We See Dimly Now -- Ajay Chakravarthy -- May 22, 2022
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/we-see-dimly-now River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon uses the analogy of seeing dimly versus seeing face-to-face (1 Corinthians 13:12) to describe our current understanding of eternity compared to what we will see in the Lord's presence. The speaker emphasizes that our daily lives should give a taste of heaven, and that our focus should be on beholding God's glory, similar to the angels. Furthermore, the sermon warns that sin will be recognized as profoundly serious in eternity, requiring us to proclaim Jesus' supremacy.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
For now we see in a mirror dimlyPaul writes that our present understanding of eternity is blurry, like seeing a reflection in a dim mirror, but a day is coming when we will see face to face.1 Corinthians 13:12
Tasting the aroma of heavenOur lives should give people a slight taste of what heaven is like now, so that eternity is not a surprise but a stronger fragrance of what we already experienced.
Beholding the face of God like the angelsAngels like Gabriel spend their time constantly beholding the face of God in heaven, ready to joyfully obey His every command without seeking human applause.Luke 1:19
Realizing how serious sin wasIn eternity, those who practiced lawlessness will realize the gravity of their sin, a seriousness that even demons and angels readily recognize.Matthew 7:23
Do not be afraid is for the children of GodWhen angels announce 'do not be afraid,' that comfort belongs to disciples and children of God, while those living unrepentant in sin should rightfully be concerned.Matthew 28:2–5
Only one thing is necessaryAmidst all busyness and demands of life, Jesus tells Martha that only one thing is truly needful, which Mary chose by sitting at His feet to listen.Luke 10:38–42
Mary pours costly perfume on JesusMary breaks a very expensive vial of pure nard to anoint Jesus, a costly offering that others criticized as waste but Jesus commended as a beautiful deed done for Him.Mark 14:3–9
We are the fragrance of ChristGod uses us to manifest the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere, acting as an aroma of life to some and death to others.2 Corinthians 2:14–16
The regret of the rich manThe account of the rich man and Lazarus warns us through his severe regret to take God's word and repentance seriously while we still have opportunity on earth.
Forgiving everyone from the heartTo be ready for eternity, we must overcome pride, repent, and forgive others from our hearts in the presence of Christ.
Keeping a clear conscience before God and manPaul did his very best to keep a clear conscience, and we should ask God to examine our lives so we can have our hearts sprinkled clean by the blood of Jesus.
