Introduction. (Romans 13:11-14). In this text Paul gives
instruction to the Romans calling to their attention the fact that with
each day of faithful service salvation draws closer. This is an appeal
to the brethren to use their anticipation of the future to influence
their behavior in the present.
Examples of the Power Anticipation. We know the power
of anticipation. We remember the old ketchup commercial which played the Carly Simon song “Anticipation” with someone waiting for thick ketchup.
These situations can excite us and highten our senses. They
can cause us to be cautious and sensitive. They can focus our
attention on the object of our anticipation to such a degree that
everything around us seems to disappear.
This morning I’d like for us to think a little bit about
this disposition and consider some things that it would be wise
for Christians to anticipate.
I. Christians Should Anticipate Our Behavior.
Note: Can mean either look foreward to something (in a positive way) or
consider something ahead of time (either positively or negatively).
II. Christians Should Anticipate Temptation.
III. Christians Should Anticipate Opportunities for Service.
IV. Christians Should Anticipate The Judgment.
V. Christians Should Anticipate Heaven.
What will matter to you is gratitude, praise and a desire
to worship every second the God of heaven! (II Cor. 4:16-18). What will be important to you is “is my family there?”
How blessed you are. “How can I show my love
and thankfulness to God?” (Romans 8:18). VI. Christians Should Anticipate Hell.
You would wish with every ounce of your
being that you had chosen better in life! (Luke 16:25). All of those things would seem like nothing
compared to the fact that you have before you and
eternity with no joy, no wealth, no beauty! (Mark 8:35-37).