Sermon Series: What does it mean to be a Christian?
Sermon Title: Glorification
Sermon Text: Revelation 21:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Sermon Points:
1.) Glorification is God making old things new.
2.) Glorification is God with his people like never before.
3.) Glorification is God restoring his people to perfect health forever.
What to do while we wait (1 Thessalonians 5:1-11)
1.) Pray for God to give you discernment.
2.) Pursue Christ, reject antiChrists.
3.) Stay alert.
4.) Never forget what God has promised to you.
5.) Always work for the good of the church.
Daily Devotional Guide
The esteemed theologian Hank Williams Jr. once sang, "If heaven ain't a lot like Dixie, I don't wanna go." Now I love the south. I've lived here all my life and wouldn't have it any other way. But I can't help but wonder if Mr. Williams really took the time to understand what he was singing. Think about it. If Heaven doesn't have gnats and Dollar Generals, I'll pass. What a terrible combination of ignorance and arrogance.
But this song sums up much of what is wrong with how even some Christians view eternity. Some want more of this life only without the inconveniences. Oh, and if we can throw in being reunited with Grandma that'd be great too. Of course, there's not much concern for the presence of God.
Thankfully, the Bible gives us a much better understanding of eternity than Hank WIlliams Jr. does. In the words of scripture, we find that Christ is at the center of all things and life with him after his return will be beyond what we can possibly imagine.
The theological term we're focusing on this week is glorification. Theologians describe justification as I am saved, sanctification as I will be saved, and glorification as I will be saved. While we long for new bodies that can no longer be afflicted by cancer and injury, we must never forget the central focus. It's all about Jesus. Our hope is found in him alone. This is a hope that is guaranteed to become reality.
Monday - 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Tuesday - 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Wednesday - 1 Corinthians 15:12-34
Thursday - 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Friday - Ephesians 1:1-23
Saturday - 1 Peter 1:1-25
Sunday - Luke 8:1-15