This is the thirtieth in a series of verse-by-verse expositions of the book of Revelation. This message was delivered at Hillcrest Baptist Church on the morning of October 11, 2015. This message looks at the declaration of victory at the sounding of the seventh trumpet. This post contains an audio recording of my message, along with my sermon notes. Please note that the sermon notes are not necessarily a full transcript.
SERMON AUDIO:
SERMON NOTES:
v.14:
This verse ushers in the blowing of the seventh trumpet, the third woe. The seventh trumpet, the third woe, actually consists of the seven bowl judgments. We won’t see the details of these judgments until we get to chapter 16.
In the interim chapters 12-15, we will see seven distinct symbols. However, with the heralding of the sounding of the seventh trumpet, we will see a proclamation of victory.
v.15:
Although we have yet to see the details of this third woe, victory is already proclaimed.
“The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”
Throughout history, man has attempted to bring the world under the banner of a single government. The earliest recorded attempt was at Babel, but ultimately, God divided them. The Egyptians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Germans have all attempted this, yet none have succeeded. If such a success were ever allowed, the prideful attitude of those at Babel would certainly be the unholy result. Though the antichrist will come close, not even he will be able to bring all nations under his control. It seems clear in Scripture, that God will never allow a one world government, except for the one that is ruled by Him. Such a world will be manifest during the millennial reign of Christ.
Spiritually speaking, the world today does have a single ruler. . . Satan.
- John 12:31
- John 14:30
It should come as no surprise that this world’s earthly leaders are typically contrary to Christ.
- Psalm 2:2
- Acts 4:26
In fact, I’ve not seen an earthly kingdom in my lifetime, whose leaders have been truly committed to Christ. However, this rebellious world will eventually come to an end, with the victorious return of Jesus Christ. It is this kingdom to which believers truly belong.
- Philippians 3:20-21
- Hebrews 11:13
- 1 Peter 2:11
We are pilgrims, strangers on this earth, Therefore we are to abstain from earthly ways, the lust of the flesh. We are citizens of heaven, God’s kingdom, and our king will reign forever. These things we have to look forward to – an incorruptible body and an incorruptible king, are a cause of great hope and praise for all believers.
To know that this present world is not as good as it gets, that his is not our best life, nor our final destination, that this is only a temporary stop, and the best is yet to come. These are all sources of hope for the believer.
v.16:
The song of praise sung by these elders is a testament to the Glory of Christ, and His victory that we have to look forward to.
v.17:
- He is the Almighty God
- He is the Eternal God
- He is the all powerful God
- He is the God who reigns!
And if you are a believer, He is YOUR Lord!
v.18:
- He is the God of holy wrath.
- He is the righteous Judge.
- He is the Rewarder of the faith of those who fear Him.
- He destroys those who are destructive!
And if you are a believer, He is YOUR Lord.
v.19:
This is the true temple, where God dwells in all His glory.
This is the true ark, which symbolized God’s presence, atonement and covenant with His people.
The earthly temple and earthly ark were only copies of the incorruptible, heavenly originals.
- Hebrews 9:23
The voice of God thunders and quakes, and this vision is a preview of the seventh bowl judgment.
- Revelation 16:17-21
It is after the seventh bowl judgment that Christ will return to establish His kingdom.
If you are a believer, you have every reason to praise and worship your Lord, Jesus Christ. He is the almighty, the all knowing, all powerful, ever present, eternal King of Kings and Lord of Lords!
He has the power of creation and the power to breath life. He has defeated death, and is able to judge, bless, punish and reward. How will He receive you?
In Defense: The Blog 
Posted on October 11, 2015
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