1. The Security of the Sealed (14:1)
We see precisely the number that were sealed appearing in heaven with the Lamb--the Savior. 144,000 were sealed, and 144,000 were saved. Not one was lost. God has the power to save and keep secure all who trust in Him.
2. The Sound of a New Song (14:2-3)
In chapter 13, John recorded the "worship" of Satan and the Antichrist (13:4). In our present text, the volume is turned up as the 144,000, those "redeemed from the earth," worship "before the throne" of God with a "new song" (14:3).
3. The Sanctification of the Saints (14:4-5)
The 144,000 who will endure the Great Tribulation will faithfully live their lives in dedication to God's holiness. What is stressed is their relentless pursuit of Christlikeness in the face of terrible persecution.
A Glimpse into Heaven
Revelation 14:1-5
April 30, 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.