Assurance

2 Corinthians 4:13-18

Are you concerned that we have both adults and teenagers who do not have any understanding of history but also do not understand the meaning of many basic words, such as the word assurance?  Webster’s dictionary gives this definition of the word assurance: “the state of being sure or certain about something” and the Scripture in Hebrews 11:1, has this to say about faith; “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”  So as we examine the word assurance, we find it dealing with pledges, declarations, guarantees, oaths, and reassurances.

The apostle Paul is telling the church at Corinth, that they and us have this reassurance; “Since we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we also believe, and so we also speak, knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence. For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.”

Often the question is asked of a church member, do you know you're going to heaven when you die?  Often the reply is I hope so, and that is not assurance.  Have you heard someone say, I’ve lived a good life and tried to do good to all those I come in contact with, and that also is nice, but that is not assurance?  Paul is stating this truth, I’m betting the farm on the same one Jesus did, I have a promise that because I’ve placed my faith in Jesus Christ that when He returns the Father will raise me as Jesus was raised and I will be with Him for eternity.

Many are looking for a rose garden faith, one of no heartaches, no sorrow, and all the cash and stuff you desire.  Jesus did not promise us a rose garden faith, in fact, He was very clear that we will have tribulation, and at times conflict with those whom we love the most, but Jesus did promise peace and joy in the middle of all the hell breaking out in our life.

Paul is sharing that it is clear our earth suit is heading for the dirt, but not our spirit, but when we look to the assurance of Christ living in us, then it is clear what is seen is going south, but what is not seen with human eyes is eternal; all who are in Christ have much to look forward to.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice