Living with Hope: Understanding Eschatology and God's Promises
Summary
The sermon delves into the intricate details of eschatology, the study of the end times, as understood through the lens of Christian theology. The speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of knowing the scriptures deeply to avoid deception, drawing an analogy with identifying counterfeit money. They stress that Satan's deception is often hidden in the details, and without a thorough understanding of the genuine truth, believers can be easily misled.
The speaker then transitions to discussing the present life of believers and the future resurrection. They encourage the congregation to live with the hope of God's promises and to reflect God's love to the world. The sermon includes a prayer for believers to live as kingdom citizens, focusing on God's calling rather than worldly distractions.
Addressing the Millennial Kingdom, the speaker paints a vivid picture of a time with limited evil, immediate judgment, and universal peace, even among animals. They describe a world where righteousness prevails, the curse is removed, and there is prosperity and freedom from oppression. The speaker reassures those who fear Heaven as an endless worship service that there will be much more to it, including work, labor, and unified worship.
The speaker also tackles various interpretations of biblical verses and concepts, expressing concern over allegorical interpretations that could undermine the literal understanding of the cross and the payment for sin. They discuss different views on tribulation, postmillennialism, and the decreasing Christian influence in society, emphasizing that the church will face persecution from the enemy.
Revelation chapter 20 is a focal point, with the speaker describing the binding of Satan, the reign of martyred souls with Christ, and the final judgment. They highlight the significance of this chapter and the importance of understanding our relationship with God to avoid ambiguity and deception.
The speaker shares a personal anecdote about their former senior pastor's mother, who would end her cards with "be there," a reminder to be present and supportive in the lives of others. They also geek out on the depth of God's Word, encouraging note-taking and further study.
The sermon addresses the doctrine of rewards, the coexistence of glorified and mortal bodies in the Millennial Kingdom, and the role of the church in ruling. The fulfillment of promises to Israel is discussed, with Satan being loosed and evil thrown into the Lake of Fire, followed by the new Heavens, new Earth, and New Jerusalem.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the scriptures in depth is crucial to avoid deception, as Satan's lies are often hidden in the details. Believers must be vigilant and knowledgeable about the genuine truth to discern the counterfeit from the real, much like experts who identify fake currency. This knowledge is essential for spiritual discernment and protection against false teachings. [07:45]
- Living as kingdom citizens means actively reflecting God's love and hope in the present while anticipating the future resurrection. Believers are called to focus on God's promises and their fulfillment, transforming their hearts and minds to serve as a testament to God's love in a world filled with distractions. This dual focus on the present and the future shapes a believer's identity and purpose. [50:49]
- The Millennial Kingdom will be a time of righteousness, peace, and joy, where the curse is lifted and prosperity abounds. This future hope should inspire believers to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that the current struggles are temporary and that a glorious future awaits those who are in Christ. The anticipation of this kingdom can provide comfort and motivation in the believer's daily life. [41:30]
- The importance of a literal interpretation of scripture is highlighted, especially concerning the cross and the payment for sin. Allegorical interpretations can dilute the power and specificity of God's redemptive plan, leading to confusion about foundational Christian doctrines such as salvation and the nature of tribulation. A clear understanding of these doctrines is vital for a robust faith. [23:20]
- The events of Revelation chapter 20, including the binding of Satan and the final judgment, underscore the gravity of the choices made in this life. Believers are encouraged to live in a manner worthy of the calling they have received, knowing that their actions have eternal significance. This perspective on the end times serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of heaven and hell, and the urgency of sharing the gospel. [05:25]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Revelation 20:1-15
2. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
3. 1 Corinthians 15:20-23
#### Observation Questions
1. What events are described in Revelation 20 regarding Satan and the final judgment? ([02:52])
2. According to 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, what will happen to the dead in Christ and those who are alive at the time of the Rapture?
3. How does 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 describe Jesus' resurrection and its significance for believers?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important for believers to have a deep understanding of the scriptures to avoid deception, as mentioned in the sermon? ([07:11])
2. How does the hope of the Millennial Kingdom and the future resurrection shape a believer's present life and actions? ([50:09])
3. What are the potential dangers of allegorical interpretations of scripture, especially concerning foundational Christian doctrines? ([21:38])
#### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized the importance of knowing the scriptures deeply to avoid deception. What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of the Bible this week? ([07:11])
2. Reflecting on the hope of the Millennial Kingdom, how can you live with an eternal perspective in your daily life? What specific actions can you take to reflect God's love and hope to those around you? ([50:09])
3. The speaker mentioned the coexistence of glorified and mortal bodies in the Millennial Kingdom. How does this concept challenge or affirm your current understanding of the end times? ([37:44])
4. Considering the importance of a literal interpretation of scripture, how can you ensure that your understanding of the Bible remains clear and undiluted? What resources or practices can help you in this endeavor? ([21:38])
5. The sermon highlighted the significance of living as kingdom citizens. What are some practical ways you can focus on God's calling and avoid worldly distractions this week? ([50:09])
6. The speaker shared a personal anecdote about the importance of being present and supportive in the lives of others. How can you be more present and supportive in your relationships this week? ([46:33])
7. Reflect on the doctrine of rewards mentioned in the sermon. How does this doctrine influence your motivation to live a life that honors God? What specific actions can you take to align your life with this understanding? ([16:26])
Devotional
Day 1: Discernment Through Scriptural Depth
Deep scriptural knowledge is a safeguard against deception, enabling believers to discern truth amidst falsehoods. As counterfeiters embed their lies in subtle details, so does Satan. A profound understanding of God's Word is the believer's defense, equipping them with the wisdom to recognize and reject the enemy's deceptions. [!!07:45!!]
Hebrews 5:14 - "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil."
Reflection: How can you deepen your scriptural knowledge this week to better discern God's truth from deception?
Day 2: Kingdom Citizenship in the Present
Believers are called to embody God's love and hope, balancing the anticipation of future resurrection with active service in the present. This dual focus transforms their lives, making them beacons of God's promises in a world of distractions. Living as kingdom citizens involves a commitment to God's calling above all else. [!!50:49!!]
Colossians 3:1-2 - "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Reflection: What are some practical ways you can reflect God's love to those around you while keeping your heart set on His eternal promises?
Day 3: Anticipating the Millennial Kingdom
The Millennial Kingdom offers a vision of a world where righteousness, peace, and joy reign supreme, inspiring believers to live with an eternal perspective. The promise of a future where the curse is lifted and prosperity is abundant motivates believers to endure current struggles with hope and perseverance. [!!41:30!!]
Isaiah 11:6-7 - "The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox."
Reflection: How does the hope of the Millennial Kingdom shape your perspective on the challenges you face today?
Day 4: Literal Interpretation of Scripture
A literal interpretation of scripture is crucial, particularly regarding the cross and the payment for sin. Allegorical readings can obscure the clarity of God's redemptive plan, leading to confusion about essential doctrines like salvation. Understanding these doctrines is foundational to a strong and unwavering faith. [!!23:20!!]
2 Peter 1:20-21 - "Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit."
Reflection: In what ways can you ensure that your understanding of scripture remains grounded in its intended, literal meaning?
Day 5: The Gravity of Eternal Choices
Revelation 20 highlights the weight of our choices and the eternal consequences they carry. Understanding the reality of the final judgment and the binding of Satan should inspire believers to live lives worthy of their calling, with an awareness of the significance of their actions in light of eternity. [!!05:25!!]
Revelation 20:12 - "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books."
Reflection: What choices can you make today that reflect the eternal significance of living a life aligned with God's will?
Quotes
"We need to be students of the word of God again, doesn't matter if we're new to Faith or we've been walking with Jesus for years. Let's dig into the details and let's get deep this morning." [09:22] (Download)
"The value is in the details. If we want to stay for whatever reason, let it be a desire, apathy, or maybe we feel insignificant, that we can't dig into the details of scripture, there is the possibility we're leaving the door open for deception." [07:11] (Download)
"God is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do, and he's bringing in his kingdom. How much grace, mercy, and love that he calls us to be a kingdom citizen of that." [50:49] (Download)
"As we wait in the tension of the already and the not yet, waiting for you to return, I pray that we would live as Kingdom citizens, that we would be there." [51:33] (Download)
"The danger I have with [interpreting Scripture as allegorical] is so how literal do I take the cross? Is my sin literally paid for, or is this just an allegory, just a cool story to try to bring me closer to God but I'm really not walking in the righteousness and the Holiness of Christ?" [21:38] (Download)
"Our lives matter and how we live our lives matter, not trying to earn salvation but the doctrine of rewards is there, and so we are going to be given a place of ruling and authority." [37:16] (Download)
"Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection; over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years." [04:10] (Download)
"And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done." [05:25] (Download)
"There's going to be fullness of joy, Holiness, a full glory of God. The king will minister to every need, there will be Comfort perfect Justice, full knowledge, there'll be a removal of the curse, sickness removed, healing of the deformed." [41:30] (Download)
"Jesus is the first stage of that; that's what it means that he's our first fruits. That's the hope. So when people look at me like you really believe you're going to be resurrected, absolutely. Why? Because my savior walked out of the Grave." [12:37] (Download)
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