Living Hope: Transformed by the Truth of our Inheritance
Introduction:
In 1 Peter 1:3-4, the apostle Peter introduces us to the profound truth of our inheritance as believers in Christ. He writes, "All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay." Today, we will explore this passage and discover how it transforms our lives as followers of Christ.
Point 1: Born Again to a Living Hope (1 Peter 1:3)
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Because of 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, NLT)
Peter begins by offering praise to God for His abundant mercy and grace. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, believers are born again to a living hope. This hope is not a mere wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on the reality of Christ's victory over sin and death.
Romans 6:4 (NLT) echoes this truth: "For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives."
The resurrection of Jesus Christ serves as the foundation of our faith and the source of our hope. Through His resurrection, we are assured of our own future resurrection and eternal life with Him. This living hope empowers us to face life's challenges with confidence and assurance, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Christ.
Point 2: A Priceless Inheritance (1 Peter 1:4)
"And we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay." (1 Peter 1:4, NLT)
Peter further elaborates on the nature of our inheritance as believers. Our inheritance is described as priceless, pure, and undefiled. It is not subject to the limitations and uncertainties of this world but is securely kept in heaven for us by God Himself.
Ephesians 1:11-14 (NLT) reinforces this truth: "Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan."
As heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), we are entitled to share in the riches of His kingdom and the blessings of His promises. Our inheritance includes eternal life, fellowship with God, and the joys of heaven, which far surpass any earthly possession or achievement.
Point 3: Transformed Living with Great Expectation (1 Peter 1:3)
"Now we live with great expectation..." (1 Peter 1:3, NLT)
As recipients of God's mercy and heirs of His promises, believers are called to live with great expectation. Our hope in Christ transforms our perspective on life and shapes our attitudes and actions. We are no longer bound by fear or despair but are filled with anticipation for the fulfilment of God's purposes in our lives.
Titus 2:11-13 (NLT) encourages us to live with this blessed hope: "For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, will be revealed."
Our hope in Christ motivates us to live holy and godly lives, eagerly awaiting His return and the consummation of all things. It empowers us to persevere through trials and tribulations, knowing that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us (Romans 8:18).
Application:
As we reflect on the truth of 1 Peter 1:3-4, let us embrace the reality of our living hope and priceless inheritance in Christ. Are we living with the expectation and anticipation that comes from knowing our destiny in Him? Let us cultivate a mindset of hope and trust in God's promises, regardless of our present circumstances.
Call to Action:
I urge you to deepen your understanding of our inheritance in Christ and to live with the confident expectation of His return. Let us hold fast to our hope in Him and live as faithful stewards of the priceless inheritance we have received. May our lives be a testimony to the transforming power of our living hope in Christ Jesus.
In conclusion, let us be transformed by the truth of our inheritance in Christ, living with great expectation and anticipation of His glorious return. Amen.
