The hope of believers is the final declaration of righteousness on the day when Christ returns in glory.1 This hope is not an uncertain wish, but a confident expectation (Romans 8:19, Romans 8:23, Romans 8:25; 1 Corinthians 1:7; Philippians 3:20; cf. Hebrews 9:28). Essentially, Christian believers expect the present reality (righteousness through faith in and union with Christ) to be publicly revealed and proclaimed on the day of Christ’s return (Matthew 25:31–40; Luke 18:1–8; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:10).2
5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.