Topical Encyclopedia In Christian theology, hope is a profound and central theme, particularly concerning the anticipated return of Jesus Christ, often referred to as His "glorious appearing." This hope is not merely wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in the promises of God as revealed in Scripture. The hope of Christ's return is a source of comfort, motivation for holy living, and a catalyst for evangelism among believers.Biblical Foundation The New Testament is replete with references to the hope of Christ's return. In Titus 2:13, the Apostle Paul writes, "while we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" . This verse encapsulates the dual nature of Christian hope: it is both blessed and glorious, underscoring the joy and majesty associated with Christ's return. Nature of the Hope 1. Certainty and Assurance: The hope of Christ's appearing is characterized by certainty. Hebrews 10:23 encourages believers to "hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful" . This assurance is grounded in the faithfulness of God, who has fulfilled His promises throughout history. 2. Transformative Power: The anticipation of Christ's return has a sanctifying effect on believers. In 1 John 3:2-3, it is written, "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure" . This hope inspires believers to pursue holiness and Christlikeness. 3. Source of Comfort: The hope of Christ's return provides comfort in times of suffering and loss. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, Paul reassures the Thessalonian church with the promise of the Lord's return, concluding with, "Therefore encourage one another with these words" . The expectation of being reunited with Christ and fellow believers offers solace amidst life's trials. Objects of Hope 1. Resurrection and Eternal Life: The hope of Christ's appearing is intricately linked to the resurrection of the dead and the promise of eternal life. In 1 Corinthians 15:51-52, Paul declares, "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed" . This transformation is a cornerstone of Christian hope. 2. Restoration of Creation: The return of Christ heralds the renewal of all creation. Romans 8:19-21 speaks of creation's eager expectation for the revealing of the sons of God, when it will be liberated from its bondage to decay. This cosmic restoration is part of the hope that believers anticipate. 3. Justice and Righteousness: The hope of Christ's appearing includes the establishment of His righteous reign. Revelation 21:4-5 promises, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away. And the One seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new'" . This vision of a new heaven and earth where justice prevails is a powerful aspect of Christian hope. Implications for Believers The hope of Christ's glorious appearing has profound implications for how believers live their lives. It calls for vigilance and readiness, as Jesus Himself admonished in Matthew 24:42, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day on which your Lord will come" . This anticipation encourages a life of faithfulness, stewardship, and active engagement in the mission of the Church. Moreover, this hope fosters a spirit of unity and perseverance within the Christian community. As believers share in this common hope, they are encouraged to support and exhort one another, fostering a sense of solidarity and purpose as they await the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Titus 2:13Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Christ's Resurrection and Our Newness of Life Heavenly Contemplation Assisted by Sensible Objects, and Guarded ... Angelic Comforters. Christ's Priestly Office Of the Last Resurrection. 'Concerning the Crown' Though He were Dead The Blood of the Everlasting Covenant Gunsaulus -- the Bible Vs. Infidelity Testimonies. Resources What does it mean that hope deferred makes the heart sick (Proverbs 13:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the blessed hope? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Christ in us is the hope of glory? | 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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