Those who are loyal to the Lamb do not have a comfortable and easy life. They are pursued, persecuted, and put to death. They cry out to God, “How long before you will judge and avenge our blood?” They are told to wait, because even more loyal followers of the Lamb would be killed. However, this entire section reveals that the world’s actions have consequences. Their sins will bring destruction, both as a natural consequence and as divine retribution. Michael Gorman says about these visions of judgement, “Their primary purpose…is not to instill fear but to provide a wake-up call for those who are sleeping, not merely through life, but through empire.” There are Christians in every generation who need to wake up and realize there are consequences to idolatry, injustice, and immorality?
SPEAKER:
Wes McAdams, Preaching Minister (www.ccmcdermot...)
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The church of Christ on McDermott Road is located at 3600 McDermott Road in Plano, Texas. Wherever you are on your journey of faith, we would love to connect with you online or in person.
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PRIMARY TEXT FOR THIS MESSAGE:
9 When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. 10 They cried out with a loud voice, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” 11 Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been. (Revelation 6:9-11, ESV)
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The following summary and the subtitles for this video were auto-generated and may contain errors or inaccuracies. Please refer to the video for the most accurate representation.
Introduction:
The book of Revelation confronts us with powerful themes of justice, judgment, and the cries of the martyrs: "How long, O Lord?" (Revelation 6:9-11). It addresses the deep questions we ask when facing suffering and injustice, reminding us that God's judgment is not something to fear, but a promise of justice for the faithful. Through Revelation, we are invited to explore how God deals with evil in the world and how we, as followers of Jesus, can remain steadfast in the face of adversity.
Main Points:
Scripture invites us to wrestle with hard questions:
The Bible encourages us to ask questions like "How long?" and "Why?" when facing suffering and injustice (as seen in Job, the Psalms, & Revelation). These are valid questions that bring us closer to understanding God’s nature.
These questions deserve attention and compassion:
Both our own questions and those of others deserve thoughtful, compassionate responses, even when answers aren't clear. We are called to listen and support one another through these struggles.
God’s judgment is an answer, not a threat:
Revelation demonstrates how God's judgment is ultimately good news for those loyal to Jesus. While sobering, it offers hope and justice for the faithful. We see how God allows humanity to experience the consequences of sin, yet many refuse to repent (Revelation 9:20-21).
Application:
When we face suffering, let’s run to God rather than away from Him.
We should examine our own lives and repent of anything-whether greed, anger, or idolatry-that distances us from God.
Let’s stand in solidarity with suffering Christians worldwide, crying out for God's justice.
Confess Christ in all circumstances, staying loyal even in times of difficulty.
Love not your life, even unto death. True victory comes through faithful allegiance to the Lamb, not by compromising to preserve worldly comforts.
Conclusion:
The message of Revelation is both challenging and hopeful. God’s judgment is a reminder of His justice and faithfulness. For those loyal to the Lamb, there is no need to fear-God’s Kingdom will prevail. The call is to wake up, remain faithful, and trust that God's justice will ultimately triumph, even in the face of personal loss or persecution.
Key Scriptures:
Revelation 6:9-17
Revelation 7:9-17
Revelation 9:20-21
Revelation 12:10-11
#Revelation #GodsJustice #HowLongOLord #ChristianSuffering #EndTimes #LoyalToTheLamb #BookOfRevelation #GodsJudgment
4 окт 2024
