Revelation 22:1-21 | Sermon Resources | 31 December 2023
Sermon Summary
At the end of the year, I think it is important to be reminded that we are a pilgrim people. This earth is not our home. We are citizens of a better country. If we do not have a clear vision of our final destination, it will be very difficult to persevere on our pilgrimage. Far worse, it will be very easy to forsake our pilgrim journey and become content to play in the mud puddles of earth. Having a 2 year old, I am acquainted the delight of jumping in puddles. I am also acquainted with the need to change shoes and pants afterwards. This earth affords us many pleasures, and we should be thankful for the many pleasures afforded us within the boundaries God sets up for our protection; but let us not be content with the passing pleasures afforded us by the toys and tinsel of this world. As C.S. Lewis famously said in the Weight of Glory, “It would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” This morning’s text ought to raise our eyes beyond the slum to the promised holiday of heaven and a new earth.
Discussion Questions
- Why is it important to have a clear vision of our final destination?
- What strikes you about the main street of heaven?
- What does it mean that God has life in himself? How does that contrast with other living beings?
- How would you respond to someone who says that the God of Christians is one who doesn’t want anyone to experience any pleasure?
- What strikes you about the leaves on the tree of life? What wounds do you long to receive healing from?
- What makes it possible to see God’s face and not die?
- How is the biblical view of history different from any earthly news source?
- How does one have the right to the tree of life? Who in your life needs this invitation?
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