Dr. Stanley explains why the cross and the resurrection are the two foundational truths of Christianity. They serve as reminders of how God will keep His promise that Jesus will come back again, giving Christians a sense of eagerness for His return. Until then, we can remain busy through loving, giving and serving the Lord.
Sermon Outline
The world in which we live can be unsettling at times. That’s why remembering we don’t belong to it can be helpful. Today, Dr. Stanley explores how the cross and resurrection secured for us the promise of heaven.
Key Passage: Philippians 3:17-21
Supporting Passages: Acts 1:10-11; Romans 10:9; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Philippians 3:20-21; Hebrews 9:27; 1 Peter 1:3-4; 1 John 3:1-3; Revelation 20:11-15
Regardless of people’s beliefs or what they say matters to them, the most important issues for every single person are a relationship with Jesus and eternal life. Both are secured by the cross and the resurrection.
► “The recording of your name in heaven is an act of God.”
The cross and the resurrection of Jesus Christ …
Are two foundational truths of human life.
Shed light on the condition of mankind and how we ought to live.
Paul offered encouragement by sharing …
His personal example (Phil. 3:17).
A description of the world in which we live (vv. 18-19).
The comforting truth that we are, in fact, citizens of heaven (vv. 20-21).
To become a citizen of heaven, you must be born again. That means you …
Realize your sinfulness and inability to save yourself.
Believe Jesus paid the penalty on the cross.
Accept His sacrifice on your behalf.
Understand that good works will not get you to heaven.
Are a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, and your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Luke 10:20).
Are destined for eternal life, unlike those whose names aren’t found there—they will be consigned to the lake of fire (Rev. 20:11-15).
► “We serve God by serving other people.”
Followers of Jesus Christ …
Are assured of an imperishable inheritance (1 Pet. 1:3-4).
Can have their heavenly rewards increased by investing in others and serving in God’s kingdom now, while eagerly awaiting Christ’s return (Phil. 3:20).
Have evidence that He lived, died, rose again, ascended, and will return (Acts 1:10-11).
Will have transformed, perfect bodies in heaven (Phil. 3:21; 1 John 3:1-3).
Will look most like Christ when loving, giving, and serving.
► “In His awesome wisdom God made one way to heaven, and that way is possible for every single person.”
As believers, we must never lose sight of the truth that …
We’ll die just once before judgment (Heb. 9:27).
The only way to prepare for that moment is to acknowledge Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and believe in the resurrection (Rom. 10:9).
After Watching
Is it a source of encouragement to know that your citizenship is elsewhere, somewhere beyond the earth? Do you understand this truth differently after watching today’s sermon?
Spend some time this week considering Dr. Stanley’s question: How much of your time is given to thinking about Jesus and how you can serve Him more?
