“If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.” – 1 Corinthians 3:14-15
The work that we each do for the Lord will be tested by our Lord. He will judge it with perfect knowledge and wisdom. This is true for EVERY Christian. Have we made disciples like Jesus commanded? Have we taught them well and accurately from Scripture? Have we built on the foundation of Jesus Christ and the Word of God revealed to the Apostles and Prophets? Great reward awaits those who do. Great loss awaits those who don’t.
This isn’t about salvation. Paul is very clear about that. Everyone who trusts in Jesus is truly and eternally saved. If Jesus is truly your Lord, you don’t need to fear for your soul. This is about the rewards you will (or won’t) enjoy in Heaven. Regardless of what disciple-making looks like for you, if you have built well on that everlasting foundation, you will be rewarded. If you haven’t built well or you haven’t built at all, then there are wonderful rewards you will miss out on. Heaven will still be eternally and completely satisfying but you will have missed an amazing opportunity!
Faithfully make disciples of Jesus Christ. Understand what that looks like for you. Understand what God has called you to do to make disciples for His kingdom (that could include evangelizing, engaging with missions, teaching Christians of various ages or stages, mentoring, counseling, serving, etc.). Do whatever God has called you to do. Don’t hold back. Do the work and do it faithfully, building on the truth of God’s Word as written in the Bible and revealed in Jesus Christ. Work for the pleasure of God and the joy of the rewards that are waiting for you in Heaven. Don’t arrive in Heaven smelling like smoke! #FollowJesus