Eternal hope: 'Nice' – or much more?

As we look forward to celebrating the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday, and indeed on every Lord’s Day, we are reminded that we are a people of hope.

The apostle Peter reminds the early churches that we have a “living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1Peter 1:3).

But what difference does that make in everyday life? You know the familiar jibe that Christians are so heavenly minded that we are of no earthly use. Is our eternal hope just a nice reassurance to us, to be pulled out as death approaches? Or does it transform the way we live in this world, so that others notice the difference?

1. It is a consolation during suffering
   First, Peter reminds us of the consolation of our hope during times of trial and suffering (1:6-9). For those who live only for this present world, troubles are an unmitigated evil. But for the Christian, our present sufferings are a reminder that this world is not our home. Our troubles shake our confidence in the refuges of wealth or pleasure; we look forward with yet more eager expectation for solid joys and lasting treasures which will be ours in the new heavens and earth. Trials refine our faith as we lean more heavily on the Lord Jesus Christ for grace and help each day. Our eyes are focused on Him, and we long for the day when we will see Him face to face.
   
2. It dulls our appetite for the world
   Second, our hope dulls our appetite for worldly and sinful gratification (2:11-12). We know that such things will only lead to death and judgement. Our sin may grieve the Spirit and spoil our sense of fellowship with the Lord. And it may tarnish our Christian testimony. We want to devote ourselves to good works and show, not only by lip but also by life, the beauty of gospel hope. We pray that those around us who do not yet believe may come to repentance and faith and be saved.
   
3. It grants us endurance
   Third, our hope grants us patient endurance when we suffer injustice (2:18-23). We are reminded of the Lord Jesus Christ who, though He was without sin, endured horrific abuse and injustice. He did not retaliate, but rather entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly. We can be patient when we suffer injustice now, because we know that justice will soon be done. Our goal is not to vindicate ourselves in the eyes of our persecutors; the Lord sees and knows what we endure, and He will vindicate us on the Last Day.
   
4. It keeps our eyes on what's ahead
   Fourth, as we serve the Lord, we do not look for glory, or appreciation, or status now in the eyes of others. Rather, like the elders of the early church, we look and wait for the day when we will receive a crown of glory, and hear “well done, my good and faithful servant.” (5:4). We are serving the Lord, not seeking recognition in this world.

It is clear that Peter anticipates that our testimony of hope will make such a difference in our lives that those around us will ask us for “a reason for the hope that is in you.” We have a joyful confidence, and a peaceful trust, because we know that our destination is sure and certain, and very glorious.