In the sermon titled "The Believer's Expectation," Fred Evans explores the doctrine of hope as derived from Hebrews 11:10, focusing specifically on the faith of Abraham. He argues that true faith involves a confident expectation founded on God's promises, as illustrated by Abraham's journey of obedience and longing for a heavenly city whose builder and maker is God. Evans supports his arguments with key Scripture references, particularly Romans 8:24-25 and John 3:16, demonstrating that the believer's hope is not mere wishful thinking but a firm conviction rooted in the finished work of Christ. The significance of this message lies in its exhortation for believers to anticipate the promises of God, including eternal life and forgiveness of sins, thereby strengthening their faith in an age of uncertainty.
Key Quotes
“Hope that is seen is not hope. For what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for it?”
“True faith is not blind faith. Abraham's faith rested on the promises of God, and so do all true faith.”
“It is not presumptuous to think that God is going to give us what he promised.”
“We should live every day expecting to receive it. This expectation of faith is no presumption.”
The Bible teaches that believers should expect to receive the promises of God by faith.
In Hebrews 11:10, we see that Abraham looked for a city whose builder and maker is God, exemplifying the believer's expectation. The expectation of believers is rooted in faith, which anticipates the fulfillment of God's promises. This faith, not based on our merits or circumstances, lays hold of the certainty that God will give what He has promised, including eternal life and a heavenly inheritance.
Hebrews 11:10, Romans 8:24-25
God's promises are guaranteed by His immutable character and the finished work of Christ.
The truth of God's promises is affirmed in Scripture as it reveals His unchanging nature and sovereignty over salvation and life. For instance, in Romans 8:28, we are assured that all things work together for good for those who are called according to His purpose. This means that our salvation, our justification, and our glorification are secured in Christ, demonstrating that what God has promised will never fail. Our hope relies not on personal merit but solely on the grace and faithfulness of God.
Romans 8:28, John 10:27-30
Faith is essential for Christians as it connects us to the promises of God and is the means through which we receive salvation.
Faith serves as the foundation of a believer's life, as seen in Hebrews 11:8-10, where Abraham's obedience was prompted by faith. Faith is not blind; it is grounded in the truth of God's promises evidenced throughout Scripture. By faith, we are called, justified, and will one day be glorified, resting assured that nothing can separate us from the love of God. True faith expects and anticipates God's fulfillment of His promises, giving believers hope even amid trials.
Hebrews 11:8-10, Ephesians 1:13-14
Believers can confidently expect eternal life as it is promised by Jesus and secured through His sacrifice.
In John 3:16, we are assured that 'whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.' This promise is rooted in the sacrificial work of Christ, which provides the basis for our eternal hope. Additionally, John 10:27-29 reinforces that those who belong to Christ are granted eternal life and cannot be taken away from His hand. Thus, eternal life is not merely a future hope, but a present reality for believers, grounded in the grace of God.
John 3:16, John 10:27-29, Romans 8:38-39
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