THE EDGE OF ETERNITY
Rev. 11:15-19

Introduction:     In Chapters 6-11, we have studied the events of the great tribulation. In chapters 12-19, we will be covering the same ground again. Except, this time, we will see a different slant on things (Same scenes different angle). Versesl5-19 are a summary. A syllabus, if you will, of the events that will lead up to the dawn of eternity. Beloved, one day, time will cease to exist! We will step from this time oriented world into an era that is not affected by time.

 

I.          THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE REIGN OF CHRIST (V.15)

Jesus will not actually take the throne until 19: 11

     A.      Kingdoms - Now belong to Satan, he controls every government in the world! (Matt. 4:8-10). But, one day soon, they will belong to Jesus! Imagine a world controlled by the Holy Son of God! In Power - (Rev. 19: 11-16)

                 B.      Eternal - This King will never abdicate, die or be dethroned! (Psa 145: 13) "Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations."

    C.       Is Jesus King in your life?

II.            THE ADORATION OF THE REDEEMED OF CHRIST (VV.16-19)

A.        The Redeemed Were Admiring (vv.16-17)

The 24 elders, representing the redeemed of Christ, burst into song. (vv .16-17) They praise Him because He has retaken what is rightfully His! ( Ill. He has also answered the prayer of the ages - (Mat 6:10 ) "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.’')

           B.         The Nations Were Angry (v. 18)

The rebellion in man vents its hatred toward God! (Illus: Trying to kill the Jews!) In general this is a time of divine wrath, a time of resurrection of the dead and their reward, and a time of special dealing with those living on the earth.

·        Thy Wrath Is Come - (Rom. 1:18ft) (Rom 1:18-20) "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; {19} Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them. {20} For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being umkrstood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:" During the last 3 1/2 years, God's wrath will pour itself in torrents upon the earth. (TIt. This isn't a milquetoast God! (Heb 12:29) "For our God is a consumingfire. ')

·        The Time Of The Dead - Resurrections, Judgments & Rewards - O. T. Saints and Tribulation Saints (Sheep & Goat Judgment - Matt.25:31-46).

·        Destroy the Destroyers (Armageddon and result of goat's judgment Matt.25:41; 46).

 

C. The Temple Is Associated (v. 19)

Keep in mind we are on Jewish ground, the church in already in heaven and has no temple! The heavenly temple stands in contrast to the defiled temple on earth. Notice that this temple is "Opened"

·        Access

·        Ark - Second most important article of worship in the Jewish religion.

Here are 5 names for the Ark in Scripture and they all speak to what the Lord is doing!

1. Ark of Covenant (Num 10:33 ) Contained the Law - God's Law has been transgressed and He is angry.

 

2. Ark of Testimony (Ex. 25:22) Testified to God's holiness and man's sin. God is still holy and man is still a sinner!

 

3. The Ark of God (1 Sam. 3:3) It was the only visible throne of God is still on His throne!

 

4. The Ark of Strength (psalm 132:8) Because of miracles and works associated with it. God is still in power!

 

5. The Holy Ark (2 Chron. 35:3) Because it is where God dwelt! God is still alive and well!

All of these things are to encourage the Jewish people in the midst of their trials. I'll tell you, this also encourages me!

 

Conclusion:      Time is running out! These lightenings, and voices, etc speak of the horrors that are ahead! We must be motivated to reach our generation for Jesus!