Bible Study

Title: Crown of Life
Date: Apr 15, 2011
Topic(s): Service/Servanthood
Scripture: Matthew 5:11-12, John 16:33, James 1:12, 2 Timothy 3:12

<  previous date

next date  >

Our life on earth is precious but fragile. We could hardly blame anyone for "playing it safe." It seems almost natural to seek the good experiences while minimizing the bad. But the Christian life is anything but safe.

What Does God Say?

Paul, in his second letter to Timothy reminded him, "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (3:12, ESV). In reassuring His disciples, Jesus took it as a given that His followers would be persecuted, "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, ESV).

But I find comfort when I read Jesus' words in Matthew 5. He knew that those who put their faith in Him would face a difficult life, and so He stated several blessings for those who earnestly seek to honor God. The last of these Beatitudes is, "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you" (11-12, ESV).

In the Book of James we get an idea of what this great reward will be: "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him" (1:12, ESV).

The "crown of life" is also known as the "sufferer's crown," or the "martyr's crown." Probably none of us aspire to earn this crown and yet some of us will, not because we sought out suffering or persecution but because we said, "Come what may, I'm going to glorify God with my life here on earth."

My Thoughts

As you read the verses presented in this study, think about the following questions:

• Many of the apostles experienced persecution. Can you remember specific trials they had to endure?
• The world is a lot different than it was 2,000 years ago. In what ways is the persecution we face today different, and in what ways is it the same?
• In what forms have you faced persecution? Do you find Jesus' promise of a "crown of life" encouraging?

My Part

In the midst of contemplating the times of persecution we may be up against as believers, never forget the words of encouragement Jesus had for His disciples. Look for them in the verses above. Now, make a list. Take time to read your list every day for the next week. Pray for Christians who may be facing persecution right now.

Options

• Print Format
• Email a friend
• Help us provide Bible Minute

Search: