the basis for the reward

"In Jesus' words, this need for sacrifice of self and obedience to God as the basis for the reward of everlasting life, is expressed as follows, 'If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake shall find it' (Matt. 16:24-25)."