FromNowUntilForeverBook8.5x5.5 REV.indd

one big “kick back and relax” experience. After all, I’m tired.” I know how you feel. I’m tired too. But remember, we’re tired because of the sinful conditions in which we live.Work became tedious and tiresome after the Fall. In the new creation, with the curse removed, Eden-like conditions will prevail. “We will enjoy the responsibility God gives us, but the degree of fulfillment we experience will depend upon our faithfulness to Christ in this life.” 473 I’m expecting some surprises. Even if they escape the second death, many wielding great power and authority in this world won’t do so in the world to come.Yet, those who maintained an insignificant social standing, limited education, meager resources, and minimal opportunity into prosperous kingdom living on this earth can expect a significant promotion on the earth to come. Afterlife rewards in the Bible also includes crowns. Thefive mentioned specifically in the NewTestament are: The Incorruptible Crown— Paul said that athletes go into strict training to get “a crown that will not last; but we do it for a crown that will last forever” (1 Corinthians 9:25, NIV). Paul was referring to the leaves and laurel crowns given to athletic winners in the first century, which would wilt within days of being received. However, believers who qualify for the victor’s crown on judgment day will receive crowns that last forever. Crown of Rejoicing— Also called the soul winner’s crown, Paul describes this prize as well. “ For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation? Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming?” (1 Thessalonians 2:19). The Apostle refers here to members of the church at Thessalonica who became believers as a result of his missionary work.What could be more invigorating than seeing someone in heaven that you’ve

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