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How does our hope in God overcome sorrow?
In "Doctrinal Discussion" Don Englund writes:
Our choice to trust in God and His purposes is a choice that defies the verdicts of the enemy of our souls who often suggests that our condition is personal, that it extends to all areas of our lives, and that it is permanent. Health professionals and psychological remedies may not have the answers we need, but Jesus, the Author of life, does! He is alive! He is in control! He is effectively managing the affairs of this sin-cursed world at the present moment! He gave us life on earth and is the Source of the greatest human dream on earth — eternal life! No, we do not sorrow as those who have no hope (1 Thess. 4:13), for our sorrow is not personal, not pervasive, not purposeless, and not permanent. Because He lives, you and I can face tomorrow.
Source: Christ, the Triumphant Lord: Adult Teacher's Insights, page 61.
What is a danger of great spiritual experiences?
In "Biblical Perspective" R.E. Trotter writes:
So awe-inspiring was the heavenly vision which John beheld that he fell at the feet of the angelic messenger entrusted with such a revelation, in an unwarranted attitude of worship. It is said that in the Early Church there was a tendency to worship angels, and that this and a similar incident earlier are recorded as warnings to the Church. As the angel deflects attention from himself, he reminds John that he is but a fellow servant with him and with all who have accepted Christ and hold His testimony. The angel then seems to say, in effect, “Keep your worship for God, for He is at the center of all true prophecy.”
Source: Christ, the Triumphant Lord: Adult Teacher's Insights, page 59.
What is the "fine linen" in Revelation 19:8?
In "Biblical Perspective" R.E. Trotter writes:
It is not unusual for the bride to make her own wedding dress, and in a very real sense the wedding garment we will wear will be the work of our own hands. The fine linen is the righteousness or the “righteous acts” of the saints. We are saved and sanctified by faith, but “faith without works [acts of righteousness] is dead.” At the Great White Throne Judgment they were judged “according to their works” (20:12). At the judgment seat of Christ “every man's work shall be made manifest” (1 Cor. 3:13). In passing judgment on the seven churches Jesus said to each of them, “I know thy works” (Rev. 2, 3).
Source: Christ, the Triumphant Lord: Adult Teacher's Insights, page 58.
Marriage Supper of the Lamb
“And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and asthe voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth’’ (Revelation 19:6)
It had been beautiful, though long (two hours!), ceremony. Now, the wedding party and guests had gathered at the home of the bride's family. In the night twinkled Christmas icicle lights. Tables, decorated beautifully, were arranged on the patio and in the pavilion, next to a swimming pool in which balloons were floating. Romantic music punctuated the night air. The servers began distributing the four-course supper. First served was Seven Seas soup. Next the guests ate tamales, then nachos. Finally (after many were already stuffed), the main course was served - chicken, beef, rice, salad, bread. The guests enjoyed the food, milled around visiting and congratulating the bride and groom. Finally, toasts were made, the newlyweds kissed, and early in the next morning's hours, the guests departed, having celebrated seemingly to their last ounce of energy.
Someday, Christ will present us, His Church, His holy Bride, to Himself - blameless, without spot or any blemish. And we will feast! Can you even imagine the beauty and glory of this great marriage supper? Won't all the trials and trouble we experience on earth seem more than worth it then?
Knowing Christ's intention for us, His Bride, how should you prepare for this soon coming event? (David Woods)
This devotional is the Sunday, August 7, 2016 entry of Opening the Word.
Plan at least four social activities for your class outside of the Sunday school hour.
Why should you plan at least four social activities - outside of the church - per year? This is important, first, because our goal in Sunday school is not simply to present a lesson, but to develop disciples. Discipleship happens in the course of relationships. While relationships can be developed in an hour-long session, activities outside of the class may create stronger bonds of friendship. A second reason for social activities outside of the church is to provide entry-points for unchurched people. While the unchurched person may be reluctant to attend a Sunday service, they may be much more receptive to join you for a barbecue, board games, etc.
This best practice suggested at least four social activities per year. By planning one special activity per quarter, this could be easily accomplished. Special consideration, however, should be taken as to the purpose and promotion of such events.
- Will your activity be simply for fellowship of believers, or for outreach to unchurched friends?
- If the former, how can you design the event to encourage deeper fellowship among your class?
- If the latter, when would be the most appropriate time, in order to give them an easier transition into your class (e.g., a week or two before the next quarter begins, in order to encourage them to start the next study with you)?
- How should you balance a social activity with promotion of your class?
The Triumphant Christ
Lesson 10 - August 7, 2016
Focus Text: Revelation 19:4-16
Central Truth: No power is able to prevent the triumph of Christ.
Objective: By the end of this lesson my students should be able to list ways that knowing that Christ is triumphant gives purpose to a Christian's life.
Lesson Outline:
- Praise to the Father (Revelation 19:4-6)
- Wedding of the Bride (Revelation 19:7-9)
- Triumph of the Son (Revelation 19:10-21)