1. The Heavenly Scene of Triumph (15:1-4)
In a heavenly vision, John sees those who emerged victorious over the beast praise God for His great and righteous acts. Those "standing beside the sea" (15:2), like the ancient Israelites who burst into song beside the Red Sea, "sang the song of God's servant Moses and of the Lamb" (15:3). These overcomers are unable to hold back their worship of the Lord God Almighty.
2. The Final Preparation for Judgment (15:5-8)
In this scene, John sees the heavenly "tabernacle" open (15:5). The tabernacle, particularly the holy of holies, represents the very presence of God. Out of this presence of God came seven avenging angels. "Seven golden bowls filled with the wrath of God" are given to the angels by "one of the four living creatures" (15:7). Now, the stage is set for the last plagues of the tribulation period.
3. How do we worship God in His wrath?
Here, at the beginning of Revelation 15 and right in the middle of Revelation 16, we see songs of worship. God is being worshiped in His wrath. That is challenging to comprehend. There are three steps that help us understand how we can worship God in His wrath.
A. Start with a high view of God
B. Move to a humble view of humanity
C. Land on the hope of the Gospel
Worthy of Worship
Revelation 15:1-8
June 11, 2017 • Toby Henson
The New Jerusalem
August 13, 2017 • Toby Henson
1. The Dwelling Place of God and His People (21:1-4) The final state of the new world will be characterized by God "dwelling" with His people (21:3). None less than God will be the comforter of His people. "He will wipe" away "every tear" (21:4). His concern is infinite. The loud voice from heaven lists evils that will cease to be: "death," "mourning," "crying," and "pain" (21:4). 2. The Separation between Good and Evil (21:5-8) The new Jerusalem is only for those who have already experienced the new life in Christ. The eternal life of the believer is contrasted with the eternal destruction of the unbeliever. The "fiery lake of burning sulfur" is the destination of the wicked at the end of the final judgment (21:8). 3. The Description of the Holy City (21:9-21) Let's not get caught up in the pearly gates or the streets of gold. The most striking thing about the holy city is "the glory of God" (21:11). It is the place where God dwells. The truth that needs to be repeatedly highlighted is the glory and presence of God. For all eternity, we will enjoy perfect fellowship with a holy God. 4. The Light of the Holy City (21:22-27) The heavenly city has no need of sun or moon to shine because it is illuminated by "the glory of God" and the "Lamb" (21:23). Part of the curse of wicked Babylon was that never more would a lamp shine there. By contrast, the new Jerusalem will be forever full of light.
The Final Victory
August 6, 2017 • Toby Henson
Truth 1- Satan is no match for God. Truth 2- Satan is a defeated foe. Truth 3- Christians will reign with Christ in heaven. Truth 4- At death, the believer is immediately ushered into the presence of Jesus. Truth 5- At the resurrection, we will be clothed with heavenly bodies. Truth 6- Satan will be defeated and cast into his final place of eternal fiery torment. Truth 7- Salvation is by faith alone.