1. In these verses Peter pronounced a blessing upon God. 2. Peter did so because of something God has done -- through His abundant mercy God has begotten His children "unto a lively [living] hope." 3. In our lesson we are focusing our attention on "the living hope" mentioned in vs.3. 4. Let us begin by showing that . . . Discussion: I. THE SCRIPTURES IDENTIFY "THE LIVING HOPE"
A. In some passages the Bible refers to "hope" in a general sense. 1. In general, "hope" is the expectation of something good in the future. 2. Illustration: a. (1 Corinthians 9:10) "He that ploweth should plow in hope." b. When a farmer plows, he expects to reap a harvest in the future. B. "The living hope" is more specific. 1. It is described in 1 Peter 1:4 as "an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven." 2. A number of passages identify "the living hope" as eternal life in heaven that Christ will give to His faithful followers when He returns. a. Colossians 1:3-5 b. Titus 1:1-2; 2:13 II. THE SCRIPTURES IDENTIFY THOSE WHO HAVE "THE LIVING HOPE"
A. According to Ephesians 2:11-12, those who are outside of Christ have no hope. B. Thankfully, the Lord has made it possible for us to be born again so we can have "the living hope." 1. Jesus commanded the new birth in John 3:3-5. 2. The new birth is also explained in Titus 3:3-7. III. THE SCRIPTURES IDENTIFY RESPONSIBILITIES IN CONNECTION WITH "THE LIVING HOPE"
A. (Romans 12:12) We are to "rejoice in hope" (Philippians 4:4). B. (1 Peter 1:13) We are to prepare our minds so we can "hope to the end." C. (1 John 3:2-3) "The living hope" will lead us to be pure. IV. THE SCRIPTURES IDENTIFY CERTAIN BENEFITS IN CONNECTION WITH "THE LIVING HOPE"
A. See Hebrews 6:17-19 1. "The living hope" is "an anchor of the soul." 2. It will prevent us from drifting away. B. See Romans 8:18-25 1. (vs.24) "We are saved by hope." 2. "The living hope" will help us to exercise patience while we wait for eternal life to become a reality. Conclusion:
1. In general, "hope" is the expectation of something good in the future. 2. "The living hope" is receiving eternal life in heaven when Christ returns. 3. A small glimpse of heaven is given in Revelation 21:1-4; 22:1-5. 4. See Revelation 22:14, 17.
