Lesson 99: Anticipating Eternity
Key Scriptures: Colossians 3:1–2, Revelation 21:1–4
Teaching Points
This World Is Not Our Permanent Home
Scripture: Hebrews 13:14
“For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.”
We live in a world that often feels permanent. We build homes, establish careers, accumulate possessions, make plans, and work hard to make life comfortable. Yet Scripture reminds us that this world is not our permanent home.
As Christians, we are citizens of heaven. This life is real and important, but it is temporary. Our ultimate home is with God. Jesus promised that He is preparing a place for His people, and one day He will bring us into His presence forever.
1. This World Is Not Our Permanent Home
It is easy to become so focused on this life that we forget eternity. We can spend all our energy protecting what we have while neglecting what will last forever.
Peter describes believers as “sojourners and exiles” in this world (1 Peter 2:11). We are here for a time, but we are headed somewhere far better.
Knowing this should change the way we look at our possessions, our problems, and even our successes. We should enjoy God’s blessings, but we should not allow the things of this world to become our treasure.
Jesus said:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” — Matthew 6:19–20
2. Eternity Should Shape Present Priorities
If eternity is real—and it is—then eternity should affect how we live today.
Our time matters. Our relationships matter. Our service to Christ matters. The people around us matter. What we do for Christ has eternal significance.
Paul wrote:
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23
We should therefore ask ourselves: Am I spending my life on things that will matter for eternity?
There is nothing wrong with working, earning money, maintaining our homes, enjoying God’s creation, or making plans for the future. But these things must remain in their proper place.
The question is not simply, “What can I gain in this life?”
The better question is, “How can I use this life for the glory of God?”
3. God’s Future Promises Give Present Hope
Thinking about eternity is not meant to make us discouraged about the present. It should give us hope.
We will experience difficulties, disappointments, sickness, loss, and eventually death. But none of these things have the final word.
God has promised a future where there will be no death, mourning, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4).
That promise gives us strength today.
When life is difficult, we can remember that this is not the end of the story.
Paul said:
“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” — 2 Corinthians 4:17
Our present troubles may feel heavy, but they are temporary. God’s promises are eternal.
Conclusion
Christian, this world is not your permanent home.
Therefore, don’t allow temporary things to control your heart. Let eternity shape your priorities. And when you face difficulties, remember God’s promises and allow them to give you hope.
We are not simply living toward the end of this life.
We are living toward the beginning of eternity.
So today, live faithfully. Love God. Serve others. Invest in things that matter eternally. And keep your eyes fixed on the home Christ has prepared for you.
Reflection:
What is receiving most of my time, attention, and energy right now? Does it reflect the fact that I am preparing for eternity?
Prayer:
Father, help me remember that this world is not my permanent home. Give me wisdom to use my time and resources for things that have eternal value. When I become discouraged by the difficulties of this life, remind me of Your promises and the hope I have in Christ. Help me to live today with eternity in view. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Discussion Questions
- How does eternity affect daily decisions?
- What promises of heaven encourage you?
- How can eternal thinking change priorities?
Practical Application
Spend time reflecting on God’s promises concerning eternity.
Hope beyond this life
Eternal perspective
Living for what lasts