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Rebel Without a Cause

Senior Pastor David Rose walks us through Revelation 20 and the conclusion of an ancient war that spans all of Scripture.

The millennium gives a full and open demonstration of everything Christ promised. It also shows where the deepest problem in human history has always been: the rebellious heart in each of us.

Yet for those who are in Christ, this chapter is not a warning but a promise. The resurrection of the faithful, the thrones, the authority granted to those who endured, these are the fulfillments of every covenant God ever made with His people. As believers, we are not destined for harps and clouds but to reign forever with the One who conquered death itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Jesus maintains full control over the enemy. (Revelation 20:1-3)
  • Jesus gives life and authority to the faithful. (Revelation 20:4-6)
  • Jesus directs every being into eternity. (Revelation 20:7-15)

Discussing and Applying the Sermon

  1. In Revelation 20:1-3, the angel binds Satan with a chain and throws him into the abyss. What does this tell us about the nature of Christ’s authority over evil? How does that truth connect to the struggles you’re facing today?
  2. In his message, Pastor David posed an important question: “Am I living with that kind of peace? Do I know that sort of security, or do I allow the circumstances of life to make me doubt?” How would you honestly answer that question right now? Take a few minutes to journal your thoughts.
  3. Pastor David walked us through promises Christ made to each of the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3, including authority over nations, a new name, a place in God’s temple, and a seat on Christ’s throne. What does it mean to you personally that these promises were made to ordinary, struggling churches and not to perfect ones?
  4. Pastor David noted that John Wesley was premillennial and his brother Charles was postmillennial, yet they worshiped and worked together. What does that teach us about how to hold theological convictions while maintaining unity with other believers?
  5. Pastor David closed by asking two questions: “Who is Jesus to you?” and “Who are you to Jesus?” How would you answer each of those questions today?
  6. Because Jesus has full authority over the enemy, prayer is not wishful thinking. It is speaking to the One who holds the keys. Set aside intentional time this week to pray about something you have been anxious or fearful about, and consciously bring it before the one who is in control.
  7. Name someone who needs the gospel. The great white throne judgment is not an abstract theological concept. It is the future of real people you know. Take a minute to jot down the name of one person in your life who does not yet know Christ. Commit to praying for them daily and looking for one opportunity this week to point them toward Jesus.
Quote
The problem has never been the devil. The problem has been our own rebellious spirit.