Title: The Triumph of Christ in the Final Days
Introduction:
As seniors, we have experienced many ups and downs in life, but one thing remains constant – the hope and assurance we have in Christ. Today, we will explore Revelation 11:15-19 and reflect on the triumph of Christ in the final days.
Scripture Reading:
Revelation 11:15-19 (NIV)
15 The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.”
16 And the twenty-four elders, who were seated on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God, 17saying:
“We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty,
the One who is and who was,
because you have taken your great power
and have begun to reign.
18 The nations were angry,
and your wrath has come.
The time has come for judging the dead,
and for rewarding your servants the prophets
and your people who revere your name,
both great and small—
and for destroying those who destroy the earth.”
19 Then God’s temple in heaven was opened, and within his temple was seen the ark of his covenant. And there came flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake and a severe hailstorm.
Explanation:
In this passage, we see the culmination of God’s plan for the world. The seventh trumpet brings about the declaration that the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah. This signals the ultimate triumph of Christ over all the powers and authorities in the world. The elders worship and give thanks to God for taking his great power and beginning to reign. This passage also speaks of judgment, reward for God’s servants, and the ultimate destruction of those who destroy the earth.
Application:
As seniors, we may sometimes feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face in our personal lives and in the world around us. However, the triumph of Christ in the final days reminds us that God is ultimately in control. We can take comfort in the fact that no matter what happens, Christ will reign forever and ever. This should encourage us to remain steadfast in our faith and continue serving God faithfully, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on the triumph of Christ in the final days, let us be filled with hope and confidence in the ultimate victory that is yet to come. Let us continue to worship and give thanks to God for his sovereignty and power. May we find strength in knowing that Christ will reign forever and ever, and may we live our lives in anticipation of his glorious return. Amen.
