Topical Encyclopedia Hope is a central theme in the Christian faith, serving as a vital component of the believer's spiritual life. It is not merely a wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in the promises of God. For the saints, hope is a shared experience, a common thread that unites all believers across time and space.Biblical Foundation of Hope The Bible presents hope as an assurance based on the character and promises of God. In the Old Testament, hope is often linked with waiting on the Lord and trusting in His deliverance. The psalmist declares, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why the unease within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God" (Psalm 42:11). This hope is not passive but active, involving a steadfast trust in God's faithfulness. In the New Testament, hope takes on a more defined shape through the revelation of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul writes, "For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he can already see?" (Romans 8:24). Here, hope is intertwined with salvation, pointing to the future fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Hope as a Shared Experience Among Saints The saints, or the community of believers, are united in their hope. This shared hope is not based on individual circumstances but on the collective promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes this unity in Ephesians 4:4, "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called" . This singular hope binds the church together, transcending cultural, social, and temporal barriers. The Apostle Peter also speaks to this communal aspect of hope, urging believers to be prepared to give an answer for the hope that they share: "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15). This hope is not only personal but also a testimony to the world, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel. Hope in the Face of Suffering The saints' hope is particularly significant in the context of suffering and trials. The early church faced persecution, yet their hope remained steadfast. Paul writes to the Romans, "Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). This progression highlights how hope is both a result of and a response to adversity. James echoes this sentiment, encouraging believers to consider trials as opportunities for growth: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3). The hope of the saints is resilient, fortified by the assurance of God's ultimate victory over sin and death. The Eschatological Dimension of Hope Christian hope is inherently eschatological, looking forward to the return of Christ and the consummation of God's kingdom. This future-oriented hope is a source of comfort and motivation for the saints. Paul writes to Titus, "While we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). This anticipation of Christ's return is a central aspect of the believer's hope, providing a perspective that transcends present challenges. The Book of Revelation offers a vision of this ultimate hope, where God will dwell with His people, and "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" (Revelation 21:4). This promise of a new creation is the culmination of the saints' hope, a future reality that shapes their present faith and practice. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 4:4There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library In that Flesh in which the Saints have Suffered So Many ... The Hope of the Redeemer's Return The Communion of Saints. That the Foundation and Strength of Hope and Faith is Fear. On the Invocation of Saints That Divine Love More Excellently Sanctifies the virtues when they ... That Gospel Sermon on the Blessed Hope God's Inheritance in the Saints Saints, Sages, and Saviors: the Law of Service Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs 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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