This is the Fifty-fifth in a series of verse-by-verse expositions of the book of Revelation. This message was delivered at Hillcrest Baptist Church on August 14, 2016. This message is a warning not to change the Word of God. 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.6:
Reassuring words, as we transition from the Holy City to the final words of this prophecy.
We are assured that this prophecy comes from the Lord, as is true of any genuine prophecy.
2 Peter 1:20-21
This assurance directly contradicts the point of view of many scholars that the Book of Revelation is an unknowable mystery to which no key is available today.
This book is the Word of God and not some figment of John’s imagination.
It is intended to describe future events.
When taken in its literal, ordinary meaning, this is exactly what it does, even though much of Revelation is written in symbolic form.
The Word of God was not given to be obscure. It was given to be understood by those willing to be taught by the Spirit.
V.7:
His return is imminent. And, of course, this is the overriding theme of Revelation.
This last book of the Bible, so neglected by the church and with its meanings confused by many expositors, contains more promises of blessing than any other book of Scripture.
This reference to blessing is the sixth beatitude in the book (the seventh is in v. 14).
Revelation 1:3
The first blessing (in 1:3) is similar to this one in 22:7.
VV.8-9:
John had just been a exposed to the Word of God, which is something that should always inspire worship.
However, just because the Word speaks to us is no excuse to worship the messenger.
It may be a pastor or anyone else who shares scripture that convicts you.
Just remember, like this angel, they are only a messenger and fellow servant. The Word emanates from God.
As such, it is He alone who is to be worshipped.
In fact, this whole episode is rather curios, considering John’s very recent experience.
Revelation 19:10
John had already been told not to worship an angel, but he is so overwhelmed with the word which was revealed to him that he does it again. Such is the heart of man!
None of us are above such temptation.
V.10:
This is in direct contrast to the command to Daniel to seal up the book.
Daniel 8:26
The message is now meant to be heard by the church, and the vision is meant to be understood.
The time is at hand. Once again the imminent return of Christ is emphasized.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that He will come in a time frame which is quick by our standards, though it certainly doesn’t preclude it.
What it most definitely means, is that His return is imminent, it will happen.
From the Lord’s perspective, it will happen very quickly.
2 Peter 3:3-4
2 Peter 3:8-9
He has promised a return, and He will fulfill that promise.
Acts 1:9-11
John 14:2-3
When He does return, it will be very quickly, swiftly. Like a thief in the night. There will be no time to prepare.
1 Thessalonians 5:2-3
2 Peter 3:10
Therefore, the time for preparation is now, for there will be no other advance warning!
V.11:
However, THIS warning does exist, and those who reject it will find themselves condemned to an eternity in hell.
In that horrid, torturous place, they will retain their evil and filthy natures for all eternity.
Those who do respond to the warnings will find their eternal destiny in glory and realize perfect righteousness and holiness in heaven.
As Christ’s return gets closer, there is a greater divide between God’s followers and Satan’s followers.
We must read the book of Revelation, hear its message, and be prepared for Christ’s imminent return.
In Defense: The Blog 
Posted on September 1, 2016
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