Week 6: Enduring Hope Anchored in Jesus’ Resurrection & Return
Week 6: Enduring Hope Anchored in Jesus’ Resurrection & Return.
July 15, 2025.
A Future Hope
Even when we remind ourselves of Jesus’ unchanging character, we still face seasons where hope feels intangible—like a distant dream. This week, we’ll dig into a hope that’s grounded not only in who Jesus is but in what He’s already done and what He’s coming back to do. Because the resurrection and promised return of Christ transform our waiting into expectancy and our grief into joy.
If you’ve ever endured loss—whether it’s a loved one, a dream, or a future you hoped for—you know how easily hope can slip from our hands. But when we cling to the truth that Jesus rose from the dead and will one day return, our present suffering bows to the reality of an eternal upside-down, mercy-soaked kingdom. This hope isn’t merely optimistic; it’s anchored in historical, unbreakable facts: Jesus died, rose, and He’s coming back. Let’s explore how this triumphant resurrection and second coming fuel an enduring hope that says, “No matter what, God will make all things new.”
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Core Concept
To anchor our hope in Jesus’ resurrection and return means living in the tension of “already/not yet”—we rejoice that Christ has conquered death, yet we await the fullness of His kingdom. This in-between season fuels our perseverance and shapes our priorities: we no longer invest solely in temporal comfort but in the eternal impact of kingdom work.
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Scriptural Anchors
“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” —1 Corinthians 15:20
“Because I live, you also will live.” —John 14:19.
“For our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” —Philippians 3:20
“Looking for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” —Titus 2:13
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Why It Matters
1. Grief Meets Resurrection
– In the wake of death—whether physical or symbolic—our grief can choke out hope. But the resurrection demonstrates that death doesn’t have the final word. When Jesus rose, He proved that every grave—literal or figurative—will one day burst open with life.
2. Perspective on Suffering
– The promise of Christ’s return shifts our lens: today’s pain is temporary, but eternity is unending. This mindset equips us to endure injustice, persecution, and setbacks—knowing that a greater reality awaits just beyond the horizon.
3. Motivation for Mission
– As we anticipate Jesus’ return, we ask: “What lasts forever?” Relationships, acts of service, and gospel proclamation become our eternal investments. We’re compelled to drop “disposable” comforts and pour out our lives for things that last beyond our lifetime.
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Next Steps & Challenge
1. “Resurrection Reminder” Ritual
o Choose one morning this week to pause at dawn. As the sun rises, whisper “He is risen”—a tangible reminder that darkness doesn’t win.
o Reflect on a person you know walking through profound loss and pray: “May the power of the resurrection bring supernatural hope into ______’s life.”
2. Letter to the Future
o Write a one-page letter from the perspective of “future you” standing in Christ’s return and looking back on your current struggles. What encouragement would “future you” give? How does the certainty of Jesus’ appearing reshape your decisions today?
o Share a snippet with a friend or small group—letting your own words remind you that your story doesn’t end in today’s brokenness.
3. Weekly “Blessed Hope” Devotion
o For the next seven days, read one verse each day about Christ’s resurrection and/or return (e.g., 1 Corinthians 15:20; John 14:19; Romans 8:11; Philippians 3:20; Titus 2:13; Revelation 21:4).
o After reading, journal one sentence: “Because of this promise, I can ______.” Then take one practical step—such as forgiving someone, extending generosity, or sharing a gospel truth—with the power of that promise in mind.
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Final Thought:
Hope anchored in who Jesus is (Week 5) keeps us steady. Hope anchored in what He’s done and will do (Week 6) propels us forward. When the world around us fractures—economies tumble, relationships unravel, health declines—our confidence remains unshakable because we rest on the dual pillars of Jesus’ unchanging character and His victorious, world-altering resurrection. And because He’s coming back, we don’t merely endure; we live expectantly, investing in what lasts forever. So, let’s walk boldly this week, fueled by the promise that the same Jesus who rose from the dead stands ready to bring us into His eternal, hope-filled presence.