Time is so short when getting into such powerful truths as contained in  this chapter! Though I've selected 3 main points for our time together  today, I would suggest for you to take time through this weekend and  simply consider this chapter as you read it several times! Think on  every word and consider the ways God desires to change your life through  them. And now, on to our points: 1) Absent from the Body - This chapter  is one of the best explanations of the hope we have in the  resurrection! Recognizing this body of flesh as only a tent, a temporary  dwelling place, the Apostle Paul reveals that we shall soon be rid of  it and through Christ we can be prepared to enter our new, and eternal,  state. Paul also recognizes the hesitancy we have in making the  transition as this is the only body and life we've ever truly known  (that's where faith comes in!). We must also be very aware of the  judgment which is to come, which lead to our second point. 2) Knowing  the Terror of the LORD - In just about all evangelical churches today  the wrath of God, His judgment, and His holiness are rarely taught. What  is predominantly spoken of is His love, patients, forgiveness,  kindness, and gentleness. While these characteristics are very true of  our God, they are only true concerning His children! The world without  Christ is without God and outside the boundaries of His forgiveness,  love, gentleness, and kindness. They are found continually under God's  judgment because of His righteousness and justice which is applied  toward sin and they are continually facing His wrath as being children  of disobedience (Ephesians 2:1-3). Ultimately, if they remain in their  state of rebellion they will be crushed under the weight of His  holiness, and so, they must repent! This lost world must keenly feel the  wrath of God in order to flee to Christ, which leads us to our final  point. 3) A New Creation - When the terror of the LORD is revealed and  accepted by the lost the beautiful transformation of regeneration  occurs! Receiving Jesus changes you. Your old nature (passions, desires,  directions in life) is to be surrendered and all things become new  (because everything you were was connected to your old nature). If you  are still satisfied with your old nature's ways then you have not been  saved! Your new life in Christ is meant to be as an ambassador of your  Father's kingdom and your message is to present the Gospel of  reconciliation, that Jesus took our sin and paid the penalty on our  behalf so He could set us free! Things to consider today as you travel  this chapter with Pastor J!!! God bless