1. Eschatology, a Broad Perspective
From Genesis to Revelation

2. Basic Outline
Three major divisions; John was commanded to write concerning
Things past, “the things which you have seen,” i.e., the Patmos vision (1:1-20)
Things present, “the things which are,” i.e., the existing churches (2:1-3:22)
Things future, “the things which shall take place after these things,” i.e., events after the Church Age ends (4:1-22:5)
“Write therefore the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall take place after these things.” (Rev 1:19) NASB
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3. So Far Things which you have seen: Rev 1 Things which are: Rev 2-3
A blessing: Rev 1:3
A prophecy: Rev 1:7
The Revelation of glorified Christ 1:13-18
Things which are: Rev 2-3
Letters to the church(es)
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4. Things to Come The throne in heaven Chapters 4-5
Seven seals, trumpets, and bowls Chapters 6-16
Babylon’s fall and the Lamb’s victory Chapters 17-18
The 2nd coming and the destruction of the Antichrist Chapter 19
The Millennium and Great White Throne judgment Chapter 20
The new Jerusalem and the eternal state Chapters 21-22
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5. “The Scroll” (Rev. 5:1) What is the scroll? Cp. Ezekiel 2:9-10
God’s judgments upon the earth.
The title/deed to the earth.
Concluding history of the earth.
Cp. Ezekiel 2:9-10
How is it sealed?
Seven seals
If sealed on the outside would show the completeness of God’s control.
If sealed consecutively would show God’s sovereignty to reveal His plan.
IT DOESN’T MATTER!
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6. Who is Worthy? (Rev 5:2-4)
A mighty angel searches for one who is worthy
The scroll cannot be opened through strength or wisdom
None found worthy
John weeps because God’s plan will not be fulfilled
One is found worthy
The Lion of the tribe of Judah (Gen. 49:9)
Christ’s humanity
The Root of David (Isa. 11:10)
Christ’s divinity
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7. The Worthy Lamb (Rev. 5:5-6)
One who has overcome (cp. Rev. 3:21)
Having been slain, Redeemer
Seven horns; All-powerful
Seven eyes (seven spirits of God); All-knowing
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8. Universal Worship (Rev. 5:8-14)
Four Living Creatures and the Twenty-four Elders (vss. 8-10)
Plus all angelic beings (vss )
Plus all creation (vs. 13)
A “new song”
Used 9 times in Scripture; 6 times in Psalms, 1 in Isaiah, 2 in Revelation.
Every time it refers to a song of praise addressed to God, usually for the salvation of His people.
Psalm 40 shows how the new song is given to those whom God redeems. Rev. 14:3, only the 144,000 can learn the new song.
2 Cor. 5:17 speaks of being a new creation, old things have passed away.
Here in Rev. 5, the new song is in reference to God’s salvation of those from every nation.
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9. Universal Worship (cont)
“Kingdom and priests” (vs. 10)
Ex. 19:5-6 (cp. 1 Peter 2:9) God’s chosen people have always fulfilled the purpose of declaring the praise of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.
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10. Take-aways
Only the Lamb, who has redeemed a people from every tongue, tribe, and nation is worthy.
No matter what our current circumstance, we can stand confidently knowing that God will judge sin and reward His people.
As a chosen people, a royal priesthood, and holy nation, we must tell others what God has done for us and live honorable lives among unbelievers. (1 Peter 2:9-12)
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11. The Next Several Weeks
Jan 15 The First Six Seals (6:1-6:17) Chris Jan 22 The First Interlude (7:1-7:8) Jim Jan 29 The Second Interlude (7:9-7:17) Clint Feb 5 IBC Band Feb 12 The Seventh Seal: The First Six Trumpets Jon Feb 19 Three Scenes and the Seventh Trumpets Jim
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12. See you NEXT week!
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13. 1/8/2017