Divine Judgment and Assurance in Christ's Wrath
Summary
### Summary
Good evening, everyone. As we gather tonight, we celebrate Father's Day and extend our gratitude to all the fathers who play a crucial role in their children's lives. We also take this time to lift up our prayer requests, acknowledging the power and presence of our God who hears and answers our prayers. Tonight, we delve into Revelation 6:12-17, focusing on the sixth seal and the coming destruction it foretells.
The Bible speaks of an impending doom that will overtake the entire cosmos, reducing everything to atoms. This cataclysmic event is not just a theological concept but also a subject of scientific study. Cosmologists predict that our sun will eventually expand into a red giant, boiling the oceans and killing all life on Earth. However, as believers, we know that God's intervention will precede such events.
In Revelation 6, we see a sequence of visions corresponding to the breaking of the seals by the Lamb. The sixth seal reveals a great earthquake, the sun turning black, the moon becoming like blood, and stars falling from the sky. This imagery echoes the Old Testament depiction of the Day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment and cosmic upheaval. The destruction of the cosmos is a precursor to the second coming of Christ, marking the end of the Great Tribulation.
The vision also portrays the terror that will grip every social class on Earth. Kings, commanders, the rich, and the poor will all hide in caves, seeking refuge from the wrath of the Lamb. This universal fear underscores the impartiality of God's judgment. The Lamb, once a symbol of sacrifice, now becomes the executor of divine wrath. The paradox is striking: the world trembles before a Lamb, highlighting His omnipotence.
For those in Christ, this day of wrath holds no fear. We are hidden in the true Rock, Jesus Christ, and will be spared from this final judgment. Our salvation is secure, and we will witness the righteous judgment of God from a place of eternal safety. This assurance should motivate us to spread the gospel, fulfilling the Great Commission with urgency and faithfulness.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Impending Doom and Divine Judgment: The Bible and scientific predictions both point to a future cataclysmic event that will bring the world to its end. However, as believers, we understand that God's intervention will precede such events, ensuring that His divine plan unfolds according to His will. This understanding should instill a sense of urgency in us to live faithfully and spread the gospel. [30:20]
2. The Sixth Seal and Cosmic Upheaval: The breaking of the sixth seal in Revelation reveals a series of catastrophic events, including a great earthquake, the sun turning black, and stars falling from the sky. This imagery is a direct correlation to Old Testament prophecies about the Day of the Lord, emphasizing the severity and inevitability of divine judgment. [36:26]
3. Universal Terror and Impartial Judgment: The vision in Revelation shows that every social class, from kings to slaves, will be seized with terror and seek refuge from the wrath of the Lamb. This highlights the impartiality of God's judgment, where neither wealth nor poverty can shield anyone from divine retribution. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. [48:32]
4. The Paradox of the Lamb's Wrath: The Lamb, a symbol of sacrifice and gentleness, becomes the executor of divine wrath in the end times. This paradox underscores the omnipotence of Christ and the certainty of His judgment. The world will tremble before the Lamb, recognizing His authority and power. This should deepen our reverence for Christ and our commitment to His teachings. [52:25]
5. Assurance of Salvation for Believers: For those who are in Christ, the day of wrath holds no fear. We are hidden in the true Rock, Jesus Christ, and will be spared from the final judgment. This assurance of salvation should motivate us to live faithfully and share the gospel with others, fulfilling the Great Commission with urgency and dedication. [54:48]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[09:52] - Call to Worship: Hebrews 1:8-12
[12:24] - Supplication and Prayer Requests
[18:25] - Prayer of Adoration and Supplication
[26:13] - Passing the Peace
[28:38] - Scripture Reading: Revelation 6:12-17
[30:20] - Introduction: The Sixth Seal and Coming Destruction
[36:26] - The Destruction of the Cosmos
[48:32] - Universal Terror and Impartial Judgment
[52:25] - The Paradox of the Lamb's Wrath
[54:48] - Assurance of Salvation for Believers
[57:10] - Closing Prayer and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Revelation 6:12-17
### Observation Questions
1. What are the specific events described in Revelation 6:12-14 that occur when the sixth seal is broken?
2. According to Revelation 6:15-17, how do people from different social classes react to the events of the sixth seal?
3. What Old Testament imagery is echoed in the description of the sixth seal in Revelation 6:12-17? [36:26]
4. How does the sermon describe the paradox of the Lamb's wrath? [52:25]
### Interpretation Questions
1. What is the significance of the cosmic upheaval described in Revelation 6:12-14 in the context of divine judgment? [36:26]
2. How does the universal terror described in Revelation 6:15-17 emphasize the impartiality of God's judgment? [48:32]
3. Why is the Lamb, a symbol of sacrifice, depicted as the executor of divine wrath in Revelation 6:16-17? [52:25]
4. How does the assurance of salvation for believers, as mentioned in the sermon, provide comfort in the face of the described cataclysmic events? [54:48]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the description of the impending doom and divine judgment. How does this understanding influence your sense of urgency in living faithfully and spreading the gospel? [30:20]
2. The sermon mentions that every social class will be seized with terror and seek refuge from the wrath of the Lamb. How does this universal fear challenge your perspective on the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance? [48:32]
3. Considering the paradox of the Lamb's wrath, how can you deepen your reverence for Christ and commitment to His teachings in your daily life? [52:25]
4. The assurance of salvation for believers is a key takeaway from the sermon. How does this assurance motivate you to share the gospel with others? Can you think of specific people in your life who need to hear this message? [54:48]
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being hidden in the true Rock, Jesus Christ. How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ to ensure you are spiritually prepared for the end times? [54:48]
6. Reflect on the imagery of the sixth seal and the cosmic upheaval. How does this vision impact your understanding of God's power and the certainty of His judgment? [36:26]
7. The sermon calls for fulfilling the Great Commission with urgency and faithfulness. What practical steps can you take this week to actively participate in spreading the gospel? [54:48]
Devotional
Day 1: The Impending Doom and Divine Judgment
The Bible and scientific predictions both point to a future cataclysmic event that will bring the world to its end. However, as believers, we understand that God's intervention will precede such events, ensuring that His divine plan unfolds according to His will. This understanding should instill a sense of urgency in us to live faithfully and spread the gospel. The impending doom is not just a distant theological concept but a reality that should shape our daily lives and priorities.
As we reflect on the certainty of divine judgment, we are reminded of the importance of living in a way that honors God. This means not only adhering to His commandments but also actively sharing the message of salvation with others. The urgency of the gospel is underscored by the knowledge that time is limited, and the opportunity for repentance will not last forever. Let this awareness drive us to be more diligent in our spiritual walk and more fervent in our evangelistic efforts.
2 Peter 3:10 (ESV): "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed."
Reflection: How can you incorporate a sense of urgency in your daily life to share the gospel with those around you?
Day 2: The Sixth Seal and Cosmic Upheaval
The breaking of the sixth seal in Revelation reveals a series of catastrophic events, including a great earthquake, the sun turning black, and stars falling from the sky. This imagery is a direct correlation to Old Testament prophecies about the Day of the Lord, emphasizing the severity and inevitability of divine judgment. The cosmic upheaval described in Revelation 6:12-17 serves as a powerful reminder of God's ultimate authority over creation and His ability to bring about His divine purposes.
These events are not merely symbolic but point to a future reality that will affect the entire cosmos. The severity of these judgments highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. As believers, we are called to be vigilant and prepared for the return of Christ, living in a way that reflects our anticipation of His coming. This means prioritizing our spiritual growth and remaining steadfast in our faith, even in the face of trials and tribulations.
Isaiah 13:10 (ESV): "For the stars of the heavens and their constellations will not give their light; the sun will be dark at its rising, and the moon will not shed its light."
Reflection: In what ways can you prepare yourself spiritually for the return of Christ, and how can you help others do the same?
Day 3: Universal Terror and Impartial Judgment
The vision in Revelation shows that every social class, from kings to slaves, will be seized with terror and seek refuge from the wrath of the Lamb. This highlights the impartiality of God's judgment, where neither wealth nor poverty can shield anyone from divine retribution. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. The universal terror experienced by all people underscores the fact that God's judgment is just and unbiased, affecting everyone regardless of their social status.
This impartiality of divine judgment calls us to examine our own lives and ensure that we are living in accordance with God's standards. It also challenges us to reach out to others, regardless of their background, with the message of salvation. The seriousness of sin and the reality of God's judgment should motivate us to live lives of holiness and to be diligent in our efforts to lead others to Christ.
Romans 2:6-8 (ESV): "He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury."
Reflection: How can you ensure that you are living a life that aligns with God's standards, and how can you help others understand the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance?
Day 4: The Paradox of the Lamb's Wrath
The Lamb, a symbol of sacrifice and gentleness, becomes the executor of divine wrath in the end times. This paradox underscores the omnipotence of Christ and the certainty of His judgment. The world will tremble before the Lamb, recognizing His authority and power. This should deepen our reverence for Christ and our commitment to His teachings. The image of the Lamb executing judgment serves as a powerful reminder of the dual nature of Christ as both Savior and Judge.
As believers, we are called to hold both aspects of Christ's nature in balance. We must recognize His sacrificial love and grace while also acknowledging His authority and the reality of His judgment. This understanding should lead us to a deeper reverence for Christ and a greater commitment to living according to His teachings. It should also motivate us to share the message of His love and judgment with others, helping them to understand the full scope of who Christ is.
Revelation 5:5-6 (ESV): "And one of the elders said to me, 'Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals.' And between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, with seven horns and with seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth."
Reflection: How can you deepen your reverence for Christ and ensure that you are living in a way that reflects both His love and His authority?
Day 5: Assurance of Salvation for Believers
For those who are in Christ, the day of wrath holds no fear. We are hidden in the true Rock, Jesus Christ, and will be spared from the final judgment. This assurance of salvation should motivate us to live faithfully and share the gospel with others, fulfilling the Great Commission with urgency and dedication. The knowledge that our salvation is secure in Christ provides us with a sense of peace and confidence, even in the face of impending judgment.
This assurance should not lead to complacency but rather to a greater sense of responsibility. Knowing that we are secure in Christ, we are called to live lives that reflect His love and grace. We are also called to share the message of salvation with others, helping them to find the same assurance and peace that we have. This means being intentional in our evangelistic efforts and living in a way that draws others to Christ.
John 10:28-29 (ESV): "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand."
Reflection: How can you live in a way that reflects the assurance of your salvation, and how can you share this assurance with others in your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Bible in various places speaks of an impending doom in which we are in. In which a great cataclysm will overtake the entire cosmos, reducing everything to atoms. 2 Peter chapter 3 gives us a sobering and graphic depiction of the universe being eviscerated by fire. And he compares its destructive effect to that of the global flood which consumed all of the earth's inhabitants except God's own people." (36 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Now, not only is the end of the world, a theological concept, but there's a scientific discipline called physical eschatology, which involves cosmologists and astronomers who study the ultimate fate of the universe. These experts make long-term predictions about our solar system and have concluded that eventually our sun will turn into a red giant star, which will eventually expand far beyond the safe zone of our planet, resulting in a scorched earth, boiling all of the oceans, killing every living thing on the planet." (48 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The catastrophic nature of this eschatological event will affect every person on the earth. That is the point that I want to drive home. It is going to be a global, cataclysmic event. It is going to be a global, cataclysmic event. It is going to be a global, cataclysmic event. It is going to be a global, cataclysmic event that will affect everyone, resulting in dire consequences." (24 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Those of us who are in Christ on that great day, when everything is exposed and laid bare, when all of the luminaries begin to fall upon the earth, when the earth shakes violently and begins to expose all of the wickedness of the evil world system of that day, those of us who are in Christ, on that great day, will not have to try and hide in the mountainous rocks. Why? Because we have been hidden in the one true rock already, the Lord Jesus Christ." (42 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have no need to fear the wrath that is to come. If we are in Christ, we are secure in Him, we are safe, and we will enter in eternal rest." (19 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The vision provides a glimpse into the future destruction of the universe. That it is abruptly interrupted by a parenthesis in the following chapter. And Rob is going to touch on that next Sunday. So let's go ahead and look at verses 12 through 14. My first point is the destruction of the cosmos. The destruction of the cosmos. And so we see a preview of the day of the Lord here in this sort of the end of the world." (36 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The imagery supplied in these verses are a reiteration of events surrounding the Old Testament depiction of the day of the Lord. It echoes the words of Joel chapter 2 verses 30 through 31. If you recall with me, it says in that portion of scripture, and I will put wonders in the sky and on the earth, blood, fire, and columns of smoke. The sun will be turned into darkness and the moon into blood before the great and awesome day of Yahweh, or the Lord, comes." (43 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The evil world system recognizes that their time is up. They know that they have been caught red-handed in their sin. They've been caught by the judge of all the earth. And notice here that the people attempt to hide in the caves and the mountains. And this echoes the reaction of who? Our first parents. When they sinned in the garden and they heard the voice of God, what was the reaction? They went and hid themselves in shame." (39 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Bible teaches that all judgment has been given to the son. He is the son of man, and therefore, he is the son of man who judges man. And the paradox here is striking. It's profound. The evil world system is filled with dread over a lamb, which is an animal that is recognized as non-predatory and docile. So, there's great irony that's being portrayed here, in that this evil world system is filled with dread over a lamb, which is an animal that is recognized as non-predatory and docile." (33 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have been delivered from this wrath to come. This is what is speaking of in 1 Thessalonians chapter 4 and 5, and we have been delivered from wrath. We have not been designated to experience the wrath of God, but to obtain salvation and deliverance from the Lord Jesus Christ on that day. We are the beloved bride of Christ who will be spared this final day of the wrath of the Lamb." (42 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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