The Bible speaks of two principles operating in this world:
1. The principle of decay (destruction)
2. The principle of life (hope)
I. THE BAD NEWS
A. The whole creation has been subjected to decay and destruction (vs. 20, 22)
B. Believers who are the firstfruits of the Spirit groan inwardly (v.23)
This experience of the whole of creation is not by its own choice, but by the will of One who subjected it. (v.20)
II. THE GOOD NEWS
A. The whole creation will be liberated from the bondage of decay (v.21)
B. Believers wait for the redemption of their bodies (v.23)
This will take place in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. This constitutes the "Christian Hope."
CONCLUSION
Against the backdrop of hope, the present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory to be revealed in us. (v.18)
Hence, the antidote to Christian sufferings: Christian Hope!
"OUR CHRISTIAN HOPE DISPELS THE GLOOM OF THE PRESENT!"--Dr. Spiros Zodiates
