Groaning for Glory

Groaning for Glory

Romans 8:18-25 (NIV)

18I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.

22We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

I.       Introduction: The Problem Of Evil And The Goodness Of God

II.    Anticipate The Promise Of Glory: Delivered From Evil

A.    Worth The Suffering

B.     Worth The Wait

1.      Enduring Unwanted Frustration: Its Worth It

2.      Expecting Glorious Freedom: Wait For It

III. Acknowledge The Problem Of Evil:

A.    Creation Subject To Evil

B.     Christians Subject To Evil

IV. Adopt The Posture Of Patience: Hope In The Presence Of Evil

A.    Waiting For Salvation

B.     Waiting For The Unseen

C.     Waiting Patiently

V.    Conclusion: