Deepening Faith: Understanding Revelation and Christ's Return
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to worship, remember, and learn about God, not just for knowledge's sake but to know Him intimately. Reflecting on a past experience at a storytelling festival, I was reminded of the power and responsibility of our words. I apologized for any hurt caused by my previous discussion on the various views of Revelation, emphasizing that our focus should be on Christ and unity under Him. The four views of Revelation—historic, preterist, futurist, and idealist—each have merit and should be studied with humility and respect for differing interpretations.
We delved into the importance of approaching Scripture with the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of knowledge. This reverent awe and humble submission to God's will are crucial for spiritual growth. We discussed the difference between spiritual "milk" and "solid food," with milk being the foundational teachings of faith and solid food representing deeper, more mature understanding. It's essential to move beyond a shallow faith and seek a deeper relationship with Christ, eagerly anticipating His return.
The prophetic nature of Revelation serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns against false teachings and apathy while encouraging perseverance and faithfulness amidst persecution. The imagery in Revelation, such as the seven golden lampstands and the Son of Man, symbolizes Christ's authority and presence among the churches. This apocalyptic literature uses symbolic language to reveal divine truths, urging us to study and discern its meaning.
We are called to be steadfast and immovable in our faith, excelling in the Lord's work, and eagerly awaiting Christ's return. The ultimate victory over death and sin is assured through Jesus Christ, and we should strive to know Him personally and deeply. As we continue our study of Revelation, let us keep the testimony of Jesus Christ, drink the sustaining milk of faith, and desire the solid food of righteousness.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Responsibility of Words: Words have the power to evoke deep emotions and can significantly impact others. As Christians, we must be mindful of how we present our beliefs, especially on complex topics like Revelation, to foster unity and uphold Christ above all. [01:43]
2. Approaching Scripture with Fear of the Lord: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This reverent awe and humble submission to God's will are essential for spiritual growth and protection against false teachings. Prioritizing God's Word with this mindset leads to a deeper, more mature faith. [07:00]
3. Milk and Solid Food in Faith: Spiritual "milk" represents the foundational teachings of faith, while "solid food" is for those mature in righteousness. It's crucial to move beyond basic teachings and seek a deeper understanding of God's Word, allowing us to discern good from evil and persevere through trials. [09:03]
4. Eager Anticipation of Christ's Return: We should long for a deeper relationship with Jesus, eagerly anticipating His return. This longing should drive us to know Him more intimately, moving beyond a superficial acquaintance with His Word to a profound love and connection. [12:23]
5. Symbolism in Revelation: The symbolic language in Revelation reveals divine truths about Christ's authority and presence among the churches. Studying these symbols with discernment helps us understand God's plan and encourages us to remain faithful amidst persecution and trials. [19:51]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:43] - The Power and Responsibility of Words
[03:18] - Apology and Unity in Christ
[05:05] - Four Views of Revelation
[07:00] - Fear of the Lord and Knowledge
[09:03] - Milk and Solid Food in Faith
[10:34] - Moving Beyond Shallow Faith
[12:23] - Longing for Christ's Return
[14:09] - The Final Judgment and Resurrection
[15:43] - Victory Over Death
[17:42] - The Son of Man in Revelation
[19:51] - Symbolism and Discernment
[21:49] - Jesus' Return and Authority
[23:21] - The Seven Lampstands
[25:42] - Prophecy and Perseverance
[27:48] - Encouragement to Study Revelation
[29:56] - Baptism and Spiritual Growth
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 1:7 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
2. Hebrews 5:12-14 - "In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil."
3. Revelation 1:9-11 - "I, John, your brother and partner in the affliction, kingdom, and endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard a loud voice behind me like a trumpet saying, 'Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Proverbs 1:7 say is the beginning of knowledge? How does this relate to our approach to Scripture? [07:00]
2. According to Hebrews 5:12-14, what is the difference between spiritual "milk" and "solid food"? Why is it important to move from milk to solid food in our faith journey? [09:03]
3. In Revelation 1:9-11, what was John instructed to do with the vision he received? How does this instruction emphasize the importance of the message to the seven churches? [17:42]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the fear of the Lord contribute to our understanding and application of Scripture? Why is it described as the beginning of knowledge? [07:00]
2. What are some examples of "milk" teachings in the Christian faith, and why might some believers be content with only these basic teachings? How can we encourage a transition to "solid food"? [09:03]
3. The sermon mentioned the symbolic language in Revelation. How can we discern the meaning of these symbols, and why is it important to study them with humility and respect for differing interpretations? [19:51]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when your words had a significant impact on someone. How can you be more mindful of the responsibility of your words, especially when discussing complex topics like Revelation? [01:43]
2. How can you cultivate a deeper fear of the Lord in your daily life? What practical steps can you take to prioritize God's Word and grow in reverent awe and humble submission to His will? [07:00]
3. Are there areas in your faith where you feel you are still relying on "milk"? What steps can you take to seek "solid food" and mature in your understanding of God's Word? [09:03]
4. How can you foster a longing for Christ's return in your heart? What changes might you need to make in your life to move beyond a superficial acquaintance with His Word to a profound love and connection? [12:23]
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of unity in Christ despite differing interpretations of Revelation. How can you promote unity and respect for differing views within your small group or church community? [03:18]
6. Consider the symbolic language in Revelation. How can you approach the study of these symbols with discernment and humility? What resources or methods might help you better understand these divine truths? [19:51]
7. How can you remain steadfast and immovable in your faith, excelling in the Lord's work, as you eagerly await Christ's return? What specific actions can you take to grow in perseverance and faithfulness amidst trials? [15:43]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power and Responsibility of Words
Words have the power to evoke deep emotions and can significantly impact others. As Christians, we must be mindful of how we present our beliefs, especially on complex topics like Revelation, to foster unity and uphold Christ above all. The way we communicate can either build up or tear down, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our words reflect the love and truth of Christ. This means being considerate and respectful, especially when discussing differing interpretations of Scripture. By doing so, we can maintain unity within the body of Christ and focus on what truly matters—our relationship with Him. [01:43]
Proverbs 18:21 (ESV): "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits."
Reflection: Think of a recent conversation where your words may have caused hurt or misunderstanding. How can you seek reconciliation and use your words to build up that person today?
Day 2: Approaching Scripture with Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This reverent awe and humble submission to God's will are essential for spiritual growth and protection against false teachings. When we approach Scripture with this mindset, we open ourselves to a deeper, more mature faith. It is not just about acquiring knowledge but about allowing God's Word to transform our hearts and minds. This approach helps us discern truth from falsehood and keeps us grounded in our faith, especially in a world filled with conflicting messages. [07:00]
Proverbs 1:7 (ESV): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."
Reflection: Reflect on your current approach to reading the Bible. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and awe for God's Word in your daily study?
Day 3: Milk and Solid Food in Faith
Spiritual "milk" represents the foundational teachings of faith, while "solid food" is for those mature in righteousness. It's crucial to move beyond basic teachings and seek a deeper understanding of God's Word, allowing us to discern good from evil and persevere through trials. This growth process involves a commitment to studying Scripture, prayer, and applying God's truths to our lives. As we mature in our faith, we become better equipped to handle life's challenges and to support others in their spiritual journeys. [09:03]
Hebrews 5:12-14 (ESV): "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."
Reflection: Identify one area of your faith where you feel you are still on "milk." What steps can you take this week to move towards "solid food" in that area?
Day 4: Eager Anticipation of Christ's Return
We should long for a deeper relationship with Jesus, eagerly anticipating His return. This longing should drive us to know Him more intimately, moving beyond a superficial acquaintance with His Word to a profound love and connection. Our anticipation of Christ's return should influence how we live our daily lives, encouraging us to remain faithful and steadfast in our walk with Him. This eager anticipation also serves as a reminder of the hope we have in Christ and the ultimate victory over sin and death that He has secured for us. [12:23]
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (ESV): "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."
Reflection: How does the anticipation of Christ's return influence your daily decisions and actions? What changes can you make to live more expectantly and faithfully?
Day 5: Symbolism in Revelation
The symbolic language in Revelation reveals divine truths about Christ's authority and presence among the churches. Studying these symbols with discernment helps us understand God's plan and encourages us to remain faithful amidst persecution and trials. The imagery, such as the seven golden lampstands and the Son of Man, serves to remind us of Christ's sovereignty and His intimate involvement with His church. By delving into these symbols, we can gain a deeper appreciation of God's redemptive work and be inspired to persevere in our faith. [19:51]
Revelation 1:12-13 (ESV): "Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest."
Reflection: Choose one symbol from the book of Revelation and study its meaning. How does this symbol enhance your understanding of Christ's role and presence in your life?
Quotes
1. "We are responsible for our words and for their effects. Well, it has become clear to me that some of what I said last week concerning the various views of Revelation, and one in particular, was hurtful. And while I can't own how any of these of you perceive or receive the message, I can own how I present them in my effort to first and foremost uphold Christ, and second, to how I, as your pastor, nurture a culture of honor and unity under Christ." [01:43] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You, all of you, need to wrestle out your personal belief about Revelation in Scripture with the fear of the Lord. You don't need me to tell you what to believe. You need to wrestle it out. You need to do so with others, but do not divide over it. And shame on me for inadvertently, whether intended or not, casting shade on only one interpretation, when honestly I think that they all have some merit, and also all miss the mark, including the one that I most closely align." [05:05] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "There are well-studied, faithful Christians who want to know God. God, who desire God and are hungry for His presence and Christ's return within each of the eschatological views and interpretations of the millennial kingdom. And I have the utmost respect for any who are hungry for the Word of God, who seek truth in Scripture, not just to be right and prove others wrong, but to stand on truth in adoration of our Lord's righteousness, His grace and forgiveness." [07:00] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Solid food is for those who have already lain that foundation, who are mature in righteousness. Solid food enables us to distinguish good from evil, to reject false teaching unfounded in Scripture, and to persevere through trials and temptations. Now there's nothing wrong with needing milk, especially if you're new to faith, trying to work through Scripture and grasp God's great love for you." [09:03] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Wake up from your intoxication with the world, the drug of apathy and social self-preservation. If you've spent any time away from your beloved, do you not long to see them again? Do you not call or text? I do. I miss my bride something fierce whenever we're apart, outside of Jesus. How much more should we long for relationship and connection with Jesus Christ? To move beyond a light acquaintance with his word, falling in love with the one who fills our lungs with air and our hearts to beat." [12:23] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Let us not be blind, brothers and sisters, to what God has done since the creation of the world, his covenants with Israel, the messianic fulfillment of Jesus Christ, and the spread of faith in redemption, through the grace of Jesus Christ for all who believe. Neither let us be blind to what God is doing now as he prepares the world for his inevitable return, ensuring that all who will be saved will be saved, building upon the necessary milk of his testimony towards solid food for discernment and endurance." [14:09] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Don't you want to know personally the one who has victory over death who is even now preparing our place with him so that when he returns our mortal bodies will be clothed with immortality. Don't you want to know who sends the message and is the subject of the revelation. I do. I want to fall deeper in love with God. I want to fall deeper in love with my Savior and I want you to fall deeper in love with him too." [17:42] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Prophecy concerning Jesus Christ told in apocalyptic language and sent to the seven churches reminds us of the past in remembrance of what God has done through the whole of scripture and into the present. It warns us of heresy, of false teaching, of sin and rebellion now, not just in the first century. It encourages us to persevere and to remain in love, faithful to the testimony of Jesus in the midst of real and expected persecution, now, not just in the first century." [25:42] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Drink the sustaining milk of faith, but desire the solid food of righteousness. Now today, as last week, we have another baptism. A new follower of Christ who will need the milk and will need iron to sharpen iron, as do we all. Briefly, this is a young man who had been challenged and began to pray and began to search. He began to search for the answers. He began to search for Christ. And he came to the conclusion that the next step is baptism, is putting on Christ." [29:56] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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