“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.  I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days.  Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”

—Rev. 2:10

They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head.  They put a staff in his right hand.  Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him.  “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said.

––Mt. 27:28-29

“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”

—Prov. 16:31

The crown originated as a cap, turban, or other forms, and is at times decorated.  Its placement on the head indicates one was set apart for a particular calling.  Such crowns were used for high priests (Ex. 29:6; 39:30; Lev. 8:9), or for kings (2 Sam. 1:10; 2 Kings 11:12; Ps. 89:39; 132:18).  A crown indicates the consecrated role of the wearer (Ps. 89:39), and his, or her elevated position in life (Ps. 89:19-20).  There are five known crowns.

Crown 1 – Crown of Righteousness

“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.”

—2 Tim. 4:8

Crown 2 – Crown of Self Control

“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.  They do it to get a crown which will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.  Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly, I do not fight like a boxer beating the air….I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”

—1 Cor. 9:25-27

Crown 3 – Crown of Life

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

—Jas. 1:12

Crown 4 – Crown of Glory

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them – not because you must, but because you are willing as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve, not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.  And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”

—1 Pet. 5:2-4

Crown 5 – Crown of Rejoicing

“For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?  Indeed, you are our glory and joy.”

—1 Thess. 2:19-20

“Undoubtedly those who are wise will shine like brightness in our Lord’s sight.  For they are those who have led many to righteousness, and they would be like stars forever and ever.”

—Dan. 12:13