Introduction

"No Hope; False Hope; True Hope" - Titus 2:13

Introduction:

Faith and Hope are closely related but should be distinguished. Faith is active in the present, while Hope encourages and looks forward to future rewards. Faith comes from hearing the Word of God, while Hope comes from personal experience. Faith accepts the promise, while Hope confidently expects its fulfillment. The Bible never uses the term "hope" to mean uncertainty or doubt. It is incorrect to say, "I hope I am a Christian" just as it would be to say, "I hope I am an American." We should not hope for something we already know we have.

No Hope (Ephesians 2:11-12)

According to the Bible, there are people today who have no hope and are without God in the world. While some may think many have no hope, I disagree. Hope is essential for the human soul, just as faith is essential for society. A life without hope becomes unbearable misery. God recognized this need and gave Adam hope after he sinned. In Ephesians 2:11-12, Paul describes those who have no hope and are without God in the world. Sadly, suicide rates among teenagers are high, indicating a lack of hope. It is a terrible thing for anyone, young or old, to be without hope.

False Hope (Matthew 7:21-27)

Those who have false hope are more numerous and worse off than those with no hope. False hope is not limited to remote areas but can be found in our own communities. False hope is even worse than having no hope at all. It seems self-sufficient until tested. Many people realize their hope was in vain when troubles arise. False hope is like building a house on sand, as Jesus described in Matthew 7:21-27. Examples of false hope include thinking one can quit addiction anytime, believing theft has no consequences, or relying on religious rituals without a personal relationship with Christ. False hope is empty and leads to disappointment.

True Hope (Titus 2:13)

True hope can only be found in Christ. Titus 2:13-3:7 and other passages in the Bible speak of this true hope. Hebrews 6:18-19 and 1 Peter 1:3-5 also emphasize the certainty of this hope. As believers, we should be ready to explain the reason for our hope with gentleness and respect, as mentioned in 1 Peter 3:15. True hope is found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

Hope is essential for the human soul, and God recognized this need. There are those who have no hope, those who have false hope, and those who have true hope. True hope can only be found in Christ. It is not based on uncertainty or doubt but on the promises of God. As believers, we should hold onto this true hope and share it with others who are in need of hope.

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