No. 484 – Called to Heavenly Reward: Katartismos 2026 05 24

No. 484 – Called to Heavenly Reward: Katartismos 2026 05 24 Over the next three weeks, I will be teaching a Wednesday Bible study series for our English congregation entitled “Called to Heavenly Reward: Katartismos.” Growing older is not the final chapter of life. According to Scripture, it is often the season of its greatest fruitfulness. The Bible describes gray hair as “a crown of glory” (Proverbs 16:31) and promises honor, blessing, and life to those who walk in the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 22:4). As we draw closer to the day when we will stand before Christ, one question becomes increasingly important: What are we living for? More specifically, are we investing our remaining years in things that will last for eternity? This series begins with a remarkable Greek word found in Ephesians 4:12: katartismos. The word refers to repairing torn fishing nets, setting broken bones, restoring what has become damaged, and putting things back into their proper condition. Paul uses this word to describe one of the church's central purposes. The church is not a museum displaying perfect people. It is a community where broken people are restored, equipped, and strengthened by the grace of God. Week One: Heavenly Reward Our first study focuses on the subject of heavenly rewards. What are they? Why does Scripture speak so often about them? And how are they received? Many Christians become uncomfortable when the subject of rewards is mentioned because they fear it sounds like salvation by works. Yet the Bible presents rewards not as wages earned by human merit but as gracious gifts promised by God to those who faithfully follow Him. Jesus repeatedly encouraged His followers to live with eternity in view. During this study we will examine what Scripture teaches about heavenly rewards and discover how a life that pleases Christ is never wasted. Week Two: The Great Commandment and the Great Commission The second week will focus on two foundational teachings of Jesus. The Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37–40) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20). These two passages form the vertical and horizontal dimensions of Christian discipleship. The Great Commandment teaches us to love God and love our neighbors. The Great Commission calls us to make disciples of all nations. Together they shape a life of worship, prayer, evangelism, and spiritual influence. As we grow older, these commands become even more significant because they help us leave a lasting spiritual legacy for those who follow after us. Week Three: Katartismos—Building Up the Church In our final week, we will return to the theme of katartismos and explore Ephesians 4 as a whole. Paul teaches that humility, gentleness, patience, and loving forbearance are not merely admirable character traits. They are evidence of a new humanity created by the gospel. God calls every believer to participate in the work of strengthening and building His church. Church growth is not simply the responsibility of pastors and leaders. Every member of the body has a role to play. Every believer is called to help restore, encourage, equip, and strengthen others. This series is not intended merely to increase knowledge. My prayer is that it will lead to decisions, commitments, and transformed lives. I hope we will see clearly the blessings that come from living according to God's Word and that many will leave saying, “I want to live like that.” As we draw nearer to the day we will meet our Lord, may these remaining years become some of the most fruitful years of our lives. May they become years spent investing in eternal rewards, serving Christ faithfully, and helping build His church. And please pray for me as well. Teaching in English is always a challenge, and I would greatly appreciate your prayers for both the series and those who will attend. "Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is, Christ." (Ephesians 4:15)