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The Christian Doctrine of Hope
by Michael L. Ford, Th.D.
The Doctrine of Hope as expressed here stands uniquely apart from the ancient Jewish faith because it is uniquely and singularly given to believers in the Messiah who has appeared and is coming again in the New Testament. Therefore it is the Christian Doctrine of Hope standing apart from Old Testament unfolding.
Believers are delivered from the great misery facing mankind of "having no hope" (Ephesians 2:12) Seven revealed certitudes are eagerly expected by Christians. All of them are comprehended in "the hope of His calling," Ephesians 1:18, "the hope which is laid up for you in Heaven," Colossians 1:5. The seven are:
1. The blessed hope of the personal return of Christ. (Titus 2:19)
2. The resurrection of the body in a glorified new form, never again subject to sickness, weakness, or death. (Acts 23:6)
3. The restoration of loved ones who have fallen asleep/died in Christ. (1Thessalonians 4:13-18)
4. Fellowship with converts and other saints. (1Thessalonians 2:19)
5. Being presented spotless, 2Peter 3:14, and faultless, Jude 24, in unutterable glory, Colossians 1:27.
6. Entering into eternal life with all it means, such as reigning with Christ, Revelation 3:21; 22:5, and knowing God, John 17:3.
7. The receiving of an inheritance which is reserved in Heaven until that moment. (1Peter 1: 3&4)
The exceeding rich array of blessing is to believers a source of joy, Romans 5:2, of comfort in sorrow, 1Thessalonians 4:18, of confident assurance, Hebrews 6: 18 & 19. It is an incentive to holy living in 1John 3:3. Christians are said to be saved in hope according to Romans 8:24. And we know, in all dispensations, hope is based in the written Word of God. (Psalm 119:49) God has put His promises in writing.
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