Grace in Eclipse: A Study on Eternal Rewards

by Zane C. Hodges

When one mentions the subject of eternal rewards, many Christians will admit they do not know much about the subject. Yet, the Bible in many passages speaks on this important subject, and a proper understanding of eternal rewards is key to living the Christian life. Some confuse passages on eternal rewards with passages on eternal salvation. Others are confused on the question of whether Christians should be motivated by eternal rewards. In Grace in Eclipse Zane Hodges presents the biblical perspective on the place of eternal rewards in the life of the believer. Grace in Eclipse demonstrates that eternal rewards are something offered by our loving heavenly Father to motivate us. It is something He wants to give. It is a teaching we need to take seriously as it can have eternal consequences on the quality of our eternal life. Many difficult passages are considered, including some from the Sermon on the Mount as well as the story of the rich young ruler. The result is an inspiring call to all believers to run a winning race for God. It is hard to find good books on rewards. Get this one.

120 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Wednesday night church women's Bible study just finished this book. It was hard, with a whole new paradigm of rewards. The book was written in response to John McArthur's book on lordship salvation. The first half of the book very adequately covered salvation by grace and grace alone. The second half was helpful for filling in gaps in my understanding of salvation vs. rewards passages of Scripture. I was eager to embrace this 'free grace' teaching and it's emphasis on rewards and reigning/ruling with Christ in eternity. There has to be a difference between the 'serious' Christian and the carnal Christian and their ability to experience real fellowship with the Lord. This teaching was harder for some of the women to accept. Chapters on the Sermon on the Mount, the Rich Young Ruler, and parables of the mina and the man with no wedding garment introduced new ideas. We've thought when the wedding guest was sent outside the party and wailing, this must mean hell, but Hodges says he just missed the party (greater fellowship with the Lord). "The invitation to attend was freely given, but the one who accepted the call took it upon himself to attain and wear suitable attire...The king thus had companions who enter into His personal joy." I did not feel that I had to totally under 'rewards,' but I now have information on the 'back burner' of my mind as I read more books on this subject, including a new book by two men in our church.

[Danny Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

An incredible book on a very neglected doctrine. Hodges is a great writer who does not lack depth but doesn't confuse the reader. The doctrine of rewards is that missing piece in popular evangelicism today that would profoundly help believers in their maturity and biblical understanding. If Joseph Dillow's Reign of the Servant Kings is to thick for you, just read this book and you get the basic ideas.

[Dan Robb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book! I learned so much from reading it.

[Aaron · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bad theology and a dangerous way of reading through Scripture