Transición a la Gloria Postrera - Apóstol Guillermo Maldonado
1 Corinthians 4:16-18 - The Transition to New Glory
Understanding the Inspiration of God's Word
- The speaker emphasizes the belief in the inspiration of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, and its status as absolute truth.
- Acknowledges that while our physical bodies may age and deteriorate, our inner spirit is renewed daily.
The Nature of Tribulations
- Highlights that tribulations are temporary and not permanent fixtures in life.
- These momentary troubles lead to an eternal weight of glory, suggesting a divine purpose behind suffering.
Focus on Eternal Over Temporal
- Encourages listeners not to focus on visible struggles but rather on unseen eternal realities.
- Stresses that earthly challenges serve a greater purpose leading to future glory.
Transitioning to New Glory
Embracing Change
- Invites congregants to acknowledge their transition into a new phase of glory, referred to as "gloria postrera."
- Encourages collective affirmation of being in transition towards something significant.
Reflection on Past Glory
- References Haggai 2:3, questioning who among them has seen the former glory of the temple.
- Discusses how everyone has faced crises over recent years, emphasizing shared experiences within the community.
The Remnant After Crisis
Identifying the Remnant
- Notes that after various crises, only a remnant remains active in faith communities; approximately 40% have returned post-pandemic.
- Asserts that those present are part of this remnant and thus hold significance in God’s plan.
Lessons from Israel's History
- Draw parallels with Israel's failure to transition into promised land due to rebellion and disobedience.
- Warn against stagnation within church communities due to reluctance or inability to embrace change.
The Call for Transition
Recognizing Current Changes
- Questions who among them has witnessed both past glories and current transformations within their spiritual journey.
Definition and Importance of Transition
- Defines "transition" as movement from one state or condition to another; emphasizes it requires action and cannot occur without movement.
Transitioning to a New Glory: Understanding Spiritual Movement
The Importance of Transition
- The speaker emphasizes the need for the community to transition together, expressing a desire for collective movement towards spiritual growth.
- A warning is given that only a remnant will successfully transition into this new glory, highlighting the exclusivity of spiritual advancement.
- Those who fail to transition risk being left behind in their past, which can apply to various aspects of life including business and personal spirituality.
Consequences of Not Transitioning
- Individuals who do not embrace change may feel alienated or offended by those who have moved forward, leading to criticism and withdrawal from community engagement.
- This lack of transition can result in people focusing on flaws within leadership or relationships instead of fostering their own spiritual growth.
- Criticism often leads to decreased commitment and distancing from God, as individuals become stuck in their old ways.
The Dangers of Complacency
- Many have settled into a false norm during challenging times, neglecting the biblical mandate to congregate and grow spiritually together.
- The speaker references 2 Peter 2:21-22, illustrating how complacency can lead individuals back into negative behaviors they once overcame.
Observations on Spiritual Decline
- As people regress spiritually, they may revert to previous habits such as substance abuse or negative speech patterns that contradict their prior commitments.
- The speaker notes that failure to transition results in becoming mere observers rather than active participants in spiritual experiences.
Call for Action and New Assignments
- A call is made for everyone to recognize the necessity of transitioning not just spiritually but also in practical life decisions like career changes.
- There are consequences outlined for failing to transition; these include potential loss of divine favor and stagnation in personal development.
- A new assignment is presented: restoring God's presence within the church community as a priority over entertainment or superficial engagement.
Consequences of Stagnation
- The speaker warns that families who do not adapt may face dire consequences such as children falling into destructive behaviors like drug use.
- Specific outcomes are listed for those who resist transitioning: some may be taken home (to heaven), others will suffer spiritual burns, while many will miss out on experiencing God's glory fully.