The Anchor of my soul

The destiny of mankind — Hebrews 2:5-10

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and some of the comments of the class.

Comforting the afflicted
In these verses, the author shows how Christ, through His superiority, gives massive significance to God’s ultimate desire for believers. What do you believe God’s ultimate desire is for you?

The class came up with various responses very quickly; still, some of the later responses included God’s will that we:
- Transform to become like Christ
- Bear witness to the good news that Christ died for us
- Praise God
- Rule with Him as believers
God’s desire for mankind
- God’s desire to rule with His believers
  
  It is not to angels that he has subjected the world to come, about which we are speaking. (Hebrews 2:5 NIV)
  
  Angels are not going to rule the world to come. God’s intention and desire is to have this kingdom ruled by redeemed men and women. How does this verse impact you?
- God’s original intention for humanity
  
  But there is a place where someone has testified: “What is mankind that you are mindful of them, a son of man that you care for him? You made them a little lower than the angels; you crowned them with glory and honor and put everything under their feet.” (Hebrews 2:6‭-‬8a NIV)
  
  The author establishes the ultimate intention of God with the original intention of God for humanity by quoting Psalm 8:3-6.
  
  When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: (Psalms 8:3‭-‬6 NIV)
  
  This was originally spelled out in Genesis 1:26-28.
  
  Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” (Genesis 1:26‭-‬28 NIV)
  
  Think about man’s position — “made a little lower than angels”. We are limited in ways in which angels are not and we have less power. But, we are not lower in spirituality or importance.
  
  Think of man’s honor — “you have crowned him with glory and honor” — Adam and Eve were the king and queen of the original creation and God set them in a glorious paradise and walked with them.
  
  Consider man’s authority — “putting everything under his feet” — we were given rule over the whole world.
  
  God original purpose was stupendous, to say the least. If this original intention had been carried out, we would be living with our primal parents in the same astounding position and honor and authority.
  
  Can you imagine?
Man’s destiny stalled
- A perfect life averted
  
  In putting everything under them, God left nothing that is not subject to them. (Hebrews 2:8b NIV)
  
  As encouraging as God’s intention for mankind, obviously, something has gone wrong. The writer intentionally gives it a dramatic expression by using the double negative – there is nothing in this world that is not under man’s control. He wants us to take exception and say, “wait a minute – that’s not true.”
- A believer’s response to this perfect life lost
  
  Yet at present we do not see everything subject to them. (Hebrews 2:8c NIV)
  
  The author verbalizes our response for us. Adam sinned and as a consequence, his God-given dominion was subverted. His rule over the creation is a disaster; his rule over the animal world is superficial — he achieves it by intimidation; he cannot rule over himself, let alone others. We are not what we were meant to be.
Man’s destiny recovered by Christ
- - Redemption in Christ
    
    But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. (Hebrews 2:9 NIV)
    
    God’s original intention and ultimate intention is achieved in Christ, the second Adam. Jesus Christ became man that He might suffer and die for man’s sin and restore the dominion that was lost because of sin. Psalm 8 was also a messianic psalm that had its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
    
    When Jesus came into this world, this passage was fulfilled in His incarnation. Man is made a little lower than angels and for Jesus, this was the depth of his humiliation. Significantly, this is the first use of the name “Jesus” in the book of Hebrews. This emphasizes His humanity and His work of salvation. The only way the kingdom will be restored and man will be given the crown again is a payment for sin, which is death. The only way man can ever be a king again is to have the curse removed. The only way the curse can be removed is for the penalty to be paid. If we are to be restored to reign as a king, we must die and be resurrected as a new creation.
    
    For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. (Romans 6:5‭-‬11 NIV)
    
    To accomplish this great work on our behalf, Jesus had to become a man. If a man dies for his own sin, he is doomed forever to hell. Christ came to die for us because His dying conquered death.
    
    And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” (Revelation 5:9‭-‬10 NIV)
    
    I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony about Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4 NIV)
    
    When asked for the defense they would offer in response to the challenge “do you believe that Christ’s death really saves you from your sin,” class members offered these responses:
    - Christ was resurrected and that resurrection was noted in numerous extra-Biblical sources
    - Christ is a central figure in history that cannot be denied (extra-Biblical sources citing Christ outnumber those citing Aristotle)
    - If you study Christ, you will discover love beyond your comprehension
“But we see Jesus” is reminiscent of Revelation 5:1-14.

Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. He went and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped. (Revelation 5:1‭-‬14 NIV)

This is man’s one hope.

To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:27 NIV)

Jesus became a man to recapture our destiny. Life apart from Jesus is death. When we are in Jesus, our destiny is fulfilled!

“(N)ow crowned with glory and honor because He suffered death…”

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, (Philippians 2:8‭-‬10 NIV)

We see that in Christ, man’s glorious potential was realized – everything was put under His feet. The way this happened is revealed – “so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone” – Jesus’ death procured for us our reign.

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ! (Romans 5:17 NIV)

And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6‭-‬7 NIV)

Christ on the cross is the measure of our worth. Christ on the throne is a prophesy of our significance and dominion. Jesus is our promise – He is God’s ultimate intention and destiny for us.

A God-worthy salvation — Hebrews 2:10

In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered. (Hebrews 2:10 NIV)

The opponents of this community of believers were aggressively asserting the absurdity of a suffering Savior. Have you ever faced such cynicism or criticism? The author turns the tables on the critics with an eloquent assertion that the cross is the most fitting and most God- worthy way of salvation.

This verse emphasizes that the way of salvation is not arbitrary but befits the character of God “for whom and through whom everything exists.” God is the author of all that exists and correspondingly, Jesus is the pioneer/captain or author of salvation. As the work of creation is totally of God, so also is the work of salvation.

Creation came into existence by the spoken word of God. However, speech was not enough for salvation as it took the Word, His Son incarnate who was humiliated, suffered, died, rose again, ascended and sits at the right hand of God to effectuate salvation. Our salvation is the greatest display of His power and character. Do you want to see the character and power of God? Look at the cosmos. Do you want to see even more the character and power? Then, look to Christ Who is the pioneer/captain of our salvation made perfect through suffering. How could Jesus, who has always existed in perfection, be made perfect? The idea is that He is the perfect pioneer of salvation. His perfection or completeness came through His incarnation, temptation, atonement and His identification with us.

“(I)n bringing many sons to glory” – Jesus, as the Pioneer/Captain or Author of salvation, brings/leads many to eternal life in heaven. This is a picture of the Conquering/Victorious Son preceding the saved saints on the road to heaven There are many, not a few.

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. (Revelation 7:9 NIV)

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25‭-‬26 NIV)

The following comes from page 65 of The Practice of Piety: Directing a Christian How to Walk, that He May Please God, written by Lewis Bayly in 1680.

Soul	Lord, wherefore didst thou wash thy disciples’ feet?
Christ	To teach thee how thou shouldst prepare thyself to come to my supper.
Soul	Lord, why shouldst thou wash them thyself? (John 8:4)
Christ	To teach thee humility, if thou wilt be my disciple.
Soul	Lord, wherefore didst thou before thy death institute thy last supper? (Luke 22:19&20)
Christ	That thou mightst the better remember my death, and be assured that all the merits thereof are thine.
Soul	Lord, wherefore wouldst thou go to such a place where Judas knew to find thee? (John 18:2)
Christ	That thou mightst know that I went as willingly to suffer for thy sin, as ever thou wentest to any place to commit a sin.
Soul	Lord, wherefore wouldst thou begin thy passion in a garden? (John 18:1)
Christ	Because that in a garden thy sin took first beginning. (Gen. 3:3)
Soul	Lord, wherefore did thy three select disciples fall so fast asleep, when thou didst begin to fall into thy agony? (Matt. 26:40.)
Christ	To shew that I alone wrought the work of thy redemption. (Isa. 63:5)
Soul	Lord, why were there so many plots and snares laid for thee? (Matt. 26:4)
Christ	That I might make thee to escape all snares of thy ghostly hunter (Psalm 134:7)
Soul	Lord, why shouldst thou suffer Judas, betraying thee, to kiss thee? (Matt. 26:49.)
Christ	That by enduring the words of dissembling lips, I might there begin to expiate sin, where Satan first brought it into the world (Gen. 3:4&5)
Soul	Lord, why wouldst thou be sold for thirty-pieces of silver? (Matt. 27:3)
Christ	That I might free thee from perpetual bondage.
Soul	Lord, why didst thou pray with such strong crying and tears? (Matt. 26:39; Heb 5:7).
Christ	That I might quench the fury of God’s justice, which was so fiercely kindled against thee.
Soul	Lord, why wast thou so afraid, and cast into such an agony? (Mark 14:33)
Christ	That suffering the wrath due to thy sins, thou mightst be more secure in thy death, and find more comfort in thy crosses.

The Anchor of my soul

Featured

Don’t neglect so great a salvation — Hebrews 2:1-4

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and some of the comments of the class.

Audience
When Adam and Eve had sinned and hidden themselves in the garden, God went seeking after them. Specifically, He sought out the one he put in charge.

But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9 NIV)

Similarly, God uses this passage in Hebrews 2 reaches out to the reader.

This passage is a parenthesis or pause from emphasizing the preeminence and superiority of Christ to focusing on the audience.

How many people do you know who love Jesus?

Just about every class member noted that they knew people who love Jesus (of course, including themselves).

How do you know they love Jesus?

One class member noted that he would look to the way the people act: he would examine the fruit of their life.

“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. (Luke 6:43‭-‬45 NIV)

Another class member remembered the words of Jesus.

“If you love me, keep my commands. (John 14:15 NIV)

Yet another class member pointed out that Christ taught us to start our prayers with praise and seeking the fulfillment of God’s rule.

“This, then, is how you should pray: “ ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:9‭-‬10 NIV)

How many people do you know who have continual gratitude for the gift of eternal life? Would you include yourself in the answer to these questions?

By the time the writer gets to Hebrews 2:1, he is impassioned. He cares about the salvation of his audience. He is not satisfied with setting out doctrine and then going on his way. He longs for his audience to respond positively to what he is saying. He not only wants Christ to be seen and exalted but also to be accepted. God’s Word demands a response and a faithful teacher of the Word teaches for a response.
Hebrews 2:1-4 — an overview

We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. (Hebrews 2:1‭-‬4 NIV)

To the non-Christian, it says, “do you realize the eternal consequences of your choice? Why would you ignore or neglect the truth about Jesus? Why do you want to run away when His purpose is to bless you?” To the Christian, the writer is saying it is not enough that we know Jesus Christ. We must walk with Him daily. We are subjected to frustration, confusion, fear, anxiety, worldliness and emptiness without Him.

There is no doubt that many true Christians are drifting in the currents of the world’s river and are missing the victorious Christian life.

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:15‭-‬17 NIV)

They will at least make it to heaven but likely receive a paucity of rewards at the Bema seat.

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. (2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV)

The other group who thinks they are Christians and who outright deny Christ are in grave danger of perishing eternally. To each of these groups, the writer is saying, “what we do with Jesus today determines what He will do with us when we stand before Him.” Does this have any impact on you?

It is interesting that one of the ancient symbols for the church was a ship. That is a fitting picture of the church sailing the contrary seas of this world. How do people drift away from a relationship with Jesus or what are some of the causes which lead to drifting away?

One class member suggested that a reason a Christian might drift might be that they did not internalize the lessons of the Word. Another class member said that laziness might be behind the drifting. A third suggested that we might be under the influence of sin or lust of the world. A final class member said that there might be some influence from peer pressure.

What are the consequences of drifting away? Have you ever experienced “drifting away” from Christ? What was the result?

One class member said that one consequence would be a damaged relationship with God.

If you/someone “drifts away”, how do you/they become re-engaged?

Several class members reminded the class that we should not stop meeting.

not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:25 NIV)
First admonition — Hebrews 2:1

We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. (Hebrews 2:1 NIV)

This is the first of five admonitions found in Hebrews. Their purpose is to encourage all readers to pay attention to God’s Word and obey it. These admonitions become stronger as we progress throughout the book. God does not sit idly by and permit His children to rebel against Him. He will continue to speak and, if necessary, He will discipline and chasten His own.

This admonition is “Pay More Careful Attention or You may Drift Away”. This exhortation warns against a wasted life, a life of neglect and indifference to the great salvation and the unlimited potential of such a salvation.

“We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.” (Hebrews 2:1)

Whenever we observe the terms, “therefore” or “for this reason”, which is a term of conclusion, we need to ask the natural question, “for what reason” which usually leads to reading the preceding verses – Hebrews 1:1-14 – the superiority of Christ to the angels and the prophets and because of this superior revelation, the reader must make an appropriate response.

What have we heard? Jesus is Creator, Heir of all, One with the Father yet distinct in Person, Upholder of all things by His word, Purifier from sin, Seated by the right hand of the Majesty on high, having a better name than the angels, Firstborn = preeminence, God, Lord, King, Victorious Warrior, Immutable, Eternal, God testifying He is His Father fulfilling the Davidic Covenant, better Than the angels who serve and worship Him.

In short, the new revelation in Christ is superior to the old. The hearers have received a revelation superior to that given in the Old Testament and it has been given by the One who is superior to the angels. Now, you must respond to this truth!

Do you think you are immune to drifting? Explain.

All responded with a meek but definite “No, we can sin. We can drift.”

Having heard about Jesus, how have you responded? How would you explain your relationship with Him?

One class member said that she, like Paul, did not want to sin. But she found herself sinning just when it was not expected.

The mark of a true child of God is that they do not drift for long. One of the signs that you are born again is that you are convicted by this passage if you are drifting and to turn your eyes, heart and mind to Jesus. A sign that you are not born again is that you hear this message and feel no desire to guard against drifting.

How do you respond when convicted by the Holy Spirit?

Our right response is obedience.
Light and heavy — Hebrews 2:2-3a

For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? (Hebrews 2:2‭-‬3a NIV)

you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.” (Acts 7:53 NIV)

On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled. … As the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke and the voice of God answered him. (Exodus 19:16 and ‬19 NIV)

He said: “The Lord came from Sinai and dawned over them from Seir; he shone forth from Mount Paran. He came with myriads of holy ones from the south, from his mountain slopes. (Deuteronomy 33:2 NIV)

The “less heavy” or “light” or “qal” argument is that there were serious consequences for those who broke the commandments. The “heavy” or “homer” argument is “How much stricter would we expect judgment to be for someone who neglects or ignores the superior message of salvation proclaimed by Him and accomplished by His superior Person and work?” The audience knew quite well that obedience to the Law of Moses brought temporal blessings while prolonged disobedience increased severe temporal judgments. It is vital to remember that the Law of Moses never offered eternal life or heavenly rewards or warned of eternal damnation. Temporal blessings were on the line for disobedience to the Law (light) while eternal blessings are on the line for rejection of Jesus Christ. (heavy)
Why is this salvation so great? — Hebrews 2:3b-4

This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. (Hebrews 2:3‭b-‬4 NIV)

It is easy to drift with the current, isn’t it? No resistance – just drift along with the culture and its morals and ethics – no conflict, no tension, no confrontation. But it is very difficult to return against the current once you realize you’re off course. We are not meant to drift. We have been given this incomprehensible and wondrous salvation purchased at a great, unfathomable price. Nothing demands our greater attention than our relationship with Jesus. The crucial question is this: how is your relationship with Jesus Christ?

The Anchor of my soul – Hebrews 1:1-2

Featured

The superiority of Christ

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

The superiority of Christ — Hebrews 1:1-2

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. (Hebrews 1:1‭-‬2 NIV)

The writer doesn’t delay in getting to the point. These verses are simple and to the point They tell us that Christ is superior to everyone and everything. As we study, we need to be mindful that all through this book that Christ is presented as better than the best of everyone and everything that was before Him.

Remember that this letter is written to three different groups-Hebrew Christians, Hebrew Non-Christians who were intellectually convinced and Hebrew Non-Christians who were not convinced that Jesus was the Son of God. Many of us are surrounded by similar company. What do you think of the writer’s approach with such a mixed audience? Do you have a similar approach or not?

Several class members responded by telling of the ways that God uses them in sharing His love. The first pointed to how she invited another shopper to class. Therefore, she practiced both a direct (as the writer of Hebrews does) and non-direct approach. The second shared the recent conversation with a reluctant neighbor. So he used a definite non-direct approach. A third mentioned his Jewish co-worker and the continual struggle to overcome misconceptions about the Christian faith.
The preparation for Christ — Hebrews 1:1

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, (Hebrews 1:1 NIV)

Here is an indication of how God wrote the Old Testament. Its purpose was to prepare for the coming of Christ. Whether by prophecy, type or commandment or whatever, it made preparation for Christ. Therefore, in the Old Testament, the writer reminds us “God … spoke.”

What is your response when someone says. “I am a New Testament Christian?”

One class member responded with Hebrews 13:8, John 10:30, and Psalms 102:25-27.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8 NIV)

I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30 NIV)

In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded. But you remain the same, and your years will never end. (Psalms 102:25‭-‬27 NIV)

He went on to point out that, as the verses point out, God does not change. God is loving at the same time that he is holy and jealous.

God used men as Instruments, but was Himself behind them, enlightening and energizing them with the words written in the Old Testament.

Notice how God spoke in many portions and in many ways” (at many times and in various ways) “Portions” is interpreted as “books” — there are 39 books in the Old Testament in all these “portions” or books, God spoke to men through visions, parables and sometimes through a type or a symbol.

Men were used — their minds and their personalities — but they were totally controlled by the Spirit of God.

“Many ways” includes therary ways Narrative, poetry, law, prophecy, doctrine, warnings, encouragement, etc.

The Old Testament was written over the course of 1,500 years by some 40+ writers and was fragmentary and incomplete. It remained incomplete until the New Testament was finished. It progressed from promise to fulfillment. The Old Testament is promise and the New Testament is fulfillment.

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. (Matthew 5:17 NIV)

These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, (Hebrews 11:39 NIV)

Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things. (1 Peter 1:10‭-‬12 NIV)

The Old Testament was not erroneous but it was refined and finalized in the New Testament.

“Long ago, God spoke to the fathers or our forefathers” — these are our spiritual ancestors or our physical ancestors if we are Jewish.

For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:21 NIV)

(“Prophecy” referring to the Old Testament).

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, (2 Timothy 3:16 NIV)

Do you consider the Old Testament as God’s revelation is preparing His people for the coming of His Son, Jesus Christ?
Heir and Creator — Hebrews 1:2

but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. (Hebrews 1:2 NIV)

“In these lest days” is probably making a messianic reference. This terminology was very familiar to the Jews and had a distinctive reference to the coming Messiah. So, the writer is saying “In these promised last days Messiah (Christ) has come and spoken the revelation of God.” God has finalized His revelation through Christ.

We also see the Son rightly rules as heir of all things “All things” means all things.

Secondly, the Son created the universe of time and space.

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. (Colossians 1:16 NIV)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. (John 1:1‭-‬3 NIV)

For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. (Romans 11:36 NIV)

The grand theme of these verses is the supremacy of Christ as God’s final word.

Do you ever think of Jesus as God’s final Word? John 1:1-3

Why is it important to emphasize the supremacy of Christ?

As believers, we must establish the priority of Jesus. He is fully divine. He is greater than the prophets. He is greater than any revelation in the Old Testament. There is nothing in heaven or earth that surpasses the superiority of the Son. God has fully expressed Himself in Christ. (the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are co-equal and divine in nature but distinct in person)

Jesus says, “the Father and are one” — John 10:30 — but in John 14:28, He says “the Father is greater than I.” What is your explanation?

One class member noted that the members of the God-head may be equal, but they do not have the same function. In John 1:3, Christ (the Word) is credited with creating all.

The incarnation — Jesus was temporarily “made lower than the angels.”

But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. (Hebrews 2:9 NIV)

Jesus took on human besh and was fully buman but did not relinquish His divine nature. When Jesus took an human form, He made Himself nothing.

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:5‭-‬11 NIV)

So, the “greatness” that Jesus speaks of in sohn 14:28 relates to His role at the time of His words, not to His essence He was less than the Father in His humanity but equal to God in His divinity.

Christ — and Christ alone — is superior to our greatest challenges and our lowest despair. He knows each of us intimately, cares about as deeply and most importantly, has the superior power, wisdom and love to save you for all eternity. Do you believe that?

To fully understand this, then, the book of Hebrews is for you.

…

Introduction to the Anchor of my soul

Featured

The study of the book of Hebrews

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

Preach Jesus
When Charles Spurgeon opened his Bible to teach the book of Hebrews, he gloriously announced, “I have nothing to do tonight but to preach Jesus Christ.” Look what the Bible says about this:

Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. (Acts 5:42 NIV)

Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. (Acts 8:5 NIV)

The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. (Acts 8:34‭-‬35 NIV)

and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. (Acts 9:19‭-‬20 NIV)

For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. (1 Corinthians 2:2 NIV)

As we begin this study, that is our same game plan.

Do you preach Jesus and, if so, how do you preach Jesus?

One class member shared that he shared Christ by mentioning Christ with kind acts to people that otherwise did not listen to a gospel presentation.

To dig further into this topic, we know that God gave us the parable of the seeds to describe the reception of the gospel (seeds) to the soil (hearts) around the sower (the Holy Spirit).

Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” (Matthew 13:3‭-‬10‭, ‬18‭-‬23 NIV)

Your thoughts?

One class member noted that she had assurance of her salvation from an early age, but often felt during her teen years like the seed among thorns. During those years of trial, she felt as if her faith were choked by the world.

That is why we put the word and faith before feeling.

Another class member recounted how his seed fell on rocky soil until he reached his 25^th birthday. Thankfully, then, by the prayers of his godly mother, he came to see the light and became fertile soil.
Authorship
This epistle was written by an unknown author. Some say Paul, others say Apollos while others say Peter. Based on the style, vocabulary and pattern of personal reference in the epistles known to be Paul’s, it does not appear to be written by Paul. agree with the theologians that respect as to the exact human authorship – “No one knows.” How fitting, since the purpose of the book is to exalt Christ. Throughout this study, we will refer to the fact that it was written, as all Scripture, by the Holy Spirit- whom we do know.

We do know that it was written with the pen of a believer, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, to a suffering, persecuted group of Jews, somewhere in the East, outside of Israel.

Before we begin this study, we might ask ourselves, “How do exalt Christ?” Explain.

One class member explained how they witness, primarily in a manner of lifestyle that lifts up people to God. That class member described having talked to an unaccepting neighbor for years, only to help that neighbor when the natural gas lines were recently cut. Then that neighbor became much more receptive to the message of Christ.

in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:6 NIV)
Audience/Time
This letter was written after the ascension of Jesus and before the temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. Therefore, it was probably written between 65-70A.D. Three different groups in the Jewish community are addressed in this epistle – Hebrew Christians, Hebrew Non-Christians who were intellectually convinced and Hebrew Non-Christians who were not convinced. (There is no reference to Gentiles in the book).
- Hebrew Christians
  In this Jewish community, there was a congregation of true believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. As a result of their faith in Jesus as the Messiah, there was tremendous hostility from their own people – ostracism from their families and persecution and suffering from the Jewish people. They lacked full confidence in the gospel and consequently, in the Lord. They were still hung up on the Temple ritual and worship. This letter was written to give confidence to these floundering believers. Sometimes, do you need reassurance in your faith? Explain.
  
  Many class members responded with accounts of low times in their faith where a brother or sister with a Word became pivotal. Some even related accounts where God intervened directly by way of a Bible study.
  
  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:3‭-‬8 NIV)
- Hebrew non-Christians who were intellectually convinced
  They had heard the truth of Jesus Christ and were intellectually convinced that He is who He claims to be but they were not willing to make a commitment of faith in Him. Maybe, they loved the approval of man more than the approval of God. Maybe, they weren’t willing to make the sacrifice required. Do you know anyone like this?
  
  One class member told of a Jewish friend who “is almost persuaded,” but cannot let go of the Goya/Jewish divide.
- Hebrew non-Christians who were not convinced
  Do you know anyone who does not believe in Jesus as the Son of God, our Redeemer, our Lord and Savior?
  
  Everyone simultaneously admitted that these people were the majority of our working acquaintances.
  
  The Holy Spirit seeks to show them clearly that Jesus is who He says He is and this is the main thrust of chapter 9. The key to understanding any part of Hebrews is to understand which group is being addressed. In Hebrews, there is confidence and assurance to believers. To the intellectually convinced, there is a warning. Finally, there is a convincing presentation to the unbelieving Jews who are not even intellectually persuaded that they should believe in Jesus.
- The overall theme
  The overall theme is the superiority, or the preeminence, of Jesus Christ. As we study this book, you might find yourself asking, “What am really trusting in? Am I trusting the Word of God or am trusting the things of this world that are shaking and ready to fall away?” In Hebrews 12:25-29, God was shaking the order of things. He wanted His people to have their feet on the solid foundation of faith. He did not want them to trust in things that would vanish. Do you think God may be shaking the order of things today? If so, why do you think he is? Many of us can sense the heat rising in our ever-increasing anti-Christian culture and the pressure to conform to values and priorities of this darkening culture. As the Hebrew believers, we need to come to grips with the sufficiency of Christ and His absolute superiority over all things. Christ- and Christ alone – is superior to our greatest challenges and our lowest despair. Do you believe that?

A follow-up to God’s final Word, concluded

Featured

WHAT HAPPENS TO THOSE WHO DIE AND CANNOT BELIEVE? WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey.

Review.
1. What about those who cannot believe?
  By “those who cannot believe,” I am not referring to those who choose not to believe. I am referring to those who lack the capacity to believe or those who do not have information available to them.
  
  What is the hope of such people? Is there any hope for such people?
2. All people are born into sin
  1. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (Ephesians 2:3 NIV)
  2. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. (Psalms 51:5 NIV)
3. The problem
  1. Salvation by faith
    1. Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 NIV)
    2. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 NIV)
4. Our premise
  “To have faith in Jesus Christ or to reject Jesus Christ, we must first have the ability to do one or the other. God receives those who believe because they can believe.”
The provision
We have a problem and a premise. In order for the problem to be solved by the premise, God must make a provision.
1. General revelation
  1. The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (Romans 1:18‭-‬20 NIV)
  2. The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. (Psalms 19:1‭-‬4 NIV)
2. Testimony (witness)
  1. where they continued to preach the gospel. (Acts 14:7 NIV)
3. Savior of all mankind
  1. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. (1 Timothy 4:9‭-‬10 NIV)
    1. God saves all mankind generally
    2. God saves some of mankind specially
  2. God saves all mankind generally
    1. Guilty of original sin
      
      For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:22 NIV)
    2. Because of the death of Jesus on the cross, people do no go to hell because of original sin
      1. All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV)
      2. But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone. (Hebrews 2:9 NIV)
      3. The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. (John 1:9 NIV)
  3. Deep in the jungles of a foreign land
    1. Always remember this: When a person with limited knowledge responds to what they know, God then takes personal responsibility to provide that person with more information about Himself.
      
      And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 NIV)
      
      You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:13 NIV)
      1. Missionary
      2. Supernatural revelation
      3. Another dispensational category
The choice
We cannot confuse the love of God to the point that we miss the holiness of God, the righteousness of God, the justice of God, and, yes, the wrath of God.

One thing that God will never tolerate is one who rejects Him after He has gone through such great lengths to reveal Himself to us.

God has taken care of those who cannot believe. We can believe. Most of the people we know, can believe.

Heaven and Hell are real. One eternal destiny is up to each one of us and our own decisions and choices.

The final question every person must ask themselves is this: Do you have peace and comfort about the choice you have made?

A follow-up to God’s final Word

Featured

WHAT HAPPENS TO THOSE WHO DIE AND CANNOT BELIEVE? WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

Questions.
1. What is the spiritual status of a mentally retarded child who dies? What is the basis for your answer?
  One class member responded by noting the story of the death of King David’s baby by Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:13-23). In that event, David noted that the baby would not come to him, but he would go to the baby (in Heaven). That class member maintained that the innocent child (whether by age or by mental ability) would enter Heaven by God’s grace.
2. What is the spiritual status of those who have never heard the name of Jesus and die? What is the basis for your answer?
  Since Romans 1:18-32 reminds us that the law of God is written on the hearts of men — the problem comes with the darkening of our hearts. Therefore, the problem comes when those of us over the age of accountability start twisting our conscience to fit our sinful selves.
3. What is the spiritual status of the infant who dies? What is the basis of your answer?
  Again, that one class member pointed to the story of the death of King David’s baby by Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:13-23).
4. If the Bible declares that all people are born into sin, how do those who fall under a-c get to Heaven?
  Just about the whole class responded with “the only way any of us get to the portals of Heaven is by the sacrifice of Christ.”
  
  But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV)
What about those who cannot believe?
By “those who cannot believe” I am not referring to those who choose not to believe. I am referring to those who lack the capacity to believe or those who do not have information available to them.
All people are born into sin

All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (Ephesians 2:3 NIV)

Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. (Psalms 51:5 NIV)
The problem
1. A God of love
  
  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. (John 3:16‭-‬18 NIV)
  
  While God by nature is love, God is also holy and cannot tolerate sin. Therefore, God the Father provided a way for people through God the Son.
2. Baptism
  
  For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8‭-‬9 NIV)
  
  Salvation is a gift that we can willingly accept by faith, but cannot work to earn.
3. Salvation by faith
  
  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. (John 3:16‭, ‬18 NIV)
4. Belief versus rejection
  
  Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6 NIV)
  
  Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 NIV)
The premise
1. Our premise “To have faith in Jesus Christ or reject Jesus Christ, we must first have the ability to do one or the other. God receives those who do believe because they can believe.”
2. The command to believe
  The one who cannot believe is also the one who cannot reject. Those who do not have the capacity to believe also do not have the capacity to reject. If you cannot say “yes” to Christ, then you also cannot say “no.”
  
  That is why John 3:18 is so important. He said that we must believe and that the ones who do not believe are the ones who reject.
  
  Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them. (John 3:36 NIV)
  
  You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. (John 5:39‭-‬40 NIV)
  
  If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them. (James 4:17 NIV)

God’s final Word – Chapter 22, verses 13 through 21

God’s final Word – God’s last invitation

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

The promised Savior of the world
In these concluding verses, the Bible comes full circle. It opened with the promise of a coming Savior who would redeem His people from their sins.

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” (Genesis 3:15 NIV)

Now, the Bible ends with the promise of His second coming. It is only fitting that the book, whose focus is on the second coming, ends with a final invitation in anticipation of that glorious reality. It is an urgent invitation pleading with sinners to come to Jesus Christ and receive the free gift of eternal life before it is forever too late.

Do you feel the urgency to offer such an invitation?

One class member responded with a tale of her grandchildren and their reluctance to accept Bible stories now that her daughter seems less accepting of what she was brought up to believe.

Another class member spoke of feeling the urgency to share the gospel with his neighbors. That neighbor had rejected those overtures for years. Now both were open to the news.
The Person of Christ — Revelation 22:13

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. (Revelation 22:13 NIV)

As Jesus identifies Himself, His identity expresses Christ’s infinity, eternity and boundless life transcending all limitations. He is the source of all that is true, from beginning to end. It is also a statement of His deity as there can only be one Alpha and Omega, first and last and beginning and end — God. He is God the Son, the second Person of the eternal Trinity.
The exclusivity of heaven — Revelation 22:14-15

“Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Revelation 22:14‭-‬15 NIV)

This section begins with the last of the 7 beatitudes in Revelation. “Blessed are those who wash their robes” graphically portrays the believers’ participation in the death of Christ.

I answered, “Sir, you know.” And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. (Revelation 7:14 NIV)

Those who have experienced the washing from sin that marks salvation will forever have the right to the tree of life. The tree of life is located in the New Jerusalem and this will be a fulfillment of Jesus’ promise:

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. (Revelation 2:7 NIV)

Heaven is exclusively for those who have been cleansed from their sins by faith in the blood of Jesus and whose names have been written in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain.

All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world. (Revelation 13:8 NIV)

In contrast, everyone else will remain forever outside the New Jerusalem in the lake of fire.

Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. (Revelation 21:27 NIV)

The inclusion of “dogs” is included because dogs were despised scavengers that milled about the cities’ garbage dumps. To call a person a dog was to describe that person as someone of low character. In fact, the first time blatantly impure sinners are called dogs is in Deuternonmy 23:18 referring to male homosexual prostitutes.

You must not bring the earnings of a female prostitute or of a male prostitute into the house of the Lord your God to pay any vow, because the Lord your God detests them both. (Deuteronomy 23:18 NIV)

All those described as excluded are not everyone who have ever committed any of these sins but those who love and habitually practice any such sin, stubbornly clinging to it and refusing Christ’s invitation to salvation.
The truth of the book of Revelation — Revelation 22:16

“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” (Revelation 22:16 NIV)

The expression, “I, Jesus” appears only here in the Bible. This verse testifies to the truth of the whole book of Revelation. Like a king affixing a royal seal to an official document, Jesus ties His reputation as Son of David and Son of God to the prophecies of the book. The words of the book are faithful and true because they were given by the One who is altogether faithful and true.

In His deity, Christ is David’s root, and in His humanity, He is David’s descendant.

“The bright morning star” – Jesus promised the overcomers of Thyatira the “morning star” that is, Himself.
Two invitations — Revelation 22:17

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life. (Revelation 22:17 NIV)

The last 5 verses in the book of Revelation represent the last God-breathed words we have before the return of Christ. Let that sink in.

First, God continually speaks an invitation to all who are thirsty – “Come!” Only Christ can quench the deepest needs and necessities of the heart. In fact, the entire book of Revelation can be considered as a long invitation to separate ourselves from the pollution and wickedness of the world and to join God’s eternal banquet. The Lord’s ultimate reason for revealing future events is to draw people to Himself.

Note the first invitation is for Jesus Christ to come back to earth. And notice that the Holy Spirit and the Church, the bride of Christ, long for His soon return. That is the desire of every true believer.

The second invitation is for whoever will take the water of life – that is, the salvation offered to all in Jesus Christ. He said that whoever will drink this water will never thirst again.

but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:14 NIV)

Revelation 22:17 is God’s final invitation in the Bible.
A stern warning — Revelation 22:18-19

I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll. (Revelation 22:18‭-‬19 NIV)

How do people add to the book of Revelation? (Predicting the date of Christ’s return; adding ways to salvation, etc.) How do people take away the words of Revelation? (We have this new progressive understanding – everything in this book has already happened – this is history, not prophecy.)

Consider these ways of altering God’s Word: Disobeying the clear commands of Scripture; intentionally ignoring what is written; purposely twisting the true meaning of God’s word to accommodate our opinions and adding other commands or traditions or texts as authoritative truths.
The benediction — Revelation 22:20-21

I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll. (Revelation 22:18‭-‬19 NIV)

Jesus says He is coming quickly – no promise could offer more hope.

John adds “Amen” – “So be it!” Then John adds a personal prayer: “Come Lord Jesus!”

Is that your prayer? Are you ready for the return of the Lord Jesus? Fittingly, the last words of the Bible – “the grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen,” is an expression of God’s grace toward fallen humanity and a desire that all will accept His free gift of salvation.

God’s final Word – Chapter 22, verses 6 through 12

God’s final Word – A time of urgency

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

A sense of urgency — Revelation 22:6

The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place.” (Revelation 22:6 NIV)

At this point, all that is left for John to record is this divine epilogue or postscript. All the glorious and gracious purposes that God ordained before the foundation of the world will have been attained. The devastating judgments of the Tribulation will have been carried out. The Lord Jesus will have returned in all His glory, executed His enemies, and reigned on the earth for a thousand years. All the rebels, angels and humans, will have been sentenced to their final, eternal punishment in the lake of fire. The present universe will have been “uncreated” and the eternal new heaven and earth “created,” in which the King of kings will be reigning with His Father. The holy angels and the redeemed of all ages will be dwelling in the new creation and particularly in the New Jerusalem. From the throne in the center of that majestic city, the brilliant, blazing glory of God will radiate throughout the re-created universe. Holiness will characterize all who dwell in the kingdom. They will constantly praise, worship and serve Him throughout eternity in an environment of perfect peace, joy and fulfillment. What is your reaction/response to this time in history?

One class member responded with the observation that he would fall on his face in worship. Just imagining this scene stretches the human imagination.

Another class member noted that, since God often acted as His own messenger and often used angels (which translates “messenger”) as messengers, we must be wary of who we worship in heaven (even though holy angels won’t accept worship).

Another class member said that she would be overcome with the magnificence of the situation.

These verses are filled with a sense of urgency. Since Jesus could rapture His church at any moment, triggering all the end time events, believers and unbelievers need to be ready. The angel’s words reinforce an important truth: Everything John has seen in Revelation will come to pass.

The God Who moved the spirits of His spokesmen, the prophets, to inspire both the New Testament and the Oid Testament is the same God Who sent His angel to show His bondservants the things which must soon take place.

What do you believe your response should be to the book of Revelation?

One class member responded with “Obedience.”

“Evangelism” was another response.
Immediate obedience — Revelation 22:7

“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.” (Revelation 22:7 NIV)

The original translation of this verse has the word, “Καὶ” (Kai), which means “and”, which marks a change in speakers. The speaker is no longer the angel who spoke in 22:6, but the Lord Jesus Christ, the One who is coming quickly. He pronounces the 6th of the 7 beatitudes. The word “τηρῶν” (teron) translates as “hold fast” or “to guard.”

As believers we are called to guard or protect the book of Revelation. How do we do that (defend it against detractors who deny its relevance; defend it against critics who deny its veracity and authority as well as confused interpreters who obscure its meaning. In fact, all scripture should be so guarded)?

As believers, we are called to defend Scripture and to obey it. How do we obey Scripture and this prophecy?

There was general agreement that the Scripture must be defended. However, one class member cited a source he was not sure of when he noted, “In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, liberty. In all things, love.”

God inspired Revelation for one purpose: to reveal the glory of His Son and call believers to live godly, faithful and obedient lives in light of His return. This book should provide motivation for godly living. Do you believe that it does?

It is the only book in the Bible that has a special blessing for those who read it and obey it.
Immediate worship — Revelation 22:8-9

I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had been showing them to me. But he said to me, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!” (Revelation 22:8‭-‬9 NIV)

Again, we have a change of speakers, this time being John. John’s impulsive worship of the wrong object should serve as a warning to each of us. How easy it is for finite, fallen creatures to get caught up in the moment and forget the One who deserves our full affection and devotion. How prone we are as humans to mistake the gift for the Giver when we receive another of His remarkable blessings. How can we avoid this?

One class member said that, while we are on earth, we can make a habit of keeping our eyes on God by keeping in the Word.

Another class member suggested the same might apply to us while in heaven: keep our eyes on Jesus.
Immediate proclamation — Revelation 22:10-11

Then he told me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this scroll, because the time is near. Let the one who does wrong continue to do wrong; let the vile person continue to be vile; let the one who does right continue to do right; and let the holy person continue to be holy.” (Revelation 22:10‭-‬11 NIV)

The message is not to be hidden; it is a message to be proclaimed to produce obedience and worship.

When the angel says, “Let the one who does wrong…”, he is proclaiming a truth that people’s response to the proclamation of the truth will fix their eternal destiny. The truths can become an instrument of salvation or an instrument of damnation and must be proclaimed as long as men and women still have time to hear them.
Immediate Service — Revelation 22:12

“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. (Revelation 22:12 NIV)

Jesus’ statement means that His coming is imminent.

Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’ ” (Mark 13:33‭-‬37 NIV)

When Jesus comes, He will bring His reward. Believers’ eternal rewards will be based on their faithfulness in serving the Lord in this life. The knowledge that Jesus could return at any moment should produce diligent, obedient, worshipful service to God and an urgent proclamation of the gospel to unbelievers.

God’s final Word – Chapter 21, verse 9 through 22, verse 5

God’s final Word – The celestial city of Heaven

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

Looking back

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God ; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:1‭-‬6 NIV)

When the class was asked for their response to this passage, one class member noted that Christ has promised to come back for us. Therefore, these were the best words.

Another class member said that this underscored her urgency for sharing to her grandchildren.

Yet another class member noted the wedding feast imagery. He noted that the bride’s party (the Church) would wait for the party of the bridegroom to come at an unknown time. The bride’s party would need to have oil (the Holy Spirit) in their lamps when the groom’s party came. The groom would take the bride to his home (heaven).

Still another class member noted the wedding feast imagery. He noted how only those with white robes would be allowed to stay and that the robes would be supplied.

Another class member noted that this all combined to erase their fear of death.

Finally, one class member observed how this worked to encourage them to share the good news.

The apostle John was among the eleven that memorable night. Decades later, pondering those events, John recorded Christ’s promise that He would come again to receive His church to Himself and to provide that special place that was prepared for them – a place in His Father’s house that has many rooms. Sixty years later, near the end of the first century, this same John was given a guided tour of the eternal dwelling place of the saints, the new heaven and earth.

As we take in these incredible scenes, we need to keep in mind that this is an inspired, prophetic unveiling of our eternal home. Human language is inadequate to fully describe the unimaginable magnificence of the believers’ indescribable eternal home.
The origin of the celestial city — Revelation 21:9-10

One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. (Revelation 21:9‭-‬10 NIV)

“The bride, the wife of the Lamb” – this image has several meanings in Scripture – the physical Jerusalem and its inhabitants; Israel, the Old Testament people of God and the church, the New Testament people of God. Here, the image of the bride encompasses all of the Old and New Testament concepts. It will be the dwelling of all the redeemed of all the ages. Hebrews 11:10 and 12:22 describe the heavenly Jerusalem “whose architect and builder is God.” The angel then has John witness this Celestial City complete its descent to the new earth.

For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. (Hebrews 11:10 NIV)

But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, (Hebrews 12:22 NIV)
The appearance of the celestial city — Revelation 21:11

It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. (Revelation 21:11 NIV)

John uses two words to convey its stunning appearance: glory and brilliance – two terms that describe the brilliant glory of God. This most likely refers to the fiery, glowing presence of God-shekinah glory.

When John refers to the “jasper” stone, this probably refers to an unblemished, perfectly clear diamond. Nothing on earth even begins to compare what God has prepared for us.

One class member commented on the difficult matter that John faced translating what he was shown by God into something we can understand.

That class member wonder what might John have seen to tell us of “brilliance” and “glory?” Considering that he described transparent gold (something that does not occur normally in our universe), what else has he seen, but not been able to describe?
The exterior of the celestial city — Revelation 21:12-14

It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. (Revelation 21:12‭-‬14 NIV)

Upon the gates were the names of the 12 tribes of Israel, representing the totality of the Old Testament people of God and upon the foundations were the names of the 12 apostles of Christ, representing the New Testament church of God. The city will be the dwelling place of the united people of God, whose salvation rests on the completed work of Jesus Christ.
The dimensions of the celestial city — Revelation 21:15-17

The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. (Revelation 21:15‭-‬17 NIV)

The size of the city is staggering – nearly 1,500 miles along one wall! This city will be perfectly proportionate to the new earth, which God will fashion for the eternal state.
The materials of the celestial city — Revelation 21:18-21

The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. (Revelation 21:18‭-‬21 NIV)

When asked about the gates (each made from a single pearl), one class member commented on how pearls get formed when an injury gets inflicted on the oyster. Likewise, our entry into heaven depends on the stripes laid on Christ for our healing.

Another class member commented on the pure white quality of the pearl and the purity of Christ’s sacrifice.

The foundations of the city will be adorned with “every kind” of jewel. Such materials probably symbolize the great diversity of people that will dwell within the city’s walls. Secondly, the city is pure as gold, pure as glass, reflecting the holiness and glory of God. Third, each gate will be created from one giant pearl. The significance of the “pearly gates” is often missed – John Phillips comments:

“All other precious gems are metals or stones, but a pearl is a gem formed within an oyster- the only one formed by living flesh. The humble oyster receives an irritation or wound, and around its offending article that penetrated and hurt it, the oyster builds a pearl. The pearl, we might say, is the answer of the oyster to that which injured it.” ( Exploring Revelation, p.254)

The pearl represents pain, resulting in beauty, reminding us that Christ’s suffering had an eternal purpose and opened heaven for us.

There will be no vanity, no materialism, no envy, and no greed.
The distinctiveness of the celestial city — Revelation 21:22

I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. (Revelation 21:22 NIV)

There will be no temple. The center of worship will be the Father and the Son. All the inhabitants will worship forever in the presence and by the power of the Holy Spirit.
The brilliance of the celestial city — Revelation 21:23-27

The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. (Revelation 21:23‭-‬27 NIV)

When asked, one class member said that this brought her feelings of security and peace in light of the pervasive power of God.

Another class member noted that all believers have their names in the Lamb’s book of life. That will ensure our entrance to heaven.

The new creation will not have seasons, nor require sources of light as God will illumine heaven and earth with His own glory. In this new creation, God will replace error, sin’s corruption, the fallen flesh and the evil administration of the world. As light dispels darkness, the holy, shining presence of God will drive out all wickedness and falsehood. In this light-the glory of God – all nations will walk. They will pass through the open gates without hesitation. Can you imagine what a glorious place this will be?
The blessing of the celestial city — Revelation 22:1-5

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever. (Revelation 22:1‭-‬5 NIV)

The water of life is not water as we know it; it is a symbol of eternal life.

With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. (Isaiah 12:3 NIV)

And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. (John 14:13‭-‬14 NIV)

It is a constant flow of everlasting life from God’s throne to God’s people. The tree of life is the celestial counterpart to the tree of life in Eden and this tree provides for those who are immortal. The tree of life was a familiar Jewish concept that expressed blessing and the celestial tree symbolizes the blessing of eternal life. The 12 kinds of fruit yielding its fruit every month emphasizes the infinite variety that will fill heaven. The term, “month”, is an anthropomorphic expression of the joyous provision of eternity couched in the familiar terms of time since this is an eternal state and time is no more.

“Leaves were for healing” – the Greek word, “θεραπείαν” (healing) does not imply illness and a better way to translate it would be “life-giving” or “therapeutic.”

The saints in the New Jerusalem will also see God’s face.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matthew 5:8 NIV)

Being perfectly holy and righteous, they will be able to endure the heavenly level of blazing, glorious light from God’s presence without being consumed-something impossible for mortal men.. The redeemed will also be God’s personal possessions – leaving no doubt as to who they belong to forever.

Their (our) heavenly experience reveals that we will reign forever and ever.

To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. (Revelation 3:21 NIV)

Can you imagine? The glorious reality that we, as sinful rebels, made righteous through Christ, will enjoy intimate fellowship with the Father and the Son, Jehovah God Almighty, and the King of kings and Lord of lords, serve Them and reign with Them forever in complete joy and constant praise. Indescribable; incomprehensible.
Reflection
How does the description of our ultimate destiny address your present frustrations, sorrows or fears? Reflect on the influence our study of this passage has on your attitude, your decisions and your relationship with others.

God’s final Word – Chapter 21, verses 1 through 8

God’s final Word – The new heaven and earth

The following comes through the notes of Mark Ramsey and the responses of the class.

Where is your focus?
Typically, in our daily life, we tend to focus on certain things that provide economic security, safety, good physical and mental health, healthy relationships, happiness and peace is there anything wrong with this?

One class member noted that temporarily focusing on these might be helpful, but Christ must be the overall focus of our lives.

Is there anything wrong with desiring material wealth or comfort?

Again, that class member noted that there is nothing wrong with desiring wealth or comfort; however, those points must not be the focus of our lives. he further noted that Abraham, David, and Solomon were each very rich, but also drew close to God.

Instant gratification?

One class member noted that the miracles of Christ were points of instant gratification. The issue with instant gratification does not rest with the delivery system, but the focus.

Do you ever focus on heaven? Explain.

Yet another class member explained that he focused on heaven by using Christ’s model prayer (known as “the Lord’s Prayer” and “Our Father”). And another said he focused on Christ through the study of the Word.

What does the Bible say about focusing on heaven?

Philippians 3:19-20 tells us that the minds of the enemies of God are on earthly things while our citizenship is in heaven. In Colossians 3:1‭-‬2, we are told to set our hearts and minds on things above and not on earthly things. Also consider James 4:4 and 1 John 2:15-17.

Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, (Philippians 3:19‭-‬20 NIV)

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. (Colossians 3:1‭-‬2 NIV)

You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. (James 4:4 NIV)

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:15‭-‬17 NIV)

What do you think the Bible means when it says we are to sat our minds and hearts on things above and not to love the world nor the things of the world? A heavenly perspective is vital since everything connected to our spiritual life and destiny is there. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Fellow believers who have already successfully run their earthly race. Our names are recorded in heaven we are citizens of heaven. Our inheritance is there as well as our rewards; we will receive glorified bodies.

… the day of death better than the day of birth. (Ecclesiastes 7:1b NIV)

I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; (Philippians 1:23 NIV)

Do you believe that desiring heaven exerts an influence on your life here on earth? Explain (character, endurance, perseverance; sin; joy, thankfulness; honor God).

The wholesale response from the class was that such a desire would influence our lives and would result in our speaking of Christ.
The appearance of the new heaven and earth — Revelation 21:1

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. (Revelation 21:1 NIV)

God created the world to be ideally suited for mankind, whom He created to enjoy an disharmony and hostility. Creation has groaned for redemption since the Fall in God’s plan, sin will absolutely not have the last word and after the Great White Throne judgment. God will replace this present fallen universe with a new one. The phrase “a new heaven and a new earth” derives from Isaiah 65:17. What Isaiah predicted is now a reality in John’s vision.

“See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. (Isaiah 65:17 NIV)

Καινόν (pronounced “kainon” and meaning “new”) means new in a qualitative sense-brand new, fresh, never seen before. In the book of Revelation, the sea serves as a “principle of disorder, violence or unrest that marks the old creation,” As there is no longer any sea, this illustrates the fact that the ordering of the new world will be radically different from the present earth.
Twelve “No Mores” in the new heaven and earth
1. No more sea — Revelation 21:1
2. No more tears — Revelation 21:4
3. No more death — Revelation 21:4
4. No more mourning — Revelation 21:4
5. No more crying — Revelation 21:4
6. No more pain — Revelation 21:4
7. No more thirst — Revelation 21:6
8. No more wickedness — Revelation 21:8
9. No more temple — Revelation 21:22
10. No more night — Revelation 21:23-25
11. No more closed gate — Revelation 21:25
12. No more curse — Revelation 22:3
How does this make you feel?

All around, the class agreed that it was reassuring to see no more tears, no more thurst, no more closed gate
and no more curse. One class member noted that no more wickedness and no more closed gate seemed to go hand in hand. Yet another noted that the illumination provided by Christ would both eliminate both night and the need for a temple.
The Capital — Revelation 21:2

I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. (Revelation 21:2 NIV)

This is the third city named Jerusalem in redemptive history. The first is the historic Jerusalem, the City of David, which currently exists in Palestine. The second Jerusalem will be the restored Jerusalem where Christ will reign during the millennial kingdom. This is the new eternal city. It is called the holy city because everyone who lives in it is holy. The city comes down out of heaven from God, its “architect and builder.”

For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. (Hebrews 11:10 NIV)

The implication that it already exists, a truth reinforced by Hebrews 12:22-23.

But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, (Hebrews 12:22‭-‬23 NIV)

All of heaven is currently contained in the new Jerusalem; it is separate from the present universe which a tainted by sin. When God creates the new heaven and earth, the new Jerusalem will descend into the new universe and serve as the dwelling place of the redeemed for all eternity.

By this post in Revelation, the “bride” concept expands to include the church and the rest of the redeemed from all the ages.
The supreme reality — Revelation 21:3

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. (Revelation 21:3 NIV)

God will dwell among us. The supreme glory and joy of heaven is the Person pf God. We will enjoy fellowship with Him; we will see God as He is the pure in heart will see God, we will worship Him, we will serve him and most astonishing of all, the Lord will serve believers.

“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. (Luke 12:35‭-‬37 NIV)
The changes — Revelation 21:4-6a

‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. (Revelation 21:4‭-‬6a NIV)

There and be nothing to be sad about worry about or sorry about. There will be no more pain, Amazing!

When God says. “It is done, the term carries with it absolute finality. This is not the same as Jesus’ final statement on the cross. “It is finished.” That emphasized something in the past that has come to its intended end – the suffering and payment for the sins of the world. When God says, “It is done, He is pointing forward to a permanent condition that has finally arrived.
The residents — Revelation 21:6b-7

To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. (Revelation 21:6‭b-‬7 NIV)

Two descriptive phrases reveal who will live in this glorious new heaven and new earth.
1. One who thirsts
  
  Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. (Matthew 5:6 NIV)
  
  “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. (Isaiah 55:1 NIV)
  
  As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? (Psalms 42:1‭-‬2 NIV)
  
  Their thirst will be satisfied.
  
  Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13‭-‬14 NIV)
  
  On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” (John 7:37‭-‬38 NIV)
2. And the one who overcomes.
  
  for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. (1 John 5:4‭-‬5 NIV)
  
  And the closing promise of each of the 7 letters in Revelation 2 and 3. Do you consider yourself as one who thirsts? Do you consider yourself as an overcomer? Explain.
  
  These citizens of heaven will “inherit these things”
  
  and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, (1 Peter 1:4 NIV)
  
  The most wonderful promise is “I will be his God and the will the my son.” When we come into our inheritance our adoption all the fully realized.
The outcasts — Revelation 21:8

But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” (Revelation 21:8 NIV)

A solemn warning to those who will not participate in the blessings of heaven-all the unforgiven and unredeemed sinners. The choices men and women make in this life determine in which of these realms they will live in forever. Remember this: there is no sin you can commit for which you cannot be forgiven. If you have trusted in the blood of Jesus Christ to forgive and cleanse you, then you are saved and secure forever. This is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Do you recognize the urgency of sharing the gospel?

The destiny of mankind — Hebrews 2:5-10

Share this:

Like this:

Don’t neglect so great a salvation — Hebrews 2:1-4

Share this:

Like this:

The superiority of Christ

Share this:

Like this:

The study of the book of Hebrews

Share this:

Like this:

WHAT HAPPENS TO THOSE WHO DIE AND CANNOT BELIEVE? WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Share this:

Like this:

WHAT HAPPENS TO THOSE WHO DIE AND CANNOT BELIEVE? WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Share this:

Like this:

God’s final Word – God’s last invitation

Share this:

Like this:

God’s final Word – A time of urgency

Share this:

Like this:

God’s final Word – The celestial city of Heaven

Share this:

Like this:

God’s final Word – The new heaven and earth

Share this:

Like this: