Countdown to the end . . . #12
Vol. 4, No. 26 – June 30, 2019
Blessed are those who reads . . . hear . . . and take to heart what is written. –Revelation 1:3
Attempting to understand all the details of the Book of the Revelation seems overwhelming; except that God has provided His Holy Spirit to aid our effort. We need to step back for a moment and look out over the panorama of this prophecy. Revelation’s design is intended for a blessing into our lives. We need carefully take to heart its message, even if there is not consensus on the details (just think about the volumes of books and messages you have connected with over the years).
1 – Take to heart the message of Purity
Have you discovered, as a believer, the anticipation the Holy Spirit has for his constant theme? The constant theme is repent. As the seven types of churches are confronted with truth of walking in holiness, so we too should give careful attention to walk in holiness before our God, responding in obedience to Him. Repentance is a major theme—He is watching and noting our actions (and values). As we live our lives in this day, we need to be a people who have an ear to be hearing. So we ought to clean our ears as we read the Word of Truth brought to us from the God who is greater than all other gods.
2 – Take to heart the message of Praise
You may be surprised; the Book of the Revelation is also a songbook. Do not miss that. Over-and-over we get a glimpse of the worship that is, and will be, given to God. God is not only praised for what He has done and will do; He is praised for His character. As the end approaches, His power, majesty, and wisdom are honored—song is the method of preference to express praise. As we understand what is coming, and Who is going to be there; our rejoicing is unleashed. How are you doing with your songful praise?
3 – Take to heart the message of Punishment
This is such a heavy theme of the Book of the Revelation. We have so many who predict the end of the world, and give their reasons. People are brought to fear, even seeking how they might live on another planet. However, the conclusion of human history will not come as a result of self-destruction, or natural disaster; the conclusion rather comes as the Creator Himself executes perfect justice and judgment. Woes descend . . . bowls of wrath poured out . . . it is a terrifying period as divine judgment is earned. It will not be a pretty sight; however, God has been so patient, not wanting anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9). We dare not forget that God is serious about right and wrong. Ought not we to be a people of urgency to carry the message of the Gospel to every person our paths connect? It is an urgent task for us as believers and for the church.
4 – Take to heart the message of Perspective
The Book of the Revelation helps us see clearly through the fog of current circumstances. The coming end is importantly going to bring a spectacular beginning. Everything promised our great God delivers. God will dwell and live among believers; the old order will be gone, the curse removed, and all will be new. Wonder of wonders, He will wipe the tears from our eyes (Revelation 21:4). You will not need a hanky . . . He is quite capable of taking care of our tears. There is no God greater!
Wow! What a panorama . . . God intends for us to take it in; take these things to heart. He wants these things to sink deep into our souls. He wants us to experience the firm compass heading as we face each new day. We are drawn, through this book; to look forward to His coming . . . it is indeed counting down to the end!
Have you heard God’s last grace effort? It requires your response.
The Scriptures are clear. These have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31).
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life (1 John 5:13).
Where is your relationship to Christ today?
Jesus is coming soon to take you home to Heaven; His words are faithful and true . . . . He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen, come, Lord Jesus (Revelation 22:6, 20).
Life Application:
How does God convince the world of sin, righteousness and judgment? How do people realize that there is clear-cut righteousness and absolute evil? We have a unique book, the Bible. When we read its truth, it is God Himself speaking to us. God’s Holy Spirit is intertwined in His Word, and active in disclosing what we need to hear, helping us to understand. He convinces the world of sin; He speaks truth for He does not say anything that contradicts what God Himself says. He also loves as God loves; therefore, He seeks our reconciliation with holy God.
