Add Row
Add Element
cropper
update

Biblical Living Unlocked

Logo - Biblical living unlocked
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Biblical Parenting
    • Parenting Tips
    • Family Fellowship
    • Bible Teaching
    • Apologetics
    • Community Stories
    • Youth Focus
    • International
    • Walton Evangelical Church
    • Salt Church Mar Menor
    • Salt Church Los Montesinos
    • John Piper
Add Element
  • Ken on Facebook
    update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
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

7 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
09.17.2025

Why Does God Ordain So Much Evil in the Last Days? Understanding His Purpose

Update Understanding the Problem of Evil in the Last Days In a recent discussion on Why Does God Ordain So Much Evil in the Last Days?, we explore a profound question that many believers face: Why does God allow evil, especially in this time we refer to as the 'last days'? This inquiry stems from the Biblical text in 2 Timothy 3:1–5, where Paul warns that people will grow increasingly selfish, proud, and disobedient as we approach the end of the age.In Why Does God Ordain So Much Evil in the Last Days?, the discussion dives into the complex relationship between God's sovereignty and human suffering, prompting deeper analysis and reflection. The concept of evil and suffering can be daunting, particularly for young believers and those curious about their faith. However, acknowledging this struggle is the first step toward a deeper understanding of God's plan during challenging times. God's Sovereignty and Human Choice One immediate verse that sheds light on our inquiry is found in Romans 9:22-23, where Paul points out that God allows "vessels of wrath" prepared for destruction to exist. Why does He permit this? The purpose is twofold: to showcase His power and patience while simultaneously illuminating His grace for those who choose to believe. This highlights a critical belief: while God is omnipotent, humans still possess free will. The presence of evil can serve as a backdrop against which God's glory shines brighter, much like a dark night enhances the brilliance of stars. Embracing Tough Times with Humility In troubling times, humility is essential. We're encouraged to approach these questions with a deep sense of reverence and humility, recognizing that we can't fully grasp God's ways. 1 Timothy 1:15 reminds us that even a prominent figure like Paul had a history of blasphemy and persecution. Yet, through God's mercy, he became an example for those who could believe in eternal life. Such narratives encourage us to view our struggles as opportunities for God to display His grace, even amid chaos. Military Battles in Our Faith Journey The Bible often compares the Christian journey to a battle. God allows evil and suffering, not as punishment, but as a means to strengthen our faith. Acts 20:29-31 emphasizes the need for vigilance against false teachings and behavior that can lead believers astray. These challenges sharpen our awareness and encourage us to remain alert. Just as soldiers prepare and train for battle, believers must cultivate their spiritual resilience through prayer and community support. Purposeful Testing for Genuine Faith Testing is a recurring theme in the Bible, serving a wider purpose. As Paul states in 1 Corinthians 11:19, "There must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized." The trials we face can ultimately strengthen the authenticity of our faith and resolve. This testing period reveals where our true loyalties lie: are we devoted to God, or are we swayed by the world around us? Such experiences help us develop a stronger relationship with God, enhancing our ability to empathize with others in similar struggles. Hope Amidst Decline Despite the challenges and signs of decline we might witness, we must remember that God still has a plan for each of us. Every trial serves to display God’s perfect patience and grace. This knowledge brings hope to young believers: just as God has patiently worked within us, He may also be working within those around us, even those who seem distant from Him. Our role revolves around being messengers of this grace, encouraging one another and sharing the love of Jesus with our communities. To conclude, while the question "Why Does God Ordain So Much Evil in the Last Days?" can be deeply unsettling, it offers hope when framed in light of God's ultimate purposes. His patience serves not just as an illustration of wrath, but as a reflection of His exquisite grace toward us, even during these difficult times. Stay curious, seek understanding, and remain grounded in faith as God continues to unfold His beautiful plan amidst the apparent chaos of our world. Find strength in community, share your insights, and continue to ask these vital questions. Together, we can navigate these challenging themes through prayer and discussion, growing closer to God as we do.

09.16.2025

Why Does God Allow Evil to Persist in Our Times? Insights from 2 Timothy 3:1–5

Explore why God ordains evil in the last days through the lens of 2 Timothy 3:1–5. Gain insights on spiritual growth and community support amidst moral decline.

09.16.2025

Is Mysticism the Key to a Closer Walk with God?

Update Are We Chasing the Wrong Spiritual High? Since the dawn of humanity, many have sought ways to connect with the divine. For some, it means incorporating practices like recreational marijuana, an ancient method that some religions use for a spiritual high. However, in today's fast-paced culture, we need to question whether these efforts bring us closer to God or distract us from true spiritual fulfillment.In 'Does Mysticism Make Us Closer to God?', we delve into the nuanced conversation about mystical experiences and their implications on our faith journey. Understanding Mysticism: The Quest for Connection In our exploration of mysticism, we must first understand what it encompasses. Mysticism is described as seeking unity with God or attaining knowledge through personal experience—through ecstasy or altered states of consciousness. This begs the question: can experiencing a divine high through mystical practices really deepen our faith, or does it actually divert us from profound truths? Why Is Experiencing God's Presence Important? Many committed Christians aspire to feel God’s tangible presence in their lives. This longing is echoing across generations, often reflecting the verse from 1 Peter 2:9, which refers to believers as a “royal priesthood.” Recognizing God’s presence is essential because it helps foster spiritual growth and healing, providing comfort, guidance, and strength through life's challenges. The Cautionary Tale of the Apostle Paul The Apostle Paul offers us a vital perspective on mystical experiences. In his letters, he warns against seeking extraordinary experiences as proof of faith or authority. He faced skepticism for not boasting about mystical events, believing true apostolic power comes from trusting God in our weaknesses. Paul shows us that authentic faith doesn’t depend on ecstatic experiences but on relying on God’s grace, especially in difficult times. Seeking Christ: The Center of Our Spiritual Walk Instead of chasing mystical experiences, we should strive to know Christ intimately. When we focus on prayer, scripture, and fellowship within our communities, we invite God to transform our hearts over time. The idea is not to reject extraordinary experiences but to avoid pursuing them as our primary source of knowledge or personal connection with God. Lighting the Path for Spiritual Growth Building a relationship with God involves deep commitment. Strategies like active prayer, Bible study, and finding community can illuminate our paths toward spiritual growth without the dependence on ecstatic experiences. Reflecting on Your Spiritual Journey This article inspires readers, particularly young adults and new believers, to reflect: are you looking for God in dramatic experiences, or are you willing to encounter Him in quiet moments of prayer and community? Instead of asking for extraordinary encounters, we may find spiritual richness in the consistency of ordinary practices. Become Part of the Movement At a time when many seek quick spiritual highs, let us advocate for a deeper, more fruitful relationship with our Creator. If you resonate with this journey of seeking God through a steady relationship rather than mystical highs, consider joining a local church or community group. Dive into the scriptures, engage in rich discussions, and build connections that celebrate God’s presence in our lives.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*