1. The Harvest of the Earth (14:14-16)
The return of Christ is pictured as a harvest. The harvest will happen when the "earth is ripe" (14:15). The hour to reap is the precise moment determined by God. At the second coming of Christ, believers will enter into a glorious eternity with their Savior, and at the same time, unbelievers will be judged and subjected to God's wrath.
2. The Vintage of the Wicked (14:17-20)
The first vision portrayed judgment under the general picture of harvest. Now, by means of the more vivid picture of the vintage, John stresses the violent judgment of the wicked. The vision paints a gruesome scene of judgment and horror. The symbolism is that of a great defeat of the enemy and a sea of spilled blood.
3. The Response of the Believer
In these visions of judgment, we are given a picture of hope. There is coming a day when evil will be purged, and the righteous will be gathered unto God where we will enjoy His presence forever. What is to be the believer's response?
A. Perseverance
B. Passion
C. Praise
Visions of Final Judgment
Revelation 14:14-20
May 28, 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.