Holding on to the Hope of the Gospel

(Colossians 1:21-23)

1. A Vital Concern: Continuing in the Faith

            The one who endures to the end will be saved (Matt. 10:22; 24:13).

            Peter denied Jesus three times.

            Yet Jesus prayed that Peter’s faith would “not fail” (Luke 22:32).

            Some emphasize the gospel as the “gateway” (initiation rite).

                        This “One and Done” mentality has reduced the gospel.

            The gospel is also the “pathway” (continuation route).

            Persevering faith is the evidence of saving faith.

2. The Hope of the Gospel

Hope is closely related to faith.  It is in fact future-oriented faith.

            It is confidence in God concerning the future.

            It is the assurance that God will keep every promise.

            To be made like Christ (Colossians 1:27; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 4:16)

            To behold Christ face to face (1 John 3:2-3)

3. The Tenses of Salvation

Past Situation:                         Alienated; hostile; doing evil (v. 21)

            We were alienated due to ignorance (Ephesians 4:117-18)

            Not treasuring Jesus supremely is an act of mutiny.

            Scorning the supremacy of God in Christ is the worst evil.

Until we know the “bad news” we will not welcome the good news.

Present Condition:                   Now reconciled in Christ (v. 22a)

            This reconciliation is only in His body of flesh by His death.

Future Presentation:    Holy and blameless and above reproach (v. 22b)

            There will be no legal accusations or even a hint of gossip.

Present Calling:                       Continue in faith, holding on to hope (v. 23)

We have been freed from the penalty of sin (Justification).

We are being freed from the power of sin (Sanctification).

We will be freed from the presence of sin (Glorification).

4. What Does It Look Like to Continue in Faith?

It involves believing that God is good and for us not against us.

      If God did not spare His own Son, how much more...

            It involves speaking well of God (Job 1:21; 2:10; Psalm 34:1-3).

            We can hold on to gospel hope because Christ is holding us.