Embracing God's Irrevocable Blessings and Living Hope

 

Summary

In today's message, we explored the profound theme of God's blessings, both spiritual and material, and how they manifest in our lives. We began by expressing gratitude for the sacrifice of Jesus, acknowledging the spiritual blessings we have received through His blood, including redemption and forgiveness. As we enter 2025, we are reminded that God desires to bless us in every aspect of our lives—our health, families, finances, and communities. The blessings of God are irrevocable, as illustrated by the story of Jacob and Esau, where the father's blessing, once given, could not be taken back. This serves as a powerful reminder that when God blesses us, no one can revoke it.

We delved into the concept of spiritual blessings as outlined in Ephesians 1, emphasizing the importance of understanding and embracing these blessings. Paul speaks of the spirit of wisdom and revelation, urging us to seek a deeper understanding of God's purpose and the hope of His calling. This hope is not just for this life but extends into eternity, offering us a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We are called to be more than nominal Christians; we are to seek the richness and beauty of Scripture, understanding the hope of glory that awaits us.

The message also highlighted the significance of our eternal inheritance as children of God. Unlike earthly inheritances that can be lost or stolen, our inheritance in Christ is eternal and imperishable. We are joint heirs with Christ, sharing in the riches of His glory. This inheritance is a promise of eternal life and a future with God, a hope that transcends the temporal blessings of this world.

Finally, we explored the exceeding greatness of God's power, the same power that raised Christ from the dead and works on our behalf today. This power enables us to live godly lives and assures us of God's presence and strength in our journey. As we seek God's blessings, we are reminded that spiritual blessings are paramount, for they are eternal and secure in Christ.

Key Takeaways:

1. Irrevocable Blessings: God's blessings, once given, cannot be revoked. Just as Jacob received an irrevocable blessing from his father, the blessings God bestows upon us are secure and cannot be taken away by any force. This assurance should encourage us to trust in God's promises and live confidently in His favor. [57:53]

2. Understanding Spiritual Blessings: Spiritual blessings in Christ are profound and eternal. Paul urges us to seek wisdom and revelation to fully grasp these blessings, which include redemption, adoption, and an eternal inheritance. These blessings are the foundation of our faith and should be cherished above all else. [01:10:08]

3. Living Hope Through Resurrection: Our hope in Christ is a living hope, grounded in the resurrection. This hope assures us of eternal life and a future glorification with God. It is a hope that sustains us through life's challenges and gives us a reason to live with purpose and joy. [01:13:20]

4. Eternal Inheritance: As joint heirs with Christ, we have an eternal inheritance that is imperishable and reserved for us in heaven. This inheritance is a testament to God's love and faithfulness, offering us a future filled with glory and splendor beyond our imagination. [01:31:53]

5. The Power of God at Work: The same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us today. This power enables us to live victoriously, overcome challenges, and fulfill God's purpose for our lives. It is a reminder of God's active presence and strength in our journey. [01:34:58]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Gratitude for Spiritual Blessings
- [02:15] - The Irrevocable Blessing
- [05:45] - Understanding Spiritual Blessings
- [10:08] - The Hope of His Calling
- [13:20] - Living Hope Through Resurrection
- [16:37] - Justification, Sanctification, Glorification
- [22:00] - The Riches of Our Inheritance
- [31:53] - Eternal Inheritance in Christ
- [34:58] - The Exceeding Greatness of His Power
- [37:50] - Spiritual vs. Material Blessings
- [42:08] - Invitation to Receive God's Blessings
- [46:02] - Prayers for Healing and Blessing
- [51:12] - Announcements and Closing Remarks
- [54:47] - Benediction and Dismissal

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: God's Blessings

Bible Reading:
1. Ephesians 1:3-14
2. 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
3. Matthew 6:19-21

---

Observation Questions:

1. What are some of the spiritual blessings mentioned in Ephesians 1 that believers receive in Christ? How do these blessings impact our understanding of God's favor? [01:10:08]

2. In the story of Jacob and Esau, what was significant about the father's blessing, and why was it considered irrevocable? [57:53]

3. How does the sermon describe the concept of a "living hope" through the resurrection of Jesus Christ? What does this hope offer to believers? [01:13:20]

4. What does the sermon say about the nature of our eternal inheritance in Christ compared to earthly inheritances? [01:31:53]

---

Interpretation Questions:

1. How does understanding the irrevocable nature of God's blessings influence a believer's confidence in God's promises? [57:53]

2. What does it mean to have a "spirit of wisdom and revelation" in the knowledge of God, as mentioned in Ephesians 1? How can this understanding transform a believer's life? [01:10:08]

3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the power of God, which raised Christ from the dead, is at work in believers today? How does this power manifest in daily life? [01:34:58]

4. How does the concept of an eternal inheritance shape a believer's perspective on material possessions and wealth? [01:31:53]

---

Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt blessed by God in a way that seemed irrevocable. How did that experience shape your faith and trust in God's promises? [57:53]

2. How can you actively seek a deeper understanding of the spiritual blessings in Christ, as encouraged by Paul in Ephesians 1? What practical steps can you take to grow in wisdom and revelation? [01:10:08]

3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of living with a "living hope" through the resurrection. How can this hope influence your response to life's challenges and uncertainties? [01:13:20]

4. Consider your current perspective on material wealth and possessions. How does the promise of an eternal inheritance challenge or affirm your views? What changes might you need to make in your life? [01:31:53]

5. The sermon highlights the power of God at work in believers. Identify an area in your life where you need to rely more on God's power. What steps can you take to invite His strength into that situation? [01:34:58]

6. How can you ensure that your focus remains on spiritual blessings rather than being consumed by the pursuit of material wealth? What practices can help you maintain this balance? [01:37:50]

7. Think of someone in your life who may not understand the concept of spiritual blessings. How can you share this message with them in a way that is meaningful and relatable? [01:42:08]

Devotional

Day 1: The Irrevocable Nature of God's Blessings
God's blessings, once bestowed, are secure and unchangeable. This truth is illustrated in the story of Jacob and Esau, where the father's blessing, once given, could not be revoked. Similarly, when God blesses us, no force can take it away. This assurance should encourage us to trust in God's promises and live confidently in His favor. As we navigate our lives, we can rest in the certainty that God's blessings are not subject to the whims of the world or the challenges we face. They are a testament to His unwavering commitment to us, providing a foundation of hope and security. [57:53]

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:17, ESV)

Reflection: Consider a blessing in your life that you may have taken for granted. How can you express gratitude for this blessing today, knowing it is secure in God's hands?


Day 2: Embracing Spiritual Blessings in Christ
Spiritual blessings in Christ are profound and eternal, forming the foundation of our faith. Paul urges believers to seek wisdom and revelation to fully grasp these blessings, which include redemption, adoption, and an eternal inheritance. These blessings are not just abstract concepts but are meant to be experienced and cherished in our daily lives. By understanding and embracing these spiritual gifts, we can live with a deeper sense of purpose and identity, knowing that we are loved and chosen by God. This understanding transforms our perspective, allowing us to prioritize what truly matters and live in alignment with God's will. [01:10:08]

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 1:3, ESV)

Reflection: What is one spiritual blessing you have received in Christ that you can meditate on today? How does this blessing impact your daily life and relationship with God?


Day 3: Living Hope Through the Resurrection
Our hope in Christ is a living hope, grounded in the resurrection. This hope assures us of eternal life and a future glorification with God. It is a hope that sustains us through life's challenges and gives us a reason to live with purpose and joy. The resurrection is not just a historical event but a present reality that empowers us to face difficulties with confidence and assurance. As we embrace this living hope, we are reminded that our lives have eternal significance and that we are part of a greater story that God is unfolding. [01:13:20]

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." (1 Peter 1:3, ESV)

Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to be reminded of the living hope you have in Christ? How can this hope change your perspective and actions today?


Day 4: Our Eternal Inheritance in Christ
As joint heirs with Christ, we have an eternal inheritance that is imperishable and reserved for us in heaven. This inheritance is a testament to God's love and faithfulness, offering us a future filled with glory and splendor beyond our imagination. Unlike earthly inheritances that can be lost or stolen, our inheritance in Christ is secure and everlasting. This promise of eternal life and a future with God provides us with a sense of security and purpose, encouraging us to live with an eternal perspective and invest in what truly matters. [01:31:53]

"To an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you." (1 Peter 1:4, ESV)

Reflection: How does the promise of an eternal inheritance influence your priorities and decisions today? What steps can you take to align your life more closely with this eternal perspective?


Day 5: The Power of God at Work in Us
The same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us today. This power enables us to live victoriously, overcome challenges, and fulfill God's purpose for our lives. It is a reminder of God's active presence and strength in our journey. As we seek to live godly lives, we can rely on this divine power to guide and sustain us, knowing that we are not alone in our struggles. This power is not just for extraordinary moments but is available to us in our everyday lives, equipping us to be faithful witnesses of God's love and grace. [01:34:58]

"Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us." (Ephesians 3:20, ESV)

Reflection: What is one challenge you are currently facing where you need to rely on God's power? How can you invite His strength into this situation today?

Quotes

"Father we thank you for Calvary we thank you for the cross we thank you for the blood of Jesus which washes us, makes us white and snow, amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me, God we are thankful this morning oh God we are thankful for every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus who has redeemed us with his blood in whom we have forgiveness of sins oh God, so Father we thank you today and we give you praise and honor today oh God and we put all our trust and our hope in you oh God and Father as you have given us those spiritual blessings oh God as we embrace the spiritual blessings in Christ Jesus we pray oh God for the blessings of health and strength oh God and for prosperity in this new year oh God, Father that you incline your ear toward us to hear our prayers, we thank you for the prayer that was answered today oh God, Lord but we know there are others who are sick and Lord today once again we stand in the gap and we know if you can do it for one, you can do it for others oh God, so Father today we send your word to bring healing and strength oh God remember Andrew in New Jersey Father in the name of Jesus we speak healing oh God cancer be gone in Jesus name diabetes be gone in Jesus name, high blood pressure be gone, COVID be gone in Jesus name, we thank you God because we know that you're a healer and we thank you today for your goodness and your favor and your blessing upon your church" [00:54:11] (91 seconds)


"And the thing about the blessings of the father is that they can never be revoked. In the story of Esau and Jacob in the Old Testament, we see Jacob outsmarting his brother and coming to receive the blessings from his father. And his father calls him and he blesses him. And here's what he says to him. He says, Surely the smell of my son is like the smell of the field which the Lord has blessed. Therefore, may God give you of the dew of heaven, of the fatness of the earth and plenty of grain and wine. Let people serve you and nations bow down to you. Be master over your brethren and let your mother's sons bow down to you. Cursed be everyone who curses you, but blessed be those who bless you. Amen." [00:58:52] (44 seconds)


"So when we talk about a living hope, that's what he's talking about. You see, on Resurrection Sunday, Jesus walked out of the tomb alive. He proved that the resurrection is real. And you see, in Jesus being resurrected, he was simply saying to us that one day you and I will be resurrected too as well. He said, because I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me shall live in me, though he may die, though he may face the grave, though you may be buried at some point. He said, you shall never die. In other words, you shall live again." [01:14:13] (30 seconds)


"jesus is referred to as the firstborn of all creation so we talked about the first son having the right of succession and if he's the firstborn of all creation he gets everything and paul says we are joined heirs with him means that we get to share in that now our inheritance is the firstborn Inheritance is eternal, the Bible tells us. In the book of Hebrews, it says, those who are called may receive the promises or the promise of an eternal inheritance. What is an eternal inheritance? An eternal inheritance is an inheritance that will last forever. It will last forever." [01:31:53] (35 seconds)


"So he's talking about this great power that God has toward us. And he gives an example of the power, and he says, the same power that works in us is the same power that raised Christ from the dead, that puts him in heavenly places. How many of you understand that here today? Amen. You know that this man who was on the cross, who was beaten, bruised, bloodied, snails in his hands, a spear stuck in his side, and placed upon the cross, and he died, and placed in a tomb, and then on his own power, he came to life again. On resurrection Sunday morning. Paul is saying that that same power that raised Christ from the dead is the power that works on your behalf." [01:36:26] (41 seconds)


"You see, Peter tells us his divine power has given us everything that we need for life and godliness. So when we understand what I talked about today and last week and the sum total of this heavenly the spiritual blessings in the heavenly places and we talk about that, it's the power of God, the same power of God that works in our lives that helps us to understand these things. That helps us to walk this path. That helps us to say, I'm committing something to God. I'm not giving up because I know in whom I believed in, Paul says, and I am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. That's the power that works in all our behalf." [01:37:50] (43 seconds)


Chatbot

  • I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Jan 13, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?

Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?