Sermon: “Restoration Through God’s Glory”

Scripture: Jeremiah 33:7 – “I will restore the fortunes of Judah and Israel and rebuild them as they were at first.”

Introduction

God is a God of restoration. No matter how broken, lost, or defeated we may feel, He promises to rebuild, renew, and restore. In Jeremiah 33:7, God speaks to His people, assuring them that He will bring back what was lost and rebuild what was destroyed. This promise is not just for Israel but for everyone who trusts in the Lord.

1. God’s Promise of Restoration

Introduction:
The promise of restoration is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, demonstrating God’s unwavering commitment to His people. In the context of Judah and Israel, they experienced devastating destruction and captivity due to their disobedience. Yet, even in their darkest moments, God did not abandon them. He promised to restore their fortunes and bring them back to a place of blessing and prosperity. This promise wasn’t just about physical restoration—it was about renewing their relationship with Him and reestablishing their identity as His chosen people. Today, this same promise applies to us. No matter what we’ve lost or how broken we feel, God desires to restore every area of our lives—our spiritual walk, relationships, finances, health, and more. His restoration is not partial; it is complete, touching every aspect of our being.

Reflection:
When we think about restoration, it’s important to understand that it’s not just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about God bringing us back into alignment with His will and purpose. The people of Judah and Israel had strayed far from God, and their disobedience led to captivity and loss. Yet, even in their rebellion, God’s love remained steadfast. He promised to restore them, not because they deserved it, but because of His faithfulness and mercy. This is a powerful reminder for us today. No matter how far we’ve wandered or how much we’ve lost, God’s promise of restoration still stands. He is not limited by our mistakes or failures. His love is greater than our sin, and His power is greater than our brokenness. When we trust Him, He takes our shattered pieces and rebuilds them into something beautiful.

 Application:
To apply this truth, begin by trusting that God has a plan for your restoration. Declare Joel 2:25 over your life: “I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten.” Believe that God is able to restore what was lost, broken, or stolen. Surrender your brokenness to Him in prayer, acknowledging that He is the only one who can truly rebuild your life. For example, if you’ve experienced a season of spiritual dryness, ask God to reignite your passion for Him. If you’ve lost a relationship, trust Him to bring healing and reconciliation. If you’ve faced financial hardship, believe that He can provide and restore your resources. As you trust Him, you’ll begin to see His hand at work, bringing restoration in ways that exceed your expectations.

• The people of Judah and Israel had experienced destruction and captivity, but God did not abandon them.
• His promise was to restore their fortunes—to bring them back to their place of blessing.
• Likewise, God desires to restore every broken area in our lives: our spiritual life, relationships, finances, and health.

Application:

• Trust that God has a plan for your restoration (Joel 2:25).
• Surrender your brokenness to Him, knowing He is faithful to rebuild.

2. Restoration Requires Repentance

 Introduction:
Restoration is not just a one-sided act of God; it requires our response. For the people of Israel, their captivity was a direct result of their sin and rebellion. Yet, even in their disobedience, God’s love remained. He called them to return to Him in humility and repentance, promising to forgive their sins and restore their land. This principle still applies to us today. True restoration begins when we turn back to God, acknowledging our sins and seeking His forgiveness. It’s about realigning our hearts with His will and surrendering every area of our lives to Him. Restoration is not just about receiving blessings; it’s about being brought back into a right relationship with God.

Reflection:
Repentance is the foundation of restoration. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God says, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” This Bible verse highlights the importance of humility, prayer, and repentance in the process of restoration. It’s not enough to simply ask God to fix our problems; we must also examine our hearts and turn away from anything that hinders our relationship with Him. True restoration starts with a heart that is fully surrendered to God. It’s about letting go of our pride, our selfish desires, and our sinful habits, and choosing to walk in obedience to His Word. When we do this, we position ourselves to receive His restoration in every area of our lives.

 Application:
To apply this truth, take time to examine your heart and ask God to reveal any areas where you need to repent. Be honest with Him about your struggles, your failures, and your sins. Surrender them to Him in prayer, and ask for His forgiveness. For example, if you’ve been holding onto bitterness or unforgiveness, release it to Him and ask for His healing. If you’ve been living in disobedience, make the decision to turn back to Him and walk in His ways. Seek God’s presence daily through prayer, worship, and reading His Word. As you do this, you’ll begin to experience His restoration in your life. Remember, restoration is not just about receiving blessings; it’s about being brought back into a deep, intimate relationship with God.

• Israel’s captivity was a result of sin and rebellion, but God’s love remained.
• True restoration begins when we turn back to God in humility and repentance.
• 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

Application:

• Examine your heart and ask God to cleanse you from anything that hinders His restoration.
• Seek God’s presence daily and walk in obedience to His Word.

3. Restoration Brings God’s Glory

 Introduction:
When God restores, He does it in a way that reveals His power and glory. Throughout Scripture, we see examples of God’s restoration bringing about greater blessings and testimonies of His faithfulness. In Isaiah 61:7, God promises, “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance.” This Bible verse reminds us that God’s restoration is not just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about bringing us into a place of abundance and joy. Just as He restored Job’s losses double-fold (Job 42:10), God desires to bless us abundantly. His restoration always exceeds what was lost, and it brings glory to His name.

Reflection:
The story of Job is a powerful example of God’s restorative power. After losing everything—his family, wealth, and health—Job remained faithful to God. In the end, God not only restored what Job had lost but gave him twice as much as he had before. This shows that God’s restoration is not limited by our circumstances or the enemy’s attacks. When God restores, He does it in a way that reveals His glory and power. Think about the areas in your life where you’ve experienced loss. God’s promise is that He can turn your pain into purpose and your loss into greater gain. His restoration is not just about recovering what was lost; it’s about experiencing His abundance in new and unexpected ways. When God’s glory is revealed in your life, people will see the evidence of His restoration power and give Him praise.

Application:
To apply this truth, begin to declare God’s promises over your life. Speak Isaiah 61:7 and Job 42:10 over your situation, believing that God can restore what was lost and give you double for your trouble. Expect supernatural breakthroughs as you walk in faith. For example, if you’ve experienced financial loss, trust that God can not only restore your finances but also bless you with greater abundance. If you’ve lost a job or opportunity, believe that God has something better in store for you. Start praising and thanking God in advance for His restoration, even before you see the full manifestation of His promises. As you do this, you’ll begin to see His hand at work, bringing greater glory and blessing into your life. Remember, restoration is not just for your benefit—it’s for His glory. When God restores, He fills your life with joy, peace, and satisfaction, and your testimony becomes a powerful witness to His faithfulness.

• When God restores, He does it in a way that reveals His power and glory.
• Isaiah 61:7 – “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance.”
• Just as He restored Job’s losses double-fold (Job 42:10), God desires to bless you abundantly.

Application:

• Declare God’s promises over your life.
• Expect supernatural breakthroughs as you walk in faith.

Concluding Reflection: Embracing the Mission of Matthew 28:7

Matthew 28:7

The mission of Matthew 28:7 is twofold: it is both personal and communal. Personally, it challenges us to live in the reality of the resurrection, allowing it to transform every area of our lives. Just as Jesus restored the disciples’ hope and purpose after His resurrection, He desires to restore us and equip us for His work. Communally, it compels us to share the good news of His restoration with others. We are called to be witnesses of His power, declaring that He is alive and actively working to restore what is broken.

This mission is urgent and relevant today. In a world filled with pain, loss, and despair, the message of restoration through Christ is a beacon of hope. We are called to go into our families, workplaces, communities, and beyond, sharing the transformative power of the Gospel. Just as God has restored us, we are to be instruments of His restoration in the lives of others. This is not just a task for pastors or missionaries—it is the calling of every believer.

As we reflect on Matthew 28:7, let us embrace this mission with boldness and joy. Let us live as people who have been restored by the risen Christ, carrying His light into the darkness. Let us declare His promises, demonstrate His love, and invite others to experience His restoration. The mission is clear, the time is now, and the power of the resurrection is with us. Let us go and tell the world: Jesus is alive, and He is restoring all things!

Encouragement: You Are Called to Be a Messenger of Hope!

No matter how far you have fallen, God’s restoration is available. He is calling you to trust in Him completely. When you surrender everything to Him, He will rebuild, renew, and restore. Hold on to His promises, and you will see His glory revealed in your life.

Dear Brothers and Sisters, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the brokenness in the world or even in your own life, take heart—Jesus is alive, and He is in the business of restoration! Matthew 28:7 reminds us that the resurrection is not just a historical event but a living reality that empowers us to live with hope and purpose. You are not alone in this journey. Jesus is going ahead of you, preparing the way and equipping you for the mission He has called you to.

No matter what you’ve lost or how broken you feel, God’s promise of restoration is for you. He is able to take your pain, your failures, and your struggles and turn them into something beautiful. Just as He restored the disciples’ hope after His resurrection, He is restoring you. Your story of restoration is not just for you—it’s a testimony that can bring hope to others. You are called to be a messenger of His love and power, sharing the good news that Jesus is alive and actively working in our lives.

Take courage and step into this mission with confidence. You don’t have to have all the answers or be perfect to make a difference. Simply share what God has done in your life. Your words, your actions, and your love can point others to the hope found in Christ. Remember, you are not just a recipient of God’s restoration; you are also a vessel through which His restoration can flow to others.

So, rise up and embrace this calling with joy! The world needs the hope that you carry. Go and tell the world that Jesus is alive, that He restores, and that His love changes everything. You are an essential part of His mission, and He is with you every step of the way. Be encouraged—your story matters, and your mission is changing lives!

 Final Challenge: Step Into Your Mission!

The message of Matthew 28:7 is clear: Jesus is alive, and He is calling you to be part of His mission of restoration. This is your moment to rise up and step into the purpose He has for you. You are not just a spectator—you are a messenger of hope, a bearer of good news, and a vessel of His love. The world is waiting for the hope that only Christ can bring, and you have been chosen to share it.

Your challenge is this: Go and tell. Share the story of what Jesus has done in your life. Declare His promises to those who are broken and lost. Show His love through your actions and words. You don’t need to have all the answers or be perfect—just be willing. Let your life be a living testimony of His restoration power.

The time is now. Don’t wait for the “right” moment. Start where you are, with what you have. Speak hope to a friend, serve someone in need, or simply share your story. Every small step of obedience can have an eternal impact. Remember, Jesus is going ahead of you, and He will equip you for this mission. Will you answer the call? Step into your mission today and watch how God uses you to bring His restoration to the world!

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You, thanking You for Your promise of restoration. You are the God who rebuilds what is broken and brings beauty from ashes. Today, we surrender every area of our lives that needs Your healing touch.

Lord, we repent of any sin, doubt, or fear that has kept us from walking in Your fullness. Cleanse our hearts and renew our spirits. Help us to seek You with all our hearts, knowing that true restoration comes from Your presence.

We declare Your promise in Jeremiah 33:7—that You will restore our fortunes and rebuild us. We trust that what the enemy has stolen, You will return double-fold. Let Your glory be revealed in our lives as a testimony of Your faithfulness.

Father, strengthen our faith and give us the patience to wait on Your perfect timing. May we walk in obedience and expectation, knowing that You will complete the good work You have started in us.

We praise You for the restoration that is coming, and we give You all the glory.

In Jesus’ name, Amen!

God bless you all.