HOPE

 

Introduction

1. Sometimes we are told “no hope.”

2. God said this of the Gentiles.  Eph. 2:12; 4:17-19

A. How they got that way.  Rom 1:20-23

B. But now.  Eph 2:13

 

Discussion

1. MANY LIVE AND DIE WITHOUT HOPE.

A. Two elements: desire plus expectation.

B. All desire eternal life, but who can rightly expect it?  Col 1:23; Acts 23:1; sure 1 Jn 2:3

C. Saved by hope. Rom 5:2-5; 8:24-25

 

2. WE DO NOT NOW POSSESS ETERNAL LIFE.

A. We have hope of it. Tit 1:2

B. If we can lose it, it is not eternal.  Heb 3:12.

C. In the world to come. Mk 10:28-30

D. It is reserved.  1 Pet 1:3-5

E. Present and future salvation.  1 Tim 4:8

 

3. ON WHAT CAN WE COUNT FOR HOPE?

A. God is source of hope. Rom 15:13; Heb 6:18-19

B. Christ gives hope. Eph 3:6; Col 1:27

C. Gospel reveals hope.  Col 1:23; 2 Tim 1:10; Psa 119:78, 81, 114, 147, I hope in thy         word Rom 15:4

D. Resurrection gives strength to hope.  Acts 23:6; 24:15; 26:6-8; 28:20

 

Conclusion

1. What is our response to hope?  1 Jn 3:1-3; 2 Cor 3:18

2. Our duty to those who ask.  1 Pet 3:15

3. Only those who obey have hope. Acts 8:39.  Rejoiced because he had hope.

4. We will die with or without hope. 1 Th 4:13

5. It can be reserved for you.