Chapter Eight: The Future
Summary
When we think about the future we wonder about both our own individual futures and the future of the world as a whole. In terms of the whole world, God has promised that the powers of arrogance and evil that deform the world will someday be entirely defeated and God's will will be done on earth just as it is in heaven. In the present, Christians work to help establish the kingdom of God wherever that is possible. In terms of our individual lives, Christians are encouraged to trust God and refrain from judging others. Based on Christ's resurrection, Christians envision spending eternity with God and all the saints in heaven. That hope frees us from grabbing frantically for every passing pleasure, and allows us to savor life with patience and serve others with pleasure.
Questions addressed:
- How does hope change the way we face the future?
- What does our own effort have to do with the coming of God's kingdom?
- How will God judge us in the future?
- What will heaven be like?
Resources from Popular Culture
Suggestions for Further Reading