Hope - Lesson 3 | Pastor Clay Orchard CR

"Eternal Hope That Gives Present Strength" Romans 8:18-25 Main Point: Our eternal hope in Christ gives us strength to endure today. Romans 8:18-25 (ESV) "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us..." Three Types of Hope: No Hope – Feeling stuck, lost, or ready to give up. False Hope – Placing hope in things of this world that will fade. True Hope in Christ – A firm foundation that never fails. What Hope is NOT: Wishful thinking based on uncertainty (e.g., hoping for good weather, a promotion, or success without effort). Based on temporary, ever-changing things. What Hope IS (Biblical Definition): Confident expectation based on God's unchanging character and promises. Rooted in the person of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 13:8 - "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Why Do Christians Suffer? To grow in faith and character (Romans 5:3-4, James 1:2-4). To share in Christ's suffering (1 Peter 4:12-13, Philippians 3:10). To rely on God, not ourselves (2 Corinthians 1:8-9, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10). To be a witness to others (Matthew 5:16, 2 Corinthians 4:8-10). Because we live in a fallen world (Romans 8:20-22, John 16:33). As discipline from God (Hebrews 12:5-11). To receive eternal rewards (Romans 8:18, 2 Corinthians 4:17). Future Glory: Why We Have Hope 1.     Our future is _____________________ (Romans 8:18). 2.     Our world will be _________________ (Romans 8:19-22). 3.     Our __________________ is coming.  (Romans 8:23-25). Revelation 21:1-4 - "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth... He will wipe away every tear from their eyes..."