Monday, October 22, 2012

Missions in Revelation

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.'" Revelation 21:1-4

This is, quite clearly, the final post in this series on missions in the New Testament.

The book of Revelation has much to tell us about various aspects of life. One key is the great deal of information about Jesus' second coming.

It is interesting that the second coming is often left out of gospel presentations. So much time is spent on what Jesus did in the past that what Christ is doing today and will do in the future are frequently left out. We need to avoid this pitfall.

As we share with others about Jesus we need to make sure it doesn't sound like a history lesson. The past certainly is significant, but the present and future are, too. New believers must understand that Jesus is alive and well today, and will one day return to rule as unquestioned and unchallenged King. When we include this part of the good news, the one hearing can better comprehend the urgency of the message.

Additionally, when Jesus returns He will do away with all pain and suffering. This idea is extremely attractive to lost folks. It may attract them to Jesus Himself.

The second coming is part of the gospel. Let's not forget to share it.

2 comments:

Chris Jefferies said...

You make some great points here. You are right, a history lesson is not what most people are looking for.

Jesus present here and now and real stories of lives significantly changed, these are the things people long for. We all need hope, peace, and grace to be accepted and loved today.

The good news is not only that Jesus offers all this, but that the community of his people do too. What good is history or future promise if the now in people's lives remains broken?

Once they have received healing for today, then they are in a position to hear the background and the future too.

Thank you, Father, for good news today and forever!

Eric said...

Chris,

I agree. We've got to tell the whole gospel account, and relay the message that Jesus is alive today.