Last Sermon of 2023.

1. It's now the last day of 2023, marking the close of another year. I vividly recall the anticipation and uncertainty as we approached the end of 1999. Much like many others, I wondered about the implications of the impending year 2000. Some harbored fears, driven by concerns about the so-called millennium bug, a glitch that was speculated to wreak havoc on computer systems globally. There was apprehension that this bug could disrupt vital systems such as stock markets, factories, and even the internet, plunging the world into chaos. However, as history tells us, the arrival of the year 2000 did not bring the catastrophic events that some had feared. The world continued on its course, and now, here we are, at the conclusion of 2023. The interpretation of the word "end" varies among individuals, leading some to fear it while others approach it with curiosity. In today's sermon, we will explore the biblical teachings regarding the significance of the meaning of "end." In today's sermon, I'll employ the method of Biblical studies to delve into the meaning of words as presented in the Bible. Subsequently, I'll strive to uncover the practical applications of this understanding. Let us read Romans 10:1-4

Romans 10:1–4 NKJV

Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.

2. Given that we have two testaments, the Old and the New, it's crucial to thoroughly understand their respective meanings. The Old Testament is deeply rooted in Hebrew background, whereas the New Testament is grounded in Greek influence. Despite the distinct Jewish and Hellenistic backgrounds, they both revolve around the same Messiah and Gospel. This juxtaposition of backgrounds provides a rich tapestry for understanding the overarching narrative of the Bible. Since today marks the end of 2023, let's center our exploration on the meaning of "end" in both Hebrew and Greek contexts. In Romans 10:1-4, Paul discusses how "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes." The Greek word he uses for "end" here is "telos," a term with several meanings. Before delving into the nuances of the New Testament, let's first direct our attention to the Old Testament, where the common Hebrew word for 'end' is 'Qasa',‘Sabat’ or ‘Kal’ signifying, finish, termination or completion.

Genesis 6:13 (NKJV)

And God said to Noah, “The end (Qasa) of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.

Genesis 2:1–2 (NKJV)

Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished (Kal). And on the seventh day God ended (Kal) His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.

Genesis 2:3 (NKJV)

Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested (Sabat) from all His work which God had created and made.

3. In Hebrew, the meaning of 'end' reflects finish, termination, or completion, suggesting that there is no subsequent work or purpose because it has been finished or completed. For the Jewish perspective, understanding that God's work is finished implies that God has no remaining tasks or incomplete work. This concept conveys the idea that humans cannot expect or seek additional work from God because His work is already complete. If God's people were to discover another task after God has finished His work, it would imply imperfection on God's part, suggesting that there is more work to be done. Therefore, observing the Sabbath is significant for the Israelites as it symbolizes a cessation of work, highlighting God's completeness. The rationale behind God completing His work on the Sabbath is rooted in the idea that God, being perfect, does not engage in further work.

Exodus 20:8–11 NLT

“Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy.

4. So, the observance of the Sabbath is not merely a display of identity for the Israelites, but rather a reflection of God Himself and His completeness in the lives of His people in the Promised Land. It goes beyond a legalistic adherence to a commandment; instead, it's a meaningful expression of recognizing and honoring God's perfection and finished work. When we shift our focus solely to the personal benefits of keeping the Sabbath, we might reduce it to a mere obligation. Instead, understanding its profound meaning from the Bible is crucial for our Christian life. By anchoring our comprehension in the biblical context, we gain a deeper insight into the spiritual significance of observing the Sabbath and how it aligns with God's intended purpose for our lives.

5. Now, with our limited time, let's shift our attention to the New Testament. In Romans 10:1-4, the term 'end' is translated from the Greek word 'telos,' signifying fulfillment, purpose, or accomplishment. This nuance opens the door to various interpretations of Romans 10:4 when we explore it with different versions.

Romans 10:4 NLT

For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God.

Romans 10:4 NIV

Christ is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.

Romans 10:4 ESV

For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.

Romans 10:4 AMP

For Christ is the end of the Law [the limit at which it ceases to be, for the Law leads up to Him Who is the fulfillment of its types, and in Him the purpose which it was designed to accomplish is fulfilled. That is, the purpose of the Law is fulfilled in Him] as the means of righteousness (right relationship to God) for everyone who trusts in and adheres to and relies on Him.

6. There is the philosophical concept which is called teleology and it posits that human lives progress or unfold based on their purpose. Philosophers who embrace teleology contend that comprehending the purpose of human life is crucial, as it serves as a motivation or driving force for existence. While this perspective may not encompass the entirety of human experience, it remains a valid approach for understanding life, given the innate human desire to fulfill and seek purpose in our lives. Certainly, as you may have guessed, the term 'teleology' is derived from the Greek word 'telos,' which encompasses the notions of fulfillment, culmination, and completion or purpose. This linguistic insight allows us to discern that Hellenistic culture implies its consequences from the broader meaning of 'end' on earth, while Jewish culture tends to focus on the literal conclusion of something or a task on earth. Turning our attention to the book of Revelation, for instance, we can interpret that the term 'end' in this context is not primarily concerned with its literal meaning but rather emphasizes the 'fulfillment' or 'culmination' of God's work through Jesus Christ.

Revelation 2:24–26 NKJV

“Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. But hold fast what you have till I come. And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations—

Revelation 22:13 NLT

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”

7. In the New Testament, Jesus is both the origin and the ultimate purpose or fulfillment, as indicated in Revelation 22:13. Similarly, the directive to 'keep My work until it is fulfilled' in Revelation 2:26 underscores the connection between Jesus and the fulfillment of God's purpose. Therefore, the concept of the "end of time" in the New Testament signifies a period related to the realization of God's purpose or His appointed time of completion. When God accomplishes His purpose, it becomes a transformative time for us, leading to full restoration or sanctification in Jesus Christ. Through Christ's work, God's purpose is achieved in us. If individuals in AD 100 turned to the book of Revelation amid persecution, they could find encouragement and strength in the understanding that their tribulations were a sign of God's fulfillment. The notion of the "end time" carried the assurance that it was God's appointed time to fulfill His purpose in them.

8. Now, we are ready to make an application for today’ sermon. I vividly recall a funeral from 2006, which was for the mother of one of my classmates. She was a pastor, and before her passing, she left a will for her family. In it, she encouraged them not to grieve her death but to celebrate, as she believed she had entered Heaven, where God resides. Her words remain etched in my memory: "I have finished and fulfilled God's promise in my life on this earth." Having faith in Jesus Christ signifies the regeneration of our lives, enabling us to embark on a new journey. This transformation in Jesus is possible because our lives have been regenerated. For Christians, Justification means that our old life is over because of God's renewing work in us through Jesus Christ. This transformation allows us to align with God's plan and purpose for the sake of His kingdom. Justification, for believers in Jesus, isn't just a concept; it's a practical expression of our new life and identity in Jesus Christ. To initiate this journey in Jesus, we must conclude our previous life. By bringing our old journey in sin to an end, we can commence a new journey in and with Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:16–17 NRSV

From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!

9. In line with Paul's teachings, our former way of life has faded away. In the past, our focus was on pursuing our desires, plans, and will to fulfill our own purposes. God had little space in our lives during that time. However, with the entrance of Jesus into our lives, our old selves vanished, making way for a new self in Jesus Christ. This transformation signals the beginning of a new journey in Jesus. Our new purpose and will from God have emerged, and we can now follow them with the assistance of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has become our helper and guide on this newfound path.

10. The year 2023 has concluded, and as we reflect, there are achievements and completions to acknowledge. Personally, I successfully completed my daily Bible reading throughout the year, utilizing the Message Bible. This commitment was not merely concluded but fulfilled. In our broader perspective, our lives are deeply rooted in Jesus, and God has instilled His plan within us. His intention is to see His plan fulfilled in our lives, prompting the sending of the Holy Spirit as our guide. Without His assistance, we might strive to fulfill our own plans and purposes. However, with the Spirit's help, we can discern and realize that God's plan and purpose are integral to our faith journey. As we step into 2024, my prayer is that we become attuned to God's plan for us and actively strive to fulfill it. May our church, serving as the focal point of God's work and plan, radiate His love and grace throughout the Yorkton community. Let 2024 be a year where our lives, as part of the church and the body of Jesus, exemplify obedience to God's ways. As His workmanship, may our actions and obedience serve as a testament, allowing the world to witness God's love and grace through us.