**Title: The Blessed Hope: Our Assurance in Christ**
**Introduction:**
Good morning, Church. Today, I want to share a message inspired by a profound book, The Blessed Hope, by George Eldon Ladd. This book has been a great resource in understanding our hope for Christ's return. As many of you know, my journey has taken me from the Air Force to the pulpit and through various trials and triumphs. The Blessed Hope of Christ's return has been a constant anchor for my soul.
**Scripture Reading:**
Titus 2:13 - "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ."
**Body:**
**1. Understanding the Blessed Hope:**
George Eldon Ladd describes the Blessed Hope as the confident expectation of Christ's return. This hope is not just wishful thinking but a certainty based on God's promises. We believers are encouraged to live with this expectation, knowing that Jesus will return to set things right.
Illustration: Imagine waiting for a beloved family member to come home. You clean the house, prepare a meal, and eagerly wait because you know they are coming. This is how we should anticipate Jesus' return.
**2. The Impact of the Blessed Hope on Our Lives:**
This hope should transform how we live daily. Knowing that Jesus could return at any moment should inspire us to live holy and godly lives. In my years as a Military Security Specialist, I learned the importance of being always ready. Similarly, as Christians, we must be Spiritually prepared.
Example: Imagine if we knew Jesus was coming tomorrow. Wouldn't we be more loving, forgiving, and eager to share the gospel? This hope motivates us to live our best for Christ every day.
**3. Encouragement in Trials:**
The Blessed Hope is also a source of comfort during hard times. I've faced many challenges, from battling cancer to overcoming alcoholism and continuous PTSD. The hope of Christ's return gave me the strength to persevere each time.
Quote: Ladd writes, "The ultimate hope of the believer is not in the improvement of this present age but in the coming of Christ." This hope assures us that no matter how tough life gets, a glorious future awaits us.
**4. A Call to Spread the Hope:**
As a pastor and counselor, I've seen how powerful hope can be in people's lives. We are called to share this Blessed Hope with others. Whether through counseling, being a chaplain, or simply talking to our neighbors, we must spread the message of Christ's return.
Illustration: Just as I traveled across the U.S. and Canada as a trucker, taking the gospel with me, we should carry the message of hope wherever we go.
**Conclusion:**
Let us hold tightly to the Blessed Hope of Christ's return. Let it shape our lives, comfort us in trials, and inspire us to share this hope with others. Remember Titus 2:13, "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ."
George Eldon Ladd deserves credit for his profound insights in The Blessed Hope. May we all be encouraged to live in the light of Christ's glorious return.
**Prayer:**
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the Blessed Hope we have in Jesus Christ. Help us to live in expectation of His return, to be comforted in our trials, and to share this hope with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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