Notes on Biblical Hope (1)

Hope is closely associated with trusting God: His promises, His nature.

Hope is closely associated therefore with knowledge: knowledge of God, His nature, His reliability, His history with men.

Hope is closely associated with, indeed, nearly synonymous with, salvation.

Therefore, hope is closely associated with Jesus Christ.

Hope is closely associated with the Holy Spirit, who is called the Encourager, and who's ministry is to point the way to Jesus Christ.

Hope is future-oriented, looking forward to a crown.

Hope is also past-oriented, looking back to a Cross.

And yet hope is present-oriented, trusting God for every necessary provision of the moment.

Hope is closely associated with the word glory.

Hope is closely associated with the word foretaste.

Hope is closely associated with the Resurrection. "If Christ is not risen . . ."

Hope, Biblical hope, the hope of glory that is firmly anchored to the Cross, has a powerful shaping influence on our present condition. Therefore: live in hope.