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‘Stephanos’ is the Greek word for ‘Crown’. It means a crown, a mark of royalty or exalted rank, mark of honor, and also a wreath or garland that was given as a prize in public games.

When the disciple, Stephan was stoned to death in Acts 7, we see that he looked up to heaven, and what did he see? A revealing of God’s glory;

‘But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God’ – Acts 7:55

It’s time to fix our eyes heavenward. Think of things above not beneath. Live our lives in light of eternity.

The New Testament describes 5 Heavenly Crowns that can be awarded to believers in Christ as a result of the life we live here on earth

The Crown of Life

For those who endure trials…This crown is bestowed on those who persevere under trials, tests and persecution…

‘God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.’ -James 1:12

‘Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. If you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life’ -Revelation 2:10

The Imperishable Crown

For those who discipline their bodies….This crown is given to those who demonstrate self-denial, who disciplined their bodies and had self-control…

‘Everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable [or corruptible] crown, but we for an imperishable crown’ -1 Corinthians 9:25

The Crown of Righteousness

For those who long for the second coming…This crown is promised to those who love and anticipate The Second Coming of Jesus. Living in expectant hope

‘And now the prize awaits me – the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing’ -2 Timothy 4:8

The Crown of Glory

For those who shepherd the flock well…This crown is promised to Christian leaders who shepherd the flock in unselfish love, leading by example.

‘And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly – not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away’ -1 Peter 5:1-4

The Crown of Rejoicing

For winning souls through the gospel. Also known as ‘The Soul-Winners Crown’. This crown is given to those who engage in evangelism/church planting to outsiders.

‘For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?’ -1 Thessalonians 2:19

‘Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work’ -Philippians 4:1

Run to Win the Heavenly Prize

‘Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!’ -1 Corinthians 9:24

The Five Crowns can be earned by disciples of Jesus…

‘Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a large crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who pioneers and perfects our faith…’ -Hebrews 12:1-2

Which heavenly crown are you running for?