GREAT EXPECTATIONS

  

Nehemiah 2:17-18; Luke 6:46-49; Revelation 21:6

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, we will reflect on the foundational truth that Jesus Christ is the Alpha and the Omega. This title, found in Revelation 21:6, signifies that He is the beginning and the end, the eternal one who holds all of time and creation in His hands. As we dive into our Scriptures today, let us consider what it means to build our lives on the solid foundation of Christ and how we, as Christian men, are called to arise and build on this foundation until the end.

Scriptural Exploration

1. Revelation 21:6 "He said to me: ‘It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.’ Jesus, with these words indicates that He is the foundation and He is also the last block as the Hebrews puts it, "Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2.)

Paul did not mince words when he writes, "For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 3:11). In a nutshell, whatever men of faith arise to build is founded on what has already been laid by Jesus Christ, the Alpha, and the Omega.

This also tells of Jesus Christ's eternal nature, affirming that He is the source and culmination of all things. He invites us to partake in the living water, symbolizing the life and sustenance He offers. Jesus gives the promise, "The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son." (Revelation 21:7)

2. "Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete." (Luke 6:46-49).

This message from Jesus Christ puts into perspective what it means to build on His foundation. 

Christ emphasizes this importance as not just hearing His words but acting upon them. Building on the solid rock of His teachings ensures stability and endurance through life’s trials.

3. "Then I said to them, ‘You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.’ I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, ‘Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work." (Nehemiah 2:17-18)

Nehemiah’s call to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem mirrors our call to rebuild and strengthen our spiritual lives and communities on the foundation of God’s grace and guidance.

Before Christian men can rise up and build, we must first recognize the ruins, the disgrace, or the mess we find ourselves in. Always remember that you cannot really build what you are busy destroying. It is time to recognize your messed life, rise up, and build based on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

Let us consider the following steps as Christian men to enable us to rise and build on Christ's foundation.

1. Commit to Grow the Firm Foundation in Christ:

   - Study and Obey the Word: To build on Christ’s foundation, we must immerse ourselves in Scripture and live out His commands. Regular Bible study, prayer, and obedience to God’s word are crucial. "Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock." (Luke 6:47-48)

   - Make Worship and Fellowship a Priority: Consistent participation in communal worship and fellowship strengthens our resolve and provides accountability. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us not to neglect meeting together.  Building on Christ's foundation together makes it easier and brings perfection before Him than being alone. Together we build but divided we break. "In the multitude of counselors, there is safety."

2. Commit to Lead with Vision and Purpose:

   - As Christian men, we ought to set godly goals. Like Nehemiah, who had a clear vision for rebuilding Jerusalem, we must seek God’s direction for our lives. Pray for His guidance in setting personal and familial goals that honour Him.

   - True leadership in Christ involves serving others. Follow Jesus’ example of servant leadership by looking for ways to support and uplift those around you, both within your family and community. Leadership, they say is by example therefore, others will be encouraged to build when service is first found in us.

3. Commit to Persevere Through Challenges:

   - Christian men embrace trials as growth opportunities: Building on Christ’s foundation doesn’t exempt us from trials. Instead, it equips us to face them with faith. James 1:2-4 teaches us to consider trials as opportunities for growth.

   - Beloved in Christ, stay encouraged, and encourage others.  Encourage yourself in the Lord as David did (1 Samuel 30:6) and be a source of encouragement to others. A supportive community helps us persevere and remain steadfast in our faith.

Conclusion

Brothers, Jesus Christ, the Alpha and the Omega, calls us to build our lives on the unshakable immovable foundation of His word and His love. Let us arise with the commitment to study His teachings, lead with vision and purpose, and persevere through every trial. Just as Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem rebuilt their city’s walls, we too can build strong, enduring lives of faith that honour God. Remember, our foundation is not of this world but of the eternal and living Christ. Amen.

Shalom aleikhem...