Seal #6 - Revelation 6:12–17 uses cosmic imagery—earthquakes, darkened sun and moon, stars falling—to depict the terrifying reality of God’s final judgment. This language mirrors Old Testament prophetic descriptions of judgment on nations like Babylon, Edom, and Egypt, where such signs were symbolic, not literal. The pattern shows that apocalyptic imagery represents the total collapse of corrupt systems under divine wrath, not instant cosmic destruction. Therefore, Revelation continues this tradition, pointing to a final, ultimate judgment rather than a literal astronomical event.

The Church is not the source of truth but the God-ordained institution that upholds, supports, and proclaims the truth revealed in Scripture. This calling is rooted in Old Testament prophecy and fulfilled in the New Testament as the Church becomes the spiritual Mount Zion and household of God. Believers are to embody the truth through holy living, not merely confess it, relying not on their own strength but on the power of the Holy Spirit to live and walk in obedience. As the pillar and support of the truth, the Church must remain faithful to its calling, never excusing sin, but continually seeking God's grace to uphold and reflect His truth in the world.

The fifth seal reveals saints beneath the altar who remained faithful during tribulation, having embodied ("echoed") the Word of God and the testimony of Christ even to the point of death. Their sacrifice is marked by purity and conquest, symbolized by white robes, showing that judgment serves to purify rather than merely punish. This message, rooted in ongoing persecution and suffering, affirms that overcomers are those who resist compromise, endure hardship, and reflect Christ’s character despite intense trials.

The Church is not merely a building or institution but the Household of God, a spiritual family where God dwells among His people, as Paul emphasizes in 1 Timothy 3:15. Throughout history—from the tabernacle to Solomon’s temple to the prophetic promises—God has desired to dwell with humanity, yet human-built structures and rituals were never sufficient due to sin’s barrier. Ultimately, God fulfilled His promise by becoming man in Jesus Christ, who is both the true Temple and the only way to restore communion with God, making the Church His living dwelling place.

The first four seals in Revelation reflect parallel judgments seen in Zechariah, Ezekiel, and Matthew 24—war, famine, pestilence, and death—used by God to punish the unfaithful and purify the faithful. These judgments are not random but part of a sovereign, comprehensive plan that exposes sin, calls for repentance, and refines believers like fire. Ultimately, God's purpose in judgment is restorative, turning hearts back to Him and preparing a purified people for His peace and presence.

Talking a sneak peak to the other side of the opening of the seals we see God's comfort to His people despite His holy judgement. This reminds us of Isaiah 66:13–14a where hope is offered by comparing God’s future restoration to the comforting care of a mother. Just as a mother suffers to give life and continues to nurture and shape her child, God lovingly sustains and forgives His people. On this Mother's Day, this image reminds us of our total dependence on Him, especially in times of sin, sorrow, and need—where true comfort is found in Christ.

1 Timothy (Part 25) | 1 Timothy Series

1 Timothy (Part 24) | 1 Timothy Series

As we remember the death, burial, and resurrection of our Great Lord and Savior, we look at Old Testament prophecy to see how antiquity described our Jesus. Isaiah 53 describes the Servant of the Lord—who is both divine and human—as one who suffers not for His own sins, but for the sins of humanity. Though rejected and afflicted, He willingly bears our griefs, takes our punishment, and offers Himself as a sacrifice to bring peace, healing, and salvation. Through His death and resurrection, He becomes the righteous King and intercessor for all who receive Him.

Good Friday Service