082805

AFTER THIS, THEN WHAT?
When Heaven Comes Down

Revelation 21:1-8
“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. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 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. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars--their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.” (NIV)
1) Dear sisters, this is our true home, what our hearts and souls have been longing for—the New Jerusalem, coming down from heaven (Hebrews 11:10!) This is why we should not cling too tightly to the things of this world (2 Corinthians 4:18)—Jesus promises “Behold! I make all things new!” (KJV) Glory! Many people believe that a World War will bring about this destruction. Does 2 Peter 3:10-13 support this? Why or why not?
2) God has always dwelt with His people. He walked in the garden with Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8.) In the wilderness, He was the Pillar of a Cloud by day and the Pillar of Fire by night (Exodus 13:21) and He was the Rock in the Desert of Sin from which water came forth (Exodus 17:6!) His presence filled the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8), His presence filled the Most Holy Place in the Tent of Meeting (Leviticus 16:1-2.) He dwelt in the temple (1 Kings 6:11-13; 1 Kings 8:6-11.) During these periods of biblical history, God’s “glory” or “presence” rose and fell, came and left. Even our Lord, Jesus Christ, who came to earth in human flesh only dwelt on this earth for a season (John 1:14.) Now, God dwells “in” us through His Holy Spirit (Colossians 1:25-27!) Moreover, He has promised never to leave us and never to forsake us—we are forever sealed (Matthew 28:20 and Ephesians 4:30!) Ah, but in this passage we see that God Himself actually physically sets up His abode with us. We will be able to see with our own eyes, hear with our own ears, feel with our own hands and yes, taste with our own lips (Psalms 34:8 and 1 Corinthians 13:9-12!) Our faith will have become sight! Oh, this is the heart cry of every child of God! How does this passage ultimately fulfill Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:18-25?
3) The loud voice coming from the throne tells us there will be quite a few “no mores!”
a) No more sea? Think about it. Two-thirds of the earth is covered with water. Jews believe that the sea symbolizes separation, restlessness (tossing to and fro, waves rising and falling) and yes, even hostility toward God. Why do you think God chooses to remove the sea (Isaiah 57:20 and Revelation 13:1?)
b) No more sorrow, mourning, pain or tears (Isaiah 61:3?) Can I hear a big AMEN? Imagine, at a time we should be falling on our faces before Him, God takes us into His mighty arms and He wipes away all our tears! Since the beginning of time, God continues to do what He has always done for His highest creation--He reaches down to comfort us (Hebrews 12:2-3!) What a God we serve!
c) Finally, (thank God Almighty) what happens to death (Isaiah 25:8 and Revelation 20:14?) Yeah, God!
4) The KJV of John 19:5 shows Pilate declaring to the crowds, “Behold the man!” Jesus spoke not a word in His own defense! In the above passage we find this same Jesus declaring to all who will listen, “I AM the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End!” No longer is Jesus in pictured the humble and serving role as the Son of Man. Here is our risen Lord, Jesus Christ in all His glory! LORD OF LORDS AND KING OF KINGS! Oh, come let us adore Him!
5) Jesus is still offering living water—without cost (to us!) Are you thirsty? Is your soul dry, parched? Are you weary from your life’s journey? Do you feel dark, dirty? Then, come to the well and be filled (John 4:10-42!) What is this living water?
6) Overcoming. Do you feel like an overcomer? Well, believe me, it has nothing to do with feelings and aren’t you glad it doesn’t? (1 John 5:4)
a) What does Jesus promise as our reward for overcoming?
i) We get to freely eat from the tree of life (Revelation 2:7!)
ii) We will not be hurt by the second death (Revelation 2:11!)
iii) We are given some of the hidden manna and a white stone with our new name that no one else knows (Revelation 2:17!)
iv) We receive authority over the nations (Revelation 2:26!)
v) We will be dressed in white. Our names will never be blotted out from the book of life. Jesus will acknowledge us before the Father and his angels (Revelation 3:5!)
vi) We will be given our own pillar in the temple of God. Never again shall we leave it. Jesus will write on each of us the name of God and the name of the city of God, the New Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from God. Sisters, Jesus will write on us His new name—talk about sealed (Revelation 3:12!)
vii) As if all this were not enough, we actually get to sit with Jesus on His throne (Revelation 3:21!) Can you imagine!
viii) We inherit all that Jesus describes in Revelation 21:1-8—He will be our God and we will be His children! What glories, what riches! Praise be to our Rock! Jesus, whom do I have in heaven except thee?
7) Ouch! Cowardly, unbelieving, etc. We can easily fall into some of all of these categories, or maybe not. What separates us from those who will experience the “second death?” Hint: See what makes us overcomers above in question #7! See also Colossians 2:13-14 and Ephesians 2:8-9!
Revelation 21:9-21
“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. It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 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.” 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. He measured its wall and it was 144 cubits thick, by man's measurement, which the angel was using. 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 chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, 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 pure gold, like transparent glass.” (NIV)
1) At first glance, you think the angel is going to show John the church (all those who believe and trust in Jesus Christ—his bride), but, no, he’s calling the city of Jerusalem the bride of the Lamb! A city and a bride?
a) Why is Jerusalem so important to God?
i) The temple built for His Name is there and He is Leader of her people (2 Chronicles 6:5-6!)
ii) God has said His name will remain there forever (2 Chronicles 33:4!)
iii) He is in Jerusalem (Ezra 1:3!)
iv) It is His pleasure that Jerusalem prosper and be built up ( Psalms 51:18!)
v) It is the place or city where God will be praise (Psalms 122!)
vi) God desires peace for Jerusalem (Psalm 128:5-6!)
vii) Jerusalem is God’s (and should be, our) highest joy (Psalms 137:5-6!)
viii) God will gloriously reign in Jerusalem (Isaiah 24:21-23!)
ix) God will comfort and redeem Jerusalem (Isaiah 52:9!)
x) God will establish Jerusalem and make her the praise of all the earth (Isaiah 62:6-7!)
xi) Jerusalem was created to be God’s delight and her people a joy (Isaiah 65:18-19!)
xii) Jerusalem will one day be called the Throne of the LORD (Jeremiah 3:16-17!)
xiii) Jerusalem is the city of the Great King (Matthew 5:35!)
xiv) Jerusalem is the city of the Living God (Hebrews 12:18-24!)
xv) Jerusalem is the joy of the whole earth (Psalms 48:1-3!)
2) A city shining with the glory of God!
a) Let’s take a few minutes to discover exactly how throughout biblical history God’s glory has been displayed:
i) In a cloud (Exodus 16:10; 24:16!)
ii) As a consuming fire (Exodus 24:17!)
iii) God’s glory passed by Moses (Exodus 33:18-23; Exodus 34:5-8!)
iv) The face of Moses reflected God’s glory (34:29!)
v) As fire coming from His presence (Leviticus 9:23-34!)
vi) God’s glory fills the whole earth (Numbers 14:21!)
vii) His glory is displayed in His people, Israel (1 Samuel 15:29!)
viii) The heavens declare the glory of God (Psalms 19:1!)
ix) God’s glory will be revealed (Isaiah 40:5!)
x) God’s glory has our back (Isaiah 58:8!)
xi) The Glory of the Lord can actually stand (Ezekiel 3:23!)
xii) The Glory of the Lord actually has form (Ezekiel 8:1-4!)
xiii) Angels reflect the glory of God (Luke 2:9!)
xiv) Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh is the glory of God (John 1:14!)
xv) God’s miracles reflect God’s glory (John 11:39-45!)
xvi) Our obedience reflects the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31!)
xvii)Our thanksgiving reflects God’s glory (2 Corinthians 4:15!)
xviii) Our belief and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ reflects God’s glory (Philippians 2:11!)
xix) We reflect God’s glory (2 Corinthians 3:18!)
3) Okay, here it goes! There was a man who desperately wanted to take all his wealth with him when he died. Oh, he was positive this could be accomplished, so he pleaded with his wife that when his time came she would put all his wealth in a money bag and place it with him in his grave. Well, the time came for this man to die and the wife did as her husband requested. The man appears before the pearly gates, with bag in tow, and requests to come into the presence of Almighty God. The angel guarding the gates told him, “Fine, but, sir, you will have to let go of all your earthy possessions before you can enter.” This outraged the man because his entire life’s earnings were in that bag! Again and again the man pleads for the angel to let him enter, and the angel keeps telling him over and over that he must leave his earthy possessions behind. The man walks away very sad. The angel, very perplexed by this time (we are talking about heaven you know!), stops the man and says, “Sir, I have just got to see what you have in that bag that you value more than what is waiting for you in heaven.” The man obliges and opens the bag for the angel to see. The angel exclaims, “You mean to tell me that you refuse to enter heaven because of a bag of pavement?” Ha! Ha!
4) You would think that being in the presence of God’s glory would be awesome all by itself. However, John goes on to describe Jerusalem’s glory in terms we mere humans would understand—size, jewels, crystal, gates! Reading this passage, does John describe anything that makes you long to be there, now?
5) Would you say that heaven is a place or a Person?
Revelation 21:22-26
“I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 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.” (NIV)
1) In these passages we are given a few more “no mores!”
a) No more temple. Why? Also, read John 4:19-24. We don’t need a city, a building or a temple to worship the Living God. No, we worship from the temple of our heart—in spirit and in truth!
b) No sun! No moon! No, the glory of God and the Lamb are the light of that city!
i) What is light and what is its purpose in our lives?
(1) Jesus, the Word of God made flesh is the light of men (John 1:1-5!)
(2) Light is our armor (Romans 13:12!)
(3) Light exposes things hidden in the dark (1 Corinthians 4:5!)
(4) Light gives us the knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6!)
(5) We are now light (Ephesians 5:8!)
(6) We are sons of light and sons of day (1 Thessalonians 5:5!)
(7) We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, so we may declare the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9!)
(8) Walking in the truth of God’s light brings fellowship with God and man (1 John 1:5-7!)
(9) If we love our brothers and sisters in Christ, we walk in God’s light (1 John 2:8-11!)
(10) ; Jude 1:6; Jude 1:11-13
2) Why do you suppose the gates to the New Jerusalem are never closed?
a) Reasons the gates were closed:
i) For the Sabbath rest (Exodus 16:22-30; Nehemiah 13:19-21!)
ii) For protection (Nehemiah 7:1-3!)
b) Reasons the gates will remain open:
i) Joy, worship, thanksgiving and praise (Psalms 100:1-5!)
ii) To fulfill God’s solemn promise to his people, Israel (Ezekiel 37:21-28!)
iii) Jerusalem is God’s throne and the place for the soles of his feet. He will live there forever (Ezekiel 43:1-7!)
iv) God has promised His protection for Israel (Joel 3:17; Amos 9:14-15; ; Zechariah 9:81 and Zechariah 14:7-11!)
v) God will save Israel (Zephaniah 3:15!)
vi) We will have entered in to God’s Sabbath rest (Matthew 12:1-8; Colossians 2:16-17; Hebrews 4:3-11!)
vii) We can now come boldly before God’s holy throne—no restrictions (Hebrews 4:16!)
3) No night? Night is a time of darkness. What deeds are usually committed during the night?
a) John 3:19
b) Romans 13:13
c) 1 Thessalonians 5:6-7
d) Revelation 22:5
4) Nothing impure? So, who can enter in? Those whose names are in the Book of Life!
a) Matthew 5:3—the poor in spirit inherit heaven. What’s makes them poor in spirit (Luke 18:11-14?) To enter into heaven we must acknowledge our sin before a Holy God. Thank God Almighty, He is also Just and Merciful and He has provided the way for us to enter in. He makes us holy (Romans 3:19-26 and Colossians 1:21-22)
i) How is Jesus able to do this?
(1) Romans 3:20-26; Romans 5:9; Ephesians 1:4-8; Colossians 1:13-20 and Revelation 1:4-6!) Glory to our God and King!
5) The Lamb’s Book of Life? Did you know that God keeps records? Well, He does!
a) Those who have eternal life are recorded (Isaiah 4:2-3!)
b) Our sorrow and tears are recorded (Psalms 56:8!)
c) God keeps our prayers (Revelation 5:8!)
d) The hairs of our head are numbered (Matthew 10:30!)
e) All the days of our life are in His book (Psalms 139:14-17!)
f) He has a record of our very words (Matthew 12:36!)
g) The motives of our hearts will be revealed (1 Corinthians 4:5!)
h) The thoughts of our hearts will be revealed (Luke 2:35!)
i) Our works will be judged (1 Peter 1:17!)
j) Nothing is hidden from God (Hebrews 4:13!)
k) We must all give an account to God (Romans 14:12; Hebrews 4:13!)
6) Knowing of Christ’s imminent return, what kind of lives should we be living (Romans 13:11-14 and 2 Peter 3:10-18?)
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.” (NIV)
1) I don’t know about you, but I’m glad there will be some body of water in heaven, and to think that it flows directly to the throne of God and the Lamb!
2) Why do you think the risen, resurrected Son of God is still referred to as the Lamb (Revelation 5:1-8?)
3) Why could Jesus not have completed God’s will for Him if He had come to earth the first time as the “Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” or the “Root of Jesse?” Why did it have to be as the “Lamb of God?”
4) Finally, we shall see His face! What do you think you will do, or how do you think you will react?
5) What will Jesus look like (Revelation 1:12-18!) Every knee shall bow indeed!
6) Do you know that Jesus will be the only one in heaven with scars (John 20:19-29?) Why do you think that is? (See question #2!)
7) The Name of the Lord on our foreheads? What right has God to do this (Isaiah 43:1-26?)
8) Oh, there will be one who tries to imitate God with his own seal (Revelation 14:7-12!)
9) Did you notice that we shall reign (2 Timothy 2:11-13 and Revelation 5:10!) Glory!

082105

AFTER THIS, THEN WHAT?
It’s in the Books

Romans 14:8-9
“If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living.” (NIV)
1) The writer of Romans meant these words to bring comfort to the church—Christ’s very elect! Sadly, even today in the church body, there are some believers who will not find these words very comforting at all! Throughout history, mankind has viewed death with an ominous resignation. Even our Lord and Savior agonized in the Garden of Gethsemane, so much so that drops of blood fell to the ground (although, this has to be discerned in light of the fact that He was also about the bear the sins of the world and be, albeit briefly, separated from the Father!. The truth is, we need to come to terms with death! Unless the Lord Jesus comes soon, and our hearts already know this with a certainty, we are one day going to come face to face our greatest enemy—death! So, let’s look at what scripture tells us about death:
a) There are two types of death and both are the direct result of sin and rebellion against God (Genesis 2:16-17 and Romans 6:23!):
i) Physical—inevitable and unavoidable! (Hebrews 9:27) (There is a coming exception—1 Thessalonians 4:13-18!)
ii) Spiritual—a death that is chosen! (Matthew 10:28; John 5:24-29; John 8:51; John 11:25-26; Roman 6:3-5; Romans 6:23; Christ also refers to this spiritual death as the “second death” Revelation 2:10-11!)
b) Death is “now” defeated, and at the same time, death “will” be defeated!” (1 Corinthians 15:21-16; 54-55; 2 Timothy 1:8-10)
i) What does it mean to us as believers that death is “now” defeated?
ii) What will be the difference in death’s final defeat?
2) I think one of the reasons that so many of us do not find any comfort in “belonging to Christ” in death is fear (Hebrews 2:14-15!) What is it about death that frightens you?
a) Would you believe me if I told you that all creation is actually “groaning” in our spirits for the changes that will come when we are set free from this dying world and these perishing bodies? Well, read Romans 8:17-25 and 2 Corinthians 5:4-6!
i) What is God’s answer to any fear we may have about death (1 John 4:18!)
3) Oh, sisters, I love that trusting in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ has given us new hope! When we accept Him in simple faith, death is not the end—it’s the middle! Think about it—death actually becomes the point where eternity—infinity begins…! Death! Where is thy sting, indeed!
4) So, since we know we “belong to the Lord,” alive or dead—and that He is Lord over both the living and the dead—what kind of lives should we be living (2 Corinthians 5:7, 9?) 2 Timothy 4:1-6 gives us further admonishments:
a) We should be preaching God’s Word
b) We should be prepared in season and out of season to:
i) correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction.
c) We should keep our heads in all situations
d) We should endure hardship(s)
e) We should do the work of an evangelist
f) We should be careful to discharge all the duties of our ministry
5) A paraphrase of verse 8 tells us that we are not “islands unto ourselves.” How can our outlook on living and on dying to the Lord impact our world? Negatively? Positively?
Romans 14:10-12
“You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: "`As surely as I live,' says the Lord, `every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.'" So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (NIV)
1) Why is it far better to willingly bow before Christ now, than to wait and be forced to bend the knee when He returns in glory?
2) Well, unless you’re Billy Graham or Mother Theresa, I don’t think anyone is going to be too thrilled about giving an account to God Almighty! I know I’m not! Our thoughts, words, actions, hearts and motives will be laid bear—yes, for believers, too (Matthew 12:36; Romans 2:16; 1 Samuel 16:7; Matthew 9:4 and Hebrews 4:12!) Take heart, giving an account and being judged are two very, very different things—thank God! Your judgment, the penalty for all you have ever done that doesn’t measure up to God’s holy standard is already nailed to Jesus’ cross (Colossians 2:13-14!) I like what our education pastor, Glenn Reese, said in his sermon today—it was so freeing for me! “Love God with all your heart and do whatever you like! Now, I know some of you weren’t there, so don’t take this statement out of context! Huh! Huh! What he was referring to is that people (me, too!) are constantly trying to discover if they are “in” or “doing” God’s perfect will. Well, sisters, if you love God—He’s working in you and putting it on your heart to do His will (Philippians 2:13!) So, be free! Live, love, marry, work (as long as it does not directly contradict revealed scripture)—do it all as unto the Lord (1 Corinthians 10:31!) Leave the judging of your hearts and motives to the only Righteous Judge—Jesus Christ (John 5:30; 2 Timothy 4:7-8.) We don’t even know our own hearts and motives, anyway (Jeremiah 17:9-19; 1 John 3:20!) 1 Corinthians 4:3-5 tells us to not judge ourselves, but to wait for Lord, who alone can judge our hearts! Notice the very last part of this scripture—we will receive not judgment, but the praises we have earned for a life well-lived in Christ!
3) Now, about judging each other—not a good idea (Romans 8:33; Romans 14:4!)
a) Be sure! God will judge us as we judge others, and, as Jesus is quick to point out—our sins are usually far worse than those we are pointing our fingers at (Matthew 7:1-5; Romans 2:1, 3!)
i) We will not judge one another if we remember to always, always show mercy (Luke 6:36!)
4) How does the promise given in Psalms 103:11-14 give you comfort regarding our accounting to God?
1 Corinthians 3:10-15
“By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.” (NIV)
1) This, dear sisters, is the Judgment Seat of Christ—for believers! Do not confused this judgment with that of the Great White Throne which is reserved for those who rejected Christ (Revelation 20:11-15! This is what we have been discussing! Our lives only truly begin when we have taken that step of faith to build the rest of our days on the only sound foundation available—Jesus Christ! At this seat, everything we do, say, think, imagine will be shown for what it really was—gold, silver, costly jewels, or wood, hay and stubble! Then, we will be given our reward! If we have done nothing, absolutely nothing for Jesus Christ—we still enter into the joy of the Lord (Ephesians 2:8-9!) This has to do with our position, our portion, our inheritance, our reward in Christ (Genesis 15:1; Psalms 73:26; Matthew 20;20-23: and Ephesians 1:18!) Some, (Billy Graham, Mother Theresa) will be so full of the joy of the Lord—and we will know it! Of course, there will be some of us, who just didn’t quite get it and yes, we will have our portion (and believe it or not, we, too, will be full), but we’ll know we could have had so much more! That is our loss! So, get busy—the Lord wants you to be blessed!
John 5:24-30
“"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man. "Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out--those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned. By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.” (NIV)
1) Everyone has probably heard this, but, oh, I believe it is so true—if Jesus hadn’t specifically called forth Lazarus by name, every grave would have burst open and all the righteous dead would have risen! Glory to God that will happen one great and glorious day! But, I don’t want us to think that until that day does happen, we are just lying in some deep dark grave, or scatter in some ocean, or at the bottom of some cliff. Yes, our bodies may well be—but not YOU! You are created in God’s own image with a body, soul, and mind (Genesis 1:26-27 and 2:7!) When this body dies, your soul goes immediately to Christ (Luke 23:40-43 and 2 Corinthians 5:8) to await the resurrected bodies of all His saints (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18!) So, what type of body will we have until the resurrection takes place? I truly do not know, but if you read Matthew 17:1-3, you will see that the disciples clearly understood that it was Moses and Elijah (both long departed from this world) who were speaking with the transfigured Lord. Oh, don’t miss this, ladies! This is what Jesus meant when He said, “God is not the God of the dead, but of the living!” In Christ, we have eternal life! Praise God!
2) Knowing what we do, how can we fear death and/or dread the righteous judgment of our loving and faithful Savior?
a) He loves us with an unfailing love (Psalms 13:5; Psalms 31:16!)
b) He left the throne of heaven to bring us to the Father (Hebrews 10:5-14!)
c) He bore our sin and shame (Isaiah 53:6!)
d) He is acquainted with our weaknesses because He Himself became flesh (Hebrews 2:17-18 and Hebrews 4:15-16!)
e) He died to give us life (Romans 5:8-9!)
f) He will return to take us home (John 14:1-3!)
g) He has given us a heavenly inheritance in Christ Jesus (Matthew 25:34!)
h) We will live and reign with Him forever (2 Timothy 2:11-12 and Revelation 5:10!)
3) Condemnation has no place in the life of a Christian (Romans 8:1-4!) Sister, if you are burdened, ridden with guilt over something you have already confessed to the Lord—you are listening to the father of lies; that ugly serpent, satan (Revelation 12:9-11!) God has given you your battle-ready armor (Ephesians 6:10-18!) Use it! Speak God’s truth (His Word) and satan has to flee from you (James 4:7)—if he comes back, keeping hitting him with the Sword of Truth—God says he has to flee! This is how Jesus battled satan during His temptation (Luke 4:1-13!) One other thought. The Holy Spirit will and does convict us of sin—that is, He will show you your sin, but He always points you to the one and only solution, Jesus Christ! 1 John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, Jesus promises to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Believe Him! satan’s tactic is to always tell you his greatest lie, that there is no hope. Pray for discernment!
Revelation 20:11-15
“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” (NIV)
1) Man was never meant for death, damnation or hell. Who was it created for (Matthew 25:41?)
2) The great white throne is God’s final judgment and is only for those who have refused and rejected Christ Jesus! The Book of Life condemns them, their names could have so easily been written there right along yours and mine—but, they would not! Therefore, their portion of eternal damnation is judged and based again on the good and evil they did during their lives on this earth. God will always be fair and just! He will not assign the same punishment to a “Hitler” that He would to someone who had no opportunity to even hear the Word of God (God’s creation condemns them—Psalms 19:1 and Romans 1:18-22!)
3) In Matthew 25:41-46, Jesus says the unrighteous are condemned because of what they didn’t do for “Him”—explain. Also, see Acts 9:1-5! Jesus closely relates to those He loves. If we hurt one of His, we hurt Him!
4) Earlier we were discussing our freedom in Christ to “do what we like.” Here in Matthew 25:41-46, Jesus sets a high standard for righteous and moral acts done in His name! Are we up to the task?
5) What does Revelation 20:14 say was thrown into the lake of fire? And, God will wipe away every tear from our eyes! Praise His Holy Name!

081405

AFTER THIS, THEN WHAT?
I Shall Return!

Luke 21:5-11
“Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, "As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down." "Teacher," they asked, "when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?" He replied: "Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, `I am he,' and, `The time is near.' Do not follow them. When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away." Then he said to them: "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. (NIV”)
1) Even after walking so closely to Jesus, His disciples still had their eyes on the things of this world (vs. 5.) Jesus quickly prophesies the sure destruction of Herod’s temple. This came to pass in 70 AD. We touched on this in class last week—remember, don’t cling too tightly to “things,” because everything in this world is temporal (1 John 2:17!) All we see around us, yes, is very beautiful and wonderful to behold, and please know that our God intended it for our pleasure (Genesis 1:31), but it will one day be consumed by God’s holy fire!
a) In light of this truth, what two things does 2 Peter 3:10-13 say we should be doing to prepare for the Lord’s imminent return?
2) “I am the Christ! The time has come!” Jesus said many would be deceived by these words. He would not have us be ignorant or His return. Read Acts 1:11. How Jesus will return?
a) The whole earth is waiting, groaning for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ (Romans 8:19-23.) Scriptures seems to indicate that His return will be two-fold. The next event on the kingdom calendar is what many refer to as the “rapture” of Christ’s church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18!) No, rapture is not mentioned specifically in scripture, but the words “caught up” is where we get the word, “rapture”. You can see a picture of this in Revelation 4:1. Glory! After being caught up into the heavens, the apostle John is shown the merciful, but sure, progression of God’s wrath to follow (seven seals, seven trumpets and the seven golden bowls.) Many scholars believe that John’s being called up is a foreshadow of our being “caught up” prior to the outpouring of God’s wrath on sin. I believe this the only opinion that truly offers hope for each and every believer. In fact, over and over in God’s Word the promise of escaping God’s coming wrath resonates!
i) We first see evidence of this in Enoch—he never tasted death! (Genesis 5:21-24!)
ii) We also see a picture of the coming rapture of the church in the story of Noah, God calls him into the ark and closes the door of the ark Himself (Genesis 7:13-16!)
iii) Lot’s escape from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:17-33; 19:1-29!) Now, here’s a perfect example of a carnal Christian—one who becomes tainted by the pleasures this world holds! Lot and his family had to literally be dragged away from the world they had become apart of! Yet, Lot was counted as righteous by God (2 Peter 2:7!)
iv) We see it in Elijah the prophet of God—taken away to heaven in a fiery chariot (2 Kings 2:1-12!)
3) Why do you think Jesus returns this first time “as a thief in the night” (Matthew 24:36-51 and 1 Corinthians 1:22?)
4) Wars and rumors of wars! Sound familiar? Well, wars, earthquakes, famine and diseases have always been. So, maybe you can understand why every generation, even the apostles, have been watching and making themselves ready for the Lord’s sure return. This is been anticipated for over 2,000 years. What makes things unique in our day and time is that, as God promised, Israel has returned from every corner of the world to her homeland, Israel (Isaiah 43:3-8 and Isaiah 49:21-23!) For centuries, the Israelites have been without a homeland. A very unique time, indeed! While, no one knows the time or date of the Lord’s return, the things we are witnessing today are a prelude—birth pains! Scriptures tells us how to respond when we see these signs increase (Luke 21:20-32!) What should we all be doing?
5) The rapture, the gathering of Christ’s church is much different from the Lord’s second coming. This time Jesus comes to rule! Amen! (Revelation 19:11-16) Again, how does Jesus return?
Luke 21:12-19
“But before all this, they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. This will result in your being witnesses to them. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. All men will hate you because of me. But not a hair of your head will perish. By standing firm you will gain life.”
1) The early church suffered great persecution. Almost all the apostles were martyred for their testimony and their faith. Read Hebrews 11:35-40. Many have suffered and died for their faith. The so-called “church” itself has burned at the stake many innocent believers simply because they chose to believe that we are saved by faith, not by our works, not by penance and not by membership in organized religion! All these martyrs have stood firm. Jesus told them not a hair of their heads would perish. Yet, they died for their faith? Did Jesus lie? Explain.
2) Thus far, American has been richly blessed and reasonably free of spiritual persecution. Do you see any signs that this may not always be the case? in your neighborhood? at work? by people of differing faiths? in our schools and universities? in the medial? in our government?
3) Have you ever been personally persecuted, actually hated for your belief in Jesus Christ? Did it lead to an opportunity to be a witness for Christ? Explain how you responded. Jesus promised to give us wisdom. Do you feel your response came from yourself or truly from God?
4) Gaining life—through death? What was Jesus saying? It’s funny, whether we’re persecuted or not, this is the resurrected life we should all be living. Dying with Christ and being raised in glory with Him (Romans 6:1-8!) So, whether we live, or whether we die, we are the Lord’s (Romans 14:8-9!) This, dear sisters, is why we should view this world as alien and temporal!
Luke 21:20-24
“"When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country not enter the city. For this is the time of punishment in fulfillment of all that has been written. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! There will be great distress in the land and wrath against this people. They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.”
1) Now, will we be part of this terrible desolation? Why or why not?
2) Why do you suppose pregnant women and nursing mothers will greatly grieve?
3) Can you just imagine the onset of great distress if the church is suddenly caught up? What types of things might result from this events? Cars? Airplanes? Train systems? Homes with pots left cooking on the stove? Any thoughts?
4) Right now, grace and salvation is to the Gentiles (Isaiah 11:10; 42:6; 49:6; Isaiah 65:1; Luke 2:25-32; Acts 9:1-16; and Acts 11:18!) That’s us, unless, of course, you’re Jewish! The gospel was preached to us because it was rejected by God’s chosen people! How blessed we are!
5) Soon, all that will come to Jesus (Jew and Gentile) will reach it’s completion. Then the rapture—then, salvation and glory return to the Jews! Glory Hallelujah! Yes, God will keep His promises to His people, Israel! Believe it or not, they are moved by jealousy for us because God’s blessing has been upon us (Romans 10:19!) It doesn’t seem that the terrible time of tribulation will be a blessing to God’s people, Israel, but, oh, it will, it will (Isaiah 49:14-26; 54; Zechariah 8:20-23; Revelation 7:1-8 21 and 22!)
Luke 21:25-28
“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
1) We’ve recently heard the horror of the seas roaring and tossing—the tsunami! I believe I heard someone dying of heart failure during this time, if not this incidence, then some other awful disaster, maybe the Twin Towers? Anyway, Jesus admonishes us over and over again to “Fear not!” What enables us to be at peace during such times (Luke 1:68-79; Romans 8:15-19; Hebrews 2:11-15; 1 Peter 3:14; 1 John 4:18-19!)
Luke 21:29-38
“He told them this parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near. "I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. "Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man." Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.”
1) Signs point us to the seasons. A tree starts to put on its leaves before summer. Everything that Jesus told us about is taking place. Do you sense that the Kingdom of God is near? Can you almost touch it?
2) Jesus gives us a couple of warnings—what are they?
3) Okay, we have been warned. What shall we do with the knowledge God has revealed to us? Why (2 Peter 3:4-18?)

080705

After This, Then What?
Once andFuture Life

2 Corinthians 4:8-12 (Monday)
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. (NIV”)
1) Notice the contrasts mentioned in these verses. On the surface, these experiences seem to be quite the opposite of Jesus’ promise of, “abundant life” (John 10:10.) Explain the differences in each situation. How can knowing the difference(s) actually give us the courage to keep going—to move forward, pressing toward the mark or prize (Philippians 3:14?) Is experiencing any of these situations mean that you are out of fellowship with Christ? Are these situations to be expected? Why?
Hard pressed Crushed
Perplexed Despair
Persecuted Abandoned
Struck down Destroyed
2) Jesus told us that in this world we would have troubles (John 16:33.) I think that is why we sometimes fall into the first category described above. The above referenced scripture tell us that Jesus Christ is “revealed” in our mortal bodies. Ladies, the world is watching us! How is Christ “revealed” when our response to a negative situation is not being crushed, in despair, spiritually abandoned or destroyed by the things that come against us (Romans 5:1-5?) Can we be witnesses without uttering a word? Explain.
3) How do we share in Jesus’ death?
a) John 12:25 – by losing our life in this world and thereby, gaining eternal life with Christ
b) Romans 6:1:11 – by dying to sin. We are baptized unto Jesus’ death and we will be united with Him in resurrection! We are now freed from sin and are now alive with Christ!
c) Romans 7:4-6 – having died to sin, fellow Christians now belong to one another so they may bear fruit. We are released from the law! Yeah!
d) 2 Corinthians 5;14-17 – Christ’s great love now compels us to no longer live just for ourselves
e) Colossians 3:1-3 – by setting our minds on things that are above and being “hidden” in Christ
4) What is this hope that keeps the Christian “looking up” instead of “looking at” his/her circumstances?
a) Matthews 12:17-21 – we hope in the name of Jesus
b) Romans 8:18-25 – we hope in our inheritance, we hope in the redemption of our bodies, we hope for our adoption as sons and daughters, we hope in what is not seen, in what we do not yet have!
c) 2 Corinthians 1:9-10 – we hope that God will continue to deliver us from peril
d) Ephesians 4:4-6 – we hope in our calling
e) Colossians 1:27 – Christ in us is the hope of glory!
2 Corinthians 4:13-15 (Tuesday)
“It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken." With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in His presence. All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” (NIV)
1) Why is it important to “speak” our faith in Christ Jesus (Romans 10:8-13?)
2) Why do you think God requires that we “speak” our faith?
a) How was the world created (Genesis 1?)
b) Can you think of other ways God chose to “speak” to His people?
c) How did God choose to send His final Word to mankind (Hebrews 1:1-4?)
d) Is God silent now? Explain.
3) What does this tell you about our God, the Great Communicator?
4) “…grace (unmerited favor) that is reaching more and more people.” Do a little study on grace and be ready to discuss why grace is sooooo much better than the law!
5) How does grace, the free gift of a loving, merciful Father, bring all the glory back to God and God alone
a) Romans 11:6- we are chosen because of God’s grace, not our works
b) Ephesians 2:3-9 – we are saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
c) Romans 3:22-27 – Our redemption is a free gift coming through Jesus Christ our Lord, not of ourselves
d) 2 Timothy 1:8-10 – God’s grace saves us and calls us to a holy life
e) Titus 3:5-7 – We are justified by God’s grace
f) 2 Corinthians 1:12 – any boasting of how we conduct ourselves in this world goes directly to God, Who works the wisdom of His grace in us
g) 2 Corinthians 9:8 – God’s grace supplies all our needs and causes us to abound in every good work
h) 2 Corinthians 9:14-15 – God’s grace leads us to obedience and generosity

God, God, God! Not once do the scriptures point to any action on our part, except belief (John 6:28-29!) Isaiah 55 tell us to “Come! Drink freely and without cost!” God did it all! All we have to do is say, “Yes, Lord!” Oh, I hope you don’t miss this great gift. While it costs us nothing, it cost God everything, His own precious Son!
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (Wednesday)
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (NIV)
1) “Troubles produce for us immeasurably great glory and they will soon be over!” Hallelujah! Praise God! Nobody wants to suffer—nobody! Yet, God tells us that in this world we will have trouble (John 16:33.) How do we learn (it is a process) to look forward and not at our current circumstances?
a) Jonah 2:1-10. Jonah was in a mighty big fix! Even though he was sitting in the belly of a big fish and knew one big gulp would do him in, and he deserved it, too—what four things did he do?
i) He looked toward God’s holy temple
(1) Hebrews 11:8-16
ii) He remembered the Lord (to do that, you have to know Him and His ways)
(1) Psalms 20:7; Psalms 63; Psalms 77:3 and Psalms 103:1-6
iii) He gave thanksgiving, despite his circumstances
(1) Psalm 30; Psalms 100; Ephesians 5:11-20; Philippians 4:6 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18
iv) He pledged obedience to God’s perfect will for his life, even though he didn’t want to do it!
(1) Psalms 51:16-17; 1 Samuel 15;22; Isaiah 1:10-20 and Jeremiah 7:21-29
2 Corinthians 5:1-5 (Thursday)
“Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.” (NIV)
1) Is death a difficult thought for you? Explain.
2) What is it that troubles you about death?
3) How does Jesus’ resurrection affect your thoughts on death and what comes next?
4) What do you most look forward to in heaven?
5) Are you holding out for the Rapture? (Me, too!)
6) Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us there is a time and season for everything. A time to be born and a time to die. Yet, God has put the instinctive desire for eternity into our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11!) These two seem to contradict each other, or do they? Oh, sisters, we were meant to live eternally and God’s gift of the Holy Spirit is our guarantee that God will do what He has promised! Oh take time to read over John 11:21-44! "I AM the Resurrection and the Life!" One day, Jesus is going to descend with a shout and like Lazarus, we will come forth! Unlike Lazarus, who had to die again (I often wonder if this is the real reason behind Jesus’ tears), we will either be caught up with Him in the clouds, or, if we have already passed from this life into eternity, then glory to God, we will be coming behind Him to meet our loved ones in the air and forever we will be with the Lord! I can’t tell you which group I want to be part of! I can’t decide which group will be more blessed! Oh, it is going to be glorious! (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18!) This is our hope! This is our confidence! Whether we live or whether we die we are the Lord’s (Romans 14:8!) and where He is, there shall we be also (John 14:1-3!) Be greatly comforted!
2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (Friday)
“Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” (NIV)
1) Judgment. Doesn’t sound like something we will totally enjoy! Be comforted here also. This judgment is not whether or not we get to enter heaven, but rather, this judgment is for the works done in our bodies, whether good or bad. Our names are already in the Lamb’s (Jesus’) Book of Life. Eternal judgment for us has already been nailed to the cross of Christ (Colossians 2:13-14!) Amen! Remember when I asked what part we had in our salvation? Belief! Let me assure you, the way we know we believe is that God begins to produce love, good fruit and good works in our lives (this is where the Holy Spirit comes in and He is how we know we are God’s own children!) God has had these works prepared for us before the beginning of time (Ephesians 2:10.) We will be judged based on our faithfulness to His plan. We cannot fully judge all our motives—were they for God’s glory or were they for our own. Jesus is the Righteous Judge. Either our works and motives will come forth as fine jewels or hay, wood and stubble. If the later, we suffer a loss, we will grieve, but, praise God we still get to go in! God is so good! Take note: There will be rewards!
2) There is another judgment, for those who reject Christ. Read Revelation 20:11-15. This is why if we boast, we should boast that our names are in the Book of Life! All other boasting belongs to God! Amen and Amen!