Revelation is not as weird as you might think

CH 15 - 16

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Session 8 – Chapter 15 - 16


Another sign in heaven - signs point to a corresponding reality


Plagues

  > final set of 7, “with them God’s wrath is complete”

  > reminiscent of the plagues against Egypt


EXODUS 15:1-18

  > Song of deliverance

  > We know God by his actions towards us


NEW EXODUS

  > Song of the Lamb -> new covenant in the blood of the Lamb

  > “your righteous acts have been revealed” - Looking back to a victory (cross) that accomplished a new exodus.

  • The plagues are a demonstration of God’s power - result in a hardening towards God, people will curse God and refuse to repent
  • God will deal with Babylon in the last days like he dealt with Pharaoh/Egypt

    • The other side of deliverance for God’s people = Judgement for God’s enemies

      > all those who oppose God’s rule will face His wrath

    • Plague six and seven highlight the final judgement will be sudden and unexpected
    • v. 15 “Behold, I come like a thief” -> Jesus’ words = Matthew 24:42-44


      • Past, present and future

      Past - Calvary (Jesus’ work)

        > The bowls of God’s wrath were endured by Jesus at the cross, “It is done” - proclaimed from the throne room

      Present - gospel encounter (revealed to faith)

      Future - final consummation (manifest to all)


      Encouragements from chapter 15/16

      • 1 Corinthians 1:17-30
      • Jesus has drunk the cup/bowl of God’s wrath on our behalf
      • The result of the cross = a new exodus that sets free & sets to right all creation
      • This new exodus will have two results


        •             > Ingathering of God’s people drawn to God’s heart

                     > A judgement of His enemies whose hearts are hardened

        • Hard hearts do not equal God’s failure to work - they are evidence of His judgement
        • Paul reminds us that the cross looked weak and foolish so that people may respond to God’s work by faith

          • Questions

          1. How does the Exodus help us understand the Lamb’s righteous act of deliverance?
          2. Why has God used a cross to reveal His love for us? (rather than a raw demonstration of power)
          3. How has God acted towards you, to reveal His heart and soften yours?
            4. ...more
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            Revelation is not as weird as you might thinkBy Nick Freeman