The crown of evangelism:

“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of glorying? Are not even ye, before our Lord Jesus at his coming? For ye are our glory and our joy.” (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)

Which crown are we pursuing? All of them, 2, 1? Whatever our decision, let us remember that:

“I come quickly: hold fast that which thou hast, that no one take thy crown.” (Revelation 3:11)

That is why:

“…Brothers and sisters, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election firm, because by doing these things you will never fall. In this way, a wide and generous entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be granted to you.” (2 Peter 1:10-11)

May God continue to bless you
and may you continue to have an excellent day in Christ Jesus!
I invite you to stop by the Songbook