Revelation Chapter Four
Chapter Four (4) Sermon Notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermons on this chapter Heaven - the abode of God and the angelic beings Paradise The place of blessedness II Corinthians 12:2-3 Luke 23:42-43 Revelation 2:7 The language of Revelation 4 is very symbolic and metaphorical. The one who sat on the throne is described as having the appearance of Jasper and Carnelian. Throne symbolizes absolute sovereignty Daniel 7:9 I Kings 22:19 Scripture teaches that God is sovereign Psalm 135:6 Ephesians 1:11 Revelation 11:15 Jasper crystal clear God s nature is s pure as crystal = no sin at all Radiant Light -1-
Chapter Four (4) I Timothy 6:16 Who dwells in unapproachable light. Baptist Confession of 1689 God is a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts or passion.... John 4:24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth. Spirit is the opposite of physical & visible Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God. Carnelian fiery red = judgment God is a consuming fire Hebrews 12:29 Our God is a consuming fire. Mt. Sinai Thunders / Lightnings / Thick Cloud Trumpet Blast -2-
Chapter Four (4) Exodus 19:18 = God descended on the mountain in fire. Judgment is Coming Hebrews 9:27 It is appointed unto men to die once then comes the judgment. Rainbow Emerald Green = Mercy Rainbow God s Mercy & Promise All sinners who embrace Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are forgiven of their sins. The 24 Elders - They are angelic beings who rule and lead in heavenly praise to God. They represent the future raptured, resurrected and rewarded saints. 24 Elders 12 Patriarchs Old Testament 12 Apostles New Testament They represent both Old and New Testament Saints -3-
Chapter Four (4) 1. White garments Christ s righteousness 2. Golden crowns rewards 3. Casting them to the throne an act of praise & thanksgiving 4. Seated on thrones ruling with Christ 5. Worshiping our response to salvation 7 torches of fire which are the 7 spirit s of God = The fullness and blessing of the Holy Spirit. 3rd Person of the Blessed Trinity The Counselor, Teacher, Guide, Sustainer, Comforter, etc. In Creation Perfector In Salvation Regeneration In Sanctification sets us apart In Prayer prays within us Sea of Glass the majesty of God s divine presence as well as his purity and holiness. Four Living Creatures they are angelic beings that represent 4 dimensions of God s creation. -4-
Chapter Four (4) Lion Wild beast of the earth Ox Domesticated animals Man Human beings Eagle Flying animals They also represent praise and adoration of God for his complete creation. The 24 elders, the four living creatures worship God for his sovereign power in creating the Universe. Revelation 4:11 Worthy are you, our Lord and God to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by you will they exist and were created. Personal Application 1. Worship is the highest priority of our lives John 4:23-24. 2. Worship is only received when done from our hearts - Mark 7:1-8. 3. Worship that is God-honoring is empowered by the Holy Spirit Philippians 3:3. 4. Worship is the deepest privilege of every believer Psalm 150. 5. Worship is given to the Triune God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit throughout eternity Revelation 21-22. -5-
SERMON OUTLINE Heaven the abode of God and angelic beings. Revelation 4:1-11 *When we get a look into heaven we see... 1. One seated on the throne with the appearance of Jasper and Carnelian surrounded by a rainbow. 2. Twenty four (24) elders clothed in white garments with golden crowns on their heads. 3. Seven (7) burning torches of fire representing the seven (7) spirits of God and a sea of glass like crystal before the throne. 4. Four (4) living creatures full of eyes that were like a lion, an ox, the face of a man and an eagle in flight. 5. A chorus of worship and praise to a sovereign God who created the universe.
Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 4:1-11 INTRODUCTION II Corinthians 12:2-3; Luke 23:42-43; Revelation 2:7 Point 1 Revelation 4:2-3; John 4:24; Colossians 1:15; I Timothy 6:15; Daniel 7:9; I Kings 22:19; Psalm 135:6; Ephesians 1:11; Revelation 11:15; Hebrews 12:29; Hebrews 9:27; Exodus 19:18; Revelation 20:11 Point 2 Revelation 4:4; 5:9; 14:3 Point 3 Revelation 4:5-6; 19:16; Exodus 24:10; Revelation 15:2-3 Point 4 Revelation 4:6-8; Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 10 Point 5 Revelation 4:9-11; Psalm 90:4; Genesis 1:1; Psalm 105:6; John 4:23-24; Mark 7: Philippians 3:3; Psalm 150; Revelation 21, 22
Revelation Chapter Five
Chapter Five (5) Sermon Notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermons on this chapter Lamb the symbol used throughout Scripture for a sacrifice to God. Genesis 22:7-8; Exodus 12:3; Isaiah 53:7; John 1:29; I Corinthians 5:7; I Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 5:6,8,12,13. Jesus is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah Genesis 49:9-10 Lion = Fierceness and Strength It points to the one who will rule as King There are 456 Messianic Prophecies in the Old Testament. Jesus is the Root of David Isaiah 11:1-10; II Samuel 7; II Timothy 2:8 David Solomon Nathan Joseph Mary Matthew 1:1-16 Luke 3:23-38 Jesus was raised from the dead and established his Kingdom Acts 2:34; I Corinthians 15:25-26. -1-
Chapter Five (5) Jesus was slain but was standing Slain Violent Death (1) He is our sacrifice Ephesians 5:2 (2) He is our substitute Isaiah 53:7 (3) He is our satisfaction I John 4:10; Romans 3:25 His standing represents his resurrection from the dead Jesus has seven (7) horns and seven (7) eyes which are the seven (7) spirits of God. 7 Horns Symbol of power and strength Matthew 28:18 7 Eyes Symbol of complete vision Zechariah 4:10 7 Spirits Symbol of the Holy Spirit Galatians 4:6 A scroll written within and on the back, sealed with 7 seals. The scroll contains the prophecies of the end times events including the salvation of God s people and the judgment of the wicked. -2-
Chapter Five (5) 1. The finality of history. 2. The overthrow of evil. 3. The gathering of the saved. 4. The rule of Christ forever. The 7 seals move us from the 1st Century to the Second Coming of Christ and the end of history. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 = Seals A.D. 30 2nd Coming of Christ The Death of Christ... (1) Redeemed sinners from all over the earth. (2) Made the redeemed a kingdom of Priest to God. (3) And promised that they will reign upon the earth. All of the 24 elders, the four living beast, millions and millions of angels and all the redeemed will worship the Lamb throughout eternity. -3-
Chapter Five (5) Personal Application 1. Jesus Christ is the Lord and Savior of all who receive him for forgiveness John 1:29 2. Jesus Christ is the promised Messiah of the Old Testament Matthew 16:16 3. Jesus Christ is the sovereign Lord over all history - Revelation 5 4. Jesus Christ will bring history to an end and judge the lost and bring full salvation to the saved - Revelation 6-22 5. Jesus Christ is worthy of worship will all of our hearts now and for eternity Revelation 5-4-
SERMON OUTLINE Lamb of God the title that John the Baptist used for Jesus in the Gospel of John 1:29,36 Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. Revelation 5:1-14 *The apostle John sees the glorious picture of the Lamb who is... 1. The Lion of the tribe of Judah and the root of David. 2. The one slain with 7 horns and 7 eyes which are the 7 spirits of God. 3. The only one who can open the 7 seals of the scroll. 4. The one who redeems us from every tribe, language, people and nation and makes us a kingdom of priests who shall reign upon the earth. 5. The only one who can receive power, wealth, wisdom, might, honor, glory and blessing from the worshipers in heaven.
Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 5:1-14 INTRODUCTION John 1:29; Genesis 22:7-8; Exodus 12:3; Isaiah 53:7; I Corinthians 5:7; I Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 5 Point 1 Revelation 5:1-5; 49:9-10; 19:16; Isaiah 11:1-10; I Peter 3:13; II Samuel 7:12; II Timothy 2:8; Acts 2:34; I Corinthians 15:25-26; Romans 16:20 Point 2 Revelation 5:6; Isaiah 53:7; Ephesians 5:2; Mark 10:45; I John 4:10; Romans 3:25; I Peter 1:18-19; Matthew 28:18; Zechariah 4:10; Galatians 4:6 Point 3 Revelation 5:1-5; Ezekiel 2:9-10; Revelation 7:1-22:21 Point 4 Revelation 5:7-10; Colossians 1:13-14; Mark 10:45; Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 5:10; Romans 11:33-36 Point 5 Revelation 5:11-14; Psalm 95:1-3; John 1:29; Matthew 16:16; Revelation 6-19
Revelation Chapter Six
Scroll a book sealed along the outside with seven (7) seals. Chapter Six (6) Sermon Notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermon notes on this chapter The Scroll contains two (2) things in particular... (1) The establishment of the Kingdom of God and the gathering of his saints for eternity. (2) The judgment of God upon the evil demonic powers which have oppressed his people - God s wrath against evil will be poured out upon the world. 1st Century 2nd Coming of Christ End of History The Four Horsemen 1. White Horse Militarism 2. Red Horse War 3. Black Horse Famine 4. Pale Horse Death -1-
Chapter Six (6) The souls under the altar who had been slain for the Word of God and their witness. Under the Altar saints pictured as those sacrificed for Christ. Matthew 24:9 You will be hated by all nations for my Name s sake. Their prayer is a prayer of vindication. (1) White robes symbol of blessedness and rest (2) Rest a little longer until the consummation of all things at Christ s return. (3) Until the number of their fellow servants and brothers should be complete the end is not immediate and more martyred Christians will follow. The end of persecution and killing is not finished. The 5 seals takes us across 2,000 years of Christian History 1 2 3 4 5 Militarism War Famine Death Martyrdom 1st Century 2013-2-
Chapter Six (6) God s wrath will be poured out upon the nations at the end of history. Revelation 6:12-17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand. This is a day of both... Salvation Judgment Matthew 24:9 Acts 2:20-21 Revelation 6:12-17 II Thessalonians 1:5-12 II Thessalonians 2:3-12 The wrath of God fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of the day of the Lord. 1. Joel 2:31 2. Joel 3:15 3. Isaiah 13:10-11 4. Isaiah 34:4 5. Jeremiah 4:23-28 6. Isaiah 2:19 7. Matthew 24:29-31 8. Acts 2:20-21 9. Revelation 6:12-17 -3-
Chapter Six (6) Dr. George Ladd Writes... The breaking of each of the seals does not witness the opening of part of the book, chapter by chapter as it were; all of the seals are preliminary to opening the book. The sixth seal brings us to the threshold of the opening of the book and the great events of the end. The breaking of the seventh seal makes is possible for the book to be opened and its contents disclosed. The book contains the prophecies of the end of the world; but the end is not a single event but consists of a whole complex of events. It includes the outpouring of God s wrath upon a rebellious civilization, the judgment of the Antichrist and the destruction of his hosts, as well as the resurrection of the dead and the establishment of the Kingdom of God. So we may conclude that the sixth seal brings us to the threshold of the end; and then John stands back, as it were, to tell the story of the end in greater detail. The breaking of the seventh seal opens the book and begins the story of the events of the end time; this is the substance of the remainder of the Revelation. -4-
Personal Application 1. For 2,000 years and until Christ returns we will experience - Militarism War Famine Death Martyrdom 4 horses and the 5th seal of Revelation 2. These 5 seals will only increase and intensify at the end of history before Christ s Second Coming. 3. Those who are put to death for Christ go immediately into his presence in heaven. 4. The day of God s wrath and vengeance upon the wicked is ultimately and absolutely coming. Revelation 6:17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand. 5. Jesus Christ is the sovereign Lord of history who is in absolute control of the scroll and the seven (7) seals that open the scroll. Revelation 6:1 Now I watched when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals.... -5-
SERMON OUTLINE Scroll A book sealed along the outside edge with seven (7) seals. Revelation 6:1-17 *The Lamb opens the seals that bring disasters on the earth... 1. The 1st seal represents militarism. 2. The 2nd seal represents war. 3. The 3rd seal represents famine. 4. The 4th seal represents death. 5. The 5th seal represents martyrdom. 6. The 6th seal represents the wrath of God coming upon the earth. 7. The wrath of God fulfills the Old Testament prophecies concerning the day of the Lord.
Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 6:1-17 INTRODUCTION Psalm 138:16; Daniel 8:26; Zechariah 6:1-8 Point 1 Revelation 6:1-2; II Thessalonians 2 Point 2 Revelation 6:3-4; Revelation 16:12-16; 19:16; Matthew 24:7 Point 3 Revelation 6:5-6; Matthew 24:7 Point 4 Revelation 6:7-8; Matthew 24:9 Point 5 Revelation 6:9-11; II Timothy 4:6; Matthew 24:9; Matthew 24:14; Luke 18:7; Romans 12:19 Point 6 Revelation 6:12-17; Romans 11:15; 26-27; II Thessalonians 2:3-12; 6:12-17; II Thessalonians 1:5-12; Revelation 19:1-21 Point 7 Revelation 6:12-17; Joel 2:31; 3:15; Isaiah 13:10-11; 34:4; Jeremiah 4:23-28; Isaiah 2:19; Matthew 24:29-31
Revelation Chapter Seven
Chapter Seven (7) The seal of God also implies ownership. The 7th seal of God brings the 7 trumpets of God s wrath. The 4 angels hold back the 4 winds of destruction until God s people are sealed. The 144,000 represent symbolically all the saved upon the earth prior to God s wrath being poured out upon the earth. 144,000 = Both Jew/Gentile The Body of Christ The following seven (7) reasons are given for the 144,000 being all of the saved (Jew/Gentile). 1. The number 144,000 is a symbolic number of completeness. 12 X 12 X 1,000 = 144,000 The whole book of Revelation is filled with symbolic numbers. Even the new dimensions of the New Jerusalem is given with 12,000 and 144. Revelation 21:16-17 Dr. Robert Mounce writes: The number is obviously symbolic. Twelve (the number of the tribes) is both squared and multiplied by one thousand a twofold way of emphasizing completeness. -2-
Chapter Seven (7) Sermon Notes and significant thoughts and ideas from the sermon on this chapter Perspective A proper evaluation with proportional importance given to component parts. Revelation 7 is an interlude between the 6th and the 7th seal 6th Seal The sealing of the 144,000 The Great Multitude 7th Seal The sealing of the 144,000 answers the question of Revelation 6:17. For the great day of their wrath has come and who can stand? The 144,000 are sealed to protect them from God s wrath. Seal of God the seal of protection from God s wrath Ezekiel 9 An X was placed on all the foreheads of those who were deeply grieved over Israel s sin. It protected them from God s judgment. -1-
Chapter Seven (7) 2. The list of the 12 Tribes that John gives does NOT agree with the 12 Tribes listed in Genesis 49 and Ezekiel 48. Revelation 7 Genesis 49 Ezekiel 48 Judah Reuben Dan Reuben Simeon Asher Gad Levi Naphtali Asher Judah Manasseh Naphtali Zebulun Ephraim Manasseh Issachar Reuben Simeon Dan Judah Levi Gad Benjamin Issachar Asher Simeon Zebulun Naphtali Issachar Joseph Joseph Zebulun Benjamin Benjamin Gad George Ladd writes: No satisfactory explanation of this irregular list of names has been offered, unless it be this: John intends to say that the 12 Tribes of Israel are not literal Israel, but true, spiritual Israel the church. -3-
Chapter Seven (7) 3. The church is called the Israel of God. Romans 9:6 Not all who descended from Israel (ethnic Jews) belong to Israel (spiritual Jews). Galatians 6:16... upon the Israel of God. Galatians 3:29 And if you are Christ s then you are Abraham s offspring, heirs according to the promise. 4. The 10 Tribes of Israel in 722 B.C. disappeared after Assyria conquered them and took them into captivity. 5. The 144,000 are seen in Revelation 14:1-5 and the number is clearly symbolic of all believers. 6. The Tribe of Judah is listed first. Revelation 7:5 12,000 from the Tribe of Judah were sealed. Jesus the Savior is from the Tribe of Judah he is Normally listed 4th but he is listed first to signal the New Covenant and the church is the Israel of God. -4-
Chapter Seven (7) 7. We are at the end of history with God s wrath being poured out on the world and Revelation 9:4 clearly teaches only those with the seal of God on the foreheads are protected. If this seal is not placed upon all believers then some of the saved will experience God s wrath. But Scripture is clear that this can not happen. The Bible clearly teaches that God will protect His people from his wrath. Romans 5:9; I Thessalonians 1:9-10 Examples: Noah and the flood Lot and Sodom/Gomorrah Israel and the 10 plaques Israel and the Red Sea The great multitude represent the 144,000 who are saved by Christ s blood but are now seen in Heaven. (1). They are a great multitude that no one can number - every nation, tribe, people and language. (2). God s promise to Abraham was that his descendants (spiritual believers) would be as numerous as the stars in the sky, sand on the seashore and the dust of the earth (Genesis 15:5; 22:17; 28:14). -5-
Chapter Seven (7) (3). They were before the throne of God = Heaven (4). They were clothed in white robes with palm branches in their hands. This pictures victory, celebration and worship. (5). They were crying out that salvation belongs to God - God alone saves sinners. (6). Their robes were washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Hebrews 9:22 Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. (7). The great multitude in heaven. Serve God day and night. Are sheltered by God s presence. Never hunger nor thirst again. The sun will not strike them or the scorching heat. The Lamb will be their Shepherd. He will guide them to springs of living water. God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. -6-
Personal Application 1. Every Christian can have perfect peace that God s wrath will never strike them. 2. God will shield, protect and seal believers from his wrath now and at the end of history. 3. All the redeemed can celebrate their salvation that has been accomplished through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. 4. Every believer in Jesus Christ can have absolute confidence that God will bring us through whatever tribulation in life we face. 5. Every believer can know for certain that our ultimate destination is heaven where we will live in complete bliss and joy forever and ever. -7-
SERMON OUTLINE Perspective A proper evaluation with proportional importance given to the component parts. Revelation 7:1-17 *John sees the same group of believers from two different perspectives... 1. The 144,000 are sealed by an angel for protection from God s wrath that is coming upon the earth. 2. The 144,000 represent symbolically all the saved upon the earth prior to God s wrath being poured out upon the earth. 3. The Bible clearly teaches that God will protect his people from his wrath. 4. The great multitude represent all who have been saved by the blood of Christ. 5. The great multitude represent the sealed 144,000 who are now in heaven.
Scriptures used throughout this Sermon Revelation 7:1-17 INTRODUCTION Matthew 24:29; Acts 2:20 Point 1 Revelation 7:1-8; II Timothy 2:19; Revelation 8:1; 11:15; 16:17 Point 2 Revelation 7:1-4; Isaiah 11:12; Daniel 7:2; Jeremiah 49:36; I Timothy 5:21; Genesis 49; Ezekiel 48; Romans 2:28-29; Romans 9:6; Galatians 6:16; Galatians 3:14; 29; Philippians 3:3; Revelation 7:5; 9:4 Point 3 Romans 5:9; I Thessalonians 1:9-10; Revelation 6:16-17; Genesis 6-9; 19; Exodus 7-12; 12; 14 Point 4 Revelation 7:9-14; Genesis 15:5; 22:17; 28:14; Isaiah 66:1; Matthew 21:1-11; Luke 19:10; John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Revelation 7:14; Hebrews 9:22 Point 5 Revelation 7:15-17; Mark 10:45; Matthew 5:6; John 6:35; Psalm 23:1; John 10; Psalm 5:8; John 7:37-38; Revelation 21:4