What does the Bible say about the reward for faithfulness?

In Matthew 16:27, Jesus speaks of a future judgment where each person will receive according to their works. For believers, this does not mean that their rewards are based on their own actions, but rather on Christ’s perfect obedience and sacrifice. Those who believe are considered united with Christ, which means that what He earned is credited to them. This understanding reassures believers that their reward is secure, being given based on the righteousness of Christ rather than their own imperfect efforts.