The Day of the Lord: Hope in Troubling Times

Bible Passage: Malachi 4:1–6, Psalm 85, Romans 15:4–13, Luke 21:25–36

Application: This sermon aims to offer hope to Christians facing trials and uncertainty in their lives today, emphasizing that although difficult times may arise, God's ultimate plan leads to redemption and peace.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that amidst judgment and chaos, believers can find hope and encouragement in God's promises, urging them to remain watchful and faithful, rooted in the truth of Scripture.

How this passage could point to Christ: Each passage reveals aspects of Christ's redemptive work: Malachi speaks of the coming 'sun of righteousness' which epitomizes Christ's salvation; Psalm 85 anticipates God's favor and restoration; Romans emphasizes Christ as the source of hope for all nations, and Luke calls us to be vigilant, embodying the expectation of Christ's return.

Introduction

James DeLoach, associate pastor of the Second Baptist Church of Houston, quoted in When God Was Taken Captive:

I am not a connoisseur of great art, but from time to time a painting or picture will really speak a clear, strong message to me. Some time ago I saw a picture of an old burned-out mountain shack. All that remained was the chimney...the charred debris of what had been that family's sole possession. In front of this destroyed home stood an old grandfather-looking man dressed only in his underclothes with a small boy clutching a pair of patched overalls. It was evident that the child was crying. Beneath the picture were the words which the artist felt the old man was speaking to the boy. They were simple words, yet they presented a profound theology and philosophy of life. Those words were, "Hush child, God ain't dead!"

That vivid picture of that burned-out mountain shack, that old man, the weeping child, and those words "God ain't dead" keep returning to my mind. Instead of it being a reminder of the despair of life, it has come to be a reminder of hope! I need reminders that there is hope in this world. In the midst of all of life's troubles and failures, I need mental pictures to remind me that all is not lost as long as God is alive and in control of His world.

As we open the pages of the scriptures today, we are led to consider four different passages.

The first of the four passages is Malachi 4:1-6

Malachi 4:1–6 NASB 2020

“For behold, the day is coming, burning like a furnace; and all the arrogant and every evildoer will be chaff; and the day that is coming will set them ablaze,” says the Lord of armies, “so that it will leave them neither root nor branches. But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and frolic like calves from the stall. And you will crush the wicked underfoot, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day that I am preparing,” says the Lord of armies. “Remember the Law of Moses My servant, the statutes and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel. “Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers back to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and strike the land with complete destruction.”

Chapter 4 of Malachi discusses the coming of the LORD, where the arrogant and evil-doers will be punished, while those who fear His name will be rewarded. It emphasizes remembering the Law of Moses and foretells the coming of the prophet Elijah to restore familial relationships, thereby creating hope.

The second passage is Psalm 85.

Psalm 85 NASB 2020

For the music director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. Lord, You showed favor to Your land; You restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the guilt of Your people; You covered all their sin. Selah You withdrew all Your fury; You turned away from Your burning anger. Restore us, God of our salvation, And cause Your indignation toward us to cease. Will You be angry with us forever? Will You prolong Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, So that Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your mercy, Lord, And grant us Your salvation. I will hear what God the Lord will say; For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones; And may they not turn back to foolishness. Certainly His salvation is near to those who fear Him, That glory may dwell in our land. Graciousness and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth sprouts from the earth, And righteousness looks down from heaven. Indeed, the Lord will give what is good, And our land will yield its produce. Righteousness will go before Him And will make His footsteps into a way.

This psalm is a prayer for God’s mercy upon the nation, expressing gratitude for His past favor and forgiveness. The psalmist pleads for restoration and revival, asking God to cease His anger and show mercy. It emphasizes the importance of listening to His Word, and the connection between truth, righteousness, and blessings for the land. This is psalm of hope.

The Third passage for consideration is Romans 15:4-13.

Romans 15:4–13 NASB 2020

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another, according to Christ Jesus, so that with one purpose and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us, for the glory of God. For I say that Christ has become a servant to the circumcision in behalf of the truth of God, to confirm the promises given to the fathers, and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy; as it is written: “Therefore I will give praise to you among the Gentiles, And I will sing praises to Your name.” Again he says, “Rejoice, you Gentiles, with His people.” And again, “Praise the Lord all you Gentiles, And let all the peoples praise Him.” Again Isaiah says, “There shall come the root of Jesse, And He who arises to rule over the Gentiles, In Him will the Gentiles hope.” Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

In Chapter 15 of Romans, the apostle Paul encourages the strong to support the weak rather than seek personal satisfaction. Each individual should aim to benefit their neighbor, following the example Jesus’ self-denial. The chapter stresses the importance of unity and glorifying God together, urging acceptance among believers as Christ has accepted them. It highlights Jesus’ role as a servant to both Jews and Gentiles, affirming God’s promises and mercy. The text includes references to the Old Testament prophecies that call for praise among the Gentiles and hope in the Messiah.

Finally, we reflect on the Gospel of Luke 21:25-36

Luke 21:25–36 NASB 2020

“There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting from fear and the expectation of the things that are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” And He told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees: as soon as they put forth leaves, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near. So you too, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. “But be on your guard, so that your hearts will not be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that this day will not come on you suddenly, like a trap; for it will come upon all those who live on the face of all the earth. But stay alert at all times, praying that you will have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

In Chapter 21, Jesus observes wealthy individuals donating to the temple treasury and highlights a poor widow who contributes two small coins, stating that her offering is greater than those of the rich because she gives all she has to live on. He then predicts the destruction of the temple, prompting questions from His followers about when this will occur and the signs associated with it. Jesus warns them to be cautious of false prophets and reassures them that wars and disasters will precede the end, but they should not be alarmed. He forewarns of persecution, advising them that such trials will provide opportunities for testimony. Jesus describes the impending desolation of Jerusalem and instructs those in Judea to flee. He speaks of signs in the heavens and the return of the Son of Man, encouraging His followers to remain vigilant and hopeful.

These passages collectively address the theme of hope and restoration amidst judgment and turmoil, focusing on the coming of the Lord, His promises, and the encouragement for believers to keep on hoping.

This week as we continue our observance of the season of Advent, let us remember that the themes associated with this season are hope, peace, joy, and love. Yet, even so, there are so many people whose experience during this season is anything but these things. For them, this time of year brings gloom, despair, and agony. In a word, many are simply experiencing hopelessness at the most wonderful time of the year.

I like what Clare Boothe Luce says: “There are no hopeless situations; there are only people who have grown hopeless about them.” I believe that the Lord let me live today to tell you all that no matter what you may be facing or going through - keep on hoping. Walk with me for a few minutes as I attempt to touch the text.

Keep on Hoping for the Day of the Lord

Malachi 4:1-6

Theological Rationale

Malachi 4:1-6 speaks about the Day of the Lord, a time when God will judge the wicked and bring healing and restoration to the faithful. The passage highlights two key themes:

1. Judgment for the Wicked: Verses 1-3 describe a day when the wicked will be burned like stubble, leaving them neither root nor branch. This imagery of total destruction emphasizes the severity of God's judgment.

2. Hope and Restoration for the Faithful: In contrast, verses 2-3 describe the faithful as those who fear God's name and will experience healing, symbolized by the "Sun of Righteousness" rising with healing in its wings. This promises restoration and victory for the righteous.

3. Elijah's Coming: Verses 5-6 promise the coming of Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord. Elijah's role is to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children and vice versa, indicating a restoration of relationships and a call to repentance.

Illustration

Imagine a garden that has been overrun by weeds and thorns, representing the wickedness and sin in the world. The gardener, symbolizing God, decides it's time to cleanse the garden. The weeds and thorns are uprooted and burned, ensuring they cannot return. However, the healthy plants, representing the faithful, are cared for and nourished. The Sun of Righteousness rises, providing warmth and healing, allowing the garden to flourish once more.

Application

1. Self-Reflection and Repentance: Malachi 4:1-6 calls us to examine our own lives and ensure we are living in a way that honors God. It's a reminder to turn away from wickedness and embrace righteousness.

2. Hope and Encouragement: For those who fear God and follow His ways, this passage offers great hope. It reassures us that, despite the trials and challenges, God will ultimately bring healing and restoration.

3. Restoration of Relationships: The promise of Elijah's coming encourages us to work towards restoring broken relationships in our own lives. It calls us to mend our relationships with others and with God, fostering a community built on love and understanding.

Malachi 4:1-6 is a profound passage that reminds us of God's justice and mercy, urging us to live faithfully and with hope for the future.

Hope in the Meantime

Psalm 85 is a beautiful prayer for restoration and revival, filled with a profound sense of hope. Let's dive into its teachings with a theoretical proposition, theological rationale, an illustration, and application.

Theoretical Proposition

Psalm 85 presents the idea that God’s past acts of salvation and forgiveness provide a foundation for hope in present and future restoration and renewal.

Theological Rationale

Psalm 85 can be divided into three main sections that highlight different aspects of hope:

1. Recalling God’s Past Mercies (Verses 1-3): The psalmist begins by remembering God’s past deeds, particularly how He showed favor to the land and forgave the iniquity of His people. This recollection strengthens faith and provides a basis for expecting future mercy.

2. Pleading for Restoration (Verses 4-7): The psalmist then turns to a heartfelt plea for God to restore and revive His people. This section acknowledges the current distress and expresses trust in God's ability to bring salvation and peace.

3. Anticipating Future Blessings (Verses 8-13): Finally, the psalmist listens for God’s response and confidently anticipates a future where steadfast love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace will flourish. This vision of future blessings is grounded in the assurance of God’s character and promises.

Illustration

Imagine a family that has weathered many storms together, both literally and metaphorically. They've faced hardships but have always emerged stronger, thanks to their unwavering faith and love for each other. During a particularly difficult time, they gather to reminisce about how they’ve overcome past challenges. This recollection of their shared history strengthens their hope and determination to face the current adversity, trusting that brighter days lie ahead.

Application

1. Reflect on Past Mercies: Like the psalmist, we should take time to remember and give thanks for the ways God has been faithful to us in the past. This reflection can bolster our faith and hope in His continued goodness.

2. Seek God’s Restoration: Psalm 85 encourages us to turn to God in times of distress, seeking His restoration and revival. It reminds us that we can be honest about our struggles and trust in His power to renew us.

3. Anticipate Future Blessings: We should hold on to the hope that God will bring about a future filled with His blessings. This anticipation can help us stay steadfast and faithful, even in challenging times.

Psalm 85 beautifully illustrates that hope is deeply rooted in our relationship with God, built on the foundation of His past mercies, a plea for present restoration, and the confident expectation of future blessings.

Hope From Scripture

Romans 15:4-13

Theoretical Proposition

This passage proposes that the Scriptures provide endurance and encouragement, fostering hope, unity, and joy among believers, which glorifies God and demonstrates His faithfulness.

Theological Rationale

1. Scripture and Hope (Verses 4-5): Paul explains that everything written in the past was meant to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope. This highlights the role of the Bible in building our hope and patience.

2. Unity Among Believers (Verses 5-6): Paul prays for harmony among believers, so that with one mind and one voice, they may glorify God. This unity is essential for the church to reflect God's love and purpose.

3. Acceptance and Praise (Verses 7-12): Paul urges believers to accept one another, just as Christ accepted them. This acceptance and unity should lead to the praising of God. He references the promises made to the patriarchs and the inclusion of the Gentiles to emphasize God's faithfulness and the hope available to all.

4. Overflowing with Hope (Verse 13): Paul concludes with a blessing, asking that the God of hope fill believers with joy and peace as they trust in Him, so that they may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Illustration

Imagine a sports team training for a championship. The coach provides them with a playbook (the Scriptures) filled with strategies and encouragement. The team members must endure rigorous training and stay motivated by referring to the playbook. The coach also emphasizes the importance of unity, encouraging the team to work together with one mind and one voice. As they accept and support each other, they build a strong, cohesive unit that praises their coach (glorifies God). Finally, the coach’s belief in their potential fills them with hope, joy, and peace, empowering them to strive for victory.

Application

1. Find Strength in Scripture: Like the believers in Rome, we can find endurance and encouragement through the Bible. Regularly reading and meditating on Scripture helps build our hope and patience.

2. Promote Unity: Romans 15:4-13 encourages us to foster unity within our communities. By accepting and supporting one another, we can collectively glorify God and demonstrate His love.

3. Embrace Diversity: Just as Paul speaks of the inclusion of Gentiles, we should embrace and celebrate the diversity within the body of Christ. This acceptance reflects God’s inclusive love and faithfulness.

4. Overflow with Hope: By trusting in God and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can be filled with joy and peace, enabling us to overflow with hope. This hope not only strengthens us but also inspires those around us.

Romans 15:4-13 teaches us that the Scriptures are a source of hope and encouragement, unity is vital for glorifying God, and the Holy Spirit empowers us to live with overflowing hope.

Luke 21:25-36 is a passage where Jesus speaks about the signs of the end times and urges His followers to remain vigilant. Despite its apocalyptic nature, it also offers a message of hope. Let’s explore this with a theoretical proposition, theological rationale, illustration, and application.

Hope Through Distress

Theoretical Proposition

Luke 21:25-36 proposes that even amid cosmic upheaval and distress, believers should remain hopeful and vigilant, as these signs herald the ultimate redemption and the coming of the Kingdom of God.

Theological Rationale

1. Signs of the End Times (Verses 25-28): Jesus describes dramatic signs in the sun, moon, and stars, and the distress among nations. These signs are meant to shake people's certainty in earthly things. However, He encourages believers to look up and lift their heads because their redemption is drawing near. This indicates that despite the chaos, there is a promise of deliverance and redemption.

2. Parable of the Fig Tree (Verses 29-31): Jesus uses the fig tree to illustrate how these signs should be interpreted. Just as the budding of the fig tree signals the coming of summer, these signs signal the coming of the Kingdom of God. This parable emphasizes the need for discernment and readiness.

3. Call to Vigilance (Verses 32-36): Jesus warns His followers to be on guard so that their hearts are not weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life. Instead, they should stay alert and pray for strength to stand before the Son of Man. This call to vigilance and prayer is crucial for maintaining hope and readiness.

Illustration

Consider a lighthouse keeper on a stormy night. The storm represents the trials and tribulations described by Jesus. Despite the darkness and turmoil, the lighthouse keeper remains vigilant, ensuring the light stays on to guide ships safely to shore. The light symbolizes the hope and redemption promised by Jesus. The keeper's vigilance and dedication ensure that the light remains a beacon of hope, just as believers are called to remain watchful and steadfast in their faith, trusting in the coming redemption.

Application

1. Stay Hopeful Amidst Chaos: Like the signs Jesus described, we may face turbulent times in our lives. This passage encourages us to remain hopeful, knowing that these trials are temporary and that our ultimate redemption is near.

2. Discern the Times: Just as Jesus used the fig tree to illustrate the importance of interpreting the signs, we should seek to understand the times we are living in. This involves staying informed and discerning, recognizing that God's plans are unfolding.

3. Practice Vigilance and Prayer: Jesus’ call to vigilance is a reminder for us to stay spiritually alert and to prioritize prayer. This helps us remain steadfast in our faith and prepared for whatever comes our way.

4. Encourage Others: As we remain hopeful and vigilant, we can also encourage others to do the same. Sharing our faith and hope with those around us can help them navigate their own challenges and remain steadfast.

Luke 21:25-36 teaches us that even in the midst of alarming signs and events, we can have hope because our redemption is drawing near. It calls us to be vigilant, prayerful, and discerning, always ready for the coming of God's Kingdom.

Theological and Christological Conclusion about Holding to Hope

In times of judgment and uncertainty, God’s promise of hope and restoration through Jesus Christ empowers us to live with anticipation and faithfulness.From the synthesis of Malachi 4:1-6, Psalm 85, Romans 15:4-13, and Luke 21:25-36, we can draw a comprehensive understanding of the nature and significance of hope in the Christian faith, rooted in both theological and Christological perspectives.

Theological Foundation of Hope

1. God’s Faithfulness and Past Mercies: Psalm 85 reflects on God’s historical acts of salvation and forgiveness, which serve as the foundation for present hope. This theme is echoed in Romans 15:4-13, where the Scriptures' record of God’s faithfulness encourages believers to endure and maintain hope.

2. Divine Judgment and Restoration: Malachi 4:1-6 highlights the dual aspects of God’s judgment on the wicked and restoration for the faithful. This eschatological vision assures believers that God’s justice will prevail, and His mercy will bring healing and renewal.

3. Scriptures as a Source of Hope: Romans 15:4-13 emphasizes the role of the Scriptures in providing endurance and encouragement, thus fostering hope. The Bible, as God’s revealed word, is a continual source of strength and guidance for believers.

Christological Perspective on Hope

1. Christ as the Fulfillment of Promises: The inclusion of the Gentiles in Romans 15:8-12 underscores that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promises to the patriarchs. Christ's life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate demonstration of God’s faithfulness and the foundation of Christian hope.

2. Redemption and Second Coming: Luke 21:25-36 speaks of the signs preceding the return of Christ, encouraging believers to remain vigilant and hopeful. The promise of Christ’s second coming provides a future-oriented hope that sustains believers through trials and tribulations.

3. Christ’s Acceptance and Unity: Romans 15:7 calls believers to accept one another as Christ accepted them. This acceptance fosters unity and glorifies God, showing that hope is not just an individual but a communal experience anchored in Christ’s love and grace.

Illustration

Consider a ship navigating through a storm. The captain (representing Jesus) has a clear map (the Scriptures) and past experiences of safely guiding ships through storms (God’s historical faithfulness). The crew (believers) looks to the captain with trust and hope, knowing that the ship’s ultimate destination is safe and secure. Despite the waves and wind (trials and tribulations), the crew's hope is anchored in the captain’s ability and promises, much like our hope in Christ and God’s faithfulness.

Application

1. Anchor in Scripture: Regularly engage with the Bible, drawing strength and encouragement from its promises and teachings. Let it remind you of God’s past faithfulness and His future promises.

2. Maintain Vigilance and Prayer: Stay spiritually alert and prioritize prayer, keeping your heart aligned with God’s will and ready for Christ’s return.

3. Foster Unity and Acceptance: Embrace and support fellow believers, reflecting Christ’s acceptance and fostering a community of hope and love.

4. Live with Expectant Hope: Hold on to the assurance of Christ’s second coming and the ultimate redemption it brings. Let this hope influence your daily life, providing joy and peace even amidst difficulties.

In conclusion, holding to hope in the Christian faith is deeply rooted in God’s faithfulness, the guidance of Scripture, the promise of Christ’s return, and the unity within the body of Christ. This hope not only sustains us through present challenges but also shapes our future outlook, anchored in the assurance of God’s unfailing love and promises.