Gospel Dictionary Online Course<\/a>, in the lesson on “Crown.”)<\/p>\nThe Crown of Life is NOT Eternal Life<\/h2>\n
James 1:12 and Revelation 2:10 indicate that the Crown of Life is for those who persevere in faith through temptation, tribulation, and persecution.<\/p>\n
Some people wrongly teach, however, that if you fail to persevere in faith through temptation, tribulation, or persecution, that you prove you do not have life, or that God will take away your life. This is not true.<\/p>\n
Eternal life is a free gift to everyone and anyone who believes in Jesus for it. You do not have to work your way to eternal life. Eternal life cannot be earned or kept by good works.<\/p>\n
The Crown of Life, however, is a reward for special acts of service and perseverance under trial.<\/strong><\/p>\nThe Crown of Life is special reward for a special act of service and dedication to the King.<\/p>\n
So if you are experiencing severe temptation, trials, or persecution, be encouraged and persevere through them.<\/p>\n
Just as a runner perseveres through the difficulties of the race so that he reaches the finish line and receives the reward, so also Jesus wants to put the Crown of Life upon your head when you reach the finish line after persevering through pain, trials, and persecution.<\/p>\n
It will probably not be an actual crown or ring of leaves, but will be some sort of special blessing, honor, privilege, or recognition in the future, eternal reign of Jesus.<\/p>\n
By offering this Crown, Jesus encourages us to stay strong, keep the course, and remain faithful.<\/p>\n
Let us look in more detail at the two texts which mention the Crown of Life.<\/p>\n