Join us on Wednesday nights for a study in the Book of Revelation led by Tim Guthrie!
Beginning May 24
6pm
Worship Center
Revelation Study Outline and Notes
The message to the church at Sardis – Rev 3: 1-6
In Revelation 3:1-6, we encounter a letter addressed to the church in Sardis. This passage contains essential lessons that can guide us in our spiritual journey, helping us evaluate and strengthen our spiritual vitality. Let us dive into the text and uncover the timeless teachings it offers.
Verse 1: Evaluating Our Spiritual State
“To the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead.”
This verse sets the stage for the message to the church in Sardis. It highlights the importance of sincere self-evaluation. The church appeared to be vibrant and alive, but Jesus, who has perfect knowledge, knew their true spiritual condition. It is crucial for us to examine ourselves honestly, not merely relying on outward appearances or reputations. True vitality comes from an authentic relationship with God.
Lesson 1: Genuine Spirituality
We must strive for authenticity in our faith. It is not enough to go through the motions or appear righteous to others. Instead, we should seek a genuine, vibrant relationship with God, characterized by heartfelt devotion and a desire to follow His ways.
Verse 2-3: Repentance and Renewal
“Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent.”
Jesus urges the church in Sardis to wake up from their spiritual slumber and address their shortcomings. They are called to repentance and renewal, emphasizing the need for a transformative change in their hearts and actions. Remembering and holding fast to what they have learned becomes crucial in this process.
Lesson 2: Vigilance and Action
We are reminded to be watchful and proactive in our spiritual lives. It is easy to become complacent or distracted, allowing our faith to stagnate. Through self-reflection and repentance, we can revitalize our relationship with God, embracing a lifestyle of continuous growth and transformation.
Verse 4-6: Rekindling the Flame
“Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
In these verses, Jesus acknowledges the remnant in Sardis who have remained faithful and encourages them with the promise of rewards. The image of white garments symbolizes purity and righteousness, and Jesus assures those who overcome that their names will be preserved in the book of life.
Lesson 3: Perseverance and Faithfulness
We are called to persevere in our faith, even in challenging circumstances. Despite the spiritual decline surrounding them, the faithful few in Sardis managed to maintain their devotion to God. By staying true to their calling, they became a testament to the power of faithfulness and obedience. Their reward was a deepened relationship with Christ and the assurance of eternal life.
Conclusion:
Revelation 3:1-6 serves as a wake-up call for the church in Sardis and for believers throughout history. It reminds us to assess our spiritual state honestly, seek authenticity in our relationship with God, and remain
The Message to the Church in Pergamum – Lessons from Revelation 2:12-17Introduction:Continuing our exploration of the messages to the seven churches in the book of Revelation, we now turn our attention to the message given to the church in Pergamum. This passage, found in Revelation 2:12-17, carries profound insights and valuable lessons for believers facing challenges related to compromise and false teachings.
I. Understanding the Context (Revelation 2:12)
A. The author: The apostle John, exiled on the island of Patmos, receives this revelation from Jesus Christ Himself.
B. The recipient: The church in Pergamum, a city known for its religious and political prominence.
II. Commendation and Rebuke (Revelation 2:13)
A. Jesus commends the church in Pergamum for holding fast to His name and not denying the faith.
B. However, He rebukes them for allowing false teachings and the influence of the Nicoliatians, a group promoting compromise and immorality.
III. The Call to Repentance (Revelation 2:14-16)
A. Jesus calls the church in Pergamum to repent of their tolerance of false teachings and immoral practices.
B. If they fail to repent, Jesus warns of His coming judgment and the use of His “sharp sword” of truth.
IV. The Promise of Reward (Revelation 2:17)
A. Jesus promises a reward to those who overcome and conquer: the hidden manna and a white stone with a new name written on it.
B. This promise emphasizes the blessings of spiritual nourishment and intimacy with God, as well as a new identity in Christ.
V. Lessons for Believers Today
A. The danger of compromise: The message to Pergamum serves as a warning against compromising our faith and tolerating false teachings or practices.
B. The importance of discernment: We are called to discern between true and false teachings, holding fast to the unchanging truth of God’s Word.
C. The call to repentance: If we find ourselves straying from God’s truth, we must heed the call to repentance and turn back to Him.
D. The promise of reward: Our faithfulness to Christ, even in the face of compromise, will be rewarded with spiritual nourishment and a new identity in Him.
Conclusion:
The message to the church in Pergamum offers crucial lessons for believers today. It reminds us to be vigilant against compromise and false teachings, upholding the truth of God’s Word as our foundation. Let us strive for discernment, remaining steadfast in our faith, and quick to repent when we veer off course. As we overcome challenges and faithfully follow Christ, we can look forward to the rewards of spiritual nourishment and a transformed identity in Him. May we be inspired by the Pergamum church’s call to repentance and their pursuit of a faithful and unwavering commitment to Christ.
The Message to the Church in Thyatira – Lessons from Revelation 2:18-29
Introduction:
In our study of the messages to the seven churches in the book of Revelation, we now focus on the message given to the church in Thyatira. This passage, found in Revelation 2:18-29, offers profound insights and valuable lessons for believers facing the challenges of compromise, false teachings, and moral corruption.
I. Understanding the Context (Revelation 2:18)
A. The author: The apostle John, exiled on the island of Patmos, receives this revelation from Jesus Christ Himself.
B. The recipient: The church in Thyatira, a city known for its trade guilds and idolatrous practices.
II. Commendation and Rebuke (Revelation 2:19)
A. Jesus commends the church in Thyatira for their love, faith, service, and perseverance.
B. However, He rebukes them for tolerating the false prophetess Jezebel, who leads His servants into sexual immorality and idol worship.
III. The Call to Repentance (Revelation 2:20-23)
A. Jesus calls the church in Thyatira to repent of their tolerance of false teachings and immoral practices.
B. He warns of severe consequences for those who refuse to repent, including sickness, tribulation, and even death.
IV. The Promise of Reward (Revelation 2:24-29)
A. Jesus promises a reward to those who do not hold to Jezebel’s teachings: authority over the nations and the morning star.
B. This promise emphasizes the privilege of reigning with Christ and receiving the fullness of His divine presence.
V. Lessons for Believers Today
A. The danger of compromise: The message to Thyatira serves as a warning against compromising our faith by tolerating false teachings and immoral practices.
B. The importance of discernment: We are called to discern truth from error, firmly rooted in the teachings of Christ and His Word.
C. The call to repentance: If we find ourselves entangled in sin or tolerating false teachings, we must respond to Christ’s call to repentance and turn back to Him.
D. The promise of reward: Faithfulness to Christ, even in the face of moral corruption, brings the promise of reigning with Him and experiencing His divine presence.
Conclusion:
The message to the church in Thyatira holds crucial lessons for believers today. It warns us of the dangers of compromise, false teachings, and moral corruption within the body of Christ. May we remain steadfast in our love for God, holding fast to His truth and resisting the allure of compromise. Let us diligently practice discernment and be quick to repent when we stray from His path. As we faithfully follow Christ, we can anticipate the reward of reigning with Him and experiencing the fullness of His divine presence. May the example of the Thyatira church’s call to repentance inspire us to pursue holiness and wholehearted devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Session 3
Title: The Message to the Church in Ephesus – Lessons from Revelation 2:1-11
Introduction:
The book of Revelation is a fascinating and complex book of the Bible that contains a series of messages from Jesus Christ to seven churches in Asia Minor. Each message contains praise, commendation, rebuke, and a call to repentance or perseverance. In this lesson, we will focus on the message to the church in Ephesus found in Revelation 2:1-11. This passage provides valuable lessons for us as believers today.
I. Understanding the Context (Revelation 2:1)
A. The author: The apostle John, exiled on the island of Patmos, receives this revelation from Jesus Christ Himself.
B. The recipient: The church in Ephesus, a prominent and influential city in Asia Minor.
II. Commendation for Faithfulness (Revelation 2:2-3)
A. Jesus commends the Ephesian church for their works, toil, and patient endurance.
B. They have identified false apostles and persevered through hardships for the sake of Christ.
III. Identifying the Problem (Revelation 2:4)
A. Jesus reveals that the church has abandoned its first love.
B. The Ephesians have become so focused on their works and doctrine that they have neglected their deep, intimate love for God.
IV. The Call to Repentance (Revelation 2:5)
A. Jesus urges the Ephesians to remember, repent, and return to their initial love for God.
B. If they fail to repent, Jesus warns of the removal of their lampstand, symbolizing the withdrawal of His presence and blessing.
V. Exhortation for Discernment (Revelation 2:6)
A. The Ephesians are commended for their hatred of the deeds of the Nicolaitans, a heretical group promoting immorality and compromise.
B. Discernment is crucial for the church to distinguish truth from error and maintain purity.
VI. The Promise of Reward (Revelation 2:7)
A. Jesus promises a reward to those who overcome and conquer: the right to eat from the tree of life in the paradise of God.
B. This promise emphasizes the eternal blessings that await those who remain faithful and steadfast in their love for Christ.
VII. Encouragement for the Faithful (Revelation 2:9-11)
A. Jesus acknowledges the church’s suffering, poverty, and persecution.
B. He encourages them not to fear and assures them of future blessings and victory over their enemies.
Conclusion:
It reminds us of the importance of maintaining a deep, passionate love for God amidst the busyness of our Christian service. We must guard against complacency and remember that our works and toil, though important, should flow from a heart of genuine love for Christ. This passage also highlights the significance of discernment, holding fast to sound doctrine, and standing against false teachings. As we persevere through trials and remain faithful, we can look forward to the eternal rewards promised by our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us, therefore, heed these lessons and continually cultivate our love for God, discern truth from error, and persevere in faith until the end.
The Message to the Church in Smyrna – Lessons from Revelation 2:8-11
Introduction:
Continuing our study of the messages to the seven churches in the book of Revelation, we now turn our attention to the message given to the church in Smyrna. This passage, found in Revelation 2:8-11, provides profound insights and valuable lessons for believers facing persecution and trials.
I. Understanding the Context (Revelation 2:8)
A. The author: The apostle John, exiled on the island of Patmos, receives this revelation from Jesus Christ Himself.
B. The recipient: The church in Smyrna, a city known for its prosperity but also a place where Christians faced intense persecution.
II. Commendation for Endurance (Revelation 2:9)
A. Jesus acknowledges the affliction, poverty, and slander that the church in Smyrna endured.
B. Despite their challenging circumstances, the believers in Smyrna remained steadfast in their faith.
III. Identifying the Source of Persecution (Revelation 2:9)
A. Jesus identifies the instigators of persecution: those who claim to be Jews but are actually a synagogue of Satan.
B. This highlights the spiritual battle and the opposition believers face from forces aligned against God’s kingdom.
IV. Encouragement in the Midst of Persecution (Revelation 2:10)
A. Jesus urges the believers in Smyrna not to fear the coming tribulation.
B. He reassures them that their suffering will be temporary and that they will receive the crown of life, the ultimate reward for their faithfulness.
V. The Call to Faithfulness (Revelation 2:10)
A. Jesus exhorts the church in Smyrna to remain faithful, even to the point of death.
B. This call to faithfulness emphasizes the importance of unwavering commitment to Christ, regardless of the cost.
VI. Promise of Spiritual Victory (Revelation 2:11)
A. Jesus promises that those who overcome will not be harmed by the second death, which refers to eternal separation from God.
B. This promise highlights the ultimate victory believers have in Christ, even if they suffer persecution and physical death.
VII. Lessons for Believers Today
A. Perseverance in the face of trials: The message to Smyrna reminds us of the importance of remaining faithful and enduring hardships, knowing that our temporary suffering will be rewarded.
B. The reality of spiritual warfare: We are reminded that our struggles are not merely physical but also spiritual, and we must recognize the forces opposing God’s kingdom.
C. The courage to stand firm: We are called to be fearless in the face of persecution, trusting in God’s faithfulness and the promise of eternal life.
D. The value of faithfulness: Our commitment to Christ should be unwavering, even when faced with adversity and potential loss.
Conclusion:
The message to the church in Smyrna serves as an encouragement and challenge for believers today. It reminds us that trials and persecution may come our way, but we can find strength and hope in Christ. Let us hold fast to our faith, persevere through difficulties, and trust in the promises of eternal life. May we be inspired by the faithfulness of the Smyrna believers and follow their example, knowing that our enduring commitment to Christ will be richly rewarded.
Lesson: Understanding Revelation Chapter 1
Introduction:
The Book of Revelation is the final book of the New Testament and is known for its symbolic and apocalyptic language. It was written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. Revelation provides a glimpse into the end times and the ultimate victory of God over evil. In this lesson, we will explore the first chapter of Revelation and its key themes and messages.
I. The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:1-3)
A. John introduces the book as a revelation of Jesus Christ given to him by God.
B. The purpose of the revelation is to show God’s servants what must soon take place.
C. Blessed are those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. James 5:8 and Rev 22:10 “time is near”
II. The Salutation and Vision of Christ (Revelation 1:4-8)
A. John addresses the seven churches in Asia and conveys grace and peace from God.
B. He emphasizes the eternal nature of God, who is, who was, and who is to come.
C. Jesus Christ is described as the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth.
D. Jesus is also identified as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.
Session 2
III. John’s Vision of the Son of Man (Revelation 1:9-20)
A. John shares his experience of being in the Spirit on the Lord’s day on the island of Patmos.
B. He hears a loud voice behind him and turns to see the Son of Man, Jesus Christ.
C. Jesus is depicted in a majestic and glorious form, wearing a long robe and a golden sash.
D. His hair is white as snow, and his eyes are like flames of fire.
E. Jesus holds seven stars in his right hand, symbolizing the angels of the seven churches.
F. A two-edged sword comes out of his mouth, representing the power of his word.
G. Jesus’ face shines like the sun in all its brilliance.
H. John falls at Jesus’ feet, and Jesus reassures him with comforting words.
I. Jesus holds the keys of death and Hades.
IV. The Interpretation of the Vision (Revelation 1:20)
A. Jesus provides an interpretation of the symbols seen in the vision.
B. The seven stars represent the angels of the seven churches.
C. The seven golden lamp stands represent the seven churches.
Conclusion:
Revelation Chapter 1 sets the stage for the entire book, introducing the revelation of Jesus Christ and emphasizing his power and authority. It highlights the eternal nature of God and the importance of reading, hearing, and keeping the words of this prophecy. John’s vision of the Son of Man reveals the majestic and divine nature of Jesus Christ. The symbols and their interpretation provide insights into the significance of the seven churches. As we continue studying the Book of Revelation, we will delve deeper into the messages and prophecies contained within it.
Session 1
Views on the interpretation of the book of Revelation
Interpretation
A. Preterist(from the Latin word preter, meaning “past”).
This approach states that everything in the book took place in the first century. John deals, they say, with the war between the church and Rome. He wrote the saints to comfort and encourage them in their time of persecution. But, John states seven times that he is writing prophecy. Certainly the book had a special value to those enduring Roman persecution, but its value did not cease with the close of the Apostolic Age.
B. Historical.
Interpreters in this camp claim to see the fulfillment of church history in the symbols of Revelation. They believe that the book outlines the course of history from apostolic times to the end of the age. They search history books to find events that parallel those in Revelation, but sometimes the results are disastrous. One interpreter sees Luther and the Reformation in a symbol that, to another student, stands for the invention of the printing press! Of what value would Revelation be to the believers in John’s day if all it did was foretell world history? And of what value would it be to us today?
C. Spiritual.
These students abandon the idea of prophecy completely and use Revelation as a symbolical presentation of the conflict between Christ and Satan, good and evil. They reject the idea that John writes about actual events; they claim he is dealing only with basic spiritual principles. But, again, John tells us he is writing prophecy. While we recognize that Revelation does contain many basic spiritual principles in symbolic form, we must also admit that the book deals with real events that will one day take place in the world.
D. Futurist.
(The approach we believe and take)
This school emphasizes that Revelation is prophecy; chapters 6 through 22 describe a scenario of events that will transpire on earth and in heaven after the church is raptured. While such students gladly recognize the spiritual lessons of the book, they also recognize that it talks about actual events that will be fulfilled one day. If Revelation is not to be interpreted as prophecy, then God has not given the church a book in the NT to explain the future of the world, the course of events, the victory of the church, the judgment of sin, and the fulfillment of the promises and prophecies found in the OT. This is unthinkable. No, Revelation is that book; and the student who reverently approaches this book as a prophecy of events that will occur after the church is caught away will be rewarded for his or her labors.
Revelation 3:14-22 – The Message to Laodicea
Introduction:
The book of Revelation is a profound and mysterious book, filled with prophetic messages, symbolism, and divine revelations. In Revelation 3:14-22, we find a message specifically addressed to the church in Laodicea. This passage contains valuable lessons that are relevant to believers today, teaching us about spiritual lukewarmness, the need for genuine repentance, and the invitation to intimate fellowship with Christ. Let us delve into this passage and discover the insights it offers for our spiritual growth.
I. The Church’s Lukewarmness (Revelation 3:15-16):
In verses 15-16, Jesus begins His message by addressing the church’s lukewarmness. He declares, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
A. Understanding Lukewarmness:
Lukewarmness represents a state of spiritual indifference, complacency, and mediocrity. It is when our passion for God diminishes, and we become indifferent towards His ways, His Word, and His presence. Lukewarmness hinders our spiritual growth, weakens our witness, and grieves the heart of God.
B. The Warning and Rebuke:
Jesus’ strong language of being “spit out” emphasizes the seriousness of lukewarmness. It conveys His desire for genuine commitment and wholehearted devotion from His followers. He calls the Laodicean church to recognize their condition and respond with repentance.
II. The Call to Repentance (Revelation 3:17-19):
In verses 17-19, Jesus exposes the spiritual blindness and self-deception of the Laodicean church, urging them to repent and turn back to Him.
A. Self-Deception and Spiritual Poverty:
The Laodiceans believed they were rich and self-sufficient, materially and spiritually, but in reality, they were spiritually bankrupt. Their self-deception prevented them from seeing their true spiritual condition. Jesus calls them to recognize their poverty, not in worldly terms, but in spiritual matters.
B. True Wealth and Healing:
Jesus counsels them to acquire true wealth from Him, which is gold refined in the fire—symbolizing genuine faith and righteousness. He also offers them white garments, representing purity, and eye salve to restore their spiritual sight. These gifts signify the transformative power of repentance and the restoration available through Christ.
III. The Invitation to Fellowship (Revelation 3:20):
In verse 20, Jesus extends a gracious invitation to the Laodiceans, as well as to all believers, to invite Him into their lives for intimate fellowship.
A. Jesus at the Door:
Jesus says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” This image portrays Jesus as a loving and patient Savior, desiring to have a close, personal relationship with His followers.
B. Responding to His Invitation:
To experience fellowship with Christ, we must respond by hearing His voice, opening the door of our hearts, and allowing Him to come in. This involves genuine repentance, surrender, and an ongoing commitment to follow Him faithfully.
Conclusion:
The message to the church in Laodicea serves as a timeless lesson for believers today. It warns against spiritual lukewarmness, calls for sincere repentance, and offers the invitation to intimate fellowship with Jesus
Message to the church at Philadelphia – Revelation 3:7-13
Introduction:
The Book of Revelation is a profound and mysterious book filled with prophetic visions and messages. In Revelation 3:7-13, we encounter a letter addressed to the church in Philadelphia. This letter contains valuable lessons that can inspire and guide believers today. Let us explore the key themes and principles found in this passage.
I. The Character of Christ (Revelation 3:7)
In verse 7, Jesus introduces Himself as the One who holds the key of David, who opens and no one can shut, and shuts and no one can open. This description emphasizes Christ’s sovereignty and authority. As believers, we must acknowledge and honor the supremacy of Jesus in our lives. He has the power to open doors of opportunity and close doors that are not in alignment with His will. Trusting in His authority leads to blessings and divine guidance.
II. Faithfulness and Endurance (Revelation 3:8)
The church in Philadelphia is commended for its faithfulness and endurance in the face of various challenges. Despite their limited strength, they held fast to God’s Word and did not deny His name. This teaches us the importance of remaining faithful and persevering in our Christian walk, even when circumstances are difficult. God honors those who remain steadfast and committed to Him, promising to open doors that no one can shut.
III. The Open Door of Opportunity (Revelation 3:8)
Jesus tells the church that He has set before them an open door that no one can shut. This open door represents opportunities, divine favor, and blessings that God provides for His faithful followers. It signifies a season of advancement and growth. However, this open door should not be interpreted merely in material or worldly terms. It primarily refers to opportunities for spiritual impact, sharing the gospel, and expanding God’s kingdom. As believers, we should be vigilant and discerning to recognize the doors of opportunity God places before us and step out in faith to seize them.
IV. Overcoming Opposition (Revelation 3:9-10)
The church in Philadelphia faced opposition from those who claimed to be Jews but were actually false and opposed to the truth. Jesus promises that He will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan bow down before the faithful believers. This highlights the ultimate victory of God’s people over their adversaries. While we may encounter opposition and persecution in our journey of faith, we can take comfort in the assurance that God is with us. He will vindicate His faithful followers and bring justice in due time. Therefore, we must remain faithful and trust in His promises.
V. Holding Fast and Persevering (Revelation 3:11-13)
Jesus exhorts the church in Philadelphia to hold fast to what they have, so that no one may seize their crown. He encourages them to persevere, assuring them of His imminent return. This serves as a reminder to all believers that we must hold on to our faith and continue to live in obedience to God’s Word. The promise of eternal life and rewards awaits those who remain steadfast until the end.
Conclusion:
The letter to the church in Philadelphia in Revelation 3:7-13 conveys significant lessons for believers today. We are called to recognize the authority of Christ, remain faithful and endure, seize divine opportunities, overcome opposition, and hold fast to our faith. Let us be inspired by the example of the church in Philadelphia and strive to be a faithful and enduring church in our generation. May we trust in God’s promises and eagerly await the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Majestic Vision of God’s Throne: Revelation Chapter 4 Part 1
Introduction:
Revelation Chapter 4 unveils a remarkable vision that the Apostle John received while in the Spirit on the island of Patmos. This chapter marks a pivotal moment in the book of Revelation, as it provides a glimpse into the heavenly realm and the majestic throne room of God. In this lesson, we will explore the significance of Revelation Chapter 4 and its profound implications for our faith and understanding of God’s sovereignty.
I. The Setting of the Throne Room (Revelation 4:1-2):
A. John’s invitation into the heavenly realm:
- The voice like a trumpet and the open door.
- The immediate shift from the earthly to the heavenly perspective.
B. The One seated on the throne:
- Symbolic representation of God’s sovereignty and authority.
- The brilliance and radiance of His presence.
II. The Magnificent Worship in God’s Presence (Revelation 4:3-11):
A. The description of God’s throne and its surroundings:
- The appearance of jasper and carnelian, representing His holiness and judgment.
- The emerald rainbow, symbolizing His faithfulness and covenant promises.
B. The twenty-four elders:
- Their position and significance in heaven.
- Their worship and adoration before the throne.
C. The four living creatures:
- The representation of God’s creation and His authority over it.
- Their ceaseless praise and proclamation of God’s attributes.
III. Lessons from Revelation Chapter 4:
A. God’s sovereignty and power:
- The centrality of God’s throne and His reign over all creation.
- The reminder that God is in control, even in the midst of chaos and tribulations.
B. Worship and adoration:
- The response of the twenty-four elders and the living creatures.
- The importance of worshiping God with reverence and awe.
C. God’s faithfulness and covenant:
- The emerald rainbow as a reminder of God’s promises.
- The assurance that God keeps His word and remains faithful to His people.
D. The heavenly perspective:
- The invitation to see beyond the physical realm.
- The encouragement to fix our eyes on eternal realities.
Conclusion:
Revelation Chapter 4 presents a majestic vision of God’s throne room and offers us a glimpse into the heavenly realm. It reminds us of God’s sovereignty, power, and faithfulness, encouraging us to worship Him with reverence and awe. As we contemplate this chapter, may we be inspired to seek a heavenly perspective in our lives, keeping our focus on the eternal rather than the temporary. Let us approach God’s throne with confidence, knowing that He is worthy of all honor and praise.
Chapter 4 Part 2
Introduction
- Revelation 4 enters the third grand division in the book of the Revelation: the things which shall be hereafter
Revelation 1:1- John was told to write three things:
- Write what you’ve seen.
- This was a vision of Christ.
- Write about the things which are.
- This is the church age.
- This is the time between the first coming of Jesus and His second coming.
- The church age will end with the rapture of the church.
- This is the church age.
- Write about the things which shall be hereafter.
- Prophetic things.
- Write what you’ve seen.
- The second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ is called “the blessed hope.”
- Sorrow looks back.
- Worry looks all around.
- Hope looks up.
- When Jesus Christ comes again, those who are saved and still living will be miraculously transformed, will be given a glorified body, and will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air.
- The bodies of those who have already died in the Lord will be raised from their graves to meet their spirits in the air and be joined with the Lord.
- Revelation 4:1
- Beginning with this verse, the book of the Revelation enters into that area that deals with the future.
- The rapture of the church and everything that will transpire after the rapture.
- Beginning with this verse, the book of the Revelation enters into that area that deals with the future.
- John was told to write three things:
- WHAT: THE SACRED MYSTERY OF THE RAPTURE (Revelation 4:1)
- The Bible calls the rapture of the church a mystery.
- A mystery in the Bible is a truth that no one can figure out of his or her own accord, but a truth revealed by divine revelation.
- In Revelation 4:1, John is caught up and transported from Earth into Heaven.
- This is the rapture of the church.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
- The church in Thessalonica was waiting on Jesus’ return.
- Some of their members had died, and they were concerned that their brethren would miss the coming of the Lord.
- For those who have died in the Lord: the body is in the grave, and the spirit is with the Lord.
- At the rapture, the body will be raised to be reunited with the spirit that comes down with Jesus.
- Paul expected Jesus to come back in his lifetime.
- The word used to describe the rapture is the term “caught up.”
- We get the word “rapture” from the Latin word that means “to seize or to catch away, to be caught up.”
- The Greek word means the same thing.
- We get the word “rapture” from the Latin word that means “to seize or to catch away, to be caught up.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:51-52
- The word “mystery” means something that has been hidden but is now revealed.
- “We shall not all sleep;” meaning not all believers will die before the rapture.
- When Jesus comes again, those who are Heaven-born and Heaven-bound (those who have the nature of the Lord Jesus Christ), will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air.
- The rapture is a supernatural event.
- If we believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection, why would it be difficult to believe in the rapture?
- Reasons to believe in the rapture:
- We believe the Gospel.
- The Gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- The rapture is linked to redemption.
- God is not finished.
- You cannot have the incarnation without the coronation.
- We believe it because the Word of God teaches it.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:15
- We believe the Gospel.
- The Bible calls the rapture of the church a mystery.
Chapter 5
Title: The Lamb’s Triumph: Lesson from Revelation Chapter 5
Introduction:
In Revelation Chapter 5, we witness a powerful scene in the heavenly realm. John, the author of the book of Revelation, is granted a vision that unveils the significance of the Lamb of God. This chapter provides essential lessons about the nature of Jesus Christ and the profound impact of His sacrificial work. Let us explore the key lessons we can learn from this captivating chapter.
Lesson 1: Jesus Christ is the Worthy Lamb
Revelation 5 begins with a search for someone worthy to open the scroll with seven seals. The scroll represents God’s plan for the future and the redemption of humanity. Despite the desperate search, no one in heaven or on earth is found worthy to open the scroll. However, the revelation comes that the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. But when John looks, he sees a Lamb, appearing as though it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne. This imagery powerfully portrays Jesus Christ as the worthy Lamb who has conquered sin and death through His sacrificial death on the cross. The first lesson we learn is that Jesus alone is worthy of our worship and adoration.
Lesson 2: The Lamb’s Atoning Sacrifice
In verse 9, the hosts of heaven sing a new song, praising the Lamb for His redemptive work. They proclaim that He was slain and with His blood purchased people for God from every tribe, language, people, and nation. This verse emphasizes the significance of Jesus’ sacrificial death, which reconciles humanity to God. The lesson we derive is that through His blood, Jesus has ransomed and redeemed people from every corner of the earth. This act of salvation is not limited to a specific group but extends to all who believe in Him, regardless of their background or ethnicity.
Lesson 3: The Worship of the Lamb
As the scene unfolds, we witness the worship of the Lamb by the heavenly hosts. Myriads of angels, along with every creature in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, join in the chorus of praise. They proclaim blessings, honor, glory, and power to the Lamb who sits on the throne. This grand display of worship teaches us the lesson that Jesus Christ deserves our wholehearted adoration and reverence. He is the focal point of all creation, and His worthiness to receive worship is affirmed by every being in heaven and on earth.
Lesson 4: The Lamb’s Sovereign Authority
In verse 7, the Lamb takes the scroll from the right hand of God, signifying His authority over God’s redemptive plan. This act reveals the Lamb’s power and sovereignty. The lesson we learn is that Jesus Christ is not only the sacrificial Lamb but also the ruler of all creation. He holds the key to the future, and His purposes will ultimately prevail. Therefore, we can find comfort and assurance in knowing that the Lamb is in control, even in the midst of a chaotic world.
Lesson 5: Our Response to the Lamb
Revelation Chapter 5 concludes with the worship of God and the Lamb by the twenty-four elders, representing the redeemed people of God. They fall down before Him, casting their crowns and offering their worship. This scene reminds us of our response to the Lamb’s triumph. We are called to surrender our lives to Him, acknowledging His worthiness, and offering our worship, love, and devotion. Our lives should reflect the recognition that Jesus Christ is the center of our existence, and our actions should align with His lordship.
Conclusion:
Revelation Chapter 5 provides a profound lesson on the nature and significance of Jesus Christ as the worthy Lamb. Through His sacrificial death, He has triumphed over sin and death, making redemption available to all. As we contemplate the worship and authority of the Lamb, we are inspired to respond with awe, surrender, and wholehearted devotion. May we continuously acknowledge and exalt Jesus Christ, the Lamb who reigns forever.