Welcome to “God’s Just Judgment”! In this midweek study led by Pastor Bill Welsh at Refuge Calvary Chapel, we dive into the book of Revelation, specifically chapter 16. The study is part of the ongoing series titled “The King Is Coming” and is the 13th installment. The content includes powerful worship songs by various artists, an expression of gratitude for the worship team, and prayers for the church. Additionally, there are announcements about upcoming events, such as a Rooted class and a women’s spring tea. We’ll explore the seven scroll judgments and trumpet judgments, followed by an overview of the seven bowl judgments. The teaching emphasizes the importance of readiness for the battle of Armageddon and the need to share the gospel with our Muslim neighbors. Together, let’s engage in prayer and intercession for others as we seek to grow in our understanding of God’s just judgment.
Content
Worship Songs
Tonight’s service at Refuge Calvary Chapel began with heartfelt worship songs that touched the souls of attendees. The worship team worked diligently to prepare a setlist that would draw everyone closer to God. Various songs were used, including favorites from artists like Elevation Worship, Hillsong UNITED, Phil Wickham, Bethel Music, Kari Jobe, and more. The congregation was encouraged to participate and sing along, allowing the melodies and lyrics to penetrate their hearts. The powerful worship set created an atmosphere of reverence and awe, preparing the hearts of the attendees for the teaching that would follow.
Attendee Gratitude
As Pastor Bill Welsh took the stage, one attendee stood up to express their gratitude for the worship team. They highlighted the hard work, dedication, and talent of the team members, reminding everyone of the important role they play in facilitating a meaningful worship experience. The attendee thanked the team for their commitment to leading the congregation into the presence of God through music. They also offered a prayer for the church, asking for protection and guidance in a world that can often feel chaotic. Their heartfelt words resonated with the congregation, setting a tone of unity and gratitude for the rest of the service.
Announcement of Upcoming Events
Before delving into the teaching, Pastor Bill Welsh took a few moments to announce some upcoming events in the church. He reminded everyone about the Rooted class, encouraging them to sign up and deepen their faith through this transformative experience. He also mentioned a women’s spring tea, inviting all the ladies to attend and enjoy a time of fellowship and encouragement. These events aim to provide opportunities for growth, connection, and spiritual renewal within the church community. As Pastor Bill shared these announcements, the excitement in the room grew, and attendees eagerly marked their calendars.
RFM Hike to Nicks Nature Center
For those who love the great outdoors, the RFM hike to Nicks Nature Center was a much-anticipated event. Pastor Bill informed the congregation that this Saturday at 7:45 a.m., they would have the opportunity to explore the beauty of nature and experience God’s creation firsthand. The hike required a $3 parking fee, which would contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the trails. Attendees were encouraged to bring their families and friends, as this hike was suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It was a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the wonders of God’s handiwork.
CM Volunteer Opportunity
Pastor Bill also shared an important volunteer opportunity within the CM (Children’s Ministry). The upcoming summer camp was in need of dedicated volunteers who could assist on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. This ministry plays a crucial role in shaping the faith of the younger generation and creating a fun, safe, and nurturing environment for them to grow in their relationship with God. Volunteers were invited to prayerfully consider serving in the CM and making a lasting impact on the lives of children in the church.
QR Code and Website
To ensure that attendees had access to all the information they needed, Pastor Bill shared a QR code and website for them to explore. By scanning the QR code or visiting the website, individuals could find details about upcoming events, ministries, services, and resources. This convenient method of information dissemination allowed attendees to stay connected and engaged with the church’s activities and offerings. Whether they needed to find the location of the next event or learn more about a specific ministry, the QR code and website were invaluable resources for everyone.
Encouragement to Greet Someone
In the spirit of fostering community and building relationships, Pastor Bill encouraged everyone to stand up and greet those around them. Making an effort to greet someone and initiate a conversation could lead to new friendships and deepen existing ones within the church. As individuals turned to one another with warm smiles and open hearts, the church resonated with a sense of belonging and unity. The simple act of greeting one another created an environment where individuals felt seen, valued, and loved.
Mention of Trip to Kawai
During the announcements, Pastor Bill mentioned an upcoming trip to Kawai and a connection with Rick Bunu. He highlighted the significance of this trip and the opportunity it presented for personal growth, spiritual renewal, and an intimate encounter with God. The details of the trip were not shared during the service, but attendees were encouraged to speak with Pastor Bill or contact the church office for more information. This mention piqued the interest of many, leaving them eager to learn more about this exciting opportunity.
Anchor House Bible School
Pastor Bill announced the launch of Anchor House, a one-year Bible School that aimed to equip individuals with a solid understanding of Scripture and deepen their relationship with God. This comprehensive program would provide a structured curriculum and a supportive community for those seeking to grow in their faith and knowledge of God’s Word. The Anchor House Bible School would offer classes, mentoring, and discipleship opportunities, helping students develop a strong foundation for a lifetime of serving God. Pastor Bill expressed his excitement for this new venture and invited interested individuals to register and embark on this transformative journey.
Teaching Role and Importance of Prayer
As Pastor Bill began the teaching portion of the service, he shared his role in teaching the Book of Revelation at Anchor House. He emphasized the importance of prayer in preparing for such a significant task. Pastor Bill acknowledged that teaching a book as profound as Revelation required stamina, discernment, and guidance from the Holy Spirit. He invited the congregation to join him in prayer, asking for strength, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the Scriptures. The power of prayer became evident as the attendees prayed collectively, interceding for Pastor Bill’s teaching and their own growth in the Word.
Invitation for James Cadis to Speak
Pastor Bill concluded the teaching portion by extending an invitation to James Cadis to speak at Refuge Calvary Chapel the following week. James Cadis was a renowned speaker and author who possessed a deep understanding of Scripture and a passion for sharing the gospel. His unique insights and engaging speaking style promised to captivate the congregation and provide a fresh perspective on the teachings of the Bible. Attendees were encouraged to invite friends and family to witness James Cadis’ impactful message and experience the transformative power of God’s Word.
Overview of Judgments in Revelation
Seven Scroll Judgments
The Book of Revelation contains vivid descriptions of various judgments that unfold during the end times. Pastor Bill provided an overview of the seven scroll judgments, highlighting their significance and the messages they conveyed. These judgments serve as a means of God’s justice and a call for repentance and surrender. By understanding the purpose and symbolism behind the seven scroll judgments, attendees can gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His plans for the world.
Trumpt Judgment
Among the judgments described in the Book of Revelation, the trumpt judgment holds a significant place. This judgment signifies a call to attention, warning of the impending consequences of human actions and the need for redemption. The trumpt judgment serves as a wake-up call to humanity, urging individuals to turn away from sinful practices and align themselves with God’s will.
Seven Bowl Judgments
Another series of judgments detailed in the Book of Revelation is the seven bowl judgments. Pastor Bill walked the congregation through each judgment, providing the biblical context and explaining their impact. These judgments depict various plagues and catastrophes that escalate in severity, serving as a final warning before the ultimate battle of Armageddon and Christ’s return. By understanding the implications of the seven bowl judgments, attendees gain insight into the consequences of human rebellion against God and the urgency of repentance.
Description of the Seven Bowl Judgments
Sores
The first bowl judgment described in Revelation is the infliction of painful and loathsome sores upon those who have aligned themselves with evil. This judgment serves as a physical manifestation of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The sores symbolize the corruption and decay that result from rejecting God’s grace and choosing a path of destruction. The imagery behind this judgment serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of repentance and turning back to God.
Blood in the Sea and Rivers
The second bowl judgment entails the transformation of the sea and rivers into blood. This symbolic act represents the devastation brought about by humanity’s refusal to follow God’s ways. The once life-sustaining waters become a source of death and suffering, a consequence of the disregard for God’s commandments. This judgment serves as a stark reminder of the natural consequences of disobedience and the urgent need for repentance and reconciliation with God.
Heat from the Sun
The third bowl judgment reveals the scorching heat that emanates from the sun. This intense heat represents the torment and discomfort that result from rejecting God’s truth and pursuing worldly desires. The absence of spiritual nourishment and the lack of alignment with God’s will lead to a state of burning anguish and emptiness. The image of the scorching heat serves as a warning to individuals to seek refuge in God’s love and to prioritize a life of righteousness.
Darkness
The fourth bowl judgment unveils a thick darkness that engulfs the world. This darkness symbolizes the spiritual blindness and ignorance that arises from rejecting God’s light and truth. When individuals choose to walk in the shadows of sin and turn away from God’s guidance, their hearts become shrouded in darkness, and they lose sight of His goodness and grace. This judgment serves as a call to seek the light of God’s truth, to come out of the darkness, and to embrace His love and mercy.
Spirits
The fifth bowl judgment introduces an invasion of unclean spirits that plague those who have rejected God. These spirits embody the evil and deception that thrive in a world devoid of God’s presence. They represent the consequences of succumbing to the temptations and allure of sin. This judgment warns of the spiritual warfare that ensues when individuals forsake God’s guidance and become vulnerable to the influences of darkness. The imagery serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in faith and resist the forces that seek to lead us astray.
Hail
The final bowl judgment unleashes a hailstorm of unparalleled intensity and destruction. This physical manifestation symbolizes the culmination of God’s wrath and the consequences of persistent rebellion against Him. The hail signifies the repercussions of a life devoted to evil and sin, highlighting the gravity of disregarding God’s commands and rejecting His love. This judgment serves as a sobering reminder of the urgency to repent and surrender to God’s will before it is too late.
Response of the Judged
Blasphemous Attitude
Despite the severity of the judgments and the clear signs of God’s justice, Pastor Bill drew attention to the blasphemous attitude displayed by those who are being judged. Rather than recognizing the consequences of their actions and repenting, they respond with defiance and arrogance. This blasphemous attitude reveals the depth of their rebellion and their refusal to acknowledge the authority and sovereignty of God. The response of the judged serves as a stark warning against the dangers of pride and self-righteousness, urging individuals to humbly seek forgiveness and salvation.
Preparation for Battle of Armageddon
The judgments described in the Book of Revelation ultimately lead to the battle of Armageddon, where the forces of evil and the forces of God clash in a final showdown. As the judgments unfold, they serve as a preparation for this ultimate battle, separating the wheat from the chaff and revealing the true allegiance of individuals. Those who choose to align themselves with the forces of evil will face the consequences of their decision, while those who seek God and His righteousness will find refuge in His love and protection. The response of the judged serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved and the need for individuals to make a deliberate choice to stand on God’s side.
Jesus’ Message as a Thief in the Night
In the midst of the unfolding judgments, Jesus’ message is likened to that of a thief in the night. This imagery highlights the unexpected nature of His second coming and the importance of readiness and vigilance. Just as a thief arrives when least expected, so will Jesus return to judge the world. This analogy serves as a reminder to live each day in anticipation and preparedness, aligning our lives with God’s will and purpose. The response of the judged serves as a wakeup call to examine our own lives and ensure that we are ready for Christ’s return.
Importance of Readiness
The response of the judged in the face of God’s judgments underscores the urgency of readiness. As the book of Revelation reminds us, only those who are prepared and faithful will reap the rewards of eternal life in God’s presence. This requires a daily commitment to surrendering ourselves to His will, living a life of repentance, and seeking His guidance. The response of the judged serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of our choices and actions. It prompts us to examine our hearts and align our lives with God’s truth and righteousness.
Prayer for Muslim Neighbors
As the service drew to a close, Pastor Bill led the congregation in a heartfelt prayer for their Muslim neighbors. He stressed the importance of sharing the gospel with them and extending a hand of friendship and love. In a world that can be marked by fear and division, Pastor Bill reminded everyone of the opportunity they have to demonstrate God’s love to others. He urged the congregation to pray for their Muslim neighbors, interceding for open hearts and minds to receive the message of salvation and to experience the transformative power of God’s love.
Importance of Sharing the Gospel
The prayer for Muslim neighbors highlighted the crucial role of sharing the gospel. As followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to proclaim His truth and love to all nations, tribes, and tongues. The Great Commission calls us to go and make disciples of all nations, spreading the good news of salvation to those who have not yet heard or accepted it. The prayer served as a reminder to step out in faith, engage in meaningful conversations, and demonstrate the love of Christ to those around us.
Call to Prayer and Intercession
Finally, Pastor Bill concluded the service with a call to prayer and intercession for one another and for the needs within the congregation. He emphasized the power of prayer in transforming lives and situations, urging everyone to bring their concerns, burdens, and praises before God. The call to prayer and intercession encouraged individuals to lean on one another for support, to bear each other’s burdens, and to entrust their requests to God. The service ended with a sense of unity and a deep commitment to pray fervently for one another and the needs of the church.
In conclusion, the Wednesday evening service at Refuge Calvary Chapel was an impactful and enriching experience. Through heartfelt worship, announcements of upcoming events, and a comprehensive teaching on the judgments in the Book of Revelation, attendees were challenged to deepen their faith, embrace readiness, and share the gospel with others. The service fostered a sense of belonging, community, and unity among the congregation. As individuals left the service, they carried with them a renewed passion for God’s Word and a determination to live according to His will.
