Sermon snippet – Simply Heaven – Part XVIII
INTRODUCTION – For months, we have specifically been setting our “affection on things above,” in keeping with Christ’s kind commands in Colossians 3:1-2. This focus requires effort. We need to be strengthened as we pursue this great goal. In Hebrews 11 and 12, we find edifying motivation.
- THERE IS NO REAL COMPARISON BETWEEN HERE AND HEAVEN; IT IS MUCH MORE OF A CONTRAST
Hebrews 11:8-10 speaks of Abraham, who exhibited his faith in God in various ways,
including by leaving his native land (something I cannot imagine doing) to live in “the land of promise.” However, he had no permanent place in this “strange country,” as blessed as he was there. No, he lived in the expectation of a far better residence, of “a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” Thus, every time Abraham set up his tents, he was reminded of heaven. Of course, he enjoyed many good things here; any good thing is a glimpse of God’s goodness and points us to Him and to His heaven. However, the motivating power of God’s offer of an eternal home provides spiritual strength, especially when life is hard, as it sometimes is.
- THERE IS CERTAINTY OF HEAVEN
Hebrews 11:13-16 speaks of believers before the coming of God the Son, Jesus Christ. They had not “received the promises” when they died, especially the promise of the advent of the Messiah. Still, though, they believed in God’s promises, including the offer of everlasting life in heaven. We have not seen heaven, but we have even greater reasons to be certain, for Jesus came from heaven, taught about it, returned to it, and promised to prepare a place for each believer there. For all believers in Jesus, “He hath prepared for them a city.” Because of what Jesus has said and done, we can be sure of heaven. Our faith is fact-based; we have every reason to be motivated to press on.
- THERE IS A CROWD IN HEAVEN
Normally, I do not like being in a crowd, but Hebrews 12:1 provides the grand exception. Think of these faithful ones cheering us on to the finish line; think of loved ones doing the same. Usually, I am not extrinsically motivated, but some of the best people that I have known are part of that loud throng. On this Father’s Day, all of us can think of godly men who have helped us in our faith. They are still helping us, motivating us to finish well.
CONCLUSION – Hebrews 12:2 is a convicting conclusion to today’s study. The heroes of faith found in chapter 11 and in our lives cannot save us from our sins. It is Jesus, fully human and fully divine, Who is the only perfect substitute; He is the Savior, and each one of us must trust in Him for salvation. If we do, we will successfully cross the finish line into heaven, and we will then see that it is Jesus Who is “the Finisher of our faith.” There can be no greater motivation to love Him and live for Him.