After a delay of a half an hour, the judgments of God prayed for previously (6:10) come upon those who dwell on the earth. These are extraordinary and supernatural plagues not unlike those of Egypt. But even as Pharaoh did not repent at the sight of all the miraculous signs of his day, so those during the tribulation do not repent either. One exception exists of those who were in Jerusalem at the resurrection and ascension of the two witnesses. But the overwhelming testimony of Revelation is that those who are tormented in the tribulation still refuse to fear God, repent, and worship the Lord.
Revelation 7:15-17, Rapture unto Paradise (Part 2)
The destination for raptured saints (and those resurrected at rapture) is heaven. The details of our heavenly home is given in the final three verses of Revelation 7. Strikingly, there are parallels between this destination and the New Jerusalem. But more than that, there are parallels also between the New Jerusalem and the garden of Eden. The stunning revelation of Scripture is the comprehensive goodness of God. He demonstrates His good will to bless man in Eden and concludes history with an analogous bookend so we are assured that His intent with man is to shower His goodness and His blessing upon him. Paradise is the heavenly home of the believer, the New Jerusalem.
Revelation 7:13-14, Rapture unto Paradise
Rapture is the next biblical prophecy to be fulfilled and it is the anticipation of the church given in Scripture. But what exactly is the rapture and when will it take place? What is the overall eschatological timeline in Revelation and where does rapture fit in? Moreover, what is the significance of an imminent return of Christ? How should we respond to those who hold to a different view on the timing of the rapture? These are the questions we consider in this study of Revelation.
Revelation 7:1-14 The Protection of God's People
Revelation 7 shows that the wrath of the Lamb will be poured out on those who dwell on the earth, not upon Jesus’ own beloved people. John is shown two groups that will stand despite the intense judgments to come and contrary to the unbelievers’ outcry (6:17): the 144K Israelites and the raptured Gentile church of God. This sermon is part one of two sermons on Revelation 7 on the important topic of the rapture and its implications.
Revelation 4-6, The Reign of God
The revelation of the future is given from the perspective of heaven. God reigns as the supreme ruler and deity who is enthroned and worshipped in heaven. What is true in heaven becomes the reality on earth as the revelation of the future unfolds. This revelation commences with Jesus breaking open the seals and shows the backdrop against which the judgments of God will come: ordinary and natural suffering in the fallen world and the persecution of Christians and their holy prayer for justice. In response to their prayer, divine wrath is poured out upon the world (with the seventh seal [8:1] and the trumpet and bowl judgments that ensue). All of this affirms the resounding biblical call to be ready for Christ. He is indeed coming quickly. May we be dressed in readiness and keep our lamps lit.
Revelation 2-3, Exhortations of our Loving Lord
Jesus knows the future, that judgment is coming. He, therefore, prepares His elect with strong exhortations to prepare for that day. He speaks strong admonishments out of His immense love for the churches. There is no greater proof of love than to warn your beloved of an impending danger. Divine judgment is coming and Jesus wants none to perish but for all to come to repentance. May we all have ears to hear what the Spirit says to the churches!
Revelation 1, The Blazing Glory of Jesus
Revelation comes from the triune God who reveals the future return of Christ in blazing glory. This is John’s introduction to the riveting book of prophecy. Jesus is coming again bodily and visibly for all to see. The revelation of His return and all the events surrounding His return are given by the triune God. Christ is revealed in blazing glory with which He will come again.