24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?
This verse takes up the subject of the believer’s hope. Those who respond by faith to the promise of the believer’s glorification have hope.
24 For
The “for” here explains verse 23 by emphasizing that the hope is still future.
we were saved [at one point in the past] in this hope [state of hope],
Christians were saved, not are saved, in a state of hope or confidence in our future glorification. Being saved “in hope” is holding the prospect of ultimate salvation. Faith in Christ’s death effected our salvation at one point in the past. At that point we placed our hope in the idea that our mortal bodies will be liberated from decay and death. Hope does not save us, but our salvation is characterized by hope.
PRINCIPLE:
Christians live in a state characterized by hope.
APPLICATION:
Our initial salvation was one of three phases. The first phase was the event whereby we became Christians. The second phase is progressive; that is, God is making us more like the Lord Jesus day by day. The third phase is our eternal glorification in heaven. The first phase was only the beginning. Our ultimate salvation is yet to come—that is why we groan presently. That hope is not uncertain but future.
1 Th 5:8, But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.
Ti 3:7, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
