Hope and Unity in Christ's Return
Summary
In today's gathering, we find ourselves united in the name of Jesus, transcending the divisions that often characterize our world. This unity is a testament to the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit within us, producing fruits like love, joy, peace, and gentleness. In a world rife with conflict and differing opinions, we are reminded of the greater hope we have in Christ—a hope that is not only for the present but also for the future. A.B. Simpson, the founder of the Christian Missionary Alliance, poignantly captured this in his poem, urging us to focus on the return of Jesus as King, a truth often overshadowed by worldly concerns.
The scripture from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 offers us profound hope, assuring us that Jesus will return, and those who have died in Him will rise first. This promise provides comfort and perspective, especially in times of grief. Our belief in the future impacts how we live today, much like my childhood experience of striving for a perfect attendance award. However, unlike my childhood goal, our Christian hope is grounded in the truth of God's promises.
The early church in Thessalonica faced similar challenges, questioning what would happen to those who died before Christ's return. Paul reassures them—and us—that all believers will be present on that day, receiving resurrected bodies. This hope is not just for the future but also shapes our present, encouraging us to live alert and sober lives, holding onto faith, hope, and love.
As we await Jesus' return, we are called to nurture our relationship with Him, ensuring that our lives reflect the hope we profess. For those who have not yet accepted Jesus, today is an opportunity to embrace this hope and begin a transformative journey with Him. Let us encourage one another with these truths, lifting our voices in unity and declaring the eternal hope we have in Christ.
Key Takeaways:
- Unity in Christ: In a divided world, our gathering in Jesus' name is a miraculous testament to the Holy Spirit's work within us, producing fruits like love, joy, and peace. This unity transcends human divisions and offers a glimpse of the kingdom of God. [47:59]
- Hope in Jesus' Return: Our hope is firmly grounded in the promise of Jesus' return, as outlined in 1 Thessalonians. This hope provides comfort and perspective, especially in times of grief, reminding us that all believers will be present on that day. [49:33]
- Living in Light of the Future: Our belief in the future impacts how we live today. Like my childhood pursuit of a perfect attendance award, our Christian hope should motivate us to live upright lives, grounded in the truth of God's promises. [53:38]
- Nurturing Our Relationship with Jesus: As we await Jesus' return, nurturing our relationship with Him is crucial. This involves being alert and sober, holding onto faith, hope, and love, and ensuring our lives reflect the hope we profess. [01:04:45]
- Invitation to Salvation: For those who have not yet accepted Jesus, today is an opportunity to embrace this hope and begin a transformative journey with Him. Accepting Jesus as Savior offers the promise of eternal life and a relationship with the King of Kings. [01:07:01]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:45] - Unity in Jesus' Name
- [02:15] - The Hope of the Holy Spirit
- [04:00] - A.B. Simpson's Poem
- [05:30] - The Promise of Jesus' Return
- [07:00] - Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians
- [08:45] - Comfort in Grief
- [10:30] - Childhood Story of Hope
- [12:00] - Christian Hope Grounded in Truth
- [13:30] - Early Church's Expectation
- [15:00] - Assurance of Resurrection
- [16:30] - Living Alert and Sober
- [18:00] - Invitation to Salvation
- [19:30] - Encouragement in Community
- [21:00] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
- Isaiah 9:6-7
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 say about the return of Jesus and the resurrection of believers? How does this passage provide comfort to those who are grieving? [49:33]
2. According to the sermon, what are some of the fruits of the Holy Spirit that should be evident in our lives as a testament to our unity in Christ? [47:59]
3. How does the sermon describe the early church's expectation of Jesus' return, and what questions did they have about those who had died before His return? [55:07]
4. What is the significance of the promise found in Isaiah 9:6-7, and how does it relate to the hope of Jesus' return? [57:15]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the promise of Jesus' return influence the way believers are encouraged to live their lives today, according to the sermon? [53:38]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that Christian hope is different from worldly hope, and how is it grounded in truth? [53:38]
3. How does the sermon explain the role of faith, hope, and love in preparing for Jesus' return, and why are these qualities important? [01:04:45]
4. What does the sermon say about the experience of those who have not accepted Jesus when He returns, and how does this serve as an invitation to salvation? [01:07:01]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced unity with others despite differences. How can you actively promote unity in your community this week, inspired by the fruits of the Holy Spirit? [47:59]
2. The sermon emphasizes living alert and sober lives. What practical steps can you take to ensure you are spiritually alert and sober-minded in your daily routine? [01:04:45]
3. Consider the hope you have in Jesus' return. How does this hope shape your perspective on current challenges or grief you may be facing? [49:33]
4. The sermon invites those who have not accepted Jesus to embrace this hope. If you have already accepted Jesus, how can you share this invitation with someone in your life who hasn't? [01:07:01]
5. Think about the qualities of faith, hope, and love. Which of these do you feel most challenged to grow in, and what specific action can you take this week to nurture that quality? [01:04:45]
6. Reflect on the promise of Jesus' return and the assurance of resurrection. How does this promise impact your long-term goals and priorities? [55:07]
7. The sermon mentions nurturing your relationship with Jesus. What is one new habit or practice you can start this week to deepen your relationship with Him? [01:06:15]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
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Day 1: Unity in Christ Transcends Worldly Divisions
In a world often characterized by division and conflict, the unity found in Christ stands as a miraculous testament to the work of the Holy Spirit. This unity is not merely a superficial agreement but a profound connection that transcends human differences, producing fruits like love, joy, and peace. It offers a glimpse of the kingdom of God, where believers are united in purpose and spirit. As we gather in Jesus' name, we are reminded that this unity is a powerful witness to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel. [47:59]
Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Reflection: Who in your life do you find it difficult to be united with? How can you actively seek the Holy Spirit's help to foster unity with them today?
Day 2: Hope in Jesus' Return Provides Comfort and Perspective
The promise of Jesus' return, as outlined in 1 Thessalonians, offers profound hope and comfort, especially in times of grief. This hope assures us that those who have died in Christ will rise first, and all believers will be present on that day. It provides a perspective that transcends our current struggles, reminding us of the eternal future we have in Christ. This hope is not just a distant dream but a present reality that shapes how we live today, encouraging us to hold onto faith and love. [49:33]
1 Peter 1:3-5 (ESV): "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, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Reflection: In what ways can you allow the hope of Jesus' return to influence your daily decisions and interactions with others today?
Day 3: Living in Light of the Future Shapes Our Present Actions
Our belief in the future impacts how we live today. Just as a childhood pursuit of a perfect attendance award motivated diligent behavior, our Christian hope should inspire us to live upright lives grounded in the truth of God's promises. This hope is not based on wishful thinking but on the certainty of God's word, encouraging us to live with integrity and purpose. As we anticipate the fulfillment of God's promises, we are called to live lives that reflect His truth and love to the world around us. [53:38]
2 Peter 3:11-13 (ESV): "Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells."
Reflection: What specific actions can you take today to align your life more closely with the future hope you have in Christ?
Day 4: Nurturing Our Relationship with Jesus is Essential
As we await Jesus' return, nurturing our relationship with Him is crucial. This involves being alert and sober, holding onto faith, hope, and love, and ensuring our lives reflect the hope we profess. It is a call to deepen our connection with Christ, allowing His presence to transform our hearts and minds. By prioritizing our relationship with Jesus, we are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life and to be a light to those around us. This nurturing process is an ongoing journey that requires intentionality and commitment. [01:04:45]
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV): "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to nurture your relationship with Jesus and ensure that your life reflects the hope you profess?
Day 5: Invitation to Salvation and a Transformative Journey
For those who have not yet accepted Jesus, today is an opportunity to embrace the hope He offers and begin a transformative journey with Him. Accepting Jesus as Savior is not just about securing eternal life but entering into a relationship with the King of Kings. This invitation is open to all, offering the promise of a new life marked by purpose, peace, and joy. As we share this message with others, we are called to encourage them to take this step of faith and experience the transformative power of the gospel. [01:07:01]
2 Corinthians 5:17-18 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about the hope and transformation found in Jesus? How can you share this invitation with them today?
Quotes
"We're a large group of people meeting on several campuses, the week after historical election, and probably sitting close to somebody who might have an agenda, and maybe a different opinion about you, about what should have happened last week. But we're gathered. And we're gathered in the name of Jesus. And I think that's a little bit miraculous, the way that we're gathered. And I can sense the love and the warmth of God's presence with us as we have gathered together in Jesus' name." [00:45:47] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"What a blessing in a complex and divided world, to have something to unite us that is far bigger, far more powerful, far better, and infinitely longer lasting than anything that humans could come up with." [00:47:04] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Now this does not diminish at all the importance of what happens here on earth in the meantime. The decisions that were made this week will impact many lives, but isn't it beautiful to be able to put it in perspective?" [00:48:46] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Because what we believe about the future impacts how we live in the present." [00:51:56] (7 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"What we believe about the future impacts how we live today, but you need to hear this. It's important that what you believe about the future is true. Christian hope is the kind of belief in the future that is grounded in truth with a capital T." [00:53:38] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"In the promises of God, we know how this story ends. And the more our faith grows to truly gain a vision for that hope, the more we're going to be impacted how we live today." [00:53:58] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Paul also teaches that this reality brings comfort to the grieving he gives us this gift of context for our grief when we lose a loved one who is a believer now losing a loved one is still very painful of course but it's also a gift of context it's so hard to say goodbye and our soul still feels their loss daily the tears and the grief and counseling and the whole process of grieving is still so healthy but we don't grieve as those without hope the understanding of what's going to happen on that last day gives us something to hold on to gives us context for our grief." [00:59:03] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Paul wanted the Thessalonians and us to know that by nature, Christian hope takes action. This substantial hope that we have in Jesus' return should motivate us to live upright lives in light of the belief that Jesus will soon return." [01:04:45] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"I think the very most important action we can take in light of Jesus' imminent return is to intentionally nurture our relationship with him. So the more time we spend with Jesus, the more we fall in love with Jesus, the more exciting it's going to be when our Jesus has returned." [01:06:43] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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