MBM Rooty Hill / Bible Talks

When it comes to Revelation there are many questions we have about where we are in the context of God’s plan for history. In Revelation 6–7 we are presented with the reality of history as that which is under God’s sovereign control. In the midst of every generation God is working his plans in both the execution of punishment upon the wicked as well as protection of his people. In the midst of judgment, God reveals his love and vindication of his people.

In the busyness and chaos of our world it is easy to get distracted and discouraged. We get disappointed with ourselves, our surroundings, and it is easy to lose hope. In Revelation 4–5 John records a vision of heaven that gives us an insight into an unseen reality. God rules and reigns in victory. It is it this kingdom that is yet to come that we are to remember in our world of hopelessness. We don’t look inward for hope, we look upward.

One of the main visions presented to us growing us is the dream of being successful. Success, we are told, lies in financial stability, career progress, looking attractive, and looking younger than our age. While there might be elements of good within this vision, there are very big dangers that come with success. In Rev 3:14–21 Jesus confronts the danger of worldly success and offers something far more valuable and lasting. In a world of fleeting treasure, Jesus offers something that lasts forever.

In our chaotic world it is easy to become distracted from keeping the main thing the main thing. Work, leisure, family commitments, sport, can all pull our hearts and minds away from those things which are most important. In Revelation 2:1–7 we see a church in danger of spiritual drift. With the impact of their surroundings the Ephesians were in danger of losing their first love. In this letter, Jesus provides both encouragement and challenge to those, like the church at Ephesus, who are in danger of spiritual drift.

Revelation 1, which sets the tone for the entire book, lifts the curtain on reality not to confuse us but to reveal Jesus: risen, reigning and radiant. It is not a codebook for the end times but a vision to strengthen weary Christians living in the fog of suffering and uncertainty. In a world that feels like chaos, Revelation reminds us that history is not out of control; it is in His hands.

Nate explores three questions: 1. What freedom does Jesus offer? 2. What is the alternative to the freedom Jesus offers? and 3. How do you find this freedom?

From message preached at MBM Parramatta

Throughout Leviticus we have discovered the God who is Holy. In the final chapter of this crucial book this Holy God reveals the importance of being wholly consecrated to him as he addressed the issues of vows of devotion. Fittingly, the book concludes with the image of God’s people called to reflect his holiness through lives of integrity in word and deed.