4 Special Blessings in the Revelation (Revelation 1:1-9)
Introduction:
1. The book of Revelation is a challenging book, however, we know that: a. John was the inspired writer (vs.4) b. John wrote this book to the 7 churches in Asia (vs.4, 11b) c. John and his fellow Christians were facing tribulation (1:9). 2. This letter was written to encourage Christians to be faithful while looking forward to the Lord's return. 3. In the end, God's people will win the final victory. 4. For a practical matter, when studying a challenging book or passage [like the Revelation], we should first concentrate on something that can be more easily understood. 5. As we examine Revelation in a general way, we see that much is said about a variety of "blessings." 6. In our lesson we are examining 4 of these blessings -- being familiar with them will encourage us and help us to remain faithful to the Lord. Discussion: I. (Revelation 1:3) THOSE WHO READ, HEAR, AND KEEP THE WORDS OF THIS PROPHECY ARE BLESSED
A. We must understand what this message is -- "the Revelation of Christ" (vs.1). 1. God gave it to Christ. 2. The Lord signified it by His angel to John. 3. John wrote it down. B. We must listen carefully to this message (ch.2-3: "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches"). C. We must follow the instructions that are given (Revelation 22:7, 14). D. We must heed the warnings given in Revelation 22:18-19. II. (Revelation 16:15) THOSE WHO WATCH AND KEEP THEIR GARMENTS ARE BLESSED
A. In keeping our garments we must first have them washed white in the Lord's blood (7:13-14). B. After having our garments cleansed, we must not allow them to become "defiled" (3:4). III. (Revelation 19:7-9) THOSE WHO ARE CALLED TO THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB ARE BLESSED
A. We know who the Lamb is -- Christ. B. John showed when this marriage will take place (Revelation 21:2, 9-10). IV. (Revelation 14:13) THOSE WHO DIE IN THE LORD WILL BE BLESSED
A. The Bible explains how we get into the Lord in: 1. Romans 6:3-4 2. Galatians 3:26-27. B. After getting into the Lord we are to abide in Him (John 15:4-7). C. Those who remain in the Lord and die in the Lord will receive a crown of life (Revelation 2:10). Conclusion:
1. We have looked at "4 special blessings in the Revelation." a. Those who read, hear, and keep the words of this great book are blessed. b. Those who watch and keep their garments are blessed. c. Those who are called to the Lamb's marriage supper are blessed. d. Those who die in the Lord will be blessed. 2. Are you among these people who are "blessed?"
