Our text is a good statement on hope. Any other hope is misplaced - be it in people or things. The Greek word "elpis" as used in the New Testament does not mean "maybe so," but "know so." Let's consider what this hope is about.
I. Vs. 7 - The Ground of Our Hope A. The psalmist tells us plainly: "My hope is in thee...." (in God, in Jesus.) B. Only Jesus paid the price to be our hope; therefore, He alone is the ground of our hope. 1. Our real hope is not grounded in better political leaders. 2. Our real hope is not grounded in religion. 3. Our real hope is not grounded in our own accomplishments. 4. Our real hope is not grounded in public opinion - what others think of us. C. We do not vote on hope and truth, it is all grounded in Jesus. II. The Good of Our Hope A. Our hope in Jesus is active in our lives and brings good into our lives. B. What good does this hope bring into our lives? 1. The good of salvation - eternal life - heaven forever. 2. The good of eternal security. Read John 10:28-29. 3. The good of hope in Jesus for all of life and in all of life's circumstances. a. We have the assurance of God's presence and work in our lives. b. We have the blessings of God guarenteed: forgiveness of sins, Holy Spirit, power of God, love and joy of God. C. Our hope in Christ is only good. There are no negatives. III. The Greatness of Our Hope A. Our hope in Jesus is one of the greatest of all of God's promises. 1. He promised His Son. He came! 2. He promised salvation in His Son. We got it! 3. He promised life in heaven forever. We have it in Jesus. 4, He promised to return. We will see it happen in God's time. Titus 2:13 B. Our hope in Jesus is as great as the power of God. 1. It is total power and total hope. 2. It is unlimited power and unlimited hope. C. Our hope in Jesus is as great as the love, mercy and grace of God. D. Our hope in Jesus is as great as the provision of God. Where is your real hope? Place your hope squarely on Jesus for your life and the rest of your life will be better.
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