In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the Five Crowns mentioned in the Bible. They have already covered the incorruptible crown and the soul winner's crown in previous sessions. Now, they focus on the crown of righteousness, comparing the Christian to a warrior. The speaker emphasizes the importance of personal righteousness in the life of a believer and encourages them to live in a way that aligns with their belief in the imminent return of Jesus Christ. They also highlight the contrast between the things of this world and the things provided by God, emphasizing that the things of God are superior.

Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of eternal rewards in his sermon 'Heavenly Crowns: Victory, Honor, and Authority.' He explains that eternal rewards, including crowns, are expressions of God's grace and reflect how we have loved Him during our lives. Bickle highlights that these rewards are not earned but are gifts from God, and they vary in glory and significance, much like the crowns given in ancient athletic competitions. He warns that while crowns are a blessing, they can also be lost if one does not remain dedicated to their faith. Ultimately, Bickle encourages believers to pursue a life of faithfulness and service, aiming for the eternal rewards that await them.

Fred Flack preaches on the victory of 'FIRST LOVE' over all the seductive influences of the world, using the alternative interpretation of the Song of Solomon. The characters of the King, the Shulamite, and the Shepherd symbolize the World, the believer betrothed to Christ, and Christ Himself. The Shulamite's unwavering love for the Shepherd amidst the temptations of the King represents the believer's 'first love' for the Lord, unaffected by worldly attractions. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not loving the world, as stated in 1 John 2:15-16, and the need to maintain a devoted and pure love for Christ above all else.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the eternal nature of the believer's crown of glory, contrasting it with earthly crowns that are temporary and fleeting, much like tennis balls that are passed around until they wear out. He highlights that while earthly achievements may bring momentary satisfaction, they ultimately fade, whereas the crown of glory bestowed upon believers remains fresh and flourishing for eternity. Brooks reassures that no force, not even the devils in hell, can take away a believer's heavenly inheritance, which is far superior to anything this world offers. The sermon encourages believers to focus on their eternal rewards rather than the transient accolades of this life.

T. Austin-Sparks delves into the profound question posed in Psalms 24:3 about who can ascend to the hill of the Lord and stand in His holy place, providing an answer from Revelation 14:1-5 where the Lamb stands on mount Zion with a select group of 144,000. The sermon emphasizes the journey from the Cross to the glory, portraying the Lamb's victory and the company's complete oneness with Him. It highlights the end goal of God to have a company fully united with His Son, reflecting His nature and character, and serving a significant vocation in the ages to come.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the crowns offered by God to His servants, which symbolize victory and honor through trials and tribulations. He discusses three specific crowns: the Crown of Righteousness, which represents God's rightful place in our lives; the Crown of Life, awarded to those who endure temptation and remain faithful; and the Crown of Glory, given to those who selflessly serve the Lord. Each crown is tied to the challenges faced in life, highlighting the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of adversity. Ultimately, Sparks encourages believers to strive for these crowns, recognizing the privilege of standing for Christ's Lordship in a challenging world.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes that Christ rewards those who suffer and serve Him with eternal glory and blessings. He illustrates that the more one endures for Christ, the greater the reward will be, drawing parallels to earthly examples of reward and generosity. Brooks reassures believers that Christ's promises are faithful and that His rewards surpass any earthly recognition, being both abundant and everlasting. He contrasts the fleeting nature of human rewards with the eternal and incorruptible gifts from Christ, who gives generously beyond our expectations.

Chuck Smith preaches on Mark 14:26, focusing on the theme of being forsaken by man as Jesus prepares for His crucifixion. He highlights the prophecy of Zechariah regarding the smiting of the Shepherd and the scattering of the sheep, illustrating the disciples' false security and their failure to stay awake and pray. Despite their shortcomings, Jesus demonstrates patience and love, reminding them of the ultimate victory through resurrection. Smith emphasizes that even in our weakness and moments of denial, Jesus, our Good Shepherd, remains faithful and watches over us.

T. Austin-Sparks concludes the 'Horizons' series by emphasizing the theme of glory in the Bible, highlighting how each Person of the Divine Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - is associated with glory as a descriptive designation. Glory is expressed through radiance, light, and splendor, often seen in the transformation of individuals and the Church. The basis of glory lies in the satisfaction of God's nature, reflecting His holiness, righteousness, truth, and love. The ultimate fulfillment of glory is found in Christ, who wholly satisfied God's nature through His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection, leading to the restoration of glory through redemption.

John Gill emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ, encouraging believers to maintain their faith, hope, and love towards Him. He reassures that when Christ returns, those who have remained steadfast will have confidence and not be ashamed, as they will be clothed in His righteousness. Gill highlights the glorious nature of Christ's second coming, where believers will stand boldly before Him, free from shame and full of joy. He also notes that faithful ministers will rejoice in the perseverance of their congregations, as they will share in the joy of their salvation. Ultimately, the sermon calls for unwavering commitment to Christ and His teachings.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound gain that comes through death for a Christian, as expressed in Philippians 1:21. He argues that while life in Christ is valuable, being with Christ after death is the ultimate blessing, as highlighted in Philippians 1:23. Brooks encourages believers to view death as a necessary passage to receive eternal crowns and a glorious kingdom, portraying it as the 'dirty lane' that leads to everlasting joy and peace. He reassures that through death, Christians transition from mortality to immortality, ultimately joining the marriage-supper of the Lamb.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of focusing on God and the eternal rewards awaiting believers rather than being distracted by the temptations of the world. He warns that the world, with its allurements, can be a dangerous snare for the soul. Instead, believers should fix their eyes on God, Christ, and the glorious crown of glory that awaits them, which far surpasses any earthly pleasure. This perspective encourages a life lived in faith and anticipation of divine rewards.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that our motives in the Christian life should be genuine and rooted in love for God, rather than solely for the rewards He offers. He reassures believers that while we should serve God for who He is, we should also remember the glorious future promises He has made, which include eternal rewards for those who walk in faith, love, and obedience. Tozer expresses confidence that God's faithful servants today may shine as brightly as the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews, suggesting that the legacy of faith continues beyond the past.

Thomas Watson preaches a powerful sermon on the Christian's combat and crown, emphasizing the importance of fighting the good fight of faith with courage, constancy, and the hope of receiving a crown of righteousness. He delves into the spiritual armor and weapons needed for the battle against the lusts of the flesh, Satan, and the enchantments of the world. Watson encourages believers to persevere in the faith, finish their course, and keep the faith to receive the eternal crown of glory laid up for them in heaven. He also honors the memory of the late Mr. Henry Stubs, a holy and faithful minister, highlighting his humility, integrity, earnestness in preaching, charitable heart, and devotion to God.

J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the comforting and secure relationship between Jesus as the good Shepherd and believers as His sheep, emphasizing the protection and love provided by Christ and the Father. The imagery of the sheepfold symbolizes the safety and assurance found in being held by Jesus and the Father, ensuring that nothing can harm or separate believers from their care. Chapman encourages living each day in the hope and power of Christ's appearing, trusting in His guidance to provide nourishment, protection, and victory in the midst of discouragement and challenges.

John F. Walvoord preaches on the necessity of an interval between the translation of the church and the establishment of the millennial kingdom, supported by a careful study of Scripture. The argument is based on four lines of evidence: intervening events in heaven, intervening events on earth, the nature of the judgment of the Gentiles, and the nature of the judgment of Israel. The interval is crucial for various events to unfold, including the judgment seat of Christ for believers, the regathering and judgment of Israel, and the judgment of the Gentiles, all pointing to the need for a generation of believers to enter the millennial kingdom.

John Gill emphasizes the role of Christ as the Chief Shepherd, encouraging church elders and pastors to fulfill their duties with faithfulness, humility, and joy. He explains that all pastors are under Christ's authority, receiving their commissions and gifts from Him to care for His flock. Gill highlights the accountability of these leaders to Christ, who will return in glory to reward them with an everlasting crown of glory, contrasting it with temporary earthly rewards. The sermon serves as a reminder of the eternal significance of their ministry and the joy that awaits faithful servants of Christ.

John MacDuff preaches about the glorious promises of God, highlighting the delight of pleading individual promises at the mercy-seat and the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness. He emphasizes the gracious conference of God offering pardoning grace, the provision of needful grace in times of trial, and the abundance of all-sufficient grace for every situation. MacDuff also discusses the comforting, restraining, restoring, sanctifying, reviving, persevering, dying, and after-grace of God, encouraging believers to surrender to God's love and trust in His compassion and strength.

Clement of Rome encourages believers not to be troubled by the prosperity of the unrighteous or the struggles of the servants of God, but to have faith in God's divine plan. He emphasizes that the righteous must patiently wait for their reward, as immediate blessings would lead to pursuing gain over godliness. Clement praises the invisible God, the Father of truth, who sent the Saviour to reveal truth and offer eternal life, giving glory to Him forever.

T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of God's glory, explaining that it embodies both joy and judgment. The glory of God, as seen in the burnt offerings and the sacrifice of Christ, brings blessings when God's nature is satisfied, leading to peace and joy for believers. However, when humanity deviates from divine nature, the same glory can result in judgment and destruction, as illustrated by Israel's history and the Transfiguration. Sparks urges believers to recognize that Christ is the embodiment of God's glory and satisfaction, and that our relationship with Him determines whether we experience blessing or judgment. Ultimately, the 'Crown of Glory' signifies God's approval of those who align with Christ's nature and purpose.

John Newton, in a letter dated February 23, 1779, shares about his experiences with affliction and the faithfulness of the Lord in both healing and chastening. He reflects on the national state and spiritual condition of the people, emphasizing the need for repentance and lamenting over sin. Despite the lack of belief or regard from many, he finds encouragement in the few who hear, believe, and are saved, recognizing their immense value. Newton also expresses his pastoral care for a sheep under his charge who is gravely ill, pointing to the Great Shepherd's ultimate care and provision for His flock.

Charles Alexander preaches on the profound significance of the angelic announcement of the Lord's birth to the shepherds, emphasizing the divine inspiration of the Word that continually reveals fresh insights. He delves into the symbolism of the shepherds being chosen to receive the message, representing the Chief Shepherd, Jesus, who was born that night. The sermon highlights the humility and exaltation of Christ, born in a manger for the salvation of all people, bringing great joy and eternal hope to humanity.

H.J. Vine preaches about the various crowns mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing different aspects of faith and rewards in Christ. The Holy Spirit guides believers towards heavenly wisdom, encouraging them to press forward towards the incorruptible crowns that await them in the presence of the glorified Lord. The significance of Christ's crown of thorns is highlighted, emphasizing the inseparable connection between His sufferings and our redemption. The sermon delves into the hereditary and won crowns, illustrating how believers share in Christ's glory and are promised crowns of life, glory, righteousness, and rejoicing.

John Gill emphasizes the vital role of a gospel minister, urging the newly ordained pastors to consider the weighty responsibilities of their calling. He highlights the importance of diligent study, prayer, and the faithful preaching of the gospel, while also acknowledging the challenges and discouragements they may face. Gill encourages the ministers to remain steadfast, reminding them that their work is honorable and that God will provide understanding and support in their ministry. He stresses the need for ministers to be well-versed in scripture and to administer the ordinances of the church with care and integrity. Ultimately, he reassures them of God's presence and the eternal rewards for their faithfulness in service.

J. Wilbur Chapman emphasizes the personal and possessive pronouns in Psalm 23, highlighting the intimate relationship between the believer and God. He describes the psalm as a 'little Bible' that leads us out of self, into Christ, and into glory. Chapman encourages the congregation to find comfort and strength in the personal appropriation of Christ, especially in declaring 'He is my shepherd.' This personal relationship with Christ transforms our earthly experience into a glimpse of heaven, allowing us to live in the atmosphere of heaven while navigating the challenges of this world.