Comfort and Hope in Loss

Nov 21, 2024

Lecture Notes: Sermon on Psalm 116:15 and Isaiah 57:1

Introduction

  • The sermon draws comfort from two scriptures after the passing of Engineer Bami Dele Babatunde.
  • Scriptures:
    • Psalm 116:15 (NKJV): "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."
    • Isaiah 57:1 (NLT): "Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time, but no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come."

Theme: Death and Christian Hope

  • Death is not glorified; it is the last enemy, which will be destroyed according to 1 Corinthians 15:20-26.
  • Risen Christ: Christ's resurrection is the first fruit for those who have died.
  • Victory Over Death: Christ's resurrection ensures that all who believe in Him will be made alive.

Double Blows Against Death

  1. Hebrews 2:14-15: Through death, Jesus destroyed the power of death and freed people from the fear of death.
    • Christians are free from the bondage of the fear of death.
  2. 2 Timothy 1:8-12: Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
    • Christians are called with a holy calling, not by works, but by His grace.

Assurance of Eternal Life

  • Christians do not die; they fall asleep and are present with the Lord.
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 & 2 Corinthians 5:1-8: To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

Reflection on Grief and Celebration

  • The loss of Engineer Babatunde is mourned, yet his life is celebrated as heaven's gain.
  • Philippians 1:21: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain."

Tribute to Engineer Bami Dele Babatunde

  • Contribution to the Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC) through intentional strategy and collaboration.
  • Developed the CGCC Credo: "Love God, Love People, Serve God, Serve People."
  • Remembered for living the message and being a model husband, father, and son.
  • Matthew 22:37-40: Represents the essence of the CGCC community.

Final Thoughts

  • 1 Corinthians 15:55: "O death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?"
  • Confidence that the family's sorrow will turn into joy, and their strength will be renewed.
  • Announcements for tribute events and services for Engineer Babatunde.
    • Various activities and services planned in memory of Babatunde.

Closing Prayer and Acknowledgments

  • Prayers for the comfort of the family and the CGCC community.
  • Announcement of upcoming events, expressions of gratitude to supporters, and a call for continued strength and hope through faith.