The writers of Matthew 28 and 1 Peter 3 reveal that baptism is not merely a ritual but a command from Christ and a public naming ceremony in which individuals profess repentance and trust in Christ, and during which God publicly affirms His love and commitment for the repentant sinner. Baptism is an essential mark of discipleship, an outward picture of the inward cleansing, and an ordinance in which we receive the family name of God with all the rights and privileges that come with that name.

The sermon explores the unsettling question of whether the concept of hell can serve as a catalyst for belief in God, challenging the notion that its absence would inherently foster peace. Drawing on Lennon's song and the philosophy of Wittgenstein, it argues that a world devoid of moral consequence and accountability ultimately lacks meaning and purpose. Examining Revelation 20:11-15, John sees the reality of final judgment, the defeat of death, and the eternal consequences of rejecting God, ultimately emphasizing the necessity of embracing faith in Jesus Christ as the only path to avoid the lake of fire and experience the hope of eternal life, reminding listeners that God's wrath is an expression of His love and justice.

In Revelation 20:7-10, John sees the binding and subsequent release of Satan, spotlighting the certainty of his eternal torment and the ultimate security of the saints. Even amidst the Devil's final deception, God's sovereignty is unwavering and encourages believers to trust in Christ's victory over Satan and not fear.

The sermon explores the persistent human suspicion that global problems stem from forces beyond immediate observation, ultimately arguing that the root of these issues lies in the power of Satan, not societal or institutional structures. In Revelation 20:1-6, John emphasizes that while Satan is a formidable adversary, he is not ultimate; God's power and control are absolute. John sees Satan bound and a millennial reign with Christ, where believers will be raised to life and escape the second death, symbolizing a time of triumph over evil and a renewed dominion under God's rule, ultimately encouraging faith and assurance in Christ's victory.

Revelation 20 answers a longing for peace and justice, longings evident in popular culture and deeply felt by humanity. Durable peace is not found in evolutionary perspectives, materialism, or self-expression but in a relationship with Jesus Christ. The vision of Revelation 20 provides comfort and hope, affirming that God's promises will be fulfilled and that believers can persevere through trials, knowing that the defeat of the Dragon is certain. Believers will escape the second death, and they will be raised to reign with Christ.

The gospel partnership of Johann Gerhard Oncken and Charles Haddon Spurgeon illustrates the heart of missions advancing through the local church. Drawing from Luke 24, Acts 13, and 3 John emphasize that missions involves proclaiming the gospel of Christ's suffering and resurrection, equipping disciples, and establishing churches, supported by the collective efforts of the church community. Through the biographical illustration of Johann Gerhard Oncken, the sermon highlights the importance of intentionality, perseverance, and partnership in spreading the gospel, ultimately urging listeners to actively participate in God's work of extending His grace to the nations and fulfilling the biblical mandate to share the message of salvation.

Jonah 4 reveals Jonah's anger at God's compassion for Nineveh, highlighting the contrast between Jonah's desire for judgment and God's persistent grace. God's great mercy confronts our merciless hearts.