Apr. 23, 2023

In the English language the word hope is a rather weak word. Sometimes when we say, “I hope something happens,” we’re not too certain it will happen. But in the Bible, the word hope has a different meaning. It is a word of dynamic certainty. Christians are ones who ought to have a lot of hope. Paul writes, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18) Don’t give up hope when you hurt–and we all hurt. Paul says if you take all of the suffering you’ve ever endured in this life, it is like a drop in the bucket compared to a vast, deep ocean of glory that’s going to come.  All of creation is groaning for a future renewal. Nature has been frustrated since the curse of sin. Man’s sin is responsible for natural disease. Man’s sin is also responsible for natural disasters. The Bible says the groan of creation is a pain that’s going to lead to a rebirth. Christians groan for full redemption. Redemption comes through Jesus. Titus writes, “Looking for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our God and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13)

Questions:

1.    How are some of the ways that the word hope is used?

2.    How is a Christians hope different?

3.    What role does sin play in our need for this hope?