God’s people have faced seasons of captivity and hardship, yet He promises to bring life, freedom, and restoration. In both personal and communal struggles, God’s power to renew is unwavering, bringing hope even in the darkest places. As the ultimate judge and protector, He assures us of a future where justice prevails, all creation is restored, and His people live in peace with Him forever.
REVIEW: How Are You Praying?
- READ: Ezekiel 38:21-23 (NLT): “I will summon the sword against you on all the hills of Israel, says the Sovereign Lord. Your men will turn their swords against each other. I will punish you and your armies with disease and bloodshed; I will send torrential rain, hailstones, fire, and burning sulfur! In this way, I will show my greatness and holiness, and I will make myself known to all the nations of the world. Then they will know that I am the Lord.”
- DISCUSS: How does knowing Jesus will confront oppressive powers bring you hope in today’s world?
REVIEW: Jesus Will Raise the Dead
- READ: John 11:25 (NLT): “Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.’”
- DISCUSS: How does the promise of resurrection shape your view of suffering and death?
REVIEW: Jesus Will Protect Paradise
- READ: Revelation 21:1-4 (NLT): “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, ‘Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.’”
- DISCUSS: Jesus’ judgment will ultimately protect and purify creation, bringing a reunion of heaven and earth. How does this vision of paradise impact your hopes for the future?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
Lord, we thank You for being our warrior and protector, fighting against oppression and bringing justice to the world. We trust in Your promise to restore all things, giving life to what seems hopeless and preparing a place of peace and purity with You. Help us to live with courage and hope as we wait for the day You make all things new.