1. Babylon's Fall Announced (18:1-8)
Babylon, symbolic of those who oppose the kingdom of God, will be destroyed. The city's doom is still future but it is so certain that it can be spoken of as already accomplished. The great purpose of God in triumphing over evil is a fate that cannot be changed.
2. Babylon's Fall Lamented (18:9-19)
In this section, we hear the lament of three groups impacted by the final judgment of God on wicked civilization.
A. Monarchs
B. Merchants
C. Mariners
3. Babylon's Fall Celebrated (18:20)
The monarchs, merchants, and mariners lamented Babylon's fall. In contrast, there is heavenly rejoicing. Final Babylon had judged that righteous people be persecuted and murdered. God's just judgment of Babylon reverses the sentence.
4. Babylon's Fall Symbolized (18:21-24)
The throwing of a great stone into the sea is a symbolic action announcing the destruction of Babylon. She shall be destroyed, never to rise again. The great city will be destroyed completely, suddenly, and eternally.
The Fall of Babylon
Revelation 18:1-24
July 16, 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.