The goodness of God.

Revelation 7

Key Themes & Concepts

Four Angels and the Winds

Four Angels: Positioned at the four corners of the earth.

Task: Holding back the four winds to prevent them from blowing on earth.

Purpose: Awaiting the sealing of God's servants.

The Sealed Servants of God

Seal from the Living God: An angel from the east holds the seal.

Instruction to Angels: Do not harm the land, sea, trees until servants are sealed.

144,000 Sealed: From the tribes of Israel, each with 12,000 sealed.

Judah, Reuben, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Manasseh, Simeon, Levi, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, Benjamin.

Vision of the Multitude

Great Multitude: Beyond counting, from every nation, tribe, people, and language.

Appearance: Standing before the throne and the Lamb, in white robes, holding palm branches.

Proclamation: Salvation attributed to God and the Lamb.

Worship in Heaven

Heavenly Assembly: Angels, elders, and living creatures worship God.

Praise: Attributes given include glory, wisdom, thanks, honor, power, strength.

Identity of the White Robed

Elder's Question: Inquiry about who the white-robed are.

Answer: Those from the great tribulation, robes made white in the blood of the Lamb.

Role: Serve God day and night, sheltered by His presence.

Hope and Perseverance

Message of Hope

Hope for Persecuted Church: Encourages perseverance amid tribulation.

Faith in Future: Quote by Alfred E. Lukach highlights the connection between faith in future and power in the present.

Historical Illustration

Freistadt, Maine: Town's collapse in morale due to impending obsolescence and lack of future.

Suffering and Perseverance

Christian Suffering: Part of the faith; linked to eternal hope.

Perseverance Encouraged: Stand firm in faith despite trials.

God's Protection and Judgment

Divine Protection

Seal: Signifies protection from God's wrath.

Historical Comparisons: Passover, Lot's escape, Rahab's protection.

Final Judgment

Revelation 6 Summary: Catastrophic events signal God's impending judgment.

Endurance: Encouraged in the face of persecution.

Importance of Hope

Hope as Motivation: Drives actions like saving for retirement, taking medicine, dieting.

Spiritual Hope: Drives perseverance in faith.

Conclusion

Call to Action

Faith and Seriousness: Understanding the gravity of faith in light of end times.

Divine Strength: Assurance of God's presence and power during trials.

Persevere: Despite persecution, remain faithful.

Introduction

Revelation 6 describes the opening of the seven seals by the Lamb.

Each seal reveals different visions and events.

The Seven Seals

First Seal: White Horse

The rider holds a bow, given a crown, rides out as a conqueror bent on conquest.

Second Seal: Red Horse

The rider has the power to take peace from the Earth, making people kill each other, given a large sword.

Third Seal: Black Horse

The rider holds a pair of scales.

A voice mentions the price of wheat and barley, warning not to damage the oil and wine.

Fourth Seal: Pale Horse

The rider named Death, followed by Hades.

Given power over a fourth of the Earth, to kill by sword, famine, plague, and wild beasts.

Fifth Seal: The Souls of Martyrs

Souls of those slain for the word of God cry out for justice.

Given white robes and told to wait until more martyrs join them.

Sixth Seal: Cataclysmic Events

Great earthquake, sun turns black, moon turns red, stars fall, heavens recede.

Everyone, including kings and generals, hide in caves, fearing the wrath of the Lamb.

Themes and Reflections

Holy Reverence

Importance of having a holy fear and reverence for God.

Suffering and Persecution

Suffering as an inherent part of Christian faith.

Reference to Jesus and his suffering.

Apostasy

Warning against apostasy, a willful rejection of faith in Christ.

Mention of early church struggles with apostasy.

The Rapture and End Times

Popular doctrine about Jesus' return and the rapture.

Discussion on tribulation and the seals happening throughout church history.

Personal Reflection and Prayer

Reflection on personal faith, challenges, and commitment.

The necessity of daily spiritual practices like prayer, reading the Bible, and being part of a community.

Emphasis on the seriousness of one's relationship with Christ, beyond being a hobby.

Conclusion

Call for introspection on one's faith and relationship with Christ.

Encourages preparation for potential persecution and maintaining faith.

Invitation for prayer and communion as a time of reflection and commitment.

Introduction to 1 Samuel

Focus is on 1 Samuel Chapter 7, starting at verse 2b.

Israelites turn back to God; Samuel instructs them to commit fully to God for deliverance from the Philistines.

Israelites assemble at Mizpah, where Samuel intercedes with God for them.

Philistines plan to attack, but Israel, led by Samuel’s prayers and God’s intervention, defeats them.

Key Themes

Repentance and Commitment: Israelites called to forsake idols and serve God wholeheartedly.

Intercession: Samuel’s role as a leader and intercessor for Israel.

Divine Intervention: God responds to Samuel’s prayers with a thunderous victory over the Philistines.

Reflections

The importance of asking questions about people's circumstances and backgrounds.

Life is influenced by a multitude of factors, much like ingredients in a cake.

Motherhood and Influence

Influence of mothers extends beyond childbirth; includes raising spiritual children.

Cultural devaluation of motherhood contrasted with its divine importance.

God uses motherhood as part of His bigger plan, as seen with Hannah and Samuel.

Hannah's Story

Hannah in 1 Samuel Chapter 1: Desired a child amidst cultural and personal challenges.

Her faith and prayer led to the birth of Samuel, who became pivotal for Israel’s restoration.

Cultural and Historical Context

Set during the chaotic period of Judges, where everyone did what was right in their own eyes.

Israel was spiritually and morally corrupt; leadership was corrupt.

God’s patience and plan for restoration despite Israel's rebellion.

The Role of Prayer and Faith

Hannah's Devotion: Exemplified by her fervent prayers and dedication of Samuel to God.

Importance of prayer in spiritual battles and personal struggles.

The Role of Mothers in God’s Plan

Motherhood as a divine calling with eternal impact.

The African proverb about the influence of mothers: "The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world."

Influence of parents, particularly mothers, in shaping children’s faith and character.

Conclusion

Call to Action: Encouragement for mothers to continue their influence and prayers for their children and the church community.

God’s overarching plan requires dedication and prayer from His people.

Introduction and Prayer

Reliance on God for teaching truth.

Request for sanctification and transformation into Christ's image.

Encouragement of faith through God's mighty work.

Sermon asks for divine power over human wisdom.

Reflecting on Habitual Actions

Questioning the meaning and purpose behind habitual actions.

Story of a woman cutting ends off a ham without knowing why.

Reflection on why we practice certain religious traditions.

Importance of understanding the purpose behind religious practices.

The Concept of Means of Grace

Means of Grace defined as channels for receiving God's grace.

Importance of participating in worship practices with faith.

Comparison of spiritual nourishment to physical nourishment (food and water).

Spiritual practices sustain and grow our spiritual life just as food sustains the physical body.

The Role of the Church

The church's role likened to a spiritual mother nurturing believers.

Warning against neglecting spiritual practices leading to spiritual detriment.

Importance of Scripture

Apostles’ teaching and scripture as a means of grace.

Scripture's role in teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training righteousness.

Faith comes from hearing the Word of God.

Fellowship and Community

Fellowship as a vital component of spiritual growth.

Encouragement of gathering together as a community to strengthen faith.

Proverbs 27:17: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

Sacraments

Holy Communion and baptism as practices receiving God's grace.

Discussion on different theological views on Holy Communion (transubstantiation, consubstantiation, memorialism).

Importance of faith in sacraments enhancing spiritual life.

Prayer as a Means of Grace

Prayer is an avenue for receiving God's work and grace.

Various biblical promises about the power of prayer.

Example of Peter’s deliverance as a result of a praying church.

Conclusion

Participation in spiritual practices is essential for receiving grace.

Appeal to take spiritual life seriously amidst the looming return of Christ.

Encouragement to participate in Holy Communion with faith.

Final Prayer and Invitation

Invitation for those seeking to embrace Christ.

Preparation for Holy Communion as a community act of faith.

Introduction

Focus on the Gospel of John Chapter 3, particularly verse 5.

Read through John 3:1-21 to understand the context.

Announcement about exceeding attendance goals last Sunday.

Context of John Chapter 3

Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, visits Jesus at night.

Nicodemus recognizes Jesus as a teacher from God due to His miracles.

Jesus introduces the concept of being "born again" to see the kingdom of God.

Key Dialogue Between Jesus and Nicodemus

Jesus: No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.

Nicodemus: Questions the possibility of being born again.

Jesus: Clarifies that one must be born of water and the Spirit.

Flesh gives birth to flesh; Spirit gives birth to Spirit.

Being born again is essential to entering the kingdom of God.

The Role of Baptism

Question: Why is baptism necessary if salvation is by grace through faith?

Answer: Baptism is a sign of the inward work of God's grace.

It serves as a tangible symbol of spiritual truths and realities.

Signs in Daily Life

Signs convey meaning and represent ideas or conditions.

Example: School buses' color symbolizes caution due to the precious cargo (children) they transport.

Jesus and Signs

Jesus used physical signs to explain spiritual truths.

Reference to Matthew 24 where Jesus gives signs of His return.

Nicodemus and Jesus’ Explanation

Nicodemus is a teacher and should understand spiritual rebirth.

Jesus: Uses examples like wind to explain the Spirit's work.

Wind is felt and seen but not seen directly, analogous to the Spirit.

Baptism as Modeled by Jesus

Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist to fulfill all righteousness.

Baptism is commanded by Jesus (Matthew 28:18-20).

Apostles followed Jesus' command (e.g., Peter on Pentecost).

Understanding Baptism

Symbolizes the transformational work of the Holy Spirit.

Outward sign of inward grace and spiritual regeneration.

Acts as a reminder of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Spiritual Realities Illustrated by Baptism

Baptism symbolizes dying with Christ and being raised to new life.

Represents the forgiveness and washing away of sins.

Water symbolizes the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion and Call to Faith

Baptism is not just an empty ritual or necessity for salvation but an act of obedience.

Emphasizes the necessity of being born again, spiritually renewed, and accepting Christ.

Invitation to experience personal relationship with Jesus.

Closing Remarks

Call for reflection and prayer for those considering baptism.

Reminder of God’s grace and invitation to salvation through faith.

Key Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

• Paul reminds the Corinthian church of the gospel he preached.
• The gospel is the foundation of their faith and salvation.
• Core message: Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, was buried, and was raised on the third day.
• Jesus appeared to Cephas (Peter), the twelve, more than 500 people, James, all the apostles, and lastly to Paul.
• Paul's humility: Sees himself as the least of the apostles because he persecuted the church.
• Emphasizes the grace of God in his life and ministry.

• The concept of good news often requires understanding the bad news first.
• Examples of life situations where good and bad news are contrasted (car troubles, accidents, storm damage).

• All humans share the desire to live, be righteous, and seek justice.
• We are not as good or righteous as we think.
• Romans 3: All have sinned and fall short of God's glory.
• The wages of sin is death (Romans 6).
• Death is separation from God; evidence of life after death includes near-death experiences (NDEs).
• Illustrations of human sinfulness: lying, breaking laws, making excuses.

• Jesus Christ was sinless and lived a perfect life.
• He died for our sins by God's will, fulfilling the Scriptures.
• His death was to reconcile us to God and offer eternal life.
• The resurrection of Jesus: He defeated death and was raised on the third day.
• Evidence of resurrection: multiple appearances to different people, Shroud of Turin, historical documentation.
• Belief in Jesus leads to forgiveness, righteousness, and reconciliation with God.

• The importance of repentance and belief in Jesus for salvation.
• The choice between life and death: eternal consequences based on acceptance or rejection of Jesus.
• Encouragement to consider one's spiritual state and the offer of eternal life through Christ.

• Closing prayer for understanding and acceptance of the gospel.
• Emphasis on the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice.
• Reminder of God's love and the salvation offered through Jesus Christ.

Introduction to the Good NewsThe Bad NewsThe Good News: Jesus as SaviorCall to Action and ReflectionConclusion

Introduction

• Speaker's Context:
• Scripture Reference: Luke 19:28-44.

• Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem:
• Public Reaction:

• Definition:

• Instances of Jesus Weeping:
• Jesus’ Lamentation in Context:

• Divine Judgment:
• Free Will:

• Failure to Recognize Jesus

• Spreading the Gospel
• Current Relevance:

• Prayer:

Key Scripture OverviewThe Concept of LamentJesus’ LamentThemes of Divine Judgment and Free WillThe Missed Opportunity of RecognitionThe Role of the Church and BelieversConclusion

Introduction

• Speaker shared a personal experience of attending church growth conferences.
• Mentioned John Maxwell, a prominent speaker, and his impactful statement: "Pay now and play later or play now and pay later."

• Life involves costs for achievements, whether in sports, academics, or spirituality.
• Childhood dreams of becoming a professional athlete highlight the necessity of dedication and sacrifice.
• Importance of discipline and preparation exemplified by Olympians.

• Spiritual journey also involves costs, termed as discipleship.
• Bible verses cited:

• Revelation discusses spiritual battles and perseverance.
• The importance of remaining loyal to Christ despite worldly challenges.
• The White Horse in Revelation represents deception by the Antichrist.
• Importance of vigilance to avoid spiritual deception.

• We are already in the "last hour," marked by false teachings and deception.
• 1 John 2 & 4: Warning about the spirit of the Antichrist and the need for discernment.

• White Horse: Represents deception and false teachings.
• Red Horse: Symbolizes war and bloodshed.
• Black Horse: Indicates famine and economic hardship.
• Pale Horse: Represents death and its widespread impact.

• The parable of the sower highlights different responses to God’s word.
• The importance of deep roots in faith to withstand trials and persecution.

• The church faces ongoing testing and persecution.
• Matthew 10: Jesus discusses the cost of following Him and the inevitability of persecution.

• The necessity of spiritual vigilance and commitment.
• The call to embrace suffering for faith, as a part of Christian life.
• Encouragement to make definitive commitments to Christ now, preparing for potential trials.

Life's Costs and Aspirations Spiritual Cost and Discipleship Insights on the Book of Revelation The Final Hour and Antichrist The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Perseverance in Faith Escalation of Spiritual Testing Conclusion