Award and Reward: What's the Difference?

Rev. Margaret Minnicks is an ordained Bible teacher. She writes many articles that are Bible lessons.

The Bible does not record the word "award" as a noun at all and only a few times as a verb depending on the version of the Bible you read. However, the Bible does record the word "reward" 78 times as a noun throughout the entire Bible.

What then, does this tell you?

Some people use the word "awards" and "rewards" interchangeable. However, there are some distinct differences. So, what are the differences? Let's talk about awards first.

Awards Are From Man to Man

An award is from man. The word "award" means a prize or token given to someone for an ACT that was performed. An award is given to recognize excellence in a certain area. The award can be a certificate, a trophy, a plaque, a medal, a badge or a ribbon. Money may also be given as an award.

An award is what man thinks of a person for performing a particular act. Awards are symbols of appreciation for having done something that surpasses what others have done. An award can come in the form or a prize, a medal, a plaque, a medal, a certificate, a trophy, a badge, a commemorative pin, a statute, a promotion or money.

There are many awards given for people's talent especially in acting and singing. We are quite familiar with the Grammy Awards, the Emmy Awards, the Golden Globes, the Sag Awards and the Academy Awards.

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Rewards Are From God

A reward is from God A reward is something offered for special SERVICE. By now, you should see the difference. An award is for an ACT performed; a reward is for SERVICE.

A judge is involved in both the granting of an award and a reward. Man is the judge for man to get an award which is temporal. God is the judge for man to get a reward which is permanent. Unbelievers can only get awards on earth. It is impossible for them to receive a reward from God no matter how impressive their deeds may be. However, a believer will get a reward for doing a service as small as giving a cup of cold water in the name of the Lord. (Mark 9:41).

If you think you have not gotten your pats on the back while here on earth, don't despair. Great is your REWARD in heaven for your SERVICE.

Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven. (Matthew 5:12)

Rewards Listed in the Book of Revelation

The book of Revelation records a list of rewards available to those who go to heaven. The rewards are called crowns. See them in the chart below.

Award or Reward: Which is Which?

For each question, choose the best answer. The answer key is below.

1. This is usually given by man.
   • Award
   • Reward
2. There is competition to get this.
   • Award
   • Reward
3. This will be given by God for service in the kingdom of God.
   • Award
   • Reward
4. We would like to get this while on earth.
   • Award
   • Reward
5. If we do not get what we deserve on earth, greater is this from God in heaven.
   • Award
   • Reward
6. A gold medal is this.
   • Award
   • Reward
7. A blue ribbon is this.
   • Award
   • Reward
8. A crown of righteousnes is this.
   • Award
   • Reward

Answer Key

1. Award
2. Award
3. Reward
4. Award
5. Reward
6. Award
7. Award
8. Reward

Sources

Difference Between Award and Reward |