2 Timothy 4:7-8

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. ⁸ Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

From Background Notes [BN] for Oct 18th & 19th written by Pastor Bob Brown:

What is “the crown of righteousness”?

Normally, crowns have different purposes in the ancient world of the Bible:

1) sign of authority and power (diadēma — Rev. 12:3; 13:1; 19:12);

2) honor bestowed for achievement (stephanos — that which surrounds; crown, wreath, garland; prize associated with victory; badge of office or distinction).

In this case some options:

1) The crown given by the righteous character of God (subjective genitive). Because God judges righteously and fairly, Paul receives from God a fair assessment of his life’s work for the Gospel.

2) The crown given for the righteous conduct of Paul’s life (objective genitive). Literally, the crown is for the righteousness Paul exhibited. [BN,3-4]

Join us this week in Study, Worship, Praise and Celebration at Chicago First Church of the Nazarene:

* Saturday 6:00pm
* Sunday 8:30am & 11:00am