Reward
The Biblical Concept of Reward
The concept of reward in Scripture is far broader than the modern English sense of a prize for good behavior. The Hebrew and Greek words translated 'reward' cover wages, recompense, bribes, gifts, and divine retribution — both positive and negative. Understanding this range is essential for grasping the biblical teaching on how God responds to human actions.
God as Rewarder
One of the foundational truths of Scripture is that God rewards those who seek him. 'Without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who diligently seek him' (Hebrews 11:6). God told Abraham, 'I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward' (Genesis 15:1), indicating that God himself is the ultimate reward for faithfulness. The Psalms repeatedly affirm that there is a reward for the righteous (Psalm 19:11; 58:11), and Jesus promised that those who act in secret — giving, praying, fasting — will be rewarded openly by the Father (Matthew 6:4, 6, 18).
Reward for Evil
The Bible also uses 'reward' to describe the consequences of wickedness. 'The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward' (Proverbs 11:18). The Psalms declare that 'the righteous will rejoice when they see the recompense of the wicked' (Psalm 91:8). In this sense, reward functions as a synonym for judgment or retribution, encompassing the full range of consequences that flow from human choices.
Wages and Bribes
Several biblical uses of 'reward' refer simply to payment for work. Paul quotes the principle that 'the laborer is worthy of his reward' (1 Timothy 5:18), echoing Jesus' own teaching (Luke 10:7). More negatively, the prophets condemn leaders who pursue 'reward' in the form of bribes: 'Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets tell fortunes for money' (Micah 3:11). Balaam is remembered as a prophet who loved 'the wages of wickedness' (2 Peter 2:15).
Jesus' Teaching on Heavenly Rewards
Jesus spoke frequently about rewards, particularly contrasting earthly recognition with heavenly recompense. Those who give alms publicly 'have received their reward' in full — the approval of others — and can expect nothing further from God (Matthew 6:2). But those who serve God without seeking human praise store up rewards in heaven. Jesus promised his persecuted followers, 'Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven' (Matthew 5:12). The parable of the talents teaches that faithful stewardship of God's gifts will be rewarded with greater responsibility and the master's commendation (Matthew 25:21).
Paul's Teaching on Eternal Rewards
Paul expanded on the theme of rewards in his letters. He described his apostolic work as a race in which he sought an imperishable crown (1 Corinthians 9:24-25). He taught that each believer's work would be tested by fire, and those whose work endures will receive a reward (1 Corinthians 3:14). Importantly, Paul maintained that salvation itself is a gift of grace, not a reward earned by works (Ephesians 2:8-9), but that within the life of faith, believers' faithful service will be recognized and rewarded by God.
The Final Reward
Revelation closes the biblical narrative with Christ's declaration: 'Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done' (Revelation 22:12). This final reward encompasses both blessing for the faithful and judgment for the rebellious, bringing the Bible's teaching on reward to its ultimate conclusion.
Biblical Context
The concept of reward spans the entire Bible. Key passages include Genesis 15:1 (God as Abraham's reward), Psalm 19:11 (reward in keeping God's law), Matthew 5:12 and 6:1-18 (Jesus on heavenly vs. earthly rewards), 1 Corinthians 3:14 (reward for faithful ministry), Hebrews 11:6 (God rewards those who seek him), and Revelation 22:12 (Christ's final recompense).
Theological Significance
The biblical doctrine of reward affirms that God is just and that human actions matter. While salvation is by grace through faith, Scripture consistently teaches that believers' faithfulness will be recognized and rewarded. The doctrine guards against both legalistic earning of salvation and the opposite error of treating obedience as irrelevant. God's nature as a rewarder is presented as a fundamental truth that motivates faith and perseverance.
Historical Background
The concept of divine reward and retribution was widespread in the ancient Near East. Egyptian texts describe the judgment of the dead, where hearts are weighed against the feather of Ma'at (truth). Mesopotamian literature also addresses the relationship between righteous behavior and divine blessing. The biblical concept, however, is distinctive in its emphasis on a personal God who enters into covenant relationship with his people and rewards them according to his faithful character rather than impersonal cosmic law.