Topical Encyclopedia Hope is a central theme in the Christian faith, serving as a source of joy and strength for the saints. It is the confident expectation of what God has promised, and its foundation is the faithfulness of God. The saints, those who are set apart for God, find profound joy in this hope, as it assures them of their future inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises.Biblical Foundation of Hope The Bible presents hope as an essential aspect of the believer's life. In Romans 5:2-5 , the Apostle Paul writes, "Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." This passage highlights that hope is not only a future expectation but also a present reality that sustains believers through trials. The hope of the glory of God is a source of rejoicing, even amidst suffering, because it is rooted in the love of God and the work of the Holy Spirit. Hope as an Anchor Hope is described as an anchor for the soul in Hebrews 6:19 : "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." This metaphor illustrates the stabilizing effect of hope in the believer's life. Just as an anchor holds a ship steady amidst turbulent waters, hope keeps the saints grounded in the promises of God, providing security and assurance. The Joy of Hope The joy that comes from hope is a recurring theme in the New Testament. In Romans 12:12 , Paul exhorts believers to "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer." This joy is not dependent on circumstances but is a result of the assurance that God is in control and that His promises will be fulfilled. Furthermore, 1 Peter 1:3-6 speaks of a "living hope" through the resurrection of Jesus Christ: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials." This living hope is dynamic and active, rooted in the resurrection of Christ, and it leads to rejoicing even in the face of trials, as it points to an eternal inheritance that is secure and unchanging. Hope in the Return of Christ The anticipation of Christ's return is another aspect of hope that brings joy to the saints. Titus 2:13 describes this as "the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ." The expectation of Christ's return motivates believers to live godly lives and fills them with joy as they look forward to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Conclusion The hope that saints rejoice in is a multifaceted gift from God, encompassing the assurance of salvation, the promise of eternal life, and the anticipation of Christ's return. It is a source of joy and strength, enabling believers to endure trials and remain steadfast in their faith. Through hope, the saints experience the joy of knowing that God's promises are sure and that their future is secure in Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 5:2By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 12:12 Library Psalm 50 the Last Judgment. Psalm 50:6. To the Old Proper Tune. The Last Judgment. The Hope of the Redeemer's Return Psalm 34 Part 1 God's Care of the Saints; Or, Deliverance by ... Psalm 34:1. First Part. LM God's Care of the Saints; Or ... What Hope and Reward Remains for the Righteous and for Martyrs ... The Importance of Leading a Heavenly Life Upon Earth. Psalm CXXXII. The Introduction to the Work, with Some Account of the Nature of ... Rejoice. Resources What is hope theology / theology of hope? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about hope? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that faith, hope, and love remain (1 Corinthians 13:13)? | 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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