What brings the diverse elements of the Church together? Jew and Gentile, rich and poor, young and old? The Church is the one body that is united, not by common interest or demographic affinity. It is brought together by the Person and Work of its Savior, Jesus Christ. Paul tells us that this was always the Lord’s plan – that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah, to fulfill God’s promises to the Jews and to show the glory of God’s mercy to the Gentiles. Make no mistake about it, Jesus is “The Hope of the World” (Romans 15:8-13).

I. The Christ of Hope
A. Christ the Fulfillment of Promises
B. Christ the Savior of the World

II. The God of Hope
A. Blessing the Believer
B. Empowering the Believer

Questions for consideration: (1) Why is it important for us to see that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promises of God? (2) What does it mean for our evangelism today to say that Jesus is the savior of the whole world? (3) In the most difficult of times, where should our focus be? Why?