This week in chapel, Dr. Lehman preached on the biblical concept of hope. His main texts included Titus 2:11, Romans 8:24-25 and Romans 15:13. God is the source of our hope, and with this hope He fills us with two qualities—joy and peace. This hope is the anticipation of God’s grace, faith is the expectation of God’s grace and love is the application of grace. Hope abounds with many benefits including boldness (2 Corinthians 3:12), endurance (1 Thessalonians 1:3), the abiding presence of God (Hebrews 3:6), the basis of our testimony (1 Peter 3:15) and purification (1 John 3:3).
We are able to achieve this greater hope through four key concepts:
- Anticipating that God’s grace will be provided in times of trials and sufferings (Romans 5:1-5).
- Waiting with patience for God to act on our behalf (Romans 8: 24-25).
- Accepting the encouragement and comfort of Scripture (Romans 15:4).
- Trusting in the word of encouragement (Romans 15:13).
Listen to the whole sermon below.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Dr. Lehman is a professor of counseling here at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and a Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor. He received his bachelor’s degree at Cornerstone University, a Master of Divinity from GRTS, a Master of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa and his Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. He offers expertise as both a counselor and a ministry leader.
Dr. Lehman has served on staff at several churches as a youth pastor and a pastor in counseling. In addition, he has been over thirty years in his counseling practice.
