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2024-07-07 A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF THE NEW CREATION

Title: Embracing God's New Creation: A Journey to Eternity

Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like? Maybe you've imagined it as a place where all your dreams come true, where you can eat anything you want, or be as fit as you desire. But what if heaven, or more accurately, the new creation, is not about what we want, but about what God wants for us?

In our recent sermon, we explored the concept of the new creation as described in Revelation 21. This isn't just a theological idea; it's a promise of a future where God makes everything new, a place where He will dwell with us forever. Let's dive into what this means for you and how it can transform your life today.

The New Creation: A Place of New Beginnings

The Bible tells us in Revelation 21:1, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more." This new creation is not just a refurbished version of our current world; it's a completely renewed and restored place, free from the effects of sin and death.

Imagine a world where there is no more pain, no more grief, and no more death. Revelation 21:4 promises, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." This is the life that awaits those who have placed their trust in Jesus.

Why Should You Care?

You might be wondering, "What's in it for me?" The answer is profound: God wants to live with you. Revelation 21:3 says, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God." This isn't just about a future promise; it's about a relationship that starts now and lasts for eternity.

God's desire to dwell with us is not new. From the Garden of Eden to the Tabernacle in the wilderness, to Jesus walking among us, and now through the Holy Spirit living in us, God's plan has always been to be with His people. The new creation is the culmination of this divine desire.

What Should You Do?

So, what does this mean for you today? Here are some concrete steps you can take to align your life with God's eternal plan:

  1. Trust in Jesus: If you haven't already, place your trust in Jesus. He lived a perfect life, died for your sins, and rose again to give you eternal life. This is the first step to experiencing the new creation.

  2. Live with Eternity in Mind: Start living your life with the new creation in mind. This means prioritizing your relationship with God, loving others, and seeking to do His will in all areas of your life.

  3. Share the Hope: Tell others about the hope of the new creation. Many people are living without hope, and you have the opportunity to share the good news of what God has prepared for those who love Him.

Conclusion

The point is clear: God wants to live with you forever in a new creation that is free from sin, pain, and death. What will you do this week to draw closer to Him? Will you trust in Jesus, live with eternity in mind, and share this hope with others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of a new creation where You will dwell with us forever. Help us to trust in Jesus, live with eternity in mind, and share this hope with those around us. May we always seek to align our desires with Your perfect plan. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Posted by David Hopkins with
in Faith

2024-06-23 The Permanent State: Hell

 

Title: The Permanent State of Hell: What It Means for You

Have you ever wondered what happens after you die? It's a question that has puzzled humanity for centuries. Today, we're diving into a topic that many avoid but is crucial for understanding our eternal destiny: the permanent state of hell. This isn't just a theological concept; it's a reality that affects every one of us. So, let's explore what the Bible says about hell and why it matters to you.

The Reality of Hell

Hell is not a joke or a myth. It's a real place of eternal separation from God, as described in Revelation 20:7-15. The Bible paints a vivid picture of hell as a lake of fire and sulfur, where those who reject Christ will be tormented forever. This isn't a temporary state; it's a permanent residence for those who choose to live apart from God.

Why Should You Care?

You might be thinking, "Why should I care about hell?" The answer is simple: your eternal destiny is at stake. The Bible makes it clear that there are only two destinations after death—heaven or hell. Understanding the reality of hell should compel us to examine our lives and our relationship with God.

Common Misconceptions About Hell

Many people struggle with the concept of hell for two main reasons:

  1. If God is loving, how can He send people to hell?
  2. Hell seems like an overkill for the sins we commit.

These are valid questions, but they stem from a misunderstanding of God's nature and the seriousness of sin. God is both loving and just. His justice demands that sin be punished, but His love provides a way out through Jesus Christ.

The Purpose of Hell

Hell serves a crucial purpose: it is where God's justice is carried out. Sin is not just a minor mistake; it's a rebellion against a holy and righteous God. Hell is the ultimate consequence of that rebellion. It's a place where God's justice is fully realized, and His glory is displayed over sin.

What Can You Do?

Understanding the reality and permanence of hell should lead us to action. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Examine Your Life: Are you living in a way that honors God? Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior?
  2. Share the Gospel: If you know the truth about hell, don't keep it to yourself. Share it with your family, friends, and neighbors.
  3. Live with Urgency: We are not promised tomorrow. Make the most of every opportunity to live for Christ and share His love with others.

Conclusion

The reality of hell is sobering, but it also highlights the incredible love and grace of God. He doesn't want anyone to perish but desires that all come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). So, what will you do with this truth? Will you ignore it, or will you let it transform your life and the lives of those around you?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing the truth about eternity. Help us to understand the seriousness of sin and the reality of hell. Give us the courage to examine our lives and share Your love with others. May we live with urgency, knowing that our time on earth is short. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Posted by David Hopkins with 1 Comments

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