1. Seven Churches and God’s Throne Revelation 4

3. 7 Churches and God’s Throne - Rev. 4 This is wisdom directly from Jesus Christ about the Church. We said our study would “call us to repentance and renewal; …humble and shame us; …and… incite us to “fortitude and perseverance” (Stott p. 10) Pray it has, God’s Word is very important for us all! Letters show the marks of the church:

4. 7 Churches and God’s Throne - Rev. 4 “Love for Christ (Ephesus) and willingness to suffer for him (Smyrna), truth of doctrine (Pergamum) and holiness of life (Thyatira), inward reality (Sardis) and an evangelistic outreach to others (Philadelphia), with an uncompromising wholeheartedness in everything (Laodicea).” (Stott p. 127)

5. 7 Churches and God’s Throne - Rev. 4 “Love for Christ and willingness to suffer for him, truth of doctrine and holiness of life, inward reality and an evangelistic outreach to others, with an uncompromising wholeheartedness in everything.” (Stott p. 127) We need to live these more and more. Church pressed by sin, error, lethargy.

6. 7 Churches and God’s Throne - Rev. 4 Power of government against church. With the pressures in our world… fear seems to be appropriate? Trust God to deal with what we see! Point of Revelation is to SEE Jesus! If we worry, look to the Throne of God! Consider beautiful scenery (Yosemite) described to you- or seeing it yourself! 24 Elders represent OT & NT church!

7. 7 Churches and God’s Throne - Rev. 4 White robes – righteousness of Christ! 7 fold completeness of Holy Spirit! 4 Living Creatures “an exalted order of angelic beings whose task is to guard the heavenly throne and lead in worship and adoration of God. ‘Covered with eyes’ means nothing escapes their attention.” NIV Study Bible With such amazing sights, don’t lose sight of the importance of all this! 8b ff

8. 7 Churches and God’s Throne - Rev. 4 Much symbolism from OT Temple and Tabernacle, it all points to Jesus! Big Picture: When life gets tough, hard to serve God faithfully, look to the throne of God, Jesus by his side! Never stop worship of Him! He is on His throne! Keep seeking ways to honor and worship him… as it is in heaven!