PREAMBLE
- I Corinthians 15:58 NKJV-Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
- Apostles Paul was drawing conclusion on what should characterise believers’ life as benefactors of God’s Grace and hope both now and till eternally.
- Service unto the Father is very germane in the mind of Christ – Luke 2:49; John 5:36
- Scripture established that children of God are saved and given grace to serve the kingdom of God forever – Ephesians 2:8,10
GOD’S SATISFYING REWARDS- 1 COR. 15:58C
… knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.- vs 58c
- Reward is what is given in recognition of service, efforts and achievement.
- God’s reward is divine, timely accurate and appropriate- Psalm 62:12; Jeremiah 17:10; 2 Cor.9:6; Gal.6:7-9; Eph.6:8
- God’s rewards are specific, individualised, and satisfying- Rev.22:12. Col.3;23-25
- Divine Blessing- Malachi 3:10-12; Exodus 23:25
- Divine (Sound) health and restoration- Exodus 23:26
- Divine Prosperity round the year – Job 36:11
- Divine distinction – Malachi 3:18
- Divine Honour- John 12:26
UNDERSTANDING A REWARDING LABOUR OF LOVE- 1 COR.15:58A-B
- The word ‘labour’ is critical in understanding God’s approved services.
- Only the labour of love will God reward not just any kind- Heb. 6:10- For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
- it has a unique characteristic ‘’be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord’’.
- Steadfastness in business of the kingdom, not slothfulness-Romans 12:11; Eph.6:7
- Focus and determined workers- Joshua 23:8
- Ready to do more for God
- “Labour of love’’ reflects agape love ( Romans 1:8-9), travailing for others (Gal.4:19), meeting the need of others ( Prov.19:17), and making great sacrifice.( 1 John 3:17-18; 2 Cor.8:8)