The Plowman

 

 Standard Podcast [38:30m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (123)

An exposition of Romans 10:1-21. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, March 6, 2010.

Introduction
I’ve learned through the years that balance is pretty important.  Due to surgery to remove an acoustic tumor in ’95 I’ve had difficulty with uneven surfaces.  If I get on even a slight incline I’m very unsteady.  I remember getting up on my roof taking a few steps and learning very quickly that was not a good idea.  It was then I gave up my dream of joining the circus as a tightrope artist.  At the same time, as I’ve grown older and hopefully a little wiser, I’ve learn the value of theological balance.  Anytime we emphasis one truth to the detriment of another we get into trouble.  For instance if we emphasize the love of God to the point we obscure the doctrine of God’s holiness we distort the nature of God.  The result is a warped understanding of God that leads to an abuse of His kindness by presuming upon His grace.  Such thinking excuses sin by saying, “God will forgive me.”  On the other hand if we focus on God’s wrath to the point we neglect His love we are left with a vengeful God who is the God of the great big stick.  The result is that we live in fear of retribution without knowing the joy of fellowship with a loving, gracious Father.  We need balance.  God is love and God is holy.  He is to be feared and yet He is to be trusted.  There is judgment but there is also love and forgiveness.  There is wrath and there is mercy.  These truths must be kept in balance if we are to faithfully live in His presence.  In Romans 9 we are confronted with some difficult truths.  Truths that often disturb and bother folks.  We are confronted by God’s sovereignty in election.  The fact that God chooses to save some but not all.  The fact that He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy and He will harden whom He will harden.  We may not like that or be comfortable with that but we must allow God to be God.  He doesn’t owe salvation to any of us.  It is by grace that we are saved through faith.  But the truths of Romans 9 must be balanced with the truths of Romans 10.  Romans 9 says salvation is God’s business.  Romans 10 says we’re responsible!  Which is it?  Is it God’s doing or our doing?  It is both.

This is part of the mystery of our faith.  Can I fully explain it?  No.  Do I believe it?  Yes.  Why?  Because this is what God has revealed.  This is where balance comes in.  Yes God is sovereign and I cannot, I would not come to salvation apart from the work of His grace and yet I still choose.  I must respond to His grace.  I must repent and believe.  It is not a contradiction it is a mystery.  Years ago a friend who had attended Moody Bible Institute in the 40s talked about Wilbur Smith lecturing for weeks on the doctrine of divine election.  When he finally reached the end of his lecture series and had managed to convince a bunch of students to reluctantly embrace this doctrine of sovereign election he said, “Now let’s stand and sing, Whosoever Will as we are dismissed.”  That’s it.  It’s mysterious.  I’ve yet to come across anyone who adequately explains how that can be.  I heard one try by saying, “God’s sovereign election and our freely choosing are two parallel lines that meet in eternity.”  That has a nice ring to it but parallel lines don’t meet in eternity or anywhere else.  If they do they are not parallel!

What is clear with an honest reading of Romans 10 is…
Thesis: The biblical doctrine of salvation demands personal accountability.

Our text this morning is found in the tenth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Roman Christians.
Text: Romans 10:1-21

Do you remember how this section began?
Romans 9:1-6 - Paul was burdened over the “lostness” of his kinsmen.
Which led to the question - “Has God failed?”
Is God to blame for their being lost?

• The first part of the answer is in chapter 9 - “No, God is not to blame - it is only by His grace anyone is saved.”
• The second part of the answer is in chapter 10 - “No, God is not to blame - Israel is without excuse.”

There are three things I want to point out as we work our way through this 10th chapter.

1. Zeal, passion and sincerity are sorry substitutes for truth.  (10:1-4)
2. Saving faith is profoundly simple.  (10:5-15)
3. Ultimately you are responsible for your accepting or rejecting the gospel.  (10:16-21)

 

 Standard Podcast [36:36m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (337)

An exposition of Revelation 22:6-21. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, January 4, 2009.

Introduction
It’s history’s grand moment.  It is the climax of world events.  It is the believer’s blessed hope and the nonbeliever’s greatest nightmare.  It dominated the thinking of the early church.  It permeated their preaching and teaching.  It informed and motivated their ethic.  The return of the Lord Jesus Christ.  It is clear from the writings of the apostle Paul that the early church believed that the Lord could return at any moment.  That thought excited and motivated them.  Two thousand years later that thought does not dominate the thinking of most Christians.  There are exceptions.  There are the prophecy teachers who major on world events and the prophetic clock.  But that is not the kind of thinking that dominated the early church.  It was not a matter of “clock watching” but rather a lifestyle.  They loved and longed for the Lord’s appearing.

For the last few weeks we’ve been looking at heaven through the eyes of John the beloved.  John has given us a vision of what is to come.  We’ve been ushered into the throne room of heaven.  We’ve seen the Lord seated on his throne sovereignly controlling all things.  We’ve seen the Lion of Judah, the Lamb that had been slaughtered – who alone has the authority to open the scroll and march history to its predetermined end.  We’ve heard of the new heaven and new earth.  We’ve heard of streets of gold and gates of pearl.  As we come to the end of this vision – things seem a bit disjointed.  It is as if John knows he needs to wrap things up but he has so much to say.

In some respects John is coming to the bottom line.  You know what the bottom line is.  You list all your assets.  Subtract your liabilities and the sum is the bottom line.  It tells you where you stand.  When we talk about heaven we are not just talking about the beauty of that place.  It is not just a matter of the glorious things going on there.  The bottom line is that fact that none of that matters if you are not going!

The bottom line has to due with whether that is your eternal destiny.  And if it is – are you living in light of going?  Do you live each day in light of the Lord’s return?

Text: Revelation 22:6-21

What does it mean to live in light of the Lord’s return? If I’m living in light of his return – what will my life look like? From our text we note 5 characteristics of a life lived in light of our Lord’s return.

I. Living in light of His return creates an air of expectancy.  (22:6-7)
Verse six tells us these things must “soon” take place. 22:7 – “Behold, I am coming soon.” Present tense – not future. Not – “I’ll be back some day” or “I’ll see you later” – but “I’m on the way.”

The early church was consumed with the thought that the Lord might come at any minute.  They were convinced he would return in their lifetime. I’m convinced this is how we are to live. How would that effect your life? Would it impact your choices?

“Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book.” Blessed is the one who is obedient. Blessed is the one who puts into practice the things discussed here. The point of the book of Revelation is not to feed our fascination about the future but to cause us to heed the commands of God today!  It is not about drawing up charts of end time events but about living godly lives and lives of personal holiness.

II. Living in light of His return requires a worshipful spirit.  (22:8-9)
The thought of heaven inflames our worship of God today. “Worship” = to kiss forward. It involves a show of affection and a sign of humiliation/submission. A study of heaven and our future ought to cause us to love God more and worship him with new depth.  No other book of the Bible ought to cause us to worship Christ more than the book of Revelation.  For no other book unveils the glories of the risen Christ more.

III. Living in light of His return demands a believing heart.  (22:10-17)
Any study of heaven ought to make you want to go there. The reader is at a crossroads – a choice must be made. “Do not seal up the prophecy” is an appeal to take the message to the people. This is not a “secret” message. It is to be declared to the world.

IV. Living in light of His return demands clear thinking.  (22:18-19)
A word of warning for those who would reject the message of this book. This is a simple, straightforward warning about tampering with the message of God. Not that different from the one Paul gives in Galatians 1:8-9. It is a serious matter to distort, delude or deny the truth about the second coming of the Lord Jesus or heaven.

V. Living in light of his return enables a confident hope.  (22:20-21)

For the third time in this passage the Lord confirms the fact that he is coming soon. The word means quickly or rapidly. His coming is upon us. How am I to live in light of the Lord’s return?
• With an air of expectancy
• With a worshipful spirit
• With a believing heart
• With a clear mind
• With a confident hope

Even so, come Lord Jesus!

 

 Standard Podcast [32:07m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (384)

An exposition of Revelation 22:1-5. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, December 7, 2008.

Introduction:
They were a young, struggling business but through hard work and determination they were making a go of it.  After a couple of years their business took off.  Business was so good they expanded opening a new branch on the other side of town.  On the day of the grand opening a business associate sent them a flower arrangement.  When the arrangement arrived the young couple was a bit perplexed.  Finally, convinced that something was wrong they called the florist.  “Yes you just delivered an arrangement to our new store…”  “Is something wrong?” came the reply.  “Well, we’re just confused the ribbon says, ‘our deepest sympathies.’”  The voice on the other end of the line in panic cried, “Oh, no.  That means the one I sent to the funeral says, ‘congratulations on your new location!’”

If that was a funeral for a child of God – that would be an appropriate sentiment.  Heaven is a grand and glorious place.  That is one of the reason why John declares, “Blessed are they that die in the Lord.”  To be envied.  To be congratulated.  That sounds strange – but it is a glorious truth.  For the last few weeks we have been considering some of the great truths about heaven.

Our guide has been John the beloved apostle. On Patmos – the prisoner of Rome the captive of Christ. He has written his vision to encourage and strengthen us.

I don’t want you to miss the purpose of John’s description of heaven.  It is not just to give us hope for the future but also to encourage us to live for him now!

Text: Revelation 22:1-5
After the demise of Satan, following the final judgment, we will enter the eternal state.  As we consider the message of Revelation 21-22 we are reminded that:

Thesis: Heaven is a place of unrivaled glory.
Nothing even begins to compare with it. No description is adequate – words cannot do it justice. But the real beauty is not the architecture, the sights or the sounds – but the presence of the Lord Jesus.  In our text we find three reasons for why Heaven is such a glorious place.

I. Heaven is a place of gracious and abundant provision.  (22:1-2)
John begins with a description of the River of Life promised earlier (21:6). From this stream we will be fully satisfied, fulfilled and blessed. Here is a crystal-clear, flowing stream gushing out of God’s throne and flowing down the middle of the street of gold.

The image is clear – God is the source of this blessing. Those who drink from it find exhilarating ecstasy. The psalmist sang – “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God” (Ps 46:4).

We are told in Genesis that at the dawn of human history there was a river in the Garden of Eden that brought life.

Ezekiel saw this same flowing river along with Joel and Zechariah. Jesus said, “He who believes in me, out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.” In Rev 7:17 – we read “The Lamb shall guide them to springs of the water of life.” We will drink as much as we want for as long as we want. Our bodies will find strength, our souls will find satisfaction and our spirits will find fulfillment forever.

But John goes on – along the banks of the river we’ll find the tree of life. It is a bit confusing – “on either side stood the tree (singular) of life…” How does a tree stand on either side of the river? Most likely a collective word = park or forest. These trees yield an abundant supply of fruit. This is certainly a different kind of tree – 12 kinds of fruit?

And not, in heaven growing seasons will be a thing of the past! Continuous bumper crop.
The trees will provide “healing” for the nations. Healing = therapeutic
The point – God is the source of this great abundant, overflowing, gracious provision.

II. Heaven is a place of freedom and unhindered service.  (22:3)

Look at the opening word of verse 3 – “No longer will there be anything accursed…” In glory the curse placed upon man will be removed – completely gone! God will reverse the effects of sin. No more contending with Satan. No more pin or sorrow. No more death or separation. No more ruthless tyranny by godless men. No more hostility. No more disease or illness. Only peace and health, comfort and pleasure. We’ve never even known a day like that!

But this will be the environment of heaven!!!

What will we do with that freedom? Serve the Lord without ceasing. We will be free to humbly walk in obedience. We’ll be busier than ever. But no burnout. No mid-life crisis. No retirement.

III. Heaven is a place of glorious transformation.  (22:4-5)

In heaven we will see the greatest of all sights – the Lord Jesus. We will behold him – face to face. This divine vision is the greatest glory of heaven. Theologians call it the “beatific vision.” Just the sight of him will provoke instant and profound joy.

Imagine it – Our eyes will behold him who died for us. The crucified one The one who gives life

This vision has been the hope of the people of God throughout the ages.  Job said, “Even after my skin is destroyed, yet from my flesh I shall see God; whom I myself shall behold, and whom my eyes shall see and not another.  My heart faints within me” (Job 19:26-27).

David, in Psalm 17 said, “I shall behold thy face in righteousness.”

R.C. Sproul said, “There is no more difficult problem that attends the life of faith than that we are called to serve and worship God who is utterly invisible to us.  As long as we are tainted by sin, we cannot see God.  Presently, we cannot look upon a holy God and live.”

But there is coming a day when we will see him face to face. In that very moment – we will be glorified – transformed into his likeness. His name will be upon us – proof of ownership. We will be like him.
There will not be so much as a hint of our fallen nature. Glorified bodies will house the spirits of righteous men made perfect (Heb 12:23).

The glory of heaven is beyond compare.  Its size is staggering.  Its beauty, breathe-taking.  Its glory unrivaled.  It is a place of gracious and abundant provision.  It is a place of freedom and unhindered service.   It is a place of glorious transformation.

 

 Standard Podcast [39:38m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (381)

An exposition of Revelation 21:9-27. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, November 30, 2008.

Introduction
You’ve seen the commercial.  Two “good old boys” in a beat up aluminum boat in the middle of a quiet lake.  One is reeling in a prize-winning catch.  The other is opening a cooler filled with ice-cold beer.  Then comes the line – “Life just doesn’t get any better than this.”  Life on a quiet lake with the fish biting and plenty of cold beer may be some folk’s idea of heaven but not mine!  If that’s all we had to look forward to I wouldn’t be all that motivated or encouraged.

According to the Scripture there is a glorious existence waiting beyond this veil of tears.  The Bible says, “This world is not our home.”  We are merely pilgrims here.  Our home is in heaven.  Our citizenship is in glory.  That is the believer’s hope.  It has comforted and encouraged the hearts of the saint through the centuries.  In times of heartache and trouble the believer looks up!  We are reminded to lift our thoughts beyond this present world to the world to come.  That is not escapist – it is the life of faith.

We’ve been called to heavenly-mindedness. Called to dwell on that which is to come rather than that which is destined to pass. It is at times hard to recognize but this life is a temporary stop over.

As a political prisoner, John walked the rocky shores of Patmos.  It was there on the Lord’s Day he was taken to glory and given a glimpse of what was to come.  He was told to write down what he saw and heard.  Thus we are given a glimpse of eternity.

Chapter 4 = a door standing open in heaven, “Come up here!” God firmly seated on the throne of the universe – unquestioned, unchallenged. John experienced the worship of the heavenly beings and the elders.

Chapter 5 = the Lion of Judah, the Lamb slaughtered. The one empowered to take the scroll and unfold history. Again – and explosion of praise and worship.

Chapter 20 = the demise of Satan the old serpent and the final judgment.

Chapter 21 = life for those who enter into glory.

Our text this morning is found in Revelation chapter 21 beginning with verse 9.
Text: Revelation 21:9-27

This is an extraordinary vision – a sight beyond description.  This is a familiar passage.  One that has inspired countless artist and musicians with streets of gold and gates of pearl.  But look carefully.  There is something more significant here than meets the eye.

Thesis: The revelation of the New Jerusalem provides us insight into the character and the heart of our God.

Look beyond the description of the city and learn something of its architect and builder. The logical question is, “Is this literal?”  Maybe, maybe not.  Now, hold on, I do believe in a “literal” interpretation of the Bible.  The Bible is literally literarily true meaning it is to be understood literally as it is intended.  A metaphor is a metaphor.  A picture is a picture.  The book of Revelation is highly symbolic to force a wooden literalism on it would be a mistake.  That in no way takes away from the beauty and splendor of heaven. Keep in mind John is struggling to find words adequate to describe what he saw.

I’m convinced that heaven will be far more glorious than any of us have ever imagined! I’m certainly not going to be disappointed if this is not a literal description.

As we walk through this passage, I want us to draw some conclusions about the architect.

I. The glory of the holy city and its massive walls reflect the majesty of God and the unity of His people.  (21:9-14)

As the city descends John is struck by the brilliance of the city. “Having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.”

There is this diamond-like quality about the city as it descends. Picking up light and reflecting it in a dazzling display of color. The word “glory” is the word “doxa” – doxology = worship, honor. Heaven is a place where the glory and majesty of God is constantly reflected.

By the way, none of these materials are brilliant in the dark! This is what concerns me about so much of the talk of heaven.  Attention is given to the glory of the materials without understanding if God is not there – there is no brilliance.  If God is not present, there is no glory!

John describes the massive walls – symbolic of protection and security.

II. The magnitude and beauty of the holy city reflect God’s perfection and His extravagant love.  (21:15-21)

This is where it gets interesting to me. The angel giving John the guided tour pulls out a measuring rod.

The first thing we note is the city is laid out in a perfect cube. Equal in length, depth and height. Perfectly symmetrical, perfectly balanced, reflecting the perfect unity of the Godhead.

If you remember the holy of holies was also a perfect cube. Note the dimensions: 1200 stadia = 1500 miles. 1500 miles long, 1500 miles wide and 1500 miles high! That’s 2,250,000 square miles – now that’s a big city. Roughly – Florida to Maine to Minneapolis to Houston.

Now if you take this measurement as literal – there is plenty of room for everyone in heaven.  Because 2,250,000 square miles on the ground and 1500 miles up from there gives you a total of 375,000,000 cubic miles enough room to easily accommodate 100 billion people.  It is estimated that 30 billion people have lived on earth over earth’s history.

The point = the graciousness of God. His inclusive love. God made adequate provision for a great, unnumbered host!

When you note the materials used, this was no budget job! No cinder blocks and no shag carpet. Apparently God doesn’t work with a finance committee. This is reflective of God’s wild, extravagant love.

III. The inhabitants of the holy city reveals God’s abundant grace.  (21:22-27)

As John catches his breathe, he is a bit surprised as he realizes there is no temple. The temple was the focal point for the Jew. When a Jew was away from Jerusalem, he long to see the temple again. The temple was the place to meet with God. It was the place of worship and celebration. It dominated the landscape – no temple? How could that be?

But there will be no need – the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb will be its temple. The presence of God will fill the city. His radiant glory is everywhere present.

Man will be restored in his relationship with God. The fall will be reversed. Nothing impure will ever enter. Sin and death are done away with.

Heaven will be a place of indescribable beauty and grandeur.  But more importantly it will be a life lived in the presence of the living God.

 

 Standard Podcast [29:44m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (382)

An exposition of Revelation 21:1-8. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, November 23, 2008.

Introduction:
Have you ever wanted to start all over? Have you ever wished that everything would just go away and you could start fresh? I’ve had that feeling many times. Sometimes in the middle of a sermon! There is something in the heart of man that longs for a second chance. The opportunity to do it over. The chance to begin again. Haven’t you said, “If I just had it to do over again?” But life doesn’t work like that. Our actions have consequences. But there is coming a time when everything will be made new. Life will begin again. That is the hope of the child of God. And that is what John catches a glimpse of in Revelation chapter 21.

Text: Revelation 21:1-8

Since the time of Plato philosophers and poets have pondered the ideal world. Wondering what the ideal world would be like. What institutions would it have and how could such a world be achieved? Sir Thomas Moore spoke of “Utopia.” He referred to it as a world free of trouble, anxiety and need. It would be a world in which laws were no longer needed as each citizen cared about the welfare and happiness of his neighbor. All would freely share with any who were in need. It is interesting to note that the word “utopia” is a compound word from the Greek language. “Ou” meaning “no” or “note” and “topos” meaning “place.” Utopia is no place – no such place exists! Yet the heart of man yearns for it. The Old Testament prophets fanned the flames of our desire through passages like Isaiah 25:6-8, and Isaiah 65:17-19, 25. John, the beloved was exiled to the isle of Patmos. The Church of Asia Minor was the victim of intense persecution. One Lord’s Day John was caught up into heaven and given a vision of what must take place.

In chapter 4 he saw the throne of heaven and someone sitting on that throne. He experienced the worship of the elders and the heavenly beings.
He heard the same song Isaiah had heard hundreds of years before. Then he beheld the Lord Jesus – the Lamb of God and the Lion of Judah. Again there was a spontaneous explosion of worship and celebration around the throne.

He witnessed the intense struggle between the forces of God and the devil. In chapter 20 John sees the destruction of Satan and the judgment of the dead. Chapter 20 ends with the horrifying reality that those whose names are not found written in the “book of life” will be cast into the lake of fire. Those who have spurned the gracious offer of life must stand on their own merit. Because all sin and fall short of the glory of God, their fate is sealed. Death. Eternal death. As the smoke and fire of chapter 20 clears John is given a glorious vision of a new heaven and a new earth. Let’s look at it.

This passage reminds us of a glorious truth:

Thesis: Heaven is a place of new beginnings.

There are three great truths in this passage that I want us to note this morning.

I. In the eternal state the earth will be gloriously transformed. (21:1-2)

Chapter 21 marks the beginning of the eternal state. John sees a new heaven and a new earth. Earth was originally created to be man’s permanent home. It was there in the Garden of Eden that Adam walked with God. It was a Paradise. It was a perfect environment.

But then sin and death entered the world and transformed the earth into a place of rebellion and alienation. The earth became enemy-occupied territory. But God has been working in redemptive history to reverse all the effects of sin!

There are two words for “new” used in the New Testament. “Neos” = new in time. That is the latest version of something. The word used in Revelation 21 is “kainos” = new in quality. It means fresh, renewed or renovated.
John did not witness the birth of earth 2 – but the renovation of the earth.

What earth is John talking about? The Greek word is “ge” – geography, geology. A transformation of this physical earth (so much for gnosticism).

Verse 2 announces the arrival of the New Jerusalem. God’s gift – given to his people – not earned or deserved. A bride – beautifully dressed (you never see an ugly bride). The earth will be gloriously transformed.

II. In Heaven sinful man will be fully restored in his relationship with God. (21:3-4)

As beautiful and wonderful as I think heaven is going to be the real beauty and the thing that makes it heaven is the presence of God and our being united with him!

21:3-4 = this is the goal of redemption. The word “dwelling place” = tabernacle. This is the fulfillment of Lev 26:11-13. What did God give to Moses at Mt. Sinai? The Law and the tabernacle! To dwell = to be at home with. This is not just co-existence. This is sweet communion. Heaven is a place of restored relationship.

III. In Heaven we will enjoy a blessed reward. (21:5-8)

Again the voice of God thunders from the throne, “I am making everything new…it is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.”
This is an affirmation of His sovereignty. He is the originator and the concluder. The creator and the finisher.

21:6-7 promise a great reward for those who are faithful conquerors. But note 21:8 – the news isn’t good for everyone. Cowardly = the fearful, those who make a profession but prove to be false professors. The faithless/the unbelieving = those who deny the faith The detestable = those polluted by sin. Murderers = especially those who have persecuted The sexually immoral = all forms of sexual perversion Sorcerers, idolaters and all liars Their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur – the second death. Forever excluded from the enjoyment of God’s presence and grace.

Who will be in heaven? The humblest sinner who repents and trusts in Christ and Christ alone.

In the eternal state the earth will be gloriously transformed. In Heaven sinful man will be fully restored in his relationship with God. In Heaven we will enjoy a blessed reward.

Because - Heaven is a place of new beginnings.

 

 Standard Podcast [39:54m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (361)

An exposition of Revelation 20:11-15. This message by pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist church on Sunday morning, November 9, 2008.

Introduction:
It was agonizing. I had to just sit there. That big clock on the wall kept ticking. I heard every click as the minute hand inched its way toward the top of the hour. I was sweating. My throat was dry. It seemed it was getting hard to breath. And he just kept me waiting. I started to leave but that wouldn’t help. That would only mean more trouble. I was in enough trouble as it was. It was not my first offense. And you know what they say, “Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time.” I had thrown the rock and now I must face the music. But how long would Mr. Layton keep me waiting? There is only so much a third-grader can take! There is something about the knowledge that you’ve been “caught.” You’re guilty. You know it. The authorities know it. Everyone knows it. And you are waiting for the day of reckoning. It is a sobering thing. The problem is so many seem to think they’ve gotten away with it. They are not concerned because as far as they can tell no one has the “goods on them.” So they continue to live a life free of worry or fear. Talk of a cosmic judge before whom they must give an account of their life is a fairytale, something for children and simple-minded folk to fear but not them. But even a casual walk through the Scripture reveals there is coming a day of reckoning. Judgment Day will come. Deny it all you like. Scoff if you will. But the facts will not change. One day every man, woman, boy and girl will stand before the Creator of the universe and give an account for their life. I know this is not a popular subject. I understand people don’t want to hear it, they would prefer to hear something more “practical.” But I would suggest that if it is true there is a day of reckoning then there is nothing more practical than for you to hear about it and prepare for it.

The people of God were oppressed and persecuted. The government of Rome had mandated the worship of the Roman Emperor as god. Because they refused to acknowledge Caesar as lord – Christians lost their jobs, had their home confiscated, their possessions taken from them, they were imprisoned, tortured and executed. They cried out, “How long O Sovereign Lord before you do something?” Rome was marching on. The Church was being destroyed. “How long?” John, the beloved apostle, was in the spirit on the Lord’s Day when he was given a vision of things to come. He was told to write what he heard and saw and send it to the churches. Thus we have the book of Revelation. Its purpose was to encourage and inspire. It was meant to bring hope and courage to a struggling people. Through its vivid images and fantastic pictures it reveals God’s working in history. It puts forth the victorious Lamb of God who has conquered. It tells of the epic struggle between the church and the dragon (who is Satan or the devil). And it boldly sets forth God’s sovereign rule over all of history. History is marching toward its predetermined end. Satan will be destroyed. The kingdoms of this earth will fail. The people of God will persevere. And the Kingdom of God will be established. Chapter 19 tells of the return of Christ. Chapter 20 tells of the defeat of Satan. And then 2 we come to this scene of Divine Judgment. Our text this morning is found in the 20th chapter of the Revelation beginning with verse 11.

Text: Revelation 20:11-15
When you read the New Testament a clear pattern reveals itself. There talk is of “this age” and “the age to come.” What is also clear is that the thing that separates these 2 ages is the return of Christ. And when He comes – judgment is carried out – Mt 13:36-43; 25:31-46 Here we have John’s description of that judgment. John with an economy of words sets forth a clear and succinct statement of that judgment. Every word carries weight. It is a simple yet sobering message. As we work our way through this text we will discover that…

Thesis: The vision of Revelation 20:11-15 warns of the certainty, the severity and the personal nature of God’s final judgment.

God’s judgment is certain, severe and personal. I want to quickly point out three things.

I. This text is a sobering reminder that we all will stand before the Sovereign Judge of all the earth and give an account. (20:11)

This is an awesome sight. It is intended to make your knees buckle. This is the God before we will stand and give an account. You can’t laugh it off. You can’t ignore it. It is certain and it is personal – you will give an account.

II. God’s sovereign judgment will be holy, righteous and true. (20:12-13)

Let this scene soak in. “I saw the dead…standing before the throne…” “The sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them…”

Do you get this picture? The dead – what dead? All those who’ve walked the planet! All of those who’ve lived since the curse was placed on humanity in the Garden. They have been raised to life and given new bodies to face the judgment. They all stand before that “great white throne” to give an account.

Did you notice that phrase in verse 13 – “and they were judged, each one of them according to what they had done.”

One day we’ll all stand before God and give an account. His judgment will be holy, right and true. And there is one other thing…

III. God’s sovereign judgment will be final and irrevocable. (20:14-15)

These are sobering words. They do not need any amplification or explanation.

So what have we learned? Christ is coming again. When He comes there will be a day of reckoning. We will stand before Him to give an account for our lives. What is patently clear is that, left to ourselves, we are in big trouble. Why? Because all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. And the wages of our sin is death. No exceptions.

What you must understand is this – your sin must be dealt with. You are left with a choice. You can hold onto your sin and thus face God on your own and you pay the price for your rebellion or you take your sin to the cross of Christ. Either you will pay or Christ will pay. One way or the other your sin will be dealt with. You did note didn’t you there was more than 1 book? In addition to the book that contains your thoughts and actions – there was the book of life.

Those cast into the lake of fire are those whose names were not found in that book. How do you get your name in the book of life? Your repent of your sin and you trust in Christ and Him alone. Christ died in order to bring us to God. The just for the unjust. His righteousness laid to our account. Our sin placed on Him. To be “in Christ” is to be pure and spotless in God’s sight. Rather than a lake of fire there awaits the redeemed a new Heaven and a new Earth. A life of glory, peace and grace in the presence of God himself.

There is a day of reckoning. We will stand before the judge of all the earth and give an account. His judgment will be holy, right and just. And His judgment is final and irrevocable.

Are you prepared for that day?

 

 Standard Podcast [38:13m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (390)

An exposition of Revelation 20:1-10. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered a Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, November 2, 2008.

Introduction:
We are all fascinated, to one degree or another, with the future. We long to peer into the future and find some fascinating tidbit. What if we did know the future? How would it affect the way we live? Would we try to alter the future? Can the future be altered? I think it is fun to go back and read things written in the 30s and 40s about life in the “distant” future. Much to their surprise we’re not all riding around in “space cars” or commuting to the moon. Yet in other ways we are doing far more than they could have ever imagined. Speculation about the future is as old as man. Seers have long prophesied about future events. Some of those prophecies are vague enough as to be interpreted so many different ways we are bound to find at least 1 fulfillment. Others are now laughable for how far off they proved to be. Still we search for some clue, some insight into what the future holds. Of course as the people of God we are not “afraid” of prophecy. God has revealed future events. God spoke through the prophets of old and foretold, in great detail, of the coming of Messiah. We are told about his birth even naming the city in which he was to be born. There were prophecies concerning his life, his ministry and even his death. And of course there are prophecies concerning his return. It seems there is no end to the writing of books and conferences charting and detailing God’s program for the end of the age. The problem is no everyone agrees. Good and godly people interpret these passages differently.

This morning in our trek through the book of Revelation we come to a pivotal text. Revelation chapter 20 is a dividing line in biblical interpretation. This is the text that speaks of the millennium. In this text we find the only reference to a “millennium” in Scripture. Jesus did not say anything about it. Paul did not say a word about it. Nor Peter or any of the other apostles – other than John and then only in Revelation 20:2-7. That does not, at all, suggest this is not an important subject. It does not belittle its place in the discussion of our Lord’s return. It does however demand that we think carefully before we construct our view of the millennium and its application to the church and the kingdom of God.

John the beloved was the bishop of Ephesus. He was a pastor who dearly loved his flock. A pastor who was concerned about their spiritual and emotional well being. He wrote to encourage and inspire. This meant something to them. It is addressed to the churches of Asia Minor. It said something to them in their context as well as speaking to the future. I’m convinced that…

Thesis: A proper understanding of the Kingdom of God provides hope for the future and courage for today.

When reading the New Testament you keep finding language that speaks of this age and the age to come. You read of a future Kingdom and yet it is clear that Christ reigns now. Thus you find a tension between the Kingdom now and the Kingdom not yet. We have the hope of a glorious future with Christ and yet in another sense we are seated with Christ now in heavenly places. We are assured of future glory and we find boldness and confidence to live today.

As we work our way through this text I want to point out three things. Three things that spoke to those persecuted believers in first century Asia Minor and continue to speak to us today.

I. Frightened believers find courage in the knowledge that Satan is bound. (20:1-3)

What is the context? Rome is marching on. Growing in strength, power and influence. Rome stands squarely in contrast to the Kingdom of God. Caesar is worshiped as god while the church of the Lord Jesus is on the verge of annihilation. The saints are crying out, “How long O sovereign Lord before you do something?” Frightened, confused and struggling to understand they gather for the reading of this letter from their beloved bishop. The message throughout is that the Lamb has conquered and you will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony.

We have to ask is this 20:1-3 literal or symbolic? Can a “spirit being” be bound by a chain and a room? Clearly this is symbolic. By the way symbolic doesn’t mean he isn’t bound! Rather it is a matter of how or in what way is he bound. Let’s begin our consideration by asking why he is bound. Our text says “so that he might not deceive the nations any longer.” So that he cannot blind them to the reality of Christ and the things of God. He is bound to allow for the spreading of the gospel and the revelation of God. Now when did that happen?

Look at Matthew 12:28-29 – (same word “binds”)
Luke 10:17-19 – “I saw Satan fall…”
John 12:31-32
Colossians 2:15
Hebrews 2:14-15
1 John 3:8

Satan is bound by the work of Christ and the cross. He is bound through the preaching of the gospel. Prior to Christ’s coming and the cross the good news was limited to Israel with a few exceptions. And even then not all Israel believed. But since the cross the gospel is worldwide and people from every nation, language and tongue have been birth into the Kingdom.

What about the millennium? What about the 1000 years? Again context. Is the key literal? The chain? If everything surrounding it is symbolic why would we demand the reference to 1000 be literal? 10 is the number of completion. And this multiple of 10 speaks of the time of fulfillment set by the Father between the 1st and 2nd advents. Yes you did understand me – I think we are living in the millennium! Can you see how this would have been encouraging and inspiring for the church in their condition? But let’s keep going.

II. Threatened believers find hope in the knowledge that to die is again. (20:4- 6)

What of those who have been martyred? What of those who’ve paid the ultimate price for their devotion to Christ? “I saw thrones.” Of the 47 uses of “thrones” found in Revelation all except those dealing with Satan and the beast are in heaven. Who are they who occupy these thrones?

20:4 – those who had been beheaded (Roman form of execution) and who refused the mark of the beast. These are those who die in Christ.

This is the “first resurrection”?

1 Corinthians 15:20-23
The contrast in this passage is between the 1st resurrection and the second death.
Note 20:6 & 20:14 – second death = eternal judgment. The contrast is between saved and unsaved, believers and unbelievers.

Can you see how this would encourage and inspire? Rome thought they killed the troublemakers. They thought the put an end to their power and influence. They just exalted them to a truer life, a glorious reign with Christ! Frightened saint take heart Satan is bound. Threatened believer find courage death is gain. There is one other thing I want to point out.

III. Oppressed believers find peace in the knowledge that Satan’s doom is sure. (20:7-10)

When the time of completion is come Satan will be loosed for a “short season” (20:3 “for a little while). He will again deceive the nations. Gog and Magog are from Ezekiel 38- 39 and represent evil forced bent on destroying the people of God. The nations gather to make war on the Lamb. They come from the 4 corners of the earth and they number is like the sand of the sea.

During this time there will be an intense activity on the part of Satan. There will be the appearance of the antichrist, man of lawlessness. There will be a great apostasy or falling away. Concerted worldwide persecution of the Church. The Church will be preserved by the return of the Lord Jesus.

The devil, the red dragon – the power behind the beast and his prophet will then be cast into the lake of fire and be tormented day and night forever and ever.

That is the message of this book. Take heart you frightened, threatened oppressed and dearly loved children. Satan is bound. Death is gain. And Satan’s doom is sure. And soon I’m coming to bring you home.

 

 Standard Podcast [31:54m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (405)

An exposition of Revelation 19:1-21. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, October 26, 2008.

Introduction:
The old man sat whittling on the front porch of his broken down old family home when a stranger opened the rusty gate and made his way toward the porch. “Say old timer, what do reckon this place is worth?” The old man never looked up. “Well sir, that all depends.” “Depends on what?” came the response. “It depends on whether you’re from the county tax office or if you’re fixing to buy!” Perspective is everything. When I was a kid I remember those days when I spent the afternoon pacing the floor of my room. Dad had been away but he was due to return that afternoon. Mom was excited. Her day was spent in eager anticipation. She welcomed the return of her groom. My day was spent in dread of the return of my judge. You see there were things I was to have done before he returned. I hadn’t bothered to do any of them and he was coming back and I would have to give an account. The same event was producing two very different responses. One of delight and one of dread. Perspective is everything. The Bible is clear one day the heavens will open and the Lord Jesus will descend with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and the trumpet of God will sound. An unimaginable delight to some. A moment of shear terror for others. Perspective is everything. Our text this morning is found in the 19th chapter of the Revelation.

Text: Revelation 19:1-21
We’ve been given a preview of the bowls of wrath that final judgment to be poured out on the nations. John is in the process in chapters 17-19 of detailing that judgment. In 17 and 18 we are reminded that His judgment is just and that he will judge all rebellion, unbelief and idolatry. No one is “getting away” with anything. Those who’ve sold their souls in order to profit from this world’s system will taste His bitter wrath. The nations will gather against the Lamb but will experience utter defeat and total destruction. Now in chapter 19 the scene shifts from earth to heaven. Here we catch another glimpse of heavenly glory. In the process we are going to discover that…

Thesis: Revelation 19 reveals both the glory and the terror of our Lord’s second coming.
It is not a subject you hear with the frequency of which we used to hear it. In times past sermons on the second coming were commonplace. I remember when Paul Cooke was pastoring here how often we sang, “Jesus is Coming Again.”

Coming again, coming again!
May be morning, may be noon,
May be evening and May be soon!
Coming again, coming again!
O what a wonderful day it will be-
Jesus is coming again!
Or “What If It Were Today?”
Jesus is coming to earth again; what if it were today?
Coming in power and love to reign; what if it were today?
Coming to claim His chosen Bride, all the redeemed and purified,
Over this whole earth scattered wide; what if it were today?

Refrain
Glory, glory! Joy to my heart ’twill bring.
Glory, glory! When we shall crown Him King.
Glory, glory! Haste to prepare the way;
Glory, glory! Jesus will come some day.

That is our hope as the people of God. That is what we long for. That is what we anticipate with great eagerness. But not everyone can sing, “joy to my heart ‘twill bring” for some it will be a terrible moment. The sight of the Warrior King with eyes of flames and a robe dipped in blood will signal their destruction. Perspective is everything.

I want to point out two things from our text.

1. For the people of God, the return of the Lord Jesus is history’s climactic moment. (19:1-10)
   With the opening verses of chapter 19 the scene shifts from earth to heaven. We again hear the loud voice of a great multitude crying, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for His judgments are true and just…” The word Hallelujah is the transliteration of a Hebrew word meaning, “praise God” or “praise the Lord.” It is used only 4 times in the New Testament all of them in the opening verses of Revelation chapter 19. It is a phrase used often in the Old Testament particularly in the Psalms. What are they praising God for? There are at least 4 things I want to point out.
   A. They are praising Him because salvation is complete (19:1).
   B. They are also praising God because justice has been provided (19:2).
   C. Closely tied to that is the fact that rebellion has been brought to an end (19:3).
   D. Further He is to be praised because of His sovereign control of all things (19:4-6).
   The Lord God almighty reigns not just in a future millennial kingdom but right now! God is to be praised because salvation belongs to him, because justice has been provided, because rebellion has been brought to an end and because He reigns. All of that leads to the focus of this chapter beginning in verse 7 – “the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.” This was the message of the Lord of the Church to those struggling saints in first century Asia Minor and to us today. In the midst of our heartache and care we are to look to the sky in joyous anticipation to that day when the trumpet will sound. We are to eagerly anticipate the return of our blessed Savior. Oh what a day that will be! Are you ready for it? But it will not be a joyous occasion for everyone and that is the focus beginning with verse 11.
2. For the ungodly the return of the Lord Jesus is a time of solemn reckoning. (19:11-21)
   “Then I saw heaven open.” We heard those same words back in chapter 4. Then it was to let John in now it is to let the Lord Jesus out. Do you get the picture? It is not a comforting one unless of course you are on His team! This is not a comforting picture rather it is a disturbing image and it is meant to be. This is not a “feel good” passage. This is a stand in awe passage. Jesus is coming again. The great hope of the people of the God is the return of our beloved. We eagerly anticipate His return as the climax of history. But for those who reject the message of the gospel it is a time of solemn reckoning. A day of judgment and destruction. Jesus is coming again – what if it were today? Would it be a day of joy or of mourning? A day of life or of death? Perspective is everything.

 

 Standard Podcast [39:20m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (387)

An exposition of Revelation 17:1-18:24. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, October 19, 2008

Introduction:
I like to think of myself as a pretty nice guy. I think I’m fairly compassionate and understanding. I think it is good and right to take a stand for the “little guy”. To speak up when others are wronged and to fight for what is just. I feel for those who hurt and don’t like to see others humiliated. But I will have to admit that I haven taken pleasure in seeing the arrogant stumble. I have been known to laugh when the “know-it-all” is revealed as a “know-nothing.” And truthfully I’ve gotten down right giddy when the wicked have been served their just deserts! I know we are in church and we’re all supposed to act sanctified and spiritual but I just being honest. When I’m watching a   movie and the bad guy who has gotten away with murder throughout the whole movie finally gets caught – I take great pleasure in that. And the more vile, more corrupt and more arrogant the villain – the louder I want to cheer. Even in our “fallenness” we retain enough of the image and likeness of God that we rejoice in the triumph of good and cheer the defeat of evil. As we move into chapters 17 and 18 of the Revelation we are approaching “shout’n ground.” We’ve been introduced to the Red Dragon, the beast, the false prophet and now the great prostitute. In these chapters we hear of  and then in chapter 19 the Lord Jesus splits the clouds astride a white stallion and brings an end to this world system and ushers in eternity. When those struggling believers in Asia Minor, groaning under the weight of persecution, heard of the destruction of the “great city” I don’t think they turned to one another and said, “Well now that’s interesting.” I think they stood to their feet and cheered. Our text this morning is found in chapters 17 and 18 of the Revelation.

Text: Revelation 17:1-18:24
The original recipients of this letter where struggling to survive. Because they refused to compromise their faith their jobs were taken from them. Their possessions were confiscated. They were tortured and tormented. And many were martyred. To remain true to Christ and resists the powers that be cost them dearly. Don’t misunderstand – they struggled with their faith. After all they were men and women of flesh and bone. They were frail children of dust even as we – yet they stood firm. But don’t forget the prayer of the saints under the altar – “How long O Sovereign Lord, holy and true before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” (Rev 6:10) Living for God, remaining faithful and true seemed only to make things worse while unrighteousness seemed to go on its merry way. Rome grew even more powerful. Caesar seemed embolden in his lust for blood. “How long O Sovereign Lord?” Even their beloved bishop – John the apostle whom Jesus loved – was not immune from Caesar’s wrath. John was exiled to Patmos and forced to live far from family and cherished friends. What possible good could come from his harsh imprisonment? How did his removal serve God’s kingdom? John was in the spirit on the Lord’s Day when he heard a voice behind him. He turned and there stood the risen Lord. “John, write what you see and hear.” And so for the last 1900 years the Lord of the church has inspired and encouraged believers in every age to withstand the wrath of the dragon and his beast in full assurance that the Lamb has conquered and the King is coming. As we work our way through the confusing and complicated images of our text we are going to discover that…

Thesis: The visions of chapters 17 & 18 vividly remind us that God will justly judge all rebellion, unbelief and idolatry and only those who are safe in Christ will escape His holy wrath.

Chapters 17-19 are a “fleshing out” of the 6th and 7th bowls of wrath. As happens throughout Revelation John gives an overview of what is to come and then comes back and fills in the details. Remember with the pouring out of His wrath through the bowls God’s wrath is finished. There is nothing to be added to them. They will bring an end to the age.

Let me draw three lessons from our text one from chapter 17 and two from chapter 18.

1. God sovereignly proclaims His righteous judgment on the corrupt, wicked, and immoral world system. (17:1-18)
   I remind you I think we get into trouble when we try to narrowly define who the characters in this drama represent. We know the Lamb. We know the red dragon. Those are made clear. When it comes to the beast, his prophet and this great prostitute – it’s not so clear. I think a great case can be made throughout for Nero, Domitian and the Roman Empire. But I don’t know that it satisfies everything. Marvelous cases have been made through the centuries identifying them with various tyrants both secular and religious and their cities/empires. I think that is the point! I think it is vague for a reason. As John made clear in his other letters the spirit of antichrist was alive and well in the first century. Believers have always battled these same forces in their various incarnations and will continue to do so until the Lord Jesus comes again. The message is the same in every generation – the kingdoms of this world will all come to an end. God will not be mocked. What you sow that you will also reap. Wickedness will be vanquished and righteousness will prevail. What is clear is that the woman represents a dominate world power – many waters = people, nations and languages. Also note 17:18, “the woman that you saw is the great city that has dominion over the kings of the earth. 7 kings are identified with her and an 8th will come but will be one of the 7. Is this Rome with 7 emperors and the 8th being Domitian who was considered by many a new Nero? Is this a reference to the great kingdoms of the earth beginning with Egypt up through Rome and then the final kingdom that of the antichrist? I don’t know! Both can make a good case. Both answer many questions but do not answer all questions. Whatever the ultimate answer may be what is clear is there is an unholy alliance between the great prostitute, the beast and the kings of the earth. They will gather against the Lamb but will be soundly defeated for He is Lord of lords and King of kings. Further note the beast and the kings of the earth will turn on the prostitute and destroy her. And it is God who put it in their minds and heart to do it. Again the point is the kingdoms of the earth will fall. God sovereignly proclaims His just and righteous judgment of the corrupt, wicked and immoral world system.
2. God’s righteous judgment brings ruin to the great powers behind the world system and to those who sell their souls to profit by its influence. (18:1-19, 21-24)
   18:1-3 contains this grand pronouncement of doom and destruction. These verses outline the reasons for judgment which is basically “she” is the embodiment of every vile thing (18:2). And second, her great influence over the kings and merchants of the earth (18:3). The whole world has been corrupted by her influence. We find again the bitter fruit of Romans 1 with those who have traded the truth for a lie. In verse 4 we find a call for the people of God to flee any involvement with the woman or her ways least they be caught up in her destruction. Note the magnitude of her judgment 18:5-8. Remember these are the details related to the 6th and 7th bowls of wrath. With the destruction of the world system comes the pain of those who hitched their wagon to her star – 18:9-19. The kings of the earth – 18:9-10 The merchants of the earth – 18:11-17 The shipmasters/sailors – 18:18-19 Did you note anything in particular about their response? There is no repentance only sorrow for loss. 18:21-24 = the finality and totality of this judgment.
3. God’s righteous judgment elicits the praise of the redeemed. (18:20)
   How does heaven respond to God’s judgment? How do those struggling believers in Asia Minor react? How should we react to the announcement of God’s judgment of the wicked? “Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, for God has given judgment for you against her.” It is a call to celebrate. The word used for rejoice is used repeatedly in Luke 15 and the story of the prodigal son – meaning to make merry or celebrate. The world always opposes Christ, the gospel and the Church. It is not just the terrorists or extremists it is the whole system of the world weaving its threads of hatred and animosity into the fabric of society against anything Christian. That doesn’t mean we are to cower in fear or give up. On the contrary we are to stand our ground assured of the triumph of the Lamb and the certainty of God’s just judgment.

 

 Standard Podcast [37:04m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (396)

An exposition of Revelation 15:1-16:21. This message by Pastor Rod Harris was delivered at Trinity Baptist Church on Sunday morning, October 12, 2008.

Introduction:
We live in strange times. The world is changing rapidly. With the recent economic woes and the events of the last couple of weeks many are wondering if this is the beginning of the end. We face uncertain times and uncertain times tend to drive people toward prophetic questions. What’s in our future? Is our current crisis part of biblical prophecy? Will this economic collapse play into the hand of some yet to be revealed leader who will preside over a one-world government? What about the rapture? Does this mean we’ll be “taken out” soon? The fact is we are spoiled. We have enjoyed such a prolonged period of religious peace in the western world that we think we are entitled to peace. Weassume that we are not to suffer. That the church will not go through tribulation. Tell that to the Christians of the Sudan. Tell that to the Christians of China. Tell it to the Christians of North Korea. According to an article from World Magazine published in April of 2007 the North Korean government kills 300 people a year because of their faith. An estimated 50,000 believers live in the squalid surroundings of Kim Jong Il’s gulag. One Christian man was hung upside down by the local warden who demanded that he deny his faith in Christ. Refusing to do so, the warden “pushed him to the ground, ordering 6,000 prisoners to trample him to death.” Eight more had molten iron poured over them when they refused to deny the existence of heaven. Others are deliberately crippled, left naked, and starved. Why such violent opposition to non-violent prisoners? The answer is simple - Kim Jong Il is considered a god. The fact is God’s people have suffered from the beginning. Believers in every age have had to faced the wrath of the dragon and his beast. It is naïve at best to think we would never be forced to walk the martyr’s path. The promise of God’s word is not that we will never suffer but that we will never suffer alone. The promise is not that we will not taste the bitterness of persecution but that we will emerge victorious even if through death. John, the aged bishop of Ephesus and beloved apostle, was given a glimpse of things to come. He was told to write what he saw and send it to the churches of Asia Minor. It was a message of hope and encouragement from the Lord of the Church to his struggling saints. They were the victims of intense persecution. It seemed Rome could do whatever she wanted. Caesar seemed to live above the reach of justice. As far as the church could tell the world was going to hell in a hand basket and Rome was immune from prosecution. Rome marched on undaunted and the church was on the verge of annihilation. But the Lord of the church said, “Hold on. That’s not quite right. You’ve got things backwards. The church is on the march and Rome is heading to her doom.” The message to the church was - you will overcome. And you will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of your testimony. Chapters 15 & 16 of Revelation tell of the final pouring out of God’s judgment on the ungodly. Its vivid language tells a horrifying tale and it serves as our text this morning.

Text: Revelation 15:1-16:21
It has been my position all along that this book meant something to those who first received it. It was not just a foretelling of the distant future. Rather it was an encouragement and an inspiration to that first century audience. Yes it does speak to the end of the age. Yes it does speak of the final outpouring of God’s judgment and the end of the world, as we know it – but it says that in a context that spoke then as well as now. The spirit of antichrist was alive and well in the first century as John makes clear in his
other letters. That same spirit has reared its ugly head in every age and will until that ultimate and final appearance at the end of time. This is apocalyptic language its vivid images and fantastic sights are intended to convey a greater truth. The red dragon is not a literal beast with 7 heads it is the symbolic representation of Satan, the god of this world, who is hell bent on destroying God’s work in the earth. The beast is not a literal beast but represents men who, empowered and inspired by Satan dare to defy God. If we are not careful we will be so busy cataloguing trees we will fail to notice the forest! The book of Revelation is not intended to settle your curiosity about the future but rather to inspire you to live your faith in the face of hostility, confusion, heartache and struggle. It is a book for pilgrims reminding us that this is not our home. Our text today speaks to those who wonder if righteousness pays. It certainly seems that the unrighteous do quite well while the godly suffer. When you look around and see wickedness and immorality at every turn and yet you see godly men and women slaughtered for their faith it is natural to ask, “What is wrong with this picture?” It is understandable that some would think, “This is not right.” You would need some assurance that things are not as they seem. You would need to know that God has things under control. As we explore these two chapters we are going to discover that…

Thesis: The visions of Revelation 15 and 16 reveal the horror of God’s final and ultimate judgment and the stubborn defiance of man’s sinful heart.
Let me point out three things quickly.

1. God’s final and ultimate judgment flows from His holy character and is His righteous response to the violation of His holy law. (15:1, 5-8)
   What will be made abundantly clear as we walk through the bowl judgments is that God’s mercy is forgotten, His compassion is withheld, and His patience is suspended. The seals and the trumpets allowed for the possibility of repentance but no more. God is coming in judgment of the unrighteous in answer to the prayers of the saints and in the execution of His divine wrath! God’s love is not without limits. His grace is not boundless. You cannot live in open rebellion to His will with impunity.
2. The judgment of God will come swiftly with devastating consequences. (16:1-9, 12-20)
   This is not a slow pouring of dripping but a sudden splash. These plagues are given in rapid fire and carry great devastation. Picture it as a fighter who staggers to his feet only to be felled again! Again I think we need to be careful of trying to make each image correspond with something physical on the earth. This is apocalyptic and its intent is to speak of devastating and debilitating judgment. When I say this may be figurative rather than literal I’m not suggesting it won’t be as bad – quite the contrary I think reality is always worse than a sign! There is no escaping. God’s judgment is swift, devastating and universal. The judgments before were limited. The seals touched a fourth of the earth; the trumpets a third of the earth; the bowls affect the whole earth. God will settle every issue of justice. No rebel, no unbeliever will escape. The only place of refuge from God’s wrath is where God has already spent His wrath - upon His Son at the cross.
3. The devastating judgment of God will not penetrate the hardened heart of the ungodly. (16:10-11, 21)
   This is one of the most disheartening passages in the Bible for me. In spite of repeated blows. In spite of God’s severe judgment the stubborn heart of man refuses to yield to God’s rule. Sinful man’s only hope is the call of God’s grace.

Quickly before I close look back in chapter 15 at verses 2-4 for a contrast with the state of the ungodly. This is another of those texts that force you to deal with where you stand in relation to the living God. Which future is yours? A future of judgment and cursing or of joyful worship?