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May 07.2025
3 Minutes Read

Can We Lose Our Eternal Rewards? Discover the Truth About Faith

Understanding Eternal Rewards: What You Need to Know

The video 'Common Myths About Eternal Rewards' explores critical questions about our faith and the nature of divine rewards, prompting us to delve deeper into these vital concepts.

In the world of faith and spiritual teachings, the idea of eternal rewards often raises questions and challenges. Many wonder: can we lose the rewards we’ve accumulated in our lifetime due to later sins or incapacities? The answer, as explored in a recent podcast episode by Pastor John, ultimately leads us to an understanding of God’s grace and justice.

The Assurance of God’s Promises

One key point made in the podcast is that God’s promises regarding rewards are unqualified and absolute. For instance, in Matthew 10:42, Jesus assures us that if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to a disciple, he will by no means lose his reward. This highlights that good deeds, however small, are never forgotten by God. Rather than being erased by later actions, our positive contributions are honored and valued.

The Nature of True Christianity

Pastor John emphasizes the distinction between true Christians and those who merely appear to be. True Christians, who are genuinely committed to their faith, will not see their past good works negated by inevitable struggles or failures later in life. This assurance stems from the belief that good deeds done by the true believer are viewed as acts of faith and grace, which God promises to reward.

Our Life’s Work: Always Present Before God

It’s easy to feel distant from our past accomplishments as we grow older and face different life challenges. However, Pastor John reminds us that our past actions are as present to God as our current endeavors. Good deeds we performed years ago continue to matter before God’s eyes. This aspect of divine memory gives us hope as we grapple with the realities of aging and strength waning.

The Misconception of Earned Rewards

Another vital point highlighted in the discussion is the false notion that we earn rewards through our good deeds. This idea can lead to fear that our later shortcomings will erase the merit we built earlier. However, the core Christian belief asserts that we do not earn rewards based on a merit system. Rather, our good works are considered gifts from God’s grace. Our success in faith and spirituality stems not from our own merit but from God’s generosity and love.

The Free Gift of Grace

It is fundamentally important for young believers to understand that everything good in us is a result of God’s grace. This concept is echoed in 1 Corinthians 15:10, where Paul stresses that his hard work was only made possible by the grace of God working within him. Knowing that our achievements in Christ are not subject to loss due to future failures can profoundly affect our understanding of faith and encourage us to persevere.

The Joy of Serving

As everyone grows and matures in their spiritual journey, it’s essential to nurture the joy of serving and living according to faith. Reflecting on the promises and the nature of God can not only give comfort but inspire confidence in the way we act towards others today. Regardless of our current struggles, our past acts of faith will always hold significance in God’s eyes.

Final Reflections and Encouragement

Without the anxiety of losing what we’ve earned, we can focus on living fully in the present. It’s a world filled with opportunities to serve, share, and express our faith. Rather than being burdened by the fear of negatives outweighing the positives, embrace the gifts of grace God offers every day.

In summary, understand that eternal rewards are secured not by fleeting human actions but through the ever-faithful grace of God. As you navigate the trials and tribulations of life, keep your heart fixed on the eternal perspective, where every good deed counts and is celebrated.

Join the conversations on faith and explore more insights to enrich your spiritual journey. Embrace the notion that each day is a fresh opportunity to serve and grow in your relationship with God.


John Piper

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11.22.2025

Understanding How the Fruit of the Spirit Can Transform Your Life

Update What Does It Mean to Bear the Fruit of the Spirit? In a world bustling with anger, envy, and strife, the idea of bearing the fruit of the Spirit resonates deeply. As discussed by John Piper in his reflection on Galatians 5, true transformation comes from understanding our reliance on grace rather than our perceived merits. But what does it mean to truly embody love, joy, and peace? At its core, it starts with a profound recognition of our worthiness of condemnation and the mercy we've been freely given. This understanding opens the door to a life filled with the fruit of the Spirit.In "Fruit Only the Spirit Can Grow," the discussion dives into the significance of recognizing grace in our lives, inspiring us to explore its transformative effects. Two Different Roads: The Way of the Flesh vs. The Way of the Spirit John Piper warns us about the dangers of adhering strictly to moral codes—what he refers to as 'works of the flesh.' These are not just the blatant sins we can easily identify; they also comprise the subtle pride and self-reliance that can flourish within our hearts. On the other hand, the fruit of the Spirit is a spontaneous overflow of love and joy that reflects a heart fully reliant on God's grace. The key is in recognizing this distinction. The challenge lies in not allowing ourselves to fall into the trap of legalism while navigating our spiritual journeys. A Personal Journey: Why Understanding Grace Matters For many of us, especially as committed Christians, navigating life's challenges often leads us to self-impose regulations. We strive for kind actions, patience, and faithfulness, hoping to gain favor in God’s eyes. Yet, this approach can become just another 'work of the flesh.' Understanding grace changes everything! When we acknowledge our need for mercy, we shift our focus from performing to simply being. In doing so, we cultivate a more genuine faith life. Practical Ways to Encourage Spiritual Growth in Our Communities As parents and church leaders, we play a crucial role in creating environments that foster the fruit of the Spirit. Here are some actionable tips to nurturing spiritual growth: 1. **Model Vulnerability**: Share your struggles with children and youth. Let them see your reliance on God’s grace. 2. **Create a Supportive Community**: Organize small groups or gatherings where families can discuss their spiritual journeys openly. 3. **Encourage Acts of Kindness**: Engage the community in service projects that highlight love and joy, demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit in action. The Battle Within: Slaying the Flesh Piper describes a powerful allegory of battling the dragon within us, referring to the 'flesh' that roams in our hearts. This imagery illustrates our ongoing struggle. Just as Jesus empowers us to slay that dragon, recognizing that the threat of our flesh has been mortally wounded is essential. By diligently piling stones on the cave to symbolize our commitment to never let that dragon rise again, we embrace a life filled with the fruit of the Spirit. Hope for the Journey Ahead In conclusion, the teachings presented in the video “Fruit Only the Spirit Can Grow” encourage us to release our need to prove our worth. Instead, we turn to grace in humility, enabling the Spirit to grow within us. Remember, the journey is not about becoming perfect; it is about growth through God's mercy. This was the vital message that Piper shared, reminding us that we are not alone in this battle. God walks with us, lighting our path with love and joy. As you navigate your faith journey, I invite you to reflect on how you can apply the insights from this enlightening message and lean into the growth the Spirit invites you into. Trust the process and allow your life to become a rich harvest of the Spirit's fruit.

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Essential Guide to Deciding When to Leave a Church Over False Teachings

Explore key indicators of false teachings in church and learn how to respond biblically. Equip yourself with the knowledge to identify false doctrines and make informed decisions.

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What "It Is Well with My Soul" Teaches Us About Hope in Grief

Update Finding Peace: What Does "It Is Well with My Soul" Mean? When tragedy strikes, the words you choose can comfort or confound. The recent funeral service for Perpetua Broten touched many hearts, especially for its repeated phrase, "It is well with my soul." But what does it truly mean? Is it just comforting talk, or does it hold deeper truths for how we navigate life's challenges?The video "It Is Still Well with My Soul: Funeral Message for Perpetua Broten" presents a remarkable perspective on faith and grief, and we’re delving deeper into its transformative insights. The Six Realities of Faith The message given at Perpetua's service highlighted six powerful realities that Christians believe in: God is more important than man. The service reminded us that our existence is not independent but rather grounded in God's supremacy. This belief can provide immense comfort during sorrow. Eternity is more important than time. Our lives on Earth are fleeting, like a mist that soon disappears. With this perspective, the hope of eternal life offers strength beyond current struggles. King Jesus reigns above all authorities. Understanding the divine rule of Jesus means trusting in His guidance, which can alleviate fears about worldly troubles. The Bible holds truths unmatched by any other book. The scriptures provide guidance, assurance, and wisdom that stand the test of time, inviting believers to trust in their teachings during hard times. Being a child of God surpasses earthly wealth and fame. When one knows they belong to God’s family, worldly loss seems less daunting. God’s mission is about saving lives. This mission transcends politics and global events, rooting believers' purpose in something far greater. Why This Message Matters For many, the blend of joy and sorrow illustrated at the funeral can feel contradictory. This paradox may even challenge one’s faith. Yet, rooted in the realities presented, we see that a faith-filled perspective allows people to grieve with hope. "It is well with my soul" becomes a proclamation—one of peace, even during the toughest storms. Understanding Grief Through a Spiritual Lens Loss often leads to questions that young believers might find challenging. Why is it okay for the family to rejoice when they have experienced such a heart-wrenching loss? It's important to understand that experiencing deep sorrow while holding onto faith is entirely legitimate. Christianity teaches that we can feel both loss and hope simultaneously—because our eternal hope is what ultimately sustains us. Lessons for Daily Life For young individuals and families, reflecting on the truths behind "It is well with my soul" can transform how we live day-to-day. Instead of fearing what the world presents, we can remind ourselves of God’s promises. Embracing the realities of faith can guide decisions, influence attitudes about life’s uncertainties, and shape practices that bring communities closer. A Community of Support During difficult times, community support can become a vital lifeline. Just as the Broten family was surrounded by loved ones, we too should lean on community to share burdens and rejoice in faith. In church settings, fostering open dialogues about grief and hope encourages deeper connections and richer understanding among peers, youth, and families alike. Moving Forward with Hope As we look beyond our current trials, let’s remember the profound truths that can bring peace and purpose to our lives. By embracing the six realities emphasized during Perpetua’s funeral service, we empower ourselves and others to rise above life’s difficulties. Words might seem simple, yet they hold a wealth of meaning and strength: "It is well with my soul." May we carry this message in our hearts as we navigate our own journeys. So, if you’re struggling, reach out. Engage in community discussions, read the Bible, or connect with local church leaders. Seek the support that will allow your heart to grieve while still hoping—because your soul is valuable. The journey of faith is, after all, best walked together.

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