Unity, Joy, and the Hope of Glory
On this final Sunday of Easter,
the Church celebrates the victory of the risen and ascended Christ, His unity
with the Father and believers, and the living hope of His return. This sermon
invites believers to live in the power of the resurrection, embrace the mission
of unity and witness, and remain joyful in all circumstances.
SERMON OUTLINE:
I. The Prayer of Christ for Us
– John 17:20–26
Theme: Unity in Christ
for the glory of God.
Key Points:
- Jesus prays not only for His disciples but for
all who will believe (v.20) — that includes you and me.
- “That they may all be one…so that the world may
believe” (v.21).
- Jesus links unity with mission. The world will
believe when it sees a united Church reflecting the love of the Triune
God.
- He gives us His glory (v.22) — not earthly
fame, but the beauty of being filled with God's presence and character.
Application:
- The unity of believers is not optional — it's a
witness to the world.
- Seek reconciliation, collaboration, and humility in
your church and Christian relationships.
Prayer Point:
“Lord, make us one, so the world
may see Your love through us.”
II. The Power of Praise in
Prison – Acts 16:16–34
Theme: Joy in
suffering, salvation in unexpected places.
Context:
- Paul and Silas, imprisoned after casting out a
demon, were beaten and bound.
- Instead of despairing, they prayed and sang
hymns at midnight (v.25).
- God intervened with an earthquake, opening prison
doors.
Lessons:
- Joy and praise in suffering is a testimony
that opens hearts — the jailer asks, “What must I do to be saved?” (v.30).
- Salvation came to the jailer and his household — God
works in unlikely places when we remain faithful.
Application:
- Your worship in hard times can break spiritual
chains — for you and others.
- Don’t wait for perfect conditions to witness — even
prisons become pulpits.
Prayer Point:
“Lord, give me a heart that
praises You in every situation.”
III. The Invitation and
Promise – Revelation 22:12–14, 16–17, 20–21
Theme: Jesus is coming
soon – are we ready?
Key Verses:
- “Behold, I am coming soon” (v.12, 20) –
Jesus’ return is not a myth or metaphor but a sure hope.
- “Blessed are those who wash their robes…”
(v.14) – Holiness matters; righteousness prepares us for the wedding of
the Lamb.
- The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come’” (v.17)
– There is still an open invitation to salvation.
Application:
- Live with urgency and expectancy — every day is a
chance to draw closer to Jesus and invite others to Him.
- Be a voice that echoes heaven’s call: Come to
Jesus!
Prayer Point:
“Come, Lord Jesus! Help me to be
ready and help others prepare for Your return.”
IV. The Reign of the Righteous
King – Psalm 97
Theme: God reigns now
and forever.
Highlights:
- “The Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice” (v.1) —
God's rule brings justice, righteousness, and joy.
- His glory causes even the idols to fall
(v.7).
- The righteous are called to rejoice in the Lord
and give thanks to His holy name (v.12).
Application:
- Trust God’s sovereign rule, even when the world
looks chaotic.
- Rejoicing is not based on circumstances but on the unchanging
character of God.
Prayer Point:
“Lord, reign in my heart as You
reign in heaven. Let Your justice and joy be seen in my life.”
CONCLUSION: Living the Easter
Life While Waiting for His Return
As Eastertide concludes and we
look toward Pentecost:
- Live in unity (John 17) — so the world may
see God.
- Walk in joyful obedience (Acts 16) — praise
unlocks power.
- Carry the urgency of Christ’s return (Rev.
22) — invite others to the water of life.
- Rejoice in God’s eternal kingship (Psalm 97)
— no matter what happens on earth.
Summary Table:
|
Text |
Theme |
Takeaway |
|
John 17:20–26 |
Christ’s prayer for unity and
love |
Be united for the world to see
God’s love. |
|
Acts 16:16–34 |
Joyful witness in suffering |
Worship through pain; witness
at all times. |
|
Revelation 22:12–21 |
Christ’s return and invitation |
Be ready and keep inviting
others. |
|
Psalm 97 |
The Lord reigns — rejoice! |
Trust His justice; rejoice in
His sovereignty. |
Closing Challenge:
Are you living the resurrection life?
Are you walking in unity, worship, hope, and joy?
“He who testifies to these
things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” —
Revelation 22:20
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