The Two Harvests | Revelation 14
Sermon Discussion | Revelation 14
As we have seen, God has triumphed over the beast and dragon, Satan has been cast out of heaven. The two beasts, which are cheap counterfeits, are called to go after the people of God. Don’t be seduced by Rome’s offer of fake power, answers etc. follow the true savior, Jesus Christ.
1. In verse 1 we see the lamb, standing on Mt. Zion and with him the 144,000 who have been sealed to the Father. This is an image of a city (and its people) that is where God dwells. A city and a people who reflect God's image to those around them (Gen 12v2-3). As you think about this in our time and culture today - What does it mean to be a city where God dwells? How would you, a resident of this city, perpetuate the kingdom to those around you? What are some differences between life in the city of God and the "other nations"?
2. Read Verses 3-5. There is a new song coming that no one could learn, Jeremy explained this as the gospel invitation passing. Use your imagination, what might be the sound of the "new song" that will be sung before the throne, the four living creatures and the elders? As we anticipate this new song coming...how are you excited/encouraged? How are you challenged?
3. Read verses 6-11. Share your thoughts and feelings on this section. What is most difficult? What brings you hope? What do you learn about God?..his relationship to sin? Some thoughts to discuss...
Babylon is more than a code name - it’s a portrait that encompasses threats against the people of God from many times & places...There are always going to be powers against God & his people.
The dragon is done! Babylon is over! You need to respond.
This truth is here! God has been patient and he’s done waiting. Where are you?
God is still for his creation! Satan has done his best to distort it, but God is bringing restoration to his creation. He will take care of the problem. He is coming back.
4. Jeremy used this quote, "It happens that every man in a bank hates what the bank does, and yet the bank does it. The bank is something more than men, I tell you. It's the monster. Men made it, but they can't control it. - John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath. I think this helps get at the idea that we have all participated (knowingly and unknowingly) in the work of the "beast" (government, ideologies, structures etc.) there is the tension, we are hurt and affected by it and we also contribute. How do you think through those tensions? God sees your hurt, suffering and pain - he will have the last say. On the other hand, God sees the hurt and pain you have inflicted and he has either dealt with it on the cross or will deal with it on the day of judgement. Have you taken time to pray about this?
5. So then, we are called to the hard work of patience. Read verses 12-20. What is the patience you are being called to? If the way of the dragon is easy and passive, what is the way of the kingdom? What are ways you are harvesting good works? Have you ever thought about your behaviors and actions as having real meaning after you die?