THE DANGERS AND REWARDS OF THE SOUL-WINNER

INTRODUCTION:

1 Cor. 9:16-19 “For though I preach the gospel I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! 17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. 18 What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, hat I abuse not my power in the gospel. 19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more”

2 Cor. 2:15-17 “For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 to the one we are the savor of death unto death; and to the other a savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things? 17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.”

DANGERS

Jer. 48:10 “Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully, and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood”

2 Sam. 6:6-7 “And when they came to Nachon’s threshing floor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. 7 And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.”

1 Kings 13:24 “And when he was gone, a lion met him by the way, and slew him: and his carcass was cast in the way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the carcass.”

Num. 20:12 “And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron, because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.”

REWARDS

There are eternal and earthly rewards, these are:

1.       1. The incorruptible crown, for those who live a disciplined life (1 Corinthians 9:25)

2.       2. The crown of life, for those who patiently endure trials (James 1:12)

3.       3. The crown of glory, for those who faithfully care for the flock (1 Peter 5:2-4)

4.       4. The crown of righteousness, for those who love His appearing (2 Timothy 4:8)

5.       5. The crown of rejoicing, for all who are faithful soul-winners (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)

EARTHLY:

1.       1. The first present reward is that which comes in the doing of the work (James 5:20)

2.       2. The second present reward is the peace and joy that comes through obedience. Psalm 19:11, Matthew 28:19, Psalm 119:165, Acts 24:16

3.       3. The third present reward is the affection and gratitude of those whom we influence and win to the Lord.