Topical Encyclopedia Hope, as a theological virtue, is a confident expectation and desire for the fulfillment of God's promises. In the Christian life, hope is not merely wishful thinking but a firm assurance rooted in faith. This hope is transformative, leading believers toward a life of purity and holiness.The Apostle John, in his first epistle, directly connects hope with purity: "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure" (1 John 3:3). This verse underscores the intrinsic link between the hope of seeing Christ and the pursuit of personal holiness. The hope of future glorification with Christ motivates believers to live in a manner that reflects His purity. The New Testament frequently emphasizes the purifying effect of hope. In Titus 2:11-14, Paul writes about the grace of God that brings salvation and instructs believers to live "sensible, righteous, and godly lives in the present age, as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" . This passage highlights that the anticipation of Christ's return inspires a lifestyle marked by self-control and righteousness. Furthermore, the Apostle Peter exhorts believers to set their hope fully on the grace to be given when Jesus Christ is revealed, leading to a call for holiness: "As obedient children, do not conform to the passions of your former ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do" (1 Peter 1:14-15). Here, hope is the catalyst for a transformation that aligns one's conduct with the holiness of God. The purifying power of hope is also evident in the writings of Paul to the Romans. In Romans 5:2-5, Paul speaks of rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God, which produces perseverance, character, and ultimately, hope that does not disappoint. This hope is grounded in the love of God poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, leading to a life that reflects God's character. Hope, therefore, is not passive but active, compelling believers to live in a way that honors God. It is a dynamic force that shapes the moral and spiritual life of Christians, urging them to cast off impurity and embrace the righteousness that comes from faith. As believers fix their eyes on the promises of God and the return of Christ, they are inspired to purify themselves, striving to be conformed to the image of Christ, who is the embodiment of purity. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 John 3:3And every man that has this hope in him purifies himself, even as he is pure. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Sources of Hope The Christian's Hope The Connection of the Christian virtues. David's Cry for Purity Purity and Peace in the Present Lord The Law Given, not to Retain a People for Itself, but to Keep ... Clement of Alexandria. The Illusiveness of Life. The Woman Taken in Adultery. Penitence, as Explained in the Sophistical Jargon of the Schoolmen ... Resources What is the living hope in 1 Peter 1:3? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Christian's hope? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between faith and hope? | GotQuestions.org Hope: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hope is an Encouragement to Boldness in Preaching Hope is the Work of the Holy Spirit Hope of the Wicked is in Their Worldly Possessions Hope of the Wicked: Shall be Extinguished in Death Hope of the Wicked: Shall Make Them Ashamed Hope of the Wicked: Shall Perish Hope: A Better Hope Brought in by Christ Hope: Be Ready to Give an Answer Concerning Hope: Connected With Faith and Love Hope: General Scriptures Concerning Hope: Illustrated by an Anchor Hope: Objects of a Resurrection Hope: Objects of Christ's Glorious Appearing Hope: Objects of Righteousness Hope: Obtained Through: Patience and Comfort of the Scriptures Hope: Obtained Through: The Gospel Hope: Obtained Through: The Word Hope: Saints: Have All, the Same Hope: Saints: should Abound In Hope: Saints: should Continue In Hope: Saints: should Hold Fast Hope: Saints: should Look for the Object of Hope: Saints: should not be Ashamed of Hope: Saints: should not be Moved From Hope: Seek for Full Assurance of Hope: The Result of Experience Hope: The Wicked Have No Ground For Hope: Triumphs Over Difficulties Related Terms |
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