Topical Encyclopedia Hope, within the Christian faith, is a profound and essential virtue that is deeply rooted in the promises of God and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It is not merely a wishful thinking or an optimistic outlook, but a confident expectation and assurance of what God has promised, grounded in His faithfulness and the truth of His Word.Biblical Foundation of Hope The concept of hope is woven throughout the Scriptures, serving as a cornerstone for the believer's life. 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 verse encapsulates the call to place one's hope in God amidst life's trials. In the New Testament, hope takes on a more defined shape through the revelation of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul writes extensively about hope, emphasizing its centrality to the Christian life. In Romans 5:2-5 , he states, "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." Hope as a Calling for Saints Saints, or believers, are explicitly called to a life of hope. This calling is not passive but active, requiring a steadfast focus on the promises of God and the future glory that awaits. In Ephesians 1:18 , Paul prays for the believers, "I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints." This hope is both a present reality and a future expectation, anchored in the resurrection of Christ and the promise of eternal life. The Apostle Peter also exhorts believers to live in hope, writing, "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" (1 Peter 1:3). This living hope is dynamic and transformative, shaping the believer's conduct and perspective. Hope in the Face of Trials The call to hope is particularly significant in the context of suffering and trials. The early Christians, facing persecution and hardship, were encouraged to hold fast to their hope in Christ. Hebrews 10:23 urges, "Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." This steadfast hope provides strength and endurance, enabling believers to persevere through difficulties with the assurance of God's ultimate victory. Hope as a Witness Moreover, the hope to which saints are called serves as a powerful witness to the world. In 1 Peter 3:15 , believers are instructed, "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." This hope, visible in the life of a believer, draws others to inquire about the source of such confidence and peace, providing opportunities to share the gospel. In summary, hope is an integral aspect of the Christian life, deeply rooted in the character of God and the work of Christ. It is a calling that shapes the believer's present and future, providing strength in trials and serving as a testimony to the world. 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 The Hope of the Redeemer's Return The Communion of Saints. Concerning the Honour Due to the Saints and their Remains. Praying Saints of the Old Testaments Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs The Communion of Saints. The Catholic Apostolic Church (Called Irvingites. ) Psalm XVI. On the Invocation of Saints Argument. --When the Saints were Apprehended, St. Perpetua ... 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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