The End with a Future

Passage

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Sermon Summary

Christianity claims the extraordinary promise of bodily resurrection at the return of Jesus. In order for this promise to truly encourage us, we need to a) consider the hope-starved alternatives, b) follow the J-Curve of Jesus' death and resurrection to our own, and c) Picture the glorious scene when Jesus returns. This last task requires our richest theology and our most creative art. We can long for reunion with saints who go before us, while wanting nothing more intensely than to be with Jesus himself, forever.

Discussion Questions (choose any—you don't have to answer them all!)

1. [Optional starter question] What stood out or stuck with you from the sermon?
2. In the face of death, what alternative "hope" are you tempted live by? Why is that hope so impoverished?
3. Where in your life do you experience the J-Curve of death and resurrection, humiliation and exaltation, repentance and faith?
4. What practices or activities stir your imagination to hope in eternity? Consider music, nature, art, literature, etc.
5. What specific beloved person do you long to wrap your arms around in the new heavens and new earth? Think of someone you know, and someone you've never met.
6. What do you find beautiful, fascinating, amazing or delightful about God? Consider each person of the Trinity. Be specific!
7. What specific person can you encourage this week with the hope of Jesus' return.
8. Are there any ideas you have heard about the "rapture" that have confused you? Discuss with the group. Seek clarity together in scripture.
‍

Prayer Prompts

• Thank you, Lord, for __________ (saints who have gone before me)
• Jesus, I love how you __________ (some act or character quality about him)
• Holy Spirit, help me to encourage _____________ (specific person) with the hope of resurrection at Jesus' return.

‍

Resources Consulted

• Africa Bible Commentary, ed. Tokunboh Adeyemo
• True to Our Native Land, ed. Bryan K. Blount
• The New Testament in Color, ed. Esau McCauley
• Thessalonians for Everyone, NT Wright
• Cornerstone Commentary on 1 Thessalonians, Philip W. Comfort
• The Bible Speaks Today Commentary on 1 Thessalonians, John Stott
• IVP Commentary on 1 Thessalonians, GK Beale
• Tyndale Commentary on 1 Thessalonians, Leon Morris
• Understanding Dispensationalists, Vern Poythress

‍

‍