RCCG Sunday School Students Manual Lesson 50: 10 August 2025

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

MEMORY VERSE:

“And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Revelation 22:12.

LESSON INTRODUCTION

Most of us like to be recognised for our accomplishments. We appreciate receiving “rewards” for our productive work. Sometimes, we like to reward ourselves, when we achieve a personal goal in life. However, the Bible admonishes that Christians should put more premium on heavenly rewards (Matthew 6:19-21).

Heavenly rewards are God’s compensation for our labour on earth which is to be received in Heaven. This lesson compares earthly and heavenly rewards and gives insights into how we can get heavenly rewards.

LESSON OUTLINE 1: EARTHLY VERSUS HEAVENLY REWARDS

A. The Earthly rewards referred to here are human rewards given in recognition of diverse accomplishments.

B. They are distinct in the following ways:

They are sometimes good motivations for hard work and success.
They boost morale and a sense of belonging.
They can act as catalysts for better performance. and promote healthy competition (Corinthians
9:24).
Naturally, they bring satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment.

C. However, earthly rewards will:

Fade away (decay), be corrupted, and eventually lose their lustre (1 Corinthians 9:25).
They can be a source of self-pride (Daniel 4:30).
They are temporal (Ecclesiastes 5:15; Psalm 49:12).
They can misdirect one’s heart to a point where one no longer sees the need for God (Luke 12:16-21).

D. Earthly rewards are not necessarily a pointer to the end of our earthly story and we may not have enough of it.

E. On the other hand, heavenly rewards are:

Incorruptible, undefiled, and do not fade (1 Peter 1:4) i.e. they are eternal, not subject to decay and thievery (Matthew 6:20).
They are pointers to the quality of our work here on earth and our genuine fellowship with God (Matthew 16:27; 1 Corinthians 3:8; 14-15).
They are precious rewards to be anticipated because they carry the weight and meaning of our relationship with God (Philippians 3:13-15a).

F. We shall receive heavenly rewards after our earthly journey, and we shall be eternally satisfied. 2 Timothy 4:6-8; Revelation 22:12).

G. It must be noted that making it to Heaven attracts a reward for believers who faithfully persevere till the end (James 1:12).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1:

Students should share their experience of receiving a reward/award/trophy/medal with the class.

LESSON OUTLINE 2: HOW TO EARN HEAVENLY REWARDS

As good as earthly rewards may make us feel, there is a need for us to consider how to earn heavenly rewards.

Motivation for all we do in the kingdom should be because of a sincere love for Christ (Colossians 3:23-24).
Giving and living a sacrificial life (Matthew 10:42;
19:21-22).
Use of talents and spiritual gifts like singing, teaching, playing of instruments, etc. to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) and not for self-glory or praise of men.
Commitment to soul-winning and other kingdom services (Hebrews 6:10, 1 Corinthians 3:8).
Staying steadfast in the face of persecution, trou-ble, and inconvenience (Romans 8:18. 1Corinthi-ans 15:58).
Not being deceitful so as not to lose our rewards (John 1:7-8).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2:

Students should mention the heavenly reward/crown they are working to receive in heaven.

CONCLUSION: RCCG Sunday School Students Manual 10 August 2025

Earthly rewards are good but heavenly rewards are far better. Be wise.

ASSIGNMENT: RCCG Sunday School Students Manual Lesson 50

List five crowns you are aiming at in Heaven and give biblical reference for each (2×5=10 Marks).

Follow RCCG Live on:

Facebook: RCCG Live

RCCG Sunday School Students Manual Lesson 50: 10 August 2025