Pastor's Corner
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ALWAYS OFFER HOPE


One of the most important things to do when we teach about sin, is to offer “hope.” Sin indeed wreaks havoc, both to an individual and also to a country! But we must not stop here! We must ever seek to offer hope!

HOPE IN THE CONCEPT OF “THE REMNANT”

“Unless the LORD of hosts has left us a very small remnant,
we would have become like Sodom,
we would have been made like Gomorrah.” Isaiah 1:9

1. The physical “very small remnant”
Let us take note of the following thoughts, with reference to Israel as a nation.

a) Note the comparison- Sodom and Gomorrah
The twin cities were totally destroyed! They would never rise again!

b) Israel- a very small remnant
The descent of Israel as a nation began a long time ago. Each year brought about a greater ruination! Cities were burned. Marauders brought terror to the streets. The country was literally depopulated! Many were killed, others sold into slavery! Only “a very small remnant” was left behind.

2. Drawing much hope from the thought of “a very small remnant”

a) Being small is better than total annihilation

b) Being small but alive brings hope

c) Being small but being right with God is everything

d) Being small does not mean that the future is bleak

e) Remembering the past
i) The roots of Israel were small and humble

ii) The families of the patriarchs were all “very small”

iii) If God were to bless, the very small remnant can become great again

HOPE AS A POWERFUL ANTIDOTE TO DESPAIR

Sin can have an overwhelming impact on us! It is vital that while we do not diminish the consequences of sin, neither must we be silent on offering hope!