Sermon Info
Summary
Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians that he wanted them to be encouraged. They were concerned about loved ones who had passed away. He wanted them to have hope because one day Jesus would come back and bring those who had passed away and those who are living together into His presence for forever. These words should encourage us as well to know that one day Jesus will come and heaven and earth will be one in the new heaven and earth. He promised that we all who are followers will be there and there is no greater hope than that. Until that day comes, we stay hopeful, encouraged, and ready. That hope that heaven will come, should change how we live now.
Content
Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:18
“Nothing is more often misdiagnosed than our homesickness for Heaven.” - Randy Alcorn
Followers of Christ should grieve, but Biblical grief is tethered to hope.
Eschaton - The final moment of this portion of the story.
A story that has no end.
For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good. Titus 2:11–14
Our heads are not to be fixed on the sky, waiting for Heaven, but on the work below,
reflecting Heaven.
The heart of eschatology is not precise timetables and meticulous charts but vigilant discipleship, humble service, and compassionate evangelism.
The high theology of Heaven should change our functional theology of now.
- Be hopeful.
- Be encouraged.
- Be ready.
