The Journey - St. Louis

Hebrews 11 is all about faith. Throughout the chapter we see example after example of influential Old Testament icons acting in faith: men and women who were certain of what they hoped for and proved it by their actions. "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" [Hebrews 11:1].
Yet, later in the chapter we learn that even these founders of our faith didn't inherit what was promised during their earthly lives. The chapter concludes with text showing that their hope was in something greater: "But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city" [Hebrews 11:16].
In 1 Peter 1:8, Peter describes the "salvation of our souls" as the "outcome of our faith". Salvation, therefore, is the end product, the result of believing in Jesus, and the reward is eternity spent with him. "Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls." [1 Peter 1:8]. Peter later urges that we set our hope "fully on the grace that will be brought to [us] at the revelation of Jesus Christ" [1:13], throwing off our sinful nature out of reverence toward God.
The Apostle Paul describes it this way: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better..." [Philippians 1:21-23.]
"To be with Christ". This is the afterlife we yearn for.
Pastor Darrin Patrick continues the "Jesus &" sermon series with Jesus & Afterlife.