"Eternal It Will Pay to Obey" by Lucas Kitchen is a transformative exploration of the doctrine of eternal rewards within Christian theology. Kitchen challenges widely-held assumptions, presenting a compelling scriptural narrative that suggests rewards within Heaven are distinct from the reward of Heaven itself.This engaging work invites readers to reevaluate long-held beliefs and traditional doctrines, offering new insights particularly relevant to those familiar with evangelical teachings. Kitchen adeptly debunks misconceptions and underscores the crucial role of obedience in Christian life-not as a condition for salvation, but as a profound influence on the experience of eternal life.A companion to Kitchen's previous work on salvation and discipleship, "Eternal It Will Pay to Obey" empowers and encourages readers with its life-changing insights. With its rigorous scriptural analysis and accessible language, this book fills a crucial gap in contemporary Christian discourse. Highly recommended for both those familiar with Kitchen's previous work and new readers alike, these books are essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their faith.
Lucas is an Amazon best selling author with over twenty books written. His writing has been seen and heard by millions, through a handful of viral video projects. Lucas' books have covered a range of genres, such as sci-fi, urban fantasy, memoir, biography, children's literature, Christian theology, and more. In addition to his writing career, Lucas is a filmmaker, pastor, and international speaker. He can also be heard weekdays on the syndicated radio show Grace in Focus. He holds a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies in Bible, psychology, and history/political science from Letourneau University. He has a master's of theology from Liberty University. He lives in East Texas with his family.
While I give this book a 5 star…. This wasn’t my favorite book he’s written, mainly because I grew up in Baptist church/school. I was always praying a prayer for salvation and by the 7th grade I figured if I wasn’t saved, I wasn’t the problem. Lol. So salvation/Discipleship will always hold the number one place in my heart from this author, and I urge any reader to read it prior to this book…. but this book is top notch and important to read to understand the foundation of what’s next once you receive salvation. He makes some really solid points and provides very applicable and practical ways to test his principles. I also really appreciate how he writes two books without getting into memoir Christianity. I love a good memoir. I’ll read them all, but this issue of eternal security and rewards needs to be kept strictly to the text and he does it flawlessly. I’ve also heard him speak and he’s very down to earth.
Somewhere along the way, Christians decided that the only acceptable motivation for following Christ is emotion. “You should just serve out of love for God.” This sounds spiritual, but it ignores the many times the Bible tells Christians to seek treasure in heaven, work for a good position in the kingdom, etc.
When preachers and authors ignore the doctrine of rewards, many Bible passages about rewards in heaven become twisted to mean salvation itself. This leads to works-based salvation messages and general confusion and insecurity.
There are a few verses in here that I’m not sure I would interpret the same way the author does, but the general principles seem well supported biblically.
It’s both sobering and inspiring to consider that what I do on earth will impact my experience of eternity. Knowing that really helps shape my priorities. The author points out that right after Jesus subdues the entire world and sets up his kingdom, he will have appointments with each one of us to discuss how we lived on earth and either reward us or let us experience the shame and regret of having “squandered the talents our master gave us to invest.” Not every believer will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.” I need to continually evaluate my life and priorities with this goal in mind.
I think this is one of the most important books I have ever read. It shames me to think how much time i have wasted, and how I have neglected so much in my spiritual life. If you are a follower of Christ find this book and read it!
I don’t agree with everything the author espoused in the book, but there was a lot to think about. It was easy to read and interesting. I felt some of the scripture may have been manipulated somewhat.