Introduction

Good morning, Church family! Today, we will be diving deep into three poignant passages of scripture - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Amos 5:18-24, and Matthew 25:1-13. These passages will guide us in exploring the profound themes of the promise of the resurrection, offering hope to each other, and preparing ourselves for the glorious Marriage Feast of the Lamb.

In the words of Corrie Ten Boom, "Let God’s promises shine on your problems." This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of our message today, as we aim to inspire hope, encourage preparation, and dwell in the promises of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let's delve into the Word:

[Read passages]

Let us pray,

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the promise of resurrection, the hope we can share with each other, and the wedding feast we will one day partake in Your Son's return. As we explore these scriptures today, open our hearts and minds to receive Your truth. Amen.

Let’s get started!

The Promise of the Resurrection

The promise of the resurrection is a cornerstone of Christian faith, a beacon of hope that illuminates our path in this world and beyond.

The Apostle Paul: In his letter to the Thessalonians he sought to provide comfort and hope to those who were grieving the loss of their loved ones. He assured them that death is not the end, but a transition to a new life in Christ. The resurrection is not just a future event, but a present reality for those who believe in Jesus Christ. This belief transforms our perspective on life and death, infusing our earthly existence with eternal significance.

A testament to God's unfathomable love and power: It is a demonstration of His ability to conquer the seemingly insurmountable barrier of death, and His desire to reunite us with Him in eternal life. This promise is not just about the resurrection of the body, but also the resurrection of our hopes, dreams, and aspirations that seem to have been buried with the trials and tribulations of life. It is a promise of renewal, restoration, and revival.

A source of strength and motivation for believers: It encourages us to persevere through hardships, knowing that our labor is not in vain. It inspires us to live righteously, knowing that our actions have eternal implications. It compels us to share the gospel, knowing that it holds the key to eternal life.

A call to action: It invites us to participate in God's redemptive work on earth, to be co-laborers with Christ in bringing about the resurrection of a fallen world. It challenges us to live as resurrection people, embodying the hope, love, and power of the resurrected Christ in our daily lives.

An active engagement with the present reality of the resurrected Christ: It is about living in the light of the resurrection, allowing it to shape our identity, influence our decisions, and guide our actions. It is about experiencing the power of the resurrection in our lives, transforming us from the inside out.

A communal experience: It is about sharing the hope of the resurrection with others, comforting those who are grieving, encouraging those who are struggling, and celebrating with those who are rejoicing. It is about building a community of resurrection people, united by the common hope of eternal life in Christ.

A tangible hope: It is a hope that transcends the uncertainties of this world, anchoring us in the unchanging truth of God's love and power. It is a hope that fuels our faith, sustains our joy, and empowers our witness.

A dynamic relationship: It is about knowing the resurrected Christ, experiencing His presence, and anticipating His return. It is about growing in our understanding of the resurrection, deepening our appreciation of its significance, and expanding our vision of its implications.

Pastor, here would be a good place to share a personal story about the first time you heard about Jesus’ resurrection. How did it affect you?

Encouraging Each Other with Hope

Encouraging each other with hope is a call to action, a divine directive that we are to embody and enact in our daily interactions ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO