As we embrace the Christmas season in modern society, many Christians are journeying through a different time altogether: Advent.
This liturgical period, rooted in the Latin term for “coming,” invites believers to prepare not just for Jesus’ modest arrival in Bethlehem but also for His glorious return at the end of days.
This anticipation encapsulates profound events, including the resurrection of the dead, the final judgment, and the promise of new heavens and a new earth, as depicted in the book of Revelation.
Understanding Christian Hope
The expectation of Christ’s second coming has filled the hearts of believers with hope since the early days of the New Testament.
Yet today, many—including some Christians—grapple with questions about the true nature of that hope.
In this article, we aim to illuminate what Christian hope truly means according to the Scriptures.
At its core, Christian hope extends beyond the mere belief in an afterlife.
Traditional Christians affirm a doctrine known as the “general resurrection.” This belief is articulated in the words of Jesus, who proclaimed that a time is coming when all the dead will hear His voice and rise once more.
Those who have lived righteously will experience a resurrection to life, while those who have chosen to turn away from Him will face a resurrection of judgment.
This means that while all will be resurrected, not everyone can look forward to it with optimism; those who disregard Jesus and His teachings will encounter a judgment that, although it implies some form of continued existence, is anything but desirable.
The Fate of the Righteous and the Condemned
Theologian J.I. Packer provides stirring insights into the fate awaiting those who are condemned.
His vivid descriptions, drawn from biblical imagery, portray hell as a state of perpetual torment where the condemned are painfully aware of their separation from God.
Rather than being random punishment, this suffering reflects a tragic fulfillment of the choices made by those who distance themselves from divine grace.
On the other hand, Jesus promises a different fate for those who live righteously—those who place their faith in Him.
The New Testament teaches that this leads to a transformative existence often referred to as glory.
The Apostle Paul speaks to the Corinthians about how the challenges we face in this life pale in comparison to the eternal glory that awaits those who believe.
To grasp what this glory entails, we can turn to the insights of C.S. Lewis and biblical scholar Tom Wright.
Lewis, in his sermon “The Weight of Glory,” initially finds the idea of heavenly glory uninviting, associating it with notions of fame or harsh brightness.
However, upon deeper contemplation, he realizes that true glory is not about human approval but rather about God’s. Experiencing the joy of God’s approval echoes a child’s delight in earning a parent’s praise, representing a fundamental human yearning for validation.
This divine recognition brings profound joy and eliminates pride, aligning people with their authentic selves and with God.
Furthermore, the New Testament makes it clear that redeemed souls will engage in significant work in the afterlife.
Paul explains in Romans that those whom God has foreknown will be conformed to the likeness of His Son.
This transformation resonates with humanity’s original purpose as articulated in Genesis: to steward creation.
Sin disrupted this divine task, but through Christ, believers will one day reclaim their role in nurturing creation.
The Promise of Creation Renewal
Tom Wright elaborates on the theme of creation renewal, emphasizing that God’s commitment culminates in the liberation of the world.
This hope is not confined to individual salvation but extends to the restoration of the entire cosmos, where all of creation eagerly awaits the realization of God’s original plan.
Christian hope envisions a future marked by harmony among all beings, beautifully depicted in Isaiah 11, which foretells peaceful coexistence among animals.
In this promised era, serenity will reign, and the knowledge of God will saturate the earth.
As Christians journey through the Advent season, they are encouraged to reflect on and articulate this profound hope.
It is a time to be mindful of their expectations for the future while they prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ.
Source: Christian Today
