Photo by Mike on Pexels.com

jewels for our crowns

1 Thessalonians 2:17-20 (JDV)

1 Thessalonians 2:17 But as for us, brothers, after we were forced to leave you for a seasonal hour (in person, not in heart), we greatly desired and made every effort to return and see you face to face.
1 Thessalonians 2:18 So we wanted to come to you – even I, Paul, once and twice – but Satan impeded us.
1 Thessalonians 2:19 You see, who is our hope or joy or crown of boasting in the presence of our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you?
1 Thessalonians 2:20 In fact, you are our glory and joy!

jewels for our crowns

Paul was all about investing in the people in the congregations. When he talks about coming into the presence of the Lord, he plans to be wearing a crown of boasting when he is there. The jewels in that crown will be the disciples he and his team have won to Christ, and equipped for gospel ministry.

Now, how are the Thessalonian disciples going to be jewels on Paul’s crown if they are still alive down here and Paul is in the presence of the Lord up in heaven? That would not work. But, if both Paul and the Thessalonians had their reunion at the presence of the Lord together, then what Paul said would make sense.

When we all meet Jesus again at that great reunion called the wedding supper of the Lamb, those who have won people to Christ will then be able to present them to their Lord, as jewels in crowns of boasting.

Lord, may our crowns that we present to you be heavy with jewels on that day.