Revelation Chapter Nineteen

Transcription

1 Revelation Chapter Nineteen

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3 SERMON OUTLINE Christ s 2nd Coming The doctrine of the blessed hope and return of the Savior to the earth. Revelation 19:6-21 *Christ s 2nd Coming to the earth will bring about the Marriage supper of the Lamb to his Bride the Church (19:6-10). 2. Literal bodily return of Christ with his armies of heaven to execute God s wrath (19:11-16). 3. Destruction of the Antichrist and his kingdom, the false prophet and the evil kings of the earth and their armies (19:17-21).

4 Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 19:6-21 Revelation11:15 Point 1 Revelation 19:6-10; Psalm 118:24; Genesis 29:21; Matthew 1:20; Isaiah 54:5-6; 62:5; Jeremiah 31:32; Ezekiel 16:8; Romans 7:1-4; I Corinthians 6:17; II Corinthians 11:2; Mark 2:19; Matthew 22:1-14; Ephesians 5:25; Revelation 21:9; Luke 24: Point 2 Revelation 16:11-16; Isaiah 11:4,5; Revelation 3:14; Acts 2:36; Isaiah 63:1-6; Zechariah 14:5; Revelation 17:14; Isaiah 11:4; 63:3; Revelation 14:17-20; Zechariah 14:4; Matthew 24:30;31; Revelation 16:16; Luke 1: Point 3 Revelation 19:17-21; Ezekiel 39:17-20; Matthew 16:18; Luke 16:23; Acts 2:27; II Kings 23:10; II Chronicles 28:3; 33:6; Jeremiah 32:35; 7:31-32; 19:5-6; Mark 9:43; Matthew 7:23; Matthew 25:46; Revelation 19:21.

5 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Sermon notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermon on this chapter Christ s 2nd Coming the doctrine of the blessed hope and return of the Savior to the earth. Revelation 11:15 Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever. The announcement of Revelation 11:15 does not occur until the actual return of Christ so the announcement of the marriage of the Lamb in Revelation 19:6-10 does not happen until the actual return of Christ when he is united with his church on the earth. Revelation 19: Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and exalt and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his -1-

6 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Revelation 19:6-21 continued... Bride has made herself ready; 8 it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints. 9 And the angel said to me, Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he said to me, These are the true words of God. 10 Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God. For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. 11 Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. 13 He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. 14 And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike -2-

7 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Chapter 19:6-21 continued...down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. 17 Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, Come, gather for the great supper of God, 18 to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave,[d] both small and great. 19 And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. 20 And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. 21 And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh. -3-

8 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Christ s 2nd Coming to the earth will bring about the Marriage supper of the Lamb to his Bride the church (Revelation 19:6-10). Revelation 19: Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. 7 Let us rejoice and exalt and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready; 8 it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints. 9 And the angel said to me, Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he said to me, These are the true words of God. 10 Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, You must not do that! I am a fellow servantwith you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God. For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. -4-

9 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Verse 6 Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns The reign of God has in fact not been fully established; it awaits the return of Christ, the destruction of evil and the new heavens and new earth. Human and demonic adversaries must be removed before God s reign can prevail their overthrow is the beginning of his triumphant rule. Revelation 19:7 Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready; Again the marriage is announced but it is not described The marriage is about to take place, the Greek tense is an ingressive aorist it is about to happen. Bride (yuvn) = wife An engaged woman in the Hebrew culture was considered a wife even though the ceremony had not taken place (Genesis 29:21; Matthew 1:20). Israel was called the wife of Jahweh or Jahweh was called the husband of Israel (Isaiah 54:5-6; 62:5; Jeremiah 31:32; Ezekiel 16:8). -5-

10 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Jesus used the wedding theme in relationship to his disciples (Mark 2:19; Matthew 22:1-14). The apostle Paul used the Old Testament teaching Of Israel as the wife of God to the church (Romans 7:1-4; I Corinthians 6:17; II Corinthians 11:2). * The Church is... Dr. Hendriksen wrote: In Christ the bride was chosen from eternity. Throughout the entire Old Testament dispensation the wedding was announced. Next, the Son of God assumed our flesh and blood: the betrothal took place. The price the dowry was paid on Calvary. And now, after an interval which in the eyes of God is but a little while, the Bridegroom returns and it has come, the wedding of the Lamb. The Church on earth yearns for this moment, so does the Church in heaven. 1. The people of God. 2. The Body of Christ. 3. The Temple of the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul likens the relationship of the church to that of a husband to his wife. Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. -6-

11 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 The final redemptive act is the perfect union of Christ and the church. Wedding Supper = Meal Revelation 21:9 Then came one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues and spoke to me, saying, Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb. Christians grow in their knowledge and love for one another as they fellowship together around a meal. Luke 24: When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. 31 And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. The messianic consummation is pictured not only as a marriage supper but as a joyous banquet. Jesus said many would come from the East and West to sit at the table with the patriarchs in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 8). He told his disciples at the Last Supper that he would not drink of the fruit of the vine until he should drink it with them in the Kingdom of God (Matthew 26:29). -7-

12 Chapter Nineteen 19;6-21 Christ s 2nd Coming to the earth will bring about the literal bodily return of Christ with his armies of heaven to execute God s wrath (19:11-16). Revelation 19: Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. 13 He is clothed in a robe dipped in[a] blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. 14 And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. White Horse the symbol of victory. Faithful and True Christ was faithful to God and both is and spoke the truth. In righteousness he judges and makes war. -8-

13 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Isaiah 11:4-5 4 But with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. 5 Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins. His eyes a flame of fire all searching gaze (nothing hidden) On his head are many diadems the crowns of royalty. A name written that no one knows but Himself no one can completely grasp the depths of his being. [Christ s person is inexhaustible]. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is the Word of God. Isaiah 63:1-6 Who is this who comes from Edom, in crimsoned garments from Bozrah, he who is splendid in his apparel, marching in the greatness of his strength? It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save. 2 Why is your apparel red, and your garments like his who treads in the winepress? 3 I have trodden the winepress alone, and from the peoples no one was with me; I trod them in my anger and trampled them in my wrath; their lifeblood spattered on my garments, -9-

14 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Isaiah Chapter 63:1-6 continued... and stained all my apparel. 4 For the day of vengeance was in my heart, and my year of redemption had come. 5 I looked, but there was no one to help; I was appalled, but there was no one to uphold; so my own arm brought me salvation, and my wrath upheld me. 6 I trampled down the peoples in my anger; I made them drunk in my wrath, and I poured out their lifeblood on the earth. The Word of God represents 1. The writings of John The Gospel of John; I, II, III John, and the book of Revelation. 2. The gospel and Scriptures All 66 books of the Bible. 3. The Lord Jesus Christ The Word of God and God s total redemptive plan. Revelation 19: And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. -10

15 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 The angelic army will be coming with Christ (Zechariah 14:5; Matthew 13). Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword (Isaiah 11:4= He shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked). He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. Isaiah 63:3 I have trodden the winepress alone, and from the peoples no one was with me; I trod them in my anger and trampled them in my wrath; their lifeblood spattered on my garments, and stained all my apparel. Revelation 14: Then another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. 18 And another angel came out from the altar, the angel who has authority over the fire, and he called with a loud voice to the one who had the sharp sickle, Put in your sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, for its grapes are ripe. 19 So the angel swung his sickle across the earth and gathered the grape harvest of the earth and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood flowed from the winepress, as high as a horse's bridle, for 1,600 stadia. -11-

16 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written - King of kings and Lord of lords. This is the 4th name given to the returning Christ: 1. The hidden name. 2. Faithful and True. 3. The Word of God. 4. King of kings and Lord of lords. The name King of kings and Lord of lords designates the absolute sovereignty of Christ. In summary Christ s 2nd Coming will be: 1. A return that is personal (Zechariah 14:4). 2. A return that is visible and glorious (Matthew 24:30). 3. A return to receive his church and to judge the nations (Matthew 24:31; Revelation 16:16). 4. A return that will shake the earth (Revelation 16). 5. A return to rule the earth as King of kings and Lord of lords (Luke 1:32-33; Revelation 11:15). Christ s 2nd Coming to the earth will bring about the destruction of the Antichrist and his kingdom, the false prophet and all the evil kings of the world and their armies (Revelation 19:17-21). -12-

17 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Revelation 19: Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, Come, gather for the great supper of God, 18 to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great. 19 And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. 20 And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. 21 And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh. A major theme of the Bible is the conflict between God and Satan which manifests itself in history in the conflict between Christ and Antichrist. -13-

18 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 At the battle of Armageddon Satan and his evil kingdom is totally defeated and his final destruction is in the lake of fire. The language of the battle of Armageddon is drawn from Ezekiel 39. Ezekiel 39: Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, Come, gather for the great supper of God, 18 to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great. 19 And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. 20 And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. -14-

19 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 The final victory over evil is described in terms of a sacrificial feast which God is preparing for the birds of the air and the beasts of the field when they shall eat the flesh and drink the blood of those destroyed. Revelation 19: Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, Come, gather for the great supper of God, 18 to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great. This is the great supper of God because like the feast in Ezekiel 39 it is given by God. All men unbelievers especially those who took the mark of the beast. The details in the description are meant to designate the totality of the overthrow of evil and evil men. Revelation 19: And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. -15-

20 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Revelation 19:20-21 continued... These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. 21 And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh. Hades is the unseen world of the dead (the intermediate state between death and resurrection) (Matthew 16:18; Luke 16:23; Acts 2:27). Sometimes it simply means the grave (Revelation 1:18; 6:8; 20:13). Gehenna comes from the Hebrew (ge-hinnom) which means the valley of Hinnom a ravine south of the city of Jerusalem where the Jews adopted the cultic practices of Palestine and cremated children in honor of Baal and Molech (II Kings 23:10; II Chronicles 28:3;; 33:6; Jeremiah 32:35). Thus the valley of Hinnom became in Jewish tradition a place of destruction by fire. Jeremiah sees the valley transformed into a valley of slaughter (Jeremiah 7:31-32; 19:5-6) in the day of vengeance. Jesus warned his listeners concerning hell. Mark 9:43 And if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire. -16-

21 Chapter Nineteen 19:6-21 Elsewhere, Jesus described the fate of the wicked as a final separation from God. Matthew 7:23 And then will I declare to them, I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness. Matthew 25:46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Personal Application 1. The marriage of Jesus Christ the groom to his Bride the Church is coming soon! 2. The marriage supper of the Lamb will be an awesome and incredible occasion (a celebration of joy and praise). 3. Only the redeemed will be a part of this experience. 4. The Lord Jesus Christ will return to this earth in vengeance upon the Antichrist and his kingdom of evil. 5. The Beast, false prophet and kings of the world will be utterly destroyed at the great supper of God. 6. None of those who received the mark of the Beast will escape the wrath of God. 7. The final battle of history ama-gededdon will be final, devastating and complete. -17-

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23 Revelation Chapter Twenty

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25 Revelation Chapter 20:1-10 Because this chapter is so important to the understanding of the Book of Revelation and because A-Millennialism is so misunderstood by most Baptist I have given you the entire sermon that I preached. Hopefully this will help you in understanding my shift from an historical pre-millennialism to an a-millennial position.

26 SERMON OUTLINE Millennialism from the Greek language meaning A Thousand. In theology the teaching that Christ will reign over or upon the earth for 1,000 years (Revelation 20:1-10). Revelation 20:1-10 *The 1,000 year reign of Christ will be either Post-Millennial Position a 1,000 years of peace on the earth before Christ returns. 2. Pre-Millennial Position- a 1,000 years of peace on the earth after Christ returns. 3. A-Millennial Position a 1,000 years of peace in heaven between the 1st and 2nd coming of of Christ.

27 Chapter Twenty 20: Biblical Reasons For a A-Millennial Position 1. The Book of Revelation is a highly symbolic book (Revelation 1-22). This point has been made throughout the book particularly with numbers. 7 = number of perfection 10 = number of evil 12 = number of God s people 3 = number of divinity (divine). 3 persons of the Trinity 3 phases of salvation Justification/sanctification/glorification 3 dimensions of Christ s role Prophet, Priest, King 144,000 complete and perfect number of the redeemed New Jerusalem Revelation 21 Length, width, height = 12,000 statia (1,400 miles) Number 1,000 = perfect cube of also can = completeness (1,000= a perfect and complete number within God s purpose). -1-

28 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 1,000 = symbolically equals an Indefinite but limited period of time Places in the Scripture where 1,000 is used symbolically II Peter 3:8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. Symbolic use of 1,000 Deuteronomy 7:9 Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations, Exodus 20:5-6 5 You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments. -2-

29 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Psalms 50:10-11 For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. 11 I know all the birds of the hills, and all that moves in the field is mine. Psalms 84:10 For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. Psalms 90:4 For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. Therefore I take the 1,000 years to be an indefinite but limited period of time between the cross and the 2nd Coming of Christ. 2nd 1,000 years Coming 2. Jesus Christ bound Satan with his 1st Coming (Matthew 12:22-32 Luke 10:17-20; John 12:27-32; Revelation 20:1-3). -3-

30 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Revelation 20:1-3 Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. 2 And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, 3 and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while. Matthew 12: Then a demon-oppressed man who was blind and mute was brought to him, and he healed him, so that the man spoke and saw. 23 And all the people were amazed, and said, Can this be the Son of David? 24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, It is only by Beelzebul, the prince of demons, that this man casts out demons. 25 Knowing their thoughts, he said to them, Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. 26 And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? And if I cast out demons -4-

31 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Matthew 12:22-32 continued... by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 28 But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 29 Or how can someone enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house. 30 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. 31 Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. 32 And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come. John in 95 A.D. saw an angel coming down out of heaven with the key and chain to bind Satan for 1,000 years in the bottomless pit. He can not deceive the nations any longer until the 1,000 years are finished. Then he is released. -5-

32 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 A.D. 95 Prophetic Telescoping 2nd Coming Little While Satan being bound But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. How can someone enter a strong man s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? Then indeed he may plunder his house. Luke 10:17-20 The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name! 18 And he said to them, I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. 20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. John 12:31 Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. -6-

33 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Christ bound Satan meaning he has limited and hindered his power and influence over the nations of the world through his earthly ministry by the Holy Spirit and his death and resurrection. Cross Resurrection Satan can deceive the nations no longer. Old Testament All nations were deceived by Satan s power. New Testament All nations have Christians and the Gospel Russia North Korea China Egypt Syria 7 Continents -7-

34 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Until the 1,000 years were ended, after that he must be released for a little while. 1,000 years Little While Satan Released 2nd Coming Of Christ Nations 4 Corners of the Earth Gog/magog All unbelieving nations who have embraced the Antichrists evil kingdom attach Christians. Egypt Coptic Christians 1,000 killed Over 100 churches destroyed years It could be sooner, it could be later The reason Satan could deceive the nations for a little while is that God sovereignly permits it to happen. This is why the Anti-Christ comes to power. II Thessalonians 2:7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. Mystery Of Lawlessness Little While 2nd Coming -8-

35 Chapter Twenty 20: The visions of Revelation are parallel to each Other rather than in sequence (Revelation 11 & 13; 14, 15, 16; 19-20) Parallel Revelation 11-13; Revelation 14, 15, 16 Revelation Dr. George Ladd Apocalyptic language is not prose (normal writing) but a series of pictures whose main concern is not chronology and sequence, but ultimate realities. An interesting parallel can be drawn between the 2 prophets of Revelation 11 who represent God and the false prophet who represents Satan. Two Witnesses Second Beast 1. Prophets 1. False prophet (16:13; 19:20, 20:10 2. Perform signs (11:6) 2. Perform signs (13:13, 14; 19:20 3. Receive authority 3. Receives authority from the from God (11:3) first beast (13:12) 4. Torment the inhabitants 4. Deceives the inhabitants of the of the earth (11:10) earth (13:14) 5. Two olive trees ; lamps (11:4) 5. Two horns (13:11) 6. Breath of life from God (11:11) 6. Breathes into the image of the First beast (13:15) Chapter 6 Chapter 14 Chapter th Seal Harvest Armageddon 2nd Coming -9-

36 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 The Book of Revelation has both ultimate realities and chronology and sequence and it takes the wisdom of God and the Holy Spirit to discern the difference. Thus the various interpretations of the Revelations. Pre-Trib\ 1st Century \Post-Trib Post-Mill\Pre-Mill\A-Mill Last Century Combination 4. The biblical teaching that the 7 trumpets and 7 bowls complete and finish the wrath of God (Revelation 6:12-17; 11:15; 15:1; 20:9) Revelation 15:1 Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished. If the wrath of God is finished at the 2nd Coming of Christ and the battle of Armageddon, does it make sense that after a 1,000 year reign of Christ that Satan is let loose and the wrath of God is poured out again. I thought Revelation 15:1 said after the 7 bowls God s wrath is finished. -10-

37 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 It is not finished if it is poured out again at the end of 1,000 years. Does not a last trumpet mean it is the last YES!! Does not the last wrath of God mean it is the last YES!! Therefore when the last wrath of God is poured out at Christ s 2nd Coming that is the last it is finished. John 19:30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, It is finished, and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. If Jesus has to be crucified again for our sins then it was not finished. 5. The critical problem of the people at the end of the 1,000 year reign of Christ: who are they and where do they come from? (Revelation 20:1-10). Revelation 20:3... and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while. -11-

38 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Revelation 20:7-8 And when the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison 8 and will come out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle; their number is like the sand of the sea. Who are these people? Where did they come from? This is the great dilemma for pre-millennialism Who are these people Where did they come from Dr. George Ladd Verse 3. The meaning of this binding and incarceration is that he should deceive the nations no more during the millennial period. This idea of the deception of the nations reappears after Satan is loosed (20:8); he gathers the nations again in a further revolt against the Messiah, like the revolt which has already occurred under Antichrist (13:14; 16:14). This suggests that this binding is different from the binding of Satan accomplished by our Lord in his earthly ministry; the latter had special reference to demon exorcision by which individuals were delivered from satanic bondage (Matthew 12:28-29). We must remember that the very idea of binding Satan is a symbolic way of describing a curbing of his power and activities and powers are nullified, only that he may no longer deceive the nations as he had done through human history and lead them into active aggression against the saints during the thousand years. -12

39 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Dr. George Ladd continued... The mention of the nations raises a difficult question. One would suppose from the preceding chapters of the Revelation that the entirety of mankind had been involved in the struggle between Christ and the Anti-Christ. In the days of Antichrist, Satan the great deceiver (12:9) seduced the kings of the earth by the glamour and glitter of Babylon to give their allegiance to the devil s representative (16:12, 14; 17:2; 18:3,9). One might suppose that this satanic deception embraced all the nations of the earth, including both their kings and their subjects. Now, however, it seems clear that the kings of the earth represent a select number who have supported Antichrist. There apparently remain nations outside the scope of this struggle who are now delivered from satanic deception. Ladd and others who teach a pre-millennial are saying that lost people enter into the 1,000 year reign of Christ. Major problem Scripture is clear that when Christ comes destruction and judgment will come upon all the lost. II Thessalonians 1:5-12 They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might. -13-

40 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 II Thessalonians 1: This is evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are also suffering 6 since indeed God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you, 7 and to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels 8 in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might, 10 when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed. 11 To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, 12 so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ. Number 5 Another major problem is the lost in unredeemed bodies living on the earth with millions and billions of Christian s in glorified bodies. -14

41 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Dr. George Ladd wrote... The saints will be in their resurrection bodies, while the people who make up the nations (vs. 8) are living out their natural existence. Many have taken offense at the thought of such mingling of the redeemed and unredeemed orders. We can only suggest that after the first Easter morning, Jesus in his resurrection body enjoyed forty days of intercourse with his disciples (Acts 1:3). God has yet many marvels in his redemptive purpose. Another major problem is that Jesus Christ is ruling on the earth in his glorified body with unbelievers? And They Don t Believe Really 6. Revelation 20:8 Their number like the sand of the sea fits perfectly at the end of history with the Return of Christ (Revelation 16:12-16; Ezekiel 38-39; Revelation 20:1-10). Revelation 20:7-9 7 And when the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison 8 and will come out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle; their number is like the sand of the sea. 9 And they marched up over the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city, but fire came down from heaven and consumed them. -15-

42 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Their number like the sand of the sea: = 100 s, 1,000 s, millions and billions. End of history with the 2nd Coming of Christ, the Gathering of the world for Armageddon (WWIII). Revelation 16: The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, to prepare the way for the kings from the east. 13 And I saw, coming out of the mouth of the dragon and out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs. 14 For they are demonic spirits, performing signs, who go abroad to the kings of the whole world, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty. 15 ( Behold, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake, keeping his garments on, that he may not go about naked and be seen exposed! ) 16 And they assembled them at the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon. Kings of the East Iran India China North Korea -16-

43 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Kings of the Whole World North America South America Europe Africa Australia Etc., 7. The use of Ezekiel fits perfectly with Revelation at the end of history (Ezekiel 38-39); Revelation 19-20). Revelation 20:7-9 7 And when the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison 8 and will come out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle; their number is like the sand of the sea. 9 And they marched up over the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city, but fire came down from heaven and consumed them. The four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog Ezekiel 38:1-2 The Word of the Lord came to me: Son of Man, set your face toward Gog, of the land of Magog

44 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 1,000 yr. reign Man of Sin Gog & Magog 2nd Coming Ezekiel 38 & 39 4 Corners of the earth Number like the sand of the sea 2nd X Coming * Gog & Magog Who & Where 8. The teaching of Scripture is clear that when Christ returns he will rapture the church and destroy the lost and bring history to a close (Revelation 11:15; 15:1; 19:11-21; 20:1-10; 21-23). I have touched on this point so much that I can be brief. This language is so clear, complete and final that to say there is still another 1,000 years to go with another world-wide rebellion and God s wrath poured out I would then wonder if that really is the end maybe in heaven there is another rebellion and wrath of God but it is not recorded. -18-

45 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Revelation 11:15 Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever. Revelation 15:1 Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished. The language of these two verses imply with absolute clarity the end of history with the wrath of God poured out and Jesus 2nd Coming. 9. The Biblical teaching is clear that at the return of Christ there will be a resurrection of both the saved and lost at the same time. (Daniel 12:1-3; John 5:25-29; Acts 17:30-31; 24:14-15; I Corinthians 15:20-28). Daniel 12:1-3 At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book. -19-

46 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Daniel 12:1-3 continued... 2 And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. The saved and lost are raised together there is no 1,000 year separation between them. John 5: Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. 27 And he has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. 28 Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice 29 and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. The saved and lost are raised at the same time and there is no 1,000 years between them. -20-

47 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Acts 24:1 15 having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust. Both the just and unjust are raised together they are not separated by 1,000 years. Hermeneutical Principle The clear and didactic teachings of Scripture take precedence over the unclear and symbolic. Jesus clear teaching of the resurrection of both the saved and lost in John 5:25-29 takes precedence over the highly symbolic and unclear text of Revelation 20:1-10. The highly symbolic text should not have precedence over the clear teaching of Scripture. The analogy of faith = Scripture teaches Scripture the clear over the unclear. 10. The references to thrones and souls that have been beheaded fits perfectly with the image of heaven in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 4-6; 7:9-17; 14:1-5; 15:1-8; 20:1-15). -21-

48 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Revelation 20:4-6 4 Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5 The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years. Heaven is a place of the throne of God and the Lamb - the 24 elders in chapter 4 of Revelation surrounded God s throne it is also the place where those killed for Christ reign. Throne in the book of Revelation appears 47 times in the book and only 3 times does it refer to some other place than heaven. -22-

49 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Revelation 2:13 I know where you dwell, where Satan s throne is... Church Of Pergamum Revelation 13:2 And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority. Revelation 16:10 The 5th angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast. The Beast s Place of Authority Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years. -23-

50 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 They came to life and reigned with Christ for 1,000 years. 1. If this is a physical resurrection then the Pre-Millennial position is correct. 2. Dr. Ladd and all pre-millennialists believe it is a physical resurrection. 2nd Coming Physical 1st Resurrection 1,000 Years 2nd Resurrection Lost 3. The Greek word is the same for both Spiritual Physical That is why I was historical premillennialist for 40 years. The biblical answer of a-millennialist 1. The separation between the resurrection of the lost and saved of 1,000 years contradicts the clear teaching of scripture that they are together. Daniel 12:1-3 John 5:25-29 Acts 24:14-15 I Corinthians 15:

51 Chapter Twenty 20: The idea that because the same Greek word is is used in Revelation 20:4 they came to life requires both must be physical is denied by the text of John 5: John 5: Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. 27 And he has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. 28 Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice 29 and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. Same Greek word is used for both word for life. root Swn Life * Spiritual Life * Physical Life -25-

52 Chapter Twenty 20: It is not always the case in Scripture that coming to life means bodily resurrection. Luke 20:27-40 Vs. 38 Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him. (3WN) Revelation 4:9-10 God who lives forever. Revelation 7:2 The living God. Revelation 10:6; 15:7 God who lives forever. Revelation 20:4 They came to life. Christians at death come to life in heaven and reign with Christ forever. The Scriptures speak of the believers fellowship with Christ as a resurrection that brings victory over the dominion of sin and death. John 11: Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this? With our union with Christ we are identified with him in his resurrection and reign in heaven. -26-

53 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 II Peter 3:8-13 continued...holiness and godliness, 12 waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! 13 But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. The rest of the dead = unbelievers who come to life physically in their bodies for judgment and experience spiritual death = separation from God in hell for eternity more next week concerning the great white throne judgment. 11. All of the Old Testament and New Testament scriptures emphasize that when Christ returns history will end, judgment will take place and there will be a new heaven and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17-25; 66:22-24; Daniel 12:1-3; Matthew 24; I Corinthians 15; I Thessalonians 1,4,5; II Thessalonians 1, 2; II Peter 3:11-13; Revelation 19:22 II Peter 3:11-13). 11 Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, 12 waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on -27-

54 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 Ephesians 2:6 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, Revelation 20:4 And they came to life. We are already seated with Christ in heavenly places and at our death that becomes a reality we literally and in reality enter heaven and reign with Christ for 1,000 years (an indefinite but limited period of time.) II Peter 3: But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. 11 Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of -28-

55 Chapter Twenty 20:1-10 II Peter 3:11-13 continued... fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! 13 But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. 12. The return of Jesus Christ is called the blessed hope (Titus 2:13; Revelation 22:16-21). Titus 2:13 Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Blessed = Enjoying great Happiness Blissful We will be blessed, happy and blissful because evil is destroyed, the judgment is over and the new heavens and new earth and present and we will live and reign with Christ forever!!!! Hallelujah -29-

56 Chapter Twenty 20: Books on A-Millenilism 1. A Case for A-Millenialism by Dr. Kim Riddlebarger 2. The Bible and the Future by Dr. Anthony Hoekema 3. Christ and the Future by Cornelis P. Venema 4. The Darkside of the Millenium by Dr. Arthur H. Lewis 5. A-millenialism Today by William E. Cox These 5 books can be very helpful in understanding the A-Millennial position but there are many other A-Mill books besides these

57 12 Biblical Reasons for The A-Millennial Position 1. The Book of Revelation is a highly symbolic book (Revelation 1-22). 2. Jesus Christ bound Satan with his 1st coming (Matthew 12:22-32; Luke 10:17-20; John 12:27-32; Revelation 20:1-3). 3. The visions of Revelation are parallel to each other rather than being in sequence (Revelation 11 & 13;14,15, 16; Revelation 19 & 20). 4. The biblical teaching is clear that the 7 trumpets and 7 bowls complete and finish the wrath of God (Revelation 6:12-17; 11:15; 15:1; 20:9). 5. The critical problem of the people at the end of the 1,000 year reign of Christ: who are they and where did they come from? (Revelation 20:1-10). 6. Revelation 20:8 Their number is like the sand of the sea fits perfectly at the end of history with the return of Christ (Revelation 16:12-16; Ezekiel 38-39; Revelation 20:1-10). 7. The use of Ezekiel fits perfectly with Revelation at the end of history (Ezekiel 38-39; Revelation 19-20).

58 8. The teaching of scripture is clear that when Christ returns he will rapture the church and destroy the lost and bring history to a close (Revelation 11:15; 15:1; 19:11-21; 20:1-10; 21-22). 9. The biblical teaching is clear that at the return of Christ there will be a resurrection of both the saved and lost at the same time (Daniel 12:1-3; John 5:25-29; Acts 17:30-31; 24:14-15; I Corinthians 15:20-28). 10. The references to thrones and souls that have beheaded fits perfectly with the image of heaven in the Book of Revelation (4-6; 7:9-17; 14:1-5; 15:1-8; 20:1-15). 11. All of the Old Testament and New Testament scriptures emphasize that when Christ returns history will end, judgment will take place and there will be a new heaven and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17-25; 66:22-24; Daniel 12:1-3; Matthew 24; I Corinthians 15; I Thessalonians 1,4,5; II Thessalonians 1,2; II Peter 3:11-13; Revelation 19-22). 12. The return of Jesus Christ is called the blessed hope (Titus 2:13; Revelation 22:16-21).

59 SERMON OUTLINE Judgment A decision; order or sentence given by a judge or law court. God s final sentence as judge of all things. Revelation 20:11-15 *The great white throne judgment will include The unsaved of all mankind. 2. The fallen angels who rebelled with Satan. 3. The redeemed concerning their rewards. 4. The book of life. 5. The second death which is the lake of fire.

60 Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 20:11-15 Introduction Acts 17:30 Point 1 Revelation 20:11-15; Hebrews 9:27; Daniel 7:9-10; Matthew 16:15; 12:33-37; Revelation 20:12; Romans 5:12; 18; I Corinthians 15:22; Romans 1:18-20; 2:12-16; Psalm 19:1; Romans 10:14-17; Matthew 10:14, 15; 11:22; John 19:11; Luke 12: Point 2 Revelation 20:11-15; I Corinthians 6:1-3 Point 3 Revelation 20:11-15; Romans 14:10-12; I Corinthians 3:10-15; I Corinthians 3:12-15; 4:5; II Corinthians 5:9-10; Colossians 3:23-25; Romans 14:10-12; I Corinthians 9:25-27; I Thessalonians 2:17-20; James 1:12-18; II Timothy 4:6-8; I Peter 5:1-5; I Corinthians 15: Point 4 Revelation 20:11-15; 13:8; Philippians 4:3; Luke 10:20; Revelation 20:12; 21:27. Point 5 Revelation 20:11-15; Luke 16:22-31; Matthew 25:41; 46.

61 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 Sermon notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermon on this chapter Judgment a legal decision; order or sentence given by a judge or law court. God s final sentence as judge of all things. Inscribed on one of the government buildings in Washington, D.C. There is one God, one Nation and one far off judgment to which all creation moves That judgment is not so far off Acts 17:30 30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, Questions concerning the great white throne judgment. What will the great white throne judgment include? Who and what will it embrace? Will the lost and the saved be there? Hebrews 9:27 27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, -1-

62 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 A day of judgment is absolutely certain and inevitable. No one and I mean no one will miss this appointment. Daniel 7: As I looked, thrones were placed, and the Ancient of Days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire. 10 A stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened. The books (plural) were opened Revelation 20:12 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. Every person who has ever lived will be judged. One of the most important questions to be answered at the judgment will be: What was your response to the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ? -2-

63 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 Matthew 16:15 15 He said to them, But who do you say that I am? Revelation 20:12 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. Matthew 12: Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. 36 I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, 37 for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Jesus said sinners will give an account for every careless word they spoke. -3-

64 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 What about those who have never heard the gospel. * A tribe in New Guinea * A tribe in Africa or Ecuador etc. Answer Sinners can go to hell who have never heard the gospel because of the following reasons: 1. Because they are born in Adam and die in Adam Romans 5:12 12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned Adam as our representative sinned and we all sinned in him. Romans 5:18 18 Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. I Corinthians 15:22 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. All in Adam are condemned. 2. Because they fail to live up to the light of creation and their own conscience. Romans 1:18-20 Romans 2:14-16 Psalm 19:1-4-

65 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 John Calvin said that every person bears the image of God and are aware of God s existence. CONCLUSION Sinners who have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ will die in Adam (under condemnation) and they will fail to live up to the light of creation and conscience. Therefore God is not unjust to consign them to hell. The only remedy for lost people to be saved is the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit. Romans 10: How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news! 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us? 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. -5-

66 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 There are degrees of punishment in hell. Matthew 10:14,15 Matthew 11:22 Luke 12:35-48 John 19:11 Hebrews 10:29 Fallen angels will be judged at the great white throne judgment. I Corinthians 6:1-3 6 When one of you has a grievance against another, does he dare go to law before the unrighteous instead of the saints? 2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? 3 Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life! II Peter 2:4 4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment; Christians will appear at the great white throne judgment to receive their rewards. -6-

67 Chapter Twenty 20:11-14 Romans 14: Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; 11 for it is written, As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. 12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. REWARDS I Corinthians 3:12-15; 4:5; II Corinthians 5:9-10; Colossians 3:23-25; Romans 14: A Crown that s Imperishable I Corinthians 9: A Crown of Rejoicing I Thessalonians 2: A Crown of Life James 1: A Crown of Righteousness II Timothy 4: A Crown of Glory I Peter 5: A new Glorified body I Corinthians 15:35-50 The great white throne judgment will include the book of life. -7-

68 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 Revelation 20:12,15 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. 15 And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. The book of life is mentioned twice in verses Revelation 13:8 8 and all who dwell on earth will worship it, everyone whose name has not been written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slain. Philippians 4:3 3 Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Revelation 21:27 27 But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. -8-

69 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 The book of life contains the names of all of the redeemed and this book belongs to the Lamb. The great white throne judgment will include the second death which is the lake of fire. Revelation 20: Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. 1. Death The 1st death is spiritual and physical; the lake of fire. 2. Hades The unseen world of the dead (Luke 16:22-31). Luke 16: The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he called out, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame. -9-

70 Chapter Twenty 20: Lake of fire The final hell, the place of eternal punishment for all unrepentant rebels, angelic or human. The 2nd death. Another name for hell is Gehenna Matthew 25:41 41 Then he will say to those on his left, Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Matthew 25:46 46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Personal Application 1. God has appointed a day of judgment and no one will miss that appointment. 2. Every unsaved person will give an account to God of both their unbelief and what they have done in word, thought and deed. 3. Books will be open with our lives recorded along with the book of life. 4. The book of life contains all those who are truly saved. -10-

71 Chapter Twenty 20:11-15 Personal Application continued All lost people will enter into the lake of fire which is an eternal hell. 6. There will be degrees of punishment in hell based upon one s life the more wicked the greater the punishment. 7. Once in hell a person can never escape and will experience torment and anguish forever and forever. Flee to Jesus Christ for salvation, forgiveness and deliverance. -11-

72 APPLICATION Romans 1: God s general revelation of himself in creation is evident to all mankind everywhere this knowledge of God renders all mankind without excuse. Atheist [Richard Dawkins] Sensus divinitatis = Calvin 2. This knowledge of God is insufficient to bring sinners to salvation no one will live up to the light of creation. 3. Sinners hold back this truth and deny God s existence and fall into false religions. 4. When sinners reject God s general revelation it leads them to idolatry and immorality they live a lie. 5. Sinners who reject general revelation spiral downward to gross depravity and are turned over by God to their wickedness. 6. Homosexuality and lesbianism are a clear violation of God s created order. Genesis 1-2 Matthew 19 (On Man and One Woman) 7. The most degraded of men are not destitute of the knowledge of God and his judgments (conscience asserts itself). 8. This knowledge does not of itself prevent persons from indulging the sins which they know merits God s judgment. 9. The knowledge of God s righteous judgment does not create any hatred of sin nor does it foster any disposition to repent of it. 10. The only hope for sinners is to hear the gospel which the church must preach to every tribe, tongue and nation. -12-

73 Revelation Chapter Twenty One

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75 SERMON OUTLINE The New Jerusalem the city of heaven that descends upon the earth. The final dwelling place of the redeemed. Revelation 21:1-27 *In Revelation chapter twenty one (21) there will be The new heaven and new earth because the 1st heaven and earth passed away (21:1-8). *God s promise is to... Renovate the heavens and earth. Dwell with all believers. Wipe away all tears. Be a spring of the water of life. Keep all unbelievers in the Lake of Fire. 2. The New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God (21:9-21). *The New Jerusalem will have... The glory of God upon it. A great high wall with 12 gates and 12 foundations. Dimensions of 1400 miles in length, width and height. A foundation of 12 beautiful jewels. 12 gates made of pearls and the street made of gold. 3. The new light for the city that is supernatural (21:22-27). *The light of the city is... From God Almighty and the Lamb. God s glory rather than the sun or moon. So bright there will never be any night. The reasons the nations of the earth can walk in it. To remain pure forever because only those in the Book of Life will enter it.

76 Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 21:1-27 John 14:1-3 Point 1 Revelation 21:1; Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; II Peter 3:12-13; Revelation 20:11; 21:3; Genesis 17:7; Exodus 6:7; Leviticus 26:12; Ezekiel 2:10-11; II Corinthians 6:16; Revelation 21:3,7; 21:4; I Corinthians 15:26; Revelation 21:6; John 4:14; Isaiah 55:1; Revelation 21:8. Point 2 Revelation 21:9-11; 17:1,3; 21:9,10; Ezekiel 43:5; Revelation 21:11, 12-14; 21:15-18; Ezekiel 48:31; Ephesians 2:20; Revelation 21:9-11; I Corinthians 15:40; Revelation 21:19-20; 21:21. Point 3 Revelation 21:22-27; 22-23; Psalm 36:9; I John 1:5; I Timothy 6:15-16; Isaiah 60:11; Revelation 21:25-26; Isaiah 60:19; Revelation 21:23; Isaiah 60:19-20; Revelation 21:23; Exodus 40:34-35; Revelation 21:25; Psalm 121:4; Revelation 21:24,26; Isaiah 2:3; Revelation 21:27.

77 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Sermon notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermon on this chapter New Jerusalem The city of heaven that descends upon the earth. The final dwelling place of the redeemed. John 14:1-3 1 Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. Revelation 21:1 21 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. The language of the new heaven and the new earth is found in both the Old Testament and the New Testament (Isaiah 65:17; Isaiah 66:22; II Peter 3:12-13). -1-

78 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Dr. George Ladd wrote... Biblical thought always places man on a redeemed earth, not in a heavenly realm removed from earthly existence. The majority of biblical scholars believe that the heavens and earth will be renovated rather than being made brand new. John uses the expression new 9 times in Revelation - 4 of them appear in chapter 21. This adjective conveys the meaning of something that is new but has its origin in the old. *The new covenant came forth out of the old covenant. *The new commandment came forth out of the old commandment. *The new man is a transformation of the old man. *The new heaven and earth comes forth from the old heaven and earth. That the sea is no more is a symbol and metaphor that there will be no more evil, pain, suffering, grief, crying or death. God s promise is to dwell with all believers. -2-

79 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Revelation 21:3 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. The theme of both Old Testament and New Testament is I will be your God and you will be my people. This is a golden thread that weaves itself into the fabric of scripture from Genesis to Revelation. Genesis 17:7 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said to himself, Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child? Exodus 6:7 Leviticus 26:12 Ezekiel 2:10-11 II Corinthians 6:16 Revelation 21:3,7 This is the golden thread of God s abiding love toward the covenant people. -3-

80 Chapter Twenty-One (21) God s promise is to wipe away all tears. Revelation 21:4 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. Tears represent all human sorrow, tragedy and evil in the world. Wiping way tears pictures the removal of the 4 main enemies of mankind. Death it will be destroyed forever (I Corinthians 15:26). Mourning caused by death. Crying the sorrow and pain cause by a broken world. Pain the 1st penalty inflicted on Adam/Eve after the fall. We will remember these NO more God s promise is to be a spring of water of life. Revelation 21:6 6 And he said to me, It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. Thirst represents the sense of spiritual need and thirst after God. to hunger -4-

81 Chapter Twenty-One (12) John 4:14 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life. Isaiah 55:1 55 Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Salvation is Free God s promise to keep all unbelievers in the lake of fire. Revelation 21:8 8 But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death. The New Jerusalem came down out of heaven from God. Revelation 21: Then came one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues and spoke to me, saying, Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb. -5-

82 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Revelation 21:9-11 continued And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, 11 having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. We find a contrast and similar language between the great prostitute of chapter 17 and the wife of the Lamb in chapter 21. Revelation 17:1,3 Revelation 21:9,10 And one of the seven angels And one of the seven angels who held who had the seven bowls the seven bowls full of the last seven came and talked to me and plagues came and talked with me and said, Come, I will show you said, Come, I will show you the bride, the judgment of the great the wife of the Lamb. prostitute. And he brought me to the Dessert in the Spirit. There I saw a woman sitting on a Scarlet beast that was full Of names of blasphemy. Great Prostitute And he brought me in the Spirit to a great and high mountain and he showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, that came down out of heaven from God. Wife of the Lamb The New Jerusalem will have the glory of God upon it. -6-

83 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Revelation 21: And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, 11 having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. Glory splendor, magnificence, radiance (Ezekiel 43:5; Revelation 21:11). This biblical term designates the presence of God. The New Jerusalem will have a great, high wall with 12 gates and 12 foundations. Revelation 21: It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed 13 on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates. 14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 12 Gates 12 Angels 12 Tribes 12 Foundations 12 Names 12 Apostles -7-

84 Chapter Twenty-One (21) 12 = the number of God s people 12 Tribes and 12 apostles represent the Old Testament and New Testament be united together in Christ. The 12 angels at the 12 gates stand on guard. New Jerusalem Old Testament New Testament 12 Tribes 12 Apostles Ezekiel 48:31 Revelation 21:14 The New Jerusalem will have dimensions of 1,400 miles in length, width and height. Revelation 21: And the one who spoke with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city and its gates and walls. 16 The city lies foursquare, its length the same as its width. And he measured the city with his rod, 12,000 stadia. Its length and width and height are equal. 17 He also measured its wall, 144 cubits by human measurement, which is also an angel's measurement. 18 The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, like clear glass. -8-

85 Chapter Twenty-One (21) The New Jerusalem s dimensions of 1,400 miles high, wide and long is symbolic. There are 2 interpretations: (1) This represents the people of God and is not an actual city or place. Bride, the wife of the Lamb = the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:9-11). (2) This represents an actual city and place for the saints to dwell this is my position. The New Jerusalem will have a foundation of 12 beautiful jewels. Revelation 21: The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. The 12 stones correspond to the 12 gems set into the breastplate of the high priest, which suggest that the privileges reserved for the high priest alone under the Old Covenant are now freely given to the entire people of God. -9-

86 Chapter Twenty-One (21) 1. jasper a green semiprecious stone; perhaps green quartz (4:3). 2. sapphire a blue stone, either lapis lazuli or the modern sapphire. 3. agate a gray or green stone, named for the city of Chalcedon. 4. emerald another green stone; probably the same as modern emerald (4:3). 5. onyx probably a banded stone, such as onyx or agate. 6. carnelian a red semiprecious stone, perhaps a red quartz (4:3). 7. chrysolite a yellow semiprecious stone such as yellow quartz. 8. beryl a blue-green semiprecious stone such as modern aquamarine. 9. topaz probably yellow or brownish; perhaps like modern topaz. 10. chrysoprase a yellow green semiprecious stone, perhaps quartz. 11. jacinth a blue semiprecious stone, sometimes translated hyacinth. 12. amethyst a purple semiprecious stone, probably like modern amethyst. The New Jerusalem will have 12 gates made of pearls and the street made of gold. Revelation 21:21 21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. -10-

87 Chapter Twenty-One (21) 1. Each gate was made of a single pearl. 2. The street was made of pure gold which represents purity and holiness. The main purpose of this street is to radiate the glory of God. The new light for the city is super natural. Revelation 21: And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. 23 And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. 24 By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, 25 and its gates will never be shut by day and there will be no night there. 26 They will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations. 27 But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. The light of the city is from God Almighty and the Lamb. Revelation 21: And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. 22 And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. -11-

88 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Chapter 21:21-23 continued... And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. The temple of the New Jerusalem is the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb. Psalm 36:9 9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light. I John 1:5 5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. There is no need of natural or artificial light in the New Jerusalem because God is present and he is brilliant light. I Timothy 6: which he will display at the proper time he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen. -12-

89 Chapter Twenty-One (21) The light of the New Jerusalem will be the supernatural light of the Lord God Almighty. Isaiah 60:11 Revelation 21:25-26 Your gates will always stand open, they will never be shut, day or night, so that men may bring you the wealth of the nations. And its gates are never closed during the day, for there is no night there. And they will bring the glory and honor of the nations into it. Isaiah 60:19 Revelation 21:23 The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. And the city did not need the sun or the moon to illumine it, for the glory of God illumines it and the Lamb is its lamp. The light of the city is God s glory rather than the sun or moon. Revelation 21:23 23 And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. We as humans experience the sun by day and the moon by night. But in the New Jerusalem only the glory of God and the Lamb will give light to the city. -13-

90 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Isaiah 60: The sun shall be no more your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give you light; but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. 20 Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself; for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended. The Lord will be your everlasting light God s glory gives light to the new city. Exodus 40: Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. 35 And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. The light of the city is so bright there will never be and night. Revelation 21:25 25 and its gates will never be shut by day and there will be no night there. We will never sleep in heaven. -14

91 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Psalm 121:4 4 Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. There will be no night because it is impossible for God to turn down or off his glory and radiance. The light of the city is the reason the nations of the earth can walk in it. Revelation 21:24,26 24 By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. 26 They will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations. In the New Jerusalem the redeemed will consist of people from every nation and tribe and people and tongue (Rev.7:9) who will not lose their identity. Isaiah 2:3 3 and many peoples shall come, and say: Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths. For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. The light of the city is to remain pure forever because only those in the book of life will enter it. -15-

92 Chapter Twenty-One (21) Revelation 21:27 27 But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. 1. This book belongs to the Lamb. 2. This book contains the names of all of the saved. Personal Application 1. The hope of every Christian is the 2nd coming of Christ followed by a new heaven and new earth. 2. The new heaven and earth will be glorious beyond our imagination. 3. The New Jerusalem will be beautiful beyond what we can imagine. 4. The language of the New Jerusalem is symbolic but its reality will transcend its symbolism. 5. The light of heaven will be the supernatural glory of God. 6. The joy, peace, worship and celebration of heaven will defy anything we can possibly understand. We can only experience it. 7. The greatest blessing of the new heaven and new earth will be the Triune God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. which we shall experience not only for time but for eternity. HALLELUJAH!!!! & PRAISE THE LORD!!! -16-

93 Revelation Chapter Twenty Two

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95 SERMON OUTLINE Epilogue a conclusion that provides further comment or information. Revelation 22:1-21 *Chapter 22 concludes the Book of Revelation with The river of life and the tree of life (22:1-2). 2. The throne of God and the Lamb and his servants who worship him (22:3-5). 3. The blessing upon those who keep God s Word (22:6-9). 4. The book is to remain unsealed (22:10-11). 5. The promise of Christ s second coming to repay everyone (22:12-15). 6. The three (3) biblical images of Christ (22:16). 7. The Holy Spirit and the Bride s invitation to salvation and the warning not to change God s Word (22:17-21).

96 Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 22:1-21 Point 1 Revelation 22:1-2; Psalm 46:4; John 4:10,14; Ezekiel 47:1-2; Zechariah 14:8; Genesis 2:9; Ezekiel 47:12. Point 2 Revelation 22:3-5; John 14:8-11; I John 3:1-2. Point 3 Revelation 22:6-9; II Timothy 3: Point 4 Revelation 22:10-11; Daniel 12:4. Point 5 Revelation 22:12-15; 7:14. Point 6 Revelation 22:16; John 8:58; II Timothy 2:8; Numbers 24:17; II Peter 1:19. Point 7 Revelation 22:17-21; Deuteronomy 4:2; I Corinthians 16:22.

97 Revelation Twenty-Two (22) Sermon notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermon on this chapter Epilogue a conclusion that provides further comment or information. We come to the end our study of Revelation to chapter 22 that adds a variety of thoughts to this book like beads of pearl on a necklace. With a variety of thoughts in chapter 22 we will cover a vast theological field of interest and challenging ideas and thoughts. So let s read the chapter and consider the various ideas presented. TEXT Revelation 22:1-21 I. Chapter 22 concludes the book of Revelation with the river of life and the tree of life (22:1-2). Revelation 22:1-2 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. -1-

98 Chapter Twenty-Two (22) The majority if not all the scholars believe the first 5 verses go with chapter 21. Remember that chapter and verses were added later to the Scriptures. But since I did not add these verses to my sermon last week we will place them with the conclusion of the book. Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal flowing from the throne and the Lamb through the middle of the street. This is a symbolic way of describing the reign of eternal life in the age to come. Psalm 46:4 4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. John 4:10,14 10 Jesus answered her, If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water. 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life. -2-

99 Chapter Twenty-Two (22) Ezekiel 47:1-2 picture the New Jerusalem a river of water which brings healing and life to the Dead Sea. Zechariah 14:8 had a vision of the kingdom of God in which the rivers of water flowed from Jerusalem both Eastward and Westward. River of life A life reigns supreme death is abolished Throne of God and the Lamb The fact that the river flows from the throne of God and the Lamb simply means that God is the source of all of life. River flowing through the middle of the street = the centrality of eternal life in the new city. The tree of life with its 12 kinds of fruit yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. -3-

100 Chapter Twenty-Two (22) God planted in Eden the tree of life (Genesis 2:9) but after man sinned God excluded access to the tree. Cherubim Angel with flaming sword Cherubim Guard the Tree GOD!!! GRACE!!! If sinful man would have eaten of the tree of life he would have been locked in that state forever (eternity) (symbol) Tree of Life = Jesus redemptive life/death and his consummation of the kingdom with the new heaven and new earth. Leaves for healing of the nations. This Language comes from Ezekiel 47:12 Ezekiel 47:12 12 And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing. -4-