Hope and Renewal: God's Promise of New Creation
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Parkview! Today, we gathered to worship and rejoice in the day the Lord has made. We began with a heartfelt prayer, lifting our burdens to God and seeking His guidance and blessings. We also celebrated our community's recent activities, including the Nazarene National Softball Tournament and the upcoming reopening of our children's wing and sanctuary.
Our focus today was on the book of Revelation, specifically chapter 21, where John describes a vision of a new heaven and a new earth. This vision brings hope, as it promises a future where God will dwell among His people, wiping away every tear, and eliminating death, sorrow, and pain. This passage reminds us that God is making everything new.
Reflecting on the past, present, and future, we see that God has always been faithful. From the parting of the Red Sea to the promises in Isaiah, God has shown His power and love. He is the God of the past, present, and future, continually working in our lives. Our past may be messy, but God blots out our transgressions and offers us a fresh start.
We also discussed the significance of Holy Communion, an act of remembrance of what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. As we partake in the bread and the cup, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus, which blots out our sins and gives us hope for the future. This act connects us to the past, grounds us in the present, and gives us hope for the future.
In conclusion, we are reminded that God is always with us, guiding us, and offering us hope. As we move forward, let us live in the hope and promise of God's new creation, knowing that He is making all things new.
### Key Takeaways
1. God Knows Our Burdens: God is fully aware of the burdens we carry, even those we hide behind a smile. He invites us to lay these burdens down and trust Him to work in our lives, bringing freedom, reconciliation, and redemption. This act of surrender allows God to move powerfully in our midst. [16:37]
2. God of the Past, Present, and Future: God is not confined by time. He was faithful in the past, is present with us now, and will be with us in the future. This timeless nature of God assures us that He is always at work, shaping and molding us into who He wants us to be. [44:24]
3. The Hope of Revelation: The vision in Revelation 21 offers profound hope. It promises a future where God will dwell among His people, eliminating all pain, sorrow, and death. This future hope encourages us to persevere through present struggles, knowing that God is making everything new. [28:57]
4. Holy Communion as Remembrance: Taking communion is a powerful act of remembering what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. It connects us to the past, grounds us in the present, and gives us hope for the future. It is a moment to reflect on our lives, repent, and embrace the new life God offers. [46:37]
5. God's Masterpiece: Our lives may be messy, but God is the ultimate artist who can turn our mess into a masterpiece. He blots out our sins and creates something beautiful out of our brokenness. This transformation is a testament to His grace and love, reminding us that we are never too far gone for God's redemption. [43:19]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[15:50] - Opening Prayer
[16:37] - Laying Down Our Burdens
[18:21] - Praying for Our Nation
[19:05] - Tithes and Offerings
[24:20] - Community Updates
[27:29] - Introduction to Revelation 21
[28:16] - Reading of Revelation 21
[29:42] - The Bride and the Wedding Ring
[34:42] - God's Upper and Lower Story
[36:04] - The New Heaven and New Earth
[40:02] - God of the Past and Present
[46:37] - Holy Communion
[49:21] - Psalm 118:24
[50:26] - God of the Future
[55:09] - Invitation to the Table
[59:31] - Closing Prayer and Communion
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Revelation 21:1-6 (NIV)
> Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.
2. Isaiah 43:16-19 (NIV)
> This is what the Lord says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, who drew out the chariots and horses, the army and reinforcements together, and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
3. Psalm 118:24 (NIV)
> The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.
#### Observation Questions
1. What vision does John describe in Revelation 21:1-6, and what promises does it contain for the future? [28:16]
2. According to Isaiah 43:16-19, what past events does God remind the Israelites of, and what new thing does He promise to do?
3. How does Psalm 118:24 encourage us to view each day, and what is the reason given for this perspective? [49:21]
4. In the sermon, what recent community activities were celebrated, and what upcoming events were mentioned? [24:20]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the vision of a new heaven and a new earth in Revelation 21:1-6 provide hope for believers facing current struggles? [28:57]
2. What does Isaiah 43:16-19 suggest about God's ability to transform our past and create new opportunities in our lives? [38:37]
3. How can the act of taking Holy Communion, as described in the sermon, help us connect with God's past, present, and future work in our lives? [46:37]
4. What does the pastor mean when he says that God is the "God of the past, present, and future," and how does this understanding impact our daily lives? [44:24]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a burden you are currently carrying. How can you lay this burden down and trust God to work in your life, bringing freedom and reconciliation? [16:37]
2. Think about a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in the past. How does remembering this help you trust Him in your present circumstances and future hopes? [37:11]
3. How does the vision of a new heaven and a new earth in Revelation 21 encourage you to persevere through your current struggles? What specific steps can you take to hold onto this hope? [28:57]
4. During Holy Communion, we remember Jesus' sacrifice. How can this act of remembrance inspire you to live a life of repentance and embrace the new life God offers? [46:37]
5. The pastor mentioned that our lives might be messy, but God can turn our mess into a masterpiece. Can you identify an area of your life that feels messy? How can you invite God to transform it? [43:19]
6. How can you actively participate in your community, showing God's love and care, as encouraged in the sermon? What specific actions can you take this week? [17:32]
7. Psalm 118:24 reminds us to rejoice in the day the Lord has made. What practical steps can you take to cultivate a habit of rejoicing and gratitude in your daily life? [49:21]
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the themes of the sermon, reflect on their personal experiences, and apply biblical truths to their lives.
Devotional
Day 1: God Knows Our Burdens
God is fully aware of the burdens we carry, even those we hide behind a smile. He invites us to lay these burdens down and trust Him to work in our lives, bringing freedom, reconciliation, and redemption. This act of surrender allows God to move powerfully in our midst. When we release our burdens to God, we open ourselves to His transformative power, allowing Him to bring healing and restoration to our lives.
In moments of struggle, it is easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed. However, God’s invitation to lay down our burdens is a reminder that we are never alone. He sees our pain and offers us a path to freedom. By trusting in His love and surrendering our struggles to Him, we can experience the peace and renewal that only He can provide. [16:37]
Psalm 55:22 (ESV): "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved."
Reflection: What is one burden you are carrying today that you can lay down before God? How can you trust Him to bring freedom and healing in this area of your life?
Day 2: God of the Past, Present, and Future
God is not confined by time. He was faithful in the past, is present with us now, and will be with us in the future. This timeless nature of God assures us that He is always at work, shaping and molding us into who He wants us to be. Reflecting on the past, present, and future, we see that God has always been faithful. From the parting of the Red Sea to the promises in Isaiah, God has shown His power and love.
Our past may be messy, but God blots out our transgressions and offers us a fresh start. He is continually working in our lives, guiding us through every season. This understanding of God’s timeless presence provides us with a sense of security and hope, knowing that He is always with us, no matter what we face. [44:24]
Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV): "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’"
Reflection: How has God shown His faithfulness in your past? How does this assurance of His presence in your past, present, and future impact your trust in Him today?
Day 3: The Hope of Revelation
The vision in Revelation 21 offers profound hope. It promises a future where God will dwell among His people, eliminating all pain, sorrow, and death. This future hope encourages us to persevere through present struggles, knowing that God is making everything new. The imagery of a new heaven and a new earth serves as a powerful reminder of God’s ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.
In times of hardship, this vision provides us with the strength to endure, knowing that our current sufferings are temporary and that God’s promise of a renewed creation is certain. This hope is not just for the distant future but also impacts how we live today, inspiring us to live with purpose and faith. [28:57]
Revelation 21:4-5 (ESV): "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. And he who was seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I am making all things new.'"
Reflection: How does the promise of a new heaven and a new earth give you hope in your current struggles? What steps can you take today to live in the light of this future promise?
Day 4: Holy Communion as Remembrance
Taking communion is a powerful act of remembering what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. It connects us to the past, grounds us in the present, and gives us hope for the future. As we partake in the bread and the cup, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus, which blots out our sins and gives us hope for the future. This act of remembrance is a moment to reflect on our lives, repent, and embrace the new life God offers.
Holy Communion is not just a ritual but a profound encounter with God’s grace. It reminds us of the depth of His love and the extent of His sacrifice. By participating in this sacred act, we are invited to examine our hearts, seek forgiveness, and renew our commitment to live in the light of His love and grace. [46:37]
1 Corinthians 11:24-25 (ESV): "And when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.'"
Reflection: As you prepare to take communion, what areas of your life need repentance and renewal? How can you embrace the new life that God offers through Jesus Christ?
Day 5: God's Masterpiece
Our lives may be messy, but God is the ultimate artist who can turn our mess into a masterpiece. He blots out our sins and creates something beautiful out of our brokenness. This transformation is a testament to His grace and love, reminding us that we are never too far gone for God’s redemption. God’s ability to bring beauty from ashes is a powerful demonstration of His creative and redemptive power.
No matter how broken or flawed we may feel, God sees our potential and works to bring out the best in us. His grace is sufficient to cover our imperfections and transform our lives into a reflection of His glory. This understanding encourages us to trust in His process and embrace the journey of becoming His masterpiece. [43:19]
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you feel broken or flawed? How can you invite God to transform these areas and create something beautiful out of your brokenness?
Quotes
1. "It's not just about me standing here to pray, but it's about you engaging and interacting with God as well in this place and in this time. So would you pray with me? Heavenly Father, we thank you for this morning. We thank you for this place, this church, this body of believers. Lord, I thank you for a wonderful place to serve. I thank you for people who are willing to serve you, to love you, to spend time in this place this morning." [15:50] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Those that walked into this place with burdens, weighing them down and have put on a smile just to try to make it through the day. But, Lord, you know everything we show up with to this place. Lord, you know everything that's going on in our lives. And so I pray that this is a time to lay those things down, to give those burdens and our cares over, to you, Lord, because we know that you take them. You work in our lives. You move in our midst. So, Lord, set people free this morning. Bring reconciliation, redemption, Lord." [16:37] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Lord, be at work in our community around us. Use us to reach the city of Kettering. Lord, use us to care and to love on our community. And, Lord, I want to pray for our nation this morning as anxiety might rise and nerves rise as we get closer to another election. Lord, we're in sort of a mess here and we... We are just asking, Lord Jesus, come. Whether it be through revival or an awakening or Jesus coming back, Lord, we just ask that you would bring redemption to this nation." [17:32] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So, there you have it. The new is coming, and the old will be gone. This week I was thinking on these things, and thinking, How do I talk about this? And as I'm reading through, I thought about this line, that says a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And for some of us, that wasn't all that long ago, that we remember our bride dressed on their wedding day. We just get to participate, I suppose. We just are there. But you remember your bride so beautifully dressed." [29:42] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So this morning, that's what I want to talk to you about. As we get into the story, we're finishing this up with God's upper story and our lower story and they have completely collided since January. God's upper story is always perfect. But it's always present. But God's upper story is always showing us things in the past. But God's upper story also is showing us hope for the future. And we're right here in the present looking to the past, learning from the past, but looking to the future of hope." [34:42] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "You see, this is where our hope remains. This is the passage, the story has been working to all these weeks because God first created the heavens and the earth. And now he says, but I will make all things new. There will be a new heaven and a new earth for the old heaven and the old earth has disappeared. And the new Jerusalem will come and that's to say, the holy city, the holiness of God will come down. It will be with us. And we will be with God." [36:04] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "So He's the God of the past but He's the God of the here and now. He's the God of the present and He's the God of the past yesterday. He's the God of the present today. He's the God of the future for tomorrow and then we step in tomorrow and we wake up and He was the God of the past yesterday and today He's the God of the present. You see that's what scripture continues to tell us time and time again is that God is with you. God is with you everywhere you go." [44:24] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "So He's the God who gave the power of the Holy Spirit back then and He's the God who's still showing up for us today. He's the God of the present. He changes us and He shapes us and He molds us into who He wants us to be. Today we might have messed up yesterday but today God's mercies are new again and again and again. God doesn't give up on us." [45:30] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "So God is also the God of the future and that's where we come to in Revelation this morning. There are several times that it says look God's home is now among His people. That's present. God is living among His people. God Himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. That's the God of the future. He's saying when you struggle, when you cry, when there's pain or death or sorrow I will be there to give you hope because I will wipe that all away and I will make all things new." [50:26] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "So as we finish the story this morning my hope is that you'll have a better understanding of Scripture that you'll have read. If you didn't read go read it. Because this is the best story you're ever going to read. This is the only story that will ever change your life. It's the only story you'll ever read that changed someone's life in the past and the present and in the future. It's the only story that can make a past go away and give new life and give hope. Read it. Live it. We live it together. Amen?" [54:32] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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