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1. The incorruptible crown (I Corinthians 9:24-25 NIV). Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. This crown is nonperishable, incorruptible, and will never rust or decay. This crown is given for running and completing your race on earth (Heb. 12:1-2). When running you must lay aside the weights and the sins weighing you down. A good soldier will not entangle himself with the affairs of this life (II Tim. 2:4).

2. The crown of rejoicing (I Thess. 2:19-20 NIV) 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. This is often called a soul winners crown as soul winners rejoice at a sinner being saved.

3. The crown of life (James 1:12 NIV) Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. This crown is given to the overcomer- the crown of Rev. 2:10 which says, 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 the crown of life. Those who die a martyred death will receive a special crown. Those suffering severe persecution and remaining faithful will receive a crown of life.

4. The crown of glory (I Peter 5:4 NIV). And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. This is addressed to ministers and pastors. This is for those ministers found faithful to their flock and ministry that will receive this special crown.

5. The crown of righteousness (II Tim. 4:8 NIV) 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. Those who believe in and love the appearing of the Lord will receive this crown. Those who live righteous on earth will receive this crown.

  The other crowns in the Book of Revelation are: The twenty-four elders wear crowns of gold on their heads (Rev. 4:4). Christ has a gold crown reaping the harvest (Rev. 14:14). Christ has on His head many crowns (Rev. 19:12).

Two words for crown: (1) Diadema: From diadeo, meaning "to bind round." It was used for the kingly ornament of the head, especially the blue band marked with white used to bind on the turban of Persian kings. It was adopted by Alexander the Great and his successors. Among the Greeks and Romans, it was a badge of royalty. It was used of the dragon (Rev. 12:3), the beast (Rev. 13:1), and Christ (Rev. 19:12).

2. The second word for crown is stephanos, meaning: In a contest, a reward or a prize. A token of public honor for military ability; also worn at the coming of a king. It could be woven as a garland of oak, ivy, myrtle, or olive; or an imitation of these in gold. Christ wears the royal crown and we wear a victor's crown if we overcome!