Refined By Fire

Tag: Spirit-led works

  • Building for Eternity: The Reward of Spirit-Led Works

    Introduction

    Our journey through Refined by Fire has revealed the transformative power of faith (Post 8), the sacrificial works of seeking the Kingdom (Post 9), the call to love in action (Post 10), and the readiness required for judgment (Post 11). Now, we conclude our initial series in Part 3: Judgment at the Bema Seat, reflecting on Chapter 18’s theme of eternal rewards for Spirit-led works. The Parable of the Faithful Servants taught us to be ready for the Master’s return, but what awaits those who serve faithfully? 1 Corinthians 3:14 promises, “If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward” (ESV). This truth prepares us for the Bema Seat, where our works in the Kingdom of God now will determine our rewards in the Kingdom of Heaven. Let’s explore this promise through Stephen’s faithful witness and learn how to build for eternity.

    The Reward of Spirit-Led Works

    In the 1st-century Corinthian context of 1 Corinthians 3, Paul wrote to a church struggling with divisions and fleshly works (1 Corinthians 1:11), urging them to build on the foundation of Christ with works of gold, silver, and precious stones (1 Corinthians 3:12). He warned that their works would be tested by fire at the Bema Seat, but “if the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward” (1 Corinthians 3:14, ESV). In this Greco-Roman city, known for the Isthmian Games where athletes competed for perishable laurel crowns, Paul contrasts fleeting rewards with the eternal reward of the Bema Seat. This aligns with Dual-Realm Dispensationalism, where Spirit-led works in the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:13) lead to glory in the Kingdom of Heaven (Revelation 22:12). Stephen, the first Christian martyr, exemplifies this truth. In Jerusalem, amidst opposition from the Sanhedrin (Acts 6:12), Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:5), served widows and preached boldly (Acts 7:52). His martyrdom—forgiving his enemies as stones fell (Acts 7:60)—built a work of gold, securing an eternal reward as he saw Christ standing to receive him (Acts 7:55). Chuck Smith reflects, “Stephen’s faithfulness built gold, a work that endures” (Old Testament Study Guide, 1981, p. 134).1 Stephen’s example shows that Spirit-led works—marked by love, faith, and obedience—survive the Bema Seat’s fire, earning an eternal reward.

    Stephen’s Eternal Crown

    Stephen’s story illustrates the eternal reward awaiting those who build with the Spirit. Despite facing death, he remained faithful, proclaiming Christ and forgiving his persecutors (Acts 7:60). His works, rooted in the Spirit, were gold—enduring the fire of judgment to receive a crown that never fades. 2 Timothy 4:8 describes this reward: “Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day” (ESV). In the 1st-century context, crowns were symbols of victory, but Paul emphasizes an eternal crown, awarded at the Bema Seat to those whose works endure. Stephen’s faithfulness challenges us to build with the Spirit, ensuring our works are not wood, hay, or straw (1 Corinthians 3:12), but gold that survives the fire. John Walvoord notes, “Spirit-led works endure the fire, earning a crown that reflects the glory of Christ” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, 1983, p. 515).2 Stephen’s eternal crown calls us to live with eternity in view, building works that will receive the Master’s approval: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

    Practical Application: Building for Eternity

    The promise of reward at the Bema Seat challenges us to build for eternity through Spirit-led works. In our modern context, this means serving with love, witnessing with faith, and giving with generosity, knowing our works will be tested. Matthew 5:16 urges, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (ESV). Practically, this might look like sharing the gospel with a friend, even when it’s uncomfortable, or giving sacrificially to support a missionary, trusting God to multiply the impact. For example, mentoring a new believer or volunteering in your church’s outreach program can be Spirit-led works that endure the fire, earning an eternal reward. Tim LaHaye writes, “Spirit-led works secure a crown that endures, a testament to the Spirit’s guidance” (Spirit-Filled Life, 1997, p. 108).3 Build with the Spirit—let your works reflect His sanctifying power, securing an eternal reward.

    More to Explore

    Building for eternity through Spirit-led works concludes our initial series, preparing us for the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven. Join us starting April 7, 2025, for a new 24-part series, diving into each chapter of Refined by Fire on a Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule. We’ll begin with Chapter 1, exploring faith in the Kingdom of God, and journey through to Chapter 24, culminating in the eternal Kingdom. Stay tuned—God’s Word holds treasures (2 Timothy 3:16), and for a deeper dive, look forward to Refined by Fire, a forthcoming book exploring these truths across 24 chapters, deepening your journey in the Kingdom of God and Heaven (Ephesians 2:10).

    Endnotes

    1. Chuck Smith, Old Testament Study Guide (Costa Mesa: Word for Today, 1981), 134.
    2. John Walvoord, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983), 515.
    3. Tim LaHaye, Spirit-Filled Life (Eugene: Harvest House, 1997), 108.

  • The Faithful Servants: Ready for Judgment

    Introduction

    Our journey through Refined by Fire has revealed the transformative power of faith (Post 8), the sacrificial works of seeking the Kingdom (Post 9), and the call to love in action (Post 10). Now, we return to Part 3: Judgment at the Bema Seat, focusing on readiness for judgment through faithful service. The Parable of the Faithful Servants (Matthew 24:45-51), part of Jesus’ Olivet Discourse, emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the Master’s return, a lesson that prepares us for the Bema Seat’s evaluation of our works. This parable challenges us to live diligently in the Kingdom of God now, ensuring our works endure the fire of judgment and lead to glory in the Kingdom of Heaven. Let’s explore this call to readiness and learn how to serve faithfully as we await Christ’s return.

    The Call to Faithful Service

    In the 1st-century Judean setting of Matthew 24, Jesus taught His disciples on the Mount of Olives, answering their questions about the end times (Matthew 24:3, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”). In the Parable of the Faithful Servants, Jesus said, “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes” (Matthew 24:45-46, ESV). In this context, households often had servants responsible for managing daily tasks, such as providing food for the family. The faithful servant diligently fulfills his duties, knowing the master could return at any moment. Jesus contrasts this with the wicked servant, who abuses his authority and is unprepared for the master’s return, facing judgment (Matthew 24:48-51). This parable points to the Bema Seat, where our works in the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:13) will be evaluated (2 Corinthians 5:10), determining our rewards in the Kingdom of Heaven (Revelation 22:12). J. Dwight Pentecost writes, “The faithful servant’s readiness reflects a heart prepared for the Bema Seat, where works are tested” (Things to Come, 1958, p. 148).1 The parable calls us to serve faithfully, always ready for Christ’s return.

    The Servant’s Diligent Work

    The faithful servant’s diligence—providing food at the proper time—represents the Spirit-led works we’re called to in the Kingdom of God now. In a 1st-century Judean household, this task was critical, ensuring the family’s well-being, and required constant vigilance. The servant’s readiness reflects a heart aligned with the Master’s will, prepared for His return. 1 Peter 4:10 instructs, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (ESV). The faithful servant’s diligence contrasts with the wicked servant’s negligence, showing that readiness for judgment requires consistent, faithful service. At the Bema Seat, our works will be tested (2 Corinthians 5:10), and only those done in the Spirit will endure. H.A. Ironside notes, “The faithful servant’s diligence ensures a reward, while negligence leads to loss” (Matthew, 1920, p. 298).2 The servant’s diligent work challenges us to serve faithfully in all we do, preparing for the Master’s return with a heart of readiness.

    Practical Application: Serving with Readiness

    The Parable of the Faithful Servants calls us to serve with readiness, ensuring our works in the Kingdom of God now are faithful and enduring. In our modern context, this means living with an eternal perspective, serving diligently in whatever role God has placed us. Titus 2:7 urges, “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity” (ESV). Practically, this might look like faithfully fulfilling your responsibilities at work, even when no one is watching, or serving in your church with consistency, whether through teaching, hospitality, or prayer. For example, preparing a meal for a family in need or regularly praying for your community can be acts of faithful service, reflecting readiness for Christ’s return. John Walvoord writes, “Readiness for the Bema Seat requires diligent service, ensuring our works endure the fire” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, 1983, p. 78).3 Be faithful—serve diligently, preparing for the Bema Seat’s judgment.

    More to Explore

    The Faithful Servants challenge us to serve with readiness, preparing for the Bema Seat. Our next post will explore how Spirit-led works lead to eternal rewards (1 Corinthians 3:14), concluding our initial series with a focus on glory in the Kingdom of Heaven. Stay tuned—God’s Word holds treasures (2 Timothy 3:16), and for a deeper dive, look forward to Refined by Fire, a forthcoming book exploring these truths across 24 chapters, deepening your journey in the Kingdom of God and Heaven (Ephesians 2:10).

    Endnotes

    1. J. Dwight Pentecost, Things to Come (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1958), 148.
    2. H.A. Ironside, Expository Notes on the Gospel of Matthew (Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Brothers, 1920), 298.
    3. John Walvoord, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: New Testament (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983), 78.

  • The Good Samaritan: Love in Action

    Introduction

    Our journey through Refined by Fire has shown us the transformative power of faith (Post 8) and the sacrificial works required to seek the Kingdom (Post 9). Now, we continue in Part 2: Spirit-Led Works in This Age, turning to the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), a timeless lesson on love as a Spirit-led work that endures. Jesus shared this parable in response to a lawyer’s question about eternal life, revealing that love for God and neighbor is the heart of Kingdom works. As we explore this story, we’ll see how acts of compassion in the Kingdom of God now prepare us for the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven, fulfilling the call to love in action.

    The Call to Love Your Neighbor

    In the 1st-century Judean setting of Luke 10, Jesus was teaching a crowd when a lawyer asked, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” (Luke 10:25, ESV). Jesus pointed him to the law: love God and love your neighbor (Luke 10:27). When the lawyer asked, “And who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29), Jesus responded with the Parable of the Good Samaritan: A man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho was attacked by robbers, left half-dead. A priest and a Levite passed by, but a Samaritan stopped, bandaged his wounds, and cared for him (Luke 10:30-35). In this context, Samaritans were despised by Jews due to historical and religious tensions (John 4:9), making the Samaritan’s compassion radical. Jesus concluded, “You go, and do likewise” (Luke 10:37, ESV), showing that love transcends boundaries and is the essence of Kingdom works. This aligns with Dual-Realm Dispensationalism, where love in the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:13) prepares us for the Kingdom of Heaven (Revelation 22:12). J. Dwight Pentecost writes, “The Good Samaritan exemplifies the love that marks Kingdom works, a love that endures the Bema Seat’s fire” (Things to Come, 1958, p. 145).1 The parable calls us to love our neighbor as a Spirit-led work, reflecting the Kingdom’s heart.

    The Samaritan’s Compassionate Works

    The Samaritan’s actions—bandaging wounds, providing oil and wine, and ensuring the man’s care—represent Spirit-led works of love that endure. On the Jericho road, a dangerous 17-mile stretch descending 3,000 feet from Jerusalem to Jericho, the Samaritan risked his safety to help a stranger. His compassion stood in stark contrast to the priest and Levite, who prioritized ritual purity over mercy. 1 Corinthians 13:13 declares, “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (ESV). The Samaritan’s love was active, costly, and selfless, embodying the Spirit-led works that prepare us for the Kingdom of Heaven. In the 1st-century context, his actions were revolutionary, crossing cultural divides to show mercy. H.A. Ironside reflects, “The Samaritan’s love mirrors the heart of Christ, a love that acts without hesitation” (Luke, 1915, p. 89).2 His compassionate works challenge us to love actively, even when it’s inconvenient or costly, as a reflection of the Kingdom’s values.

    Practical Application: Loving in Action

    The Parable of the Good Samaritan calls us to love in action, showing compassion to those in need as a Spirit-led work. In our modern context, this means looking for opportunities to serve others, even when it’s inconvenient. Galatians 6:10 urges, “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith” (ESV). Practically, this might look like helping a neighbor with groceries, offering a listening ear to a friend in distress, or supporting a local charity with your time or resources. For example, taking time to visit a sick relative or donating to a food bank can be acts of love that reflect the Kingdom’s heart. John Walvoord notes, “Love in action is the hallmark of Kingdom works, preparing us for eternal glory” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, 1983, p. 234).3 Love in action—show compassion to others, building works that endure.

    More to Explore

    The Good Samaritan challenges us to love in action, reflecting the Kingdom’s heart. Our next post will explore readiness (Matthew 24:45-47) in the Kingdom of God now, preparing us for glory in the Kingdom of Heaven. Stay tuned—God’s Word holds treasures (2 Timothy 3:16), and for a deeper dive, look forward to Refined by Fire, a forthcoming book exploring these truths across 24 chapters, deepening your journey in the Kingdom of God and Heaven (Ephesians 2:10).

    Endnotes

    1. J. Dwight Pentecost, Things to Come (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1958), 142.
    2. H.A. Ironside, Expository Notes on the Gospel of Matthew (Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Brothers, 1920), 146.
    3. Norman Geisler, Systematic Theology (Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2002), 683.

  • Uncovering the Hidden Treasure

    Introduction

    As we continue our journey through Refined by Fire, we’ve seen how faith transforms us, much like the leaven in the Kingdom of God (Post 8). Now, we return to Part 2: Spirit-Led Works in This Age, exploring how our works in the Kingdom of God now prepare us for the Kingdom of Heaven. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure (Matthew 13:44), another gem from Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 13, reveals the incomparable value of the Kingdom and the sacrificial works required to pursue it. This parable challenges us to prioritize the Kingdom above all else, giving everything to gain its eternal rewards. Let’s dive into this hidden treasure and discover how our Spirit-led works can reflect a heart fully devoted to God’s Kingdom.

    The Value of the Kingdom

    In the 1st-century Galilean context of Matthew 13, Jesus taught the crowds by the Sea of Galilee, using parables to unveil the mysteries of the Kingdom (Matthew 13:2, “And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down”). The Parable of the Hidden Treasure is strikingly concise yet profound: “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field” (Matthew 13:44, ESV). In this agrarian society, fields were often places where treasures—coins, jewelry, or family heirlooms—were buried for safekeeping, especially during times of war or upheaval. The man in the parable, likely a laborer or tenant farmer, stumbles upon such a treasure while working the land. Recognizing its immense value, he joyfully sells all he has to buy the field, securing the treasure for himself. Jesus uses this imagery to show the surpassing worth of the Kingdom of Heaven—it’s a treasure so valuable that it’s worth giving up everything to obtain. This aligns with Dual-Realm Dispensationalism, where our works in the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:13) prepare us for the eternal rewards of the Kingdom of Heaven (Revelation 22:12). J. Dwight Pentecost writes, “The Kingdom of Heaven is a treasure worth more than all earthly possessions, a prize that demands our all” (Things to Come, 1958, p. 142).1 The parable calls us to recognize the Kingdom’s value and pursue it with wholehearted devotion.

    The Man’s Joyful Sacrifice

    The man in the parable represents the believer who discovers the Kingdom’s worth and responds with joyful sacrifice. His actions—selling all he has to buy the field—reflect a radical commitment to the Kingdom, driven not by obligation but by joy. In 1st-century Galilee, selling all one’s possessions was a significant act, often leaving a person with nothing but the field they purchased. Yet the man does so “in his joy”, showing that the treasure’s value far outweighs the cost. This mirrors the Spirit-led works we’re called to in the Kingdom of God now—works of sacrifice, service, and devotion that prepare us for the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 6:33 instructs us, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (ESV). The man’s joyful sacrifice challenges us to prioritize the Kingdom above all else, trusting that God will provide for our needs. H.A. Ironside notes, “The joy of the Kingdom’s discovery leads to a willing surrender of all, for its value is eternal” (Matthew, 1920, p. 146).2 Like the man, we’re called to let the Spirit guide our works, sacrificing earthly comforts for the eternal treasure of the Kingdom.

    Practical Application: Seeking the Kingdom Through Works

    The Parable of the Hidden Treasure calls us to seek the Kingdom through Spirit-led works, prioritizing its eternal value above all else. In our modern context, this means reorienting our lives—our time, resources, and priorities—around the Kingdom. Philippians 3:8 captures this mindset: “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (ESV). Practically, this might look like giving generously to support a ministry, even when it stretches your budget, or dedicating time to serve others, even when it means sacrificing personal comfort. For example, volunteering at a local shelter or mentoring a young believer can be acts of joyful sacrifice, reflecting a heart that values the Kingdom above all. Norman Geisler writes, “The Kingdom’s worth demands our all, for its rewards are eternal” (Systematic Theology, 2002, p. 683).3 Seek the treasure—prioritize the Kingdom, sacrificing all for its eternal value.

    More to Explore

    The Hidden Treasure challenges us to seek the Kingdom through sacrificial works. Our next post will explore how love (Luke 10:25-37) in the Kingdom of God now leads to glory in the Kingdom of Heaven, followed by a focus on readiness (Matthew 24:45-47). Stay tuned—God’s Word holds treasures (2 Timothy 3:16), and for a deeper dive, look forward to Refined by Fire, a forthcoming book exploring these truths across 24 chapters, deepening your journey in the Kingdom of God and Heaven (Ephesians 2:10).

    Endnotes

    1. J. Dwight Pentecost, Things to Come (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1958), 142.
    2. H.A. Ironside, Expository Notes on the Gospel of Matthew (Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Brothers, 1920), 146.
    3. Norman Geisler, Systematic Theology (Minneapolis: Bethany House, 2002), 683.