The sermon titled "The Journey of No Return" emphasizes the certainty, nearness, and implications of death, drawing on Reformed theological perspectives that underscore mortality and eternal realities. The preacher articulates that death is inevitable, often unexpected, and serves as a transition point to judgment and eternal destiny. Key Scripture references include Hebrews 9:27, which states, "it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment," and Matthew 25:46, which contrasts eternal punishment and eternal life. The doctrine of predestination and the final state of the ungodly and godly are highlighted, signifying the urgency for believers to live in light of eternity. The practical significance of these truths urges Christians to prepare for death, live holy lives in anticipation of judgment, and cling to the hope of everlasting life with Christ.
Key Quotes
“Only a few years will pass before I go on the journey of no return.”
“Death will unclothe the lost sinner of all worldly comforts and clothe him with everlasting terrors.”
“Death is but a release from the prison of the body and the entrance into the palace of the king.”
“What are all the pleasures of sin when weighed against the miseries of an eternal hell?”
The Bible teaches that death is inevitable for every person, as highlighted in Hebrews 9:27.
The certainty of death is a theme that runs throughout the Scriptures. Hebrews 9:27 states, 'And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.' This underscores the reality that death is not just a possibility, but an appointment that every individual must keep. The Puritan Richard Baxter emphasizes that while every man knows he must die, few take it to heart, indicating a widespread neglect of this critical truth. Thomas Goodwin echoes this sentiment, affirming that as surely as a man was born, so must he die, reminding believers to live in the light of this reality.
Hebrews 9:27
The Bible warns us that the uncertainty of death should compel us to live with urgency and preparedness.
The Bible speaks clearly about the uncertainty and nearness of death. Richard Sibbes points out that death does not wait until we are ready; it often comes unexpectedly, similar to a thief in the night. Jeremiah Burroughs reminds us that we do not know whether we will live another day, an hour, or even a moment. These insights stress the importance of living faithfully and being prepared for the inevitable, as our time on earth is fleeting and akin to a candle that can be blown out at any moment. The Puritans consistently urged believers to live with an awareness of death, which they viewed as essential for maintaining a godly life.
For Christians, death signifies a passage into eternal life with Christ, transforming it into a blessed event.
Death holds profound significance for Christians as it is viewed as a release from the earthly body and an entrance into eternal communion with God. Richard Baxter illustrates this by stating that death is but a release and that believers go to their father's house to dwell with Christ forever. John Owen describes death as a passage into God's harbor, where the storms of life are replaced by the peace of His glorious presence. This understanding flips the common perception of death as a tragedy, presenting it instead as a transition to a better state. Therefore, for the godly, death is not to be feared but embraced as the 'funeral of all sorrows', introducing them to everlasting joy with Christ.
Judgment follows death; it determines a person's eternal state, either in glory with Christ or in eternal torment.
In Christian belief, judgment is a crucial reality that follows death, emphasizing the eternal implications of our earthly lives. Puritan theologians like Cotton Mather have warned that death will quickly usher individuals into judgment, where their eternal destinies are determined. Richard Baxter highlights the seriousness of this moment, encouraging believers to consider these three weighty realities—death, judgment, and eternity—so they may live with urgency and purpose. This judgment is not merely a procedural step, but it signifies the final reckoning of our lives in light of how we responded to God's grace. For the faithful, judgment leads to eternal glory with Christ, while for the wicked, it results in separation from God and enduring torment.
Matthew 25:46
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