Peter wrote, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be
ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is
in you, with meekness and fear” (1Peter 3:15). Within the context, Peter is
discussing steadfastness amid wrongful suffering. When others observe our
reaction to suffering injustice, it will naturally make them question the
motivating force behind it. Peter states that we should be ready to answer.
So, what is the hope of a Christian? I want us to consider three area
where the Christian hope is identified. First, the Christian hope is that which
anchors us. The Hebrew writer stated, “This hope we have as an anchor of the
soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil,
where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest
forever according to the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 6:19-20)
Our hope is grounded in Christ. It is based upon His death, burial, and
resurrection. It is by the sacrifice of Jesus that we are sanctified before
God. Again, the Hebrew writer states, “By that will we have been sanctified
through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” (Hebrews
10:10).
Second, our hope is found in the remission of our sins. This is only
possible through the blood Jesus shed for us upon the cross. Paul wrote, “In
Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to
the riches of His grace.” (Eph 1:7).
Therefore, Jesus is the propitiation for our sins (1Jn 2:2). The word
“propitiation” means “that which satisfies”. In context of 1 John, through the
blood of Jesus the wrath of God has been satisfied and the grace of God has
been extended to mankind.
Last, we have a hope that looks beyond the grave. Paul wrote to those of
Thessalonica saying, “But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren,
concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no
hope.” (1Th 4:13). Those who have no faith in God also have no hope beyond the
realm of this life. The hope we have can see a bright, eternal future with God,
the angels, and all our loved ones who have gone on before.
Jesus assures us that He has gone to prepare a place for us. Since we
will have a place prepared for us, He will come again and bring us unto
Himself. (John 14:1-4). It is this hope that keeps us going when we are faced
with injustice. When we suffer for being a Christian, we continue to hold on
for that which is laid before us. Therefore, let us embrace the hope that is in
us and always keep fighting that good fight of faith!
God Bless each
of you,
Eric Hicks
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