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There Is One Hope
Introduction:
1. At the present time we are studying the 7 unique subjects listed in Ephesians 4:4-6. 2. To know the truth on these subjects, as well as all Bible subjects, we must follow the instructions Jesus gave in John 8:31-32. 3. Previously we have studied the "one body" and the "one Spirit." 4. In this lesson we are concentrating on the "one hope" mentioned in vs.4. Discussion: I. THE LORD'S WORD IDENTIFIES THE "ONE 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. To illustrate this point, a farmer plows "in hope," expecting to reap an abundant harvest in the future (1 Corinthians 9:10). B. The "one hope of your calling" in Ephesians 4:4 is more specific. 1. Paul's request in Ephesians 1:18 indicates that we can know what this hope is. 2. A number of passages identify the "one 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 LORD'S WORD IDENTIFIES THOSE WHO HAVE THE "ONE HOPE" A. According to Ephesians 2:11-12, those who are outside of Christ have no hope [as illustrated by the jailer in Acts 16:25-27]. B. Thankfully, the Lord has made it possible for us to be born again so we can have the "one hope." 1. See: a. 1 Peter 1:3-4, 18-23 b. Titus 3:3-7. 2. Notice the change that took place when the jailer was born again -- he gained the "one hope" that he did not have before (Acts 16:28-34). III. THE LORD'S WORD IDENTIFIES RESPONSIBILITIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE "ONE HOPE" A. God's people are to rejoice "in hope" (Romans 12:12; Hebrews 3:6). B. We are to prepare our minds so we can "hope to the end" (1 Peter 1:13). C. The "one hope" will lead us to be pure (1 John 3:2-3). IV. THE LORD'S WORD IDENTIFIES CERTAIN BENEFITS IN CONNECTION WITH THE "ONE HOPE" A. According to Hebrews 6:17-19, the "one hope" is "an anchor of the soul" that will prevent us from drifting away. B. "We are saved by hope" in that it will help us to exercise patience while we wait for eternal life to become a reality (Romans 8:23-25). | ||