[Scripture Reading: John 6:67-69]

Introduction

A. When Jesus offered the bread of life to a crowd with an appetite that only literal bread would appease, many refused to walk with Him another step.

B. When the Christian life becomes difficult, there are many who will give up when God’s greatest gifts are yet to come.

I. Jesus reminds us that any hardships we endure are only temporary.

A. In the garden He asked for just one hour (Matthew 26:40).

B. He told the church in Smyrna that they could expect an end to their tribulation (Revelation 2:10).

C. All suffering will have an end (Matthew 24:9-13).

II. Jesus has promised that He is coming back.

A. This is why we must be watchful (Matthew 24:44-51).

B. When He returns, He is coming for us (John 14:3; 17:24; 1 Thessalonians 4:17).

III. Jesus has promised us a reward worth far more than we deserve.

A. There are promises for the present (Mark 10:29-31).

B. There are promises for the hereafter (2 Timothy 4:8; Revelation 21:4).

C. He promised to confess us before the Father (Matthew 10:32).

D. These promises are for those who will endure to the end (Revelation 2:7,17,26; 3:5,12,21).

Conclusion

A. If we are going to endure, we need to stay close to the Shepherd (John 10:27-28; cf. 8:31; 15:5-8).

B. The greatest blessings that heaven has to offer are waiting for us: we can’t give up now!