let us bless god for the living hope (1 peter 1:3-5)
Introduction:
1. This morning we examined a number of passages that relate to "the living hope" mentioned in vs.3. 2. According to vs.4, "the living hope" is eternal life in heaven. 3. When we study Scriptures that deal with eternal life we are learning what the Lord wants us to know about "the living hope." 4. This evening we are focusing our attention on some instructions found in the Lord's Word that show us how to receive eternal life. 5. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. CHRIST IS THE GIVER OF ETERNAL LIFE
A. Jesus made this very clear in John 17:1-3 as He prayed. B. To receive eternal life from the Lord we must hear His Word correctly. 1. (John 6:68) Peter said that Jesus has "the words of eternal life." 2. (John 5:24) Jesus tied in hearing His Word with receiving eternal life. C. The rich young ruler shows how we must comply with the Lord's instructions, even if sacrifice is involved (Matthew 19:16-22). 1. This man was seeking eternal life. 2. He came to the One who is the giver of eternal life. 3. Unfortunately, he was not willing to pay the price that Jesus required. 4. Consequently, he left filled with sorrow. D. The Lord will bless those who sacrifice on His behalf (Matthew 19:29). E. Now that we understand that Christ is the giver of eternal life and that He gives eternal life to those who comply with His Word, let us consider . . . II. SOME IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOUND IN THE LORD'S WORD
A. (Matthew 7:13-14) Christ requires us to enter in at the strait gate and travel the narrow way that leads to life. B. (Matthew 18:8-9) Christ requires us to eliminate anything that will prevent us from entering into life. 1. With the rich young ruler, his problem was his possessions [sadly, he was not willing to eliminate the source of his problem]. 2. With the apostles, their problem was pride and ambition [fortunately, they eventually overcame the source of their problem]. C. (Matthew 25:31-46) Christ requires us to serve Him by serving others. D. (Galatians 6:7-8) The Lord requires us to sow to the Spirit to reap everlasting life. 1. The alternative is to sow to the flesh (5:19-21). 2. Those who sow to the Spirit will bear the fruit of the Spirit (5:22-23). E. (James 1:12) The Lord requires us to endure temptation [trials]. 1. This is something we must do to receive a crown of life. 2. Some helpful guidelines are given in vs.2-7. Conclusion:
1. "Let us bless God for the living hope." 2. Let us pay close attention to the Lord's instructions that relate to "eternal life" ["the living hope"]. 3. Let us always respond properly to His Word (John 12:48-50).
