What Is My Purpose?

Note: Today's post is based on the YouTube video by John Barnett titled: "GET READY PILGRIMS-- UPROOTING TENT STAKES FOR AN ETERNAL HOME" https://youtu.be/LuyeMyewFsc?si=y9wz8_LqnkQ1A8iz

Uprooting the Tent Stakes for Our Eternal Home

"For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." — 2 Corinthians 5:1

Few questions are more important than this one:

"What is my purpose?"

People of every age ask it. Some spend their entire lives searching for significance, believing it can be found in success, possessions, careers, accomplishments, or recognition. Yet none of those things ultimately satisfy the longing God has placed within the human heart.

While listening to Dr. John Barnett's message, "GET READY PILGRIMS—UPROOTING TENT STAKES FOR OUR ETERNAL HOME," one statement especially stood out to me:

"We live as though this is all there is."

That thought echoes the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5.

Paul reminds believers that these earthly bodies are like tents—temporary dwellings intended for only a short season. God has prepared something far greater for those who belong to Christ: an eternal home in His presence.

Our greatest mistake is often forgetting that this world is not our permanent home.

Living as Pilgrims

Throughout Scripture, God's people are described as pilgrims, strangers, and sojourners. Abraham lived in tents because he was looking beyond this present world to "the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God" (Hebrews 11:10).

A tent serves its purpose for a time, but no one mistakes it for a permanent house.

Likewise, our earthly lives are temporary. Every passing day reminds us that time is moving us toward eternity.

Hebrews 9:27 tells us that each person has an appointed time to die and afterward comes judgment. Rather than producing fear, this truth invites us to live wisely, recognizing that our lives have eternal significance.

Our True Identity in Christ

Second Corinthians 5 reveals several beautiful truths about every believer.

Those who have trusted in Jesus Christ have been given new life through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is God's guarantee of the inheritance that is to come. Believers now belong to Christ, who is portrayed throughout the New Testament as the Bridegroom of His redeemed people.

Paul also gives believers tremendous hope:

"To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." (2 Corinthians 5:8)

Death is not the end of the believer's story. It is the doorway into the presence of the Savior.

Because Jesus is both our Savior and our Lord, our lives now have a new purpose—not to earn salvation, which is God's gracious gift, but to live in a way that honors and pleases Him.

As Paul writes:

"Therefore we make it our aim... to be pleasing to Him." (2 Corinthians 5:9)

Why Our Daily Lives Matter

Many Christians are familiar with the message of salvation by grace, yet fewer have heard much teaching about the Judgment Seat of Christ, often called the Bema Seat.

In 2 Corinthians 5:10, Paul writes:

"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad."

This judgment is not presented as determining salvation, which Scripture consistently teaches is received by grace through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9). Rather, Paul describes a future evaluation of a believer's life and service.

First Corinthians 3:9–15 expands on this picture by comparing our works to materials placed into a fire. Some works endure and receive reward, while others are consumed because they were not built for God's glory.

This is a sobering yet encouraging reminder that our choices today have eternal value.

Every act of obedience...

Every sacrifice made for Christ...

Every unseen act of love...

Every opportunity to faithfully serve Him...

None of it escapes His notice.

Our Shepherd Knows the Journey

Psalm 23 reminds us that the Lord is our Shepherd. He faithfully leads, restores, protects, and walks with His people—even through the valley of the shadow of death. Our confidence rests not in ourselves but in His constant presence and care.

Psalm 139 takes us even deeper.

David declares that God knows us completely. He knows every thought before we speak, every step before we take it, and every day of our lives before one of them came to be.

Our lives are not random.

They are known by the God who created us.

That truth gives meaning, purpose, and hope, even in seasons of uncertainty.

Living with Eternity in View

It is easy to become consumed with temporary concerns while forgetting what lasts forever.

The New Testament repeatedly calls believers to lift their eyes beyond the present and live in light of eternity. We are invited to invest our lives in what pleases Christ, to love others well, and to serve faithfully while we await His return.

One day, every earthly tent will be folded away.

What will remain is what was done for the glory of God.

Perhaps the greatest question is not simply:

"What is my purpose?"

But rather:

"Am I investing my life in what will matter forever?"

May each of us live as faithful pilgrims, trusting Christ completely, serving Him joyfully, and looking forward to the day when we stand in His presence.

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." — 1 Corinthians 15:58

Surrendered to Christ: Living Today for the Words "Well Done"

There is one word that I believe has quietly disappeared from much of modern Christianity, yet it is at the very heart of what it means to follow Jesus.

That word is surrender.

Many people want Jesus as Savior, but Jesus also calls us to receive Him as Lord. When we place our faith in Christ, we are not merely asking Him to rescue us from hell. We are surrendering our lives to the One who gave His life for us. We no longer belong to ourselves—we belong to Him.

Jesus summarized the Christian life with two great commandments:

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind... And... you shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:37-39)

Everything Jesus asks of us flows from these two commands.

"Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me"

Jesus made an astonishing statement:

"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." (Matthew 16:24)

The cross was not a symbol of comfort. It was a symbol of death.

Jesus was saying that following Him requires dying to our own plans, our own selfish ambitions, our own desires, and submitting ourselves to God's will.

To take up our cross means:

• Surrendering our will to God's will.
• Choosing obedience over convenience.
• Loving Christ more than comfort.
• Living each day for His glory rather than our own.

The Christian life is not merely believing certain facts about Jesus. It is following Him.

Why Do Christians Still Suffer?

Jesus suffered once for our sins so that we could be forgiven forever. Nothing can ever add to His finished work on the cross.

Yet believers still experience suffering—not to pay for sin, but because we belong to Christ.

Jesus warned His followers that the world would oppose them just as it opposed Him.

Sometimes our suffering comes through persecution.

Sometimes through temptation.

Sometimes through sacrifice.

Sometimes through simply choosing obedience when it costs us something.

Our suffering does not earn salvation. Rather, it identifies us with our Savior.

Denying Ourselves

The world constantly tells us:

"Do what makes you happy."

Jesus says:

"Deny yourself."

This is one of the greatest differences between worldly living and biblical discipleship.

Jesus denied Himself continually.

He humbled Himself.

He served others.

He placed the Father's will above His own comfort.

As His followers, we are called to do the same.

What Really Profits a Man?

Jesus then asks one of the most penetrating questions in Scripture:

"For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" (Matthew 16:26)

People spend their entire lives pursuing wealth, success, recognition, possessions, and pleasure.

Yet none of these things can be taken into eternity.

Immediately after asking this question, Jesus speaks of His return:

"For the Son of Man will come... and then He will reward each according to his works." (Matthew 16:27)

Notice the order.

Salvation comes by grace through faith.

Rewards come because of faithful service.

These are two completely different truths that should never be confused.

Saved by Grace—Created for Good Works

The Bible is perfectly clear:

We are saved by grace through faith—not by works.

No amount of good deeds can earn eternal life.

But after salvation, God expects His children to live differently.

Love people.

Forgive others.

Serve faithfully.

Share the Gospel.

Care for those in need.

Not to earn salvation—but because Christ first loved us.

Invest Where It Lasts Forever

Jesus told us:

"Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven."

Everything on earth eventually disappears.

Money.

Homes.

Cars.

Careers.

Popularity.

Even our physical bodies.

Only what is done for Christ lasts forever.

Every act of obedience...

Every sacrifice...

Every soul influenced for Christ...

Every unseen act of faithfulness...

God remembers all of it.

Endure Faithfully

Paul wrote:

"Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect..." (2 Timothy 2:10)

The Christian life is not always easy.

There will be disappointments.

Trials.

Temptations.

Weariness.

Yet we keep going because eternity is worth it.

Be an Approved Worker

Paul continues:

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God..." (2 Timothy 2:15)

Our goal is not merely to impress people.

Our goal is to stand approved before Christ.

That requires studying His Word.

Living by it.

Teaching it accurately.

Walking in obedience.

The Lord Knows Those Who Are His

Paul also reminds us:

"The Lord knows those who are His."

God is never confused about who truly belongs to Him.

True believers are also called to "depart from iniquity" (2 Timothy 2:19).

Faith is never an excuse to continue living comfortably in sin.

Real faith produces growing holiness.

A Profession Without Possession

Titus gives one of the strongest warnings in Scripture:

"They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him." (Titus 1:16)

It is possible to speak Christian words while living an un-Christlike life.

God is not impressed by religious language.

He looks at transformed hearts.

The Judgment Seat of Christ

Every believer will one day stand before the Bema Seat of Christ.

This is not a judgment to determine salvation.

That question was settled at the Cross.

The Bema Seat evaluates the lives of believers.

Paul tells us that every work will be tested by fire.

Some works will remain and receive reward.

Other works—done with wrong motives or having no eternal value—will be burned away.

The believer himself is saved, but suffers loss because opportunities were wasted.

Scripture also speaks of crowns awarded to faithful believers. These crowns are not trophies for personal glory, but expressions of Christ's grace, and Revelation shows the redeemed casting their crowns before His throne in worship because He alone is worthy.

There will be a solemn awareness of what could have been done for Christ. Yet God's promise is full of hope: He Himself will wipe away every tear, and sorrow will give way to everlasting joy in His presence.

The Scariest Words Jesus Ever Spoke

Perhaps the most sobering words in Scripture are:

"I never knew you; depart from Me."

These words remind us that outward religion is not enough.

A church membership cannot save.

Good intentions cannot save.

Only a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ saves.

Likewise, Jesus warned about the unprofitable servant who buried what had been entrusted to him instead of faithfully using it. His warning reminds us that God expects His people to be faithful stewards of the opportunities, gifts, and responsibilities He has given them.

The Words Every Believer Should Long to Hear

If there are frightening words in Scripture, there are also glorious ones.

Imagine hearing Jesus say:

"Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things; I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord."

Those words summarize the purpose of the Christian life.

Not fame.

Not comfort.

Not success.

Faithfulness.

One day, everything we have accumulated on earth will be left behind.

Only what has been done for Christ will remain.

May we therefore surrender ourselves completely to Him, take up our cross daily, deny ourselves, love God with all our heart, love our neighbors as ourselves, endure faithfully, depart from sin, and invest our lives in treasures that cannot fade away.

May the deepest desire of our hearts be that, when we stand before our Savior, we will hear the words every believer longs to hear:

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Revelation Chapter 3 Two Churches...Two Hearts...Which One Reflects You?

Revelation Chapter 3

Two Churches...Two Hearts...Which One Reflects You?

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." — Revelation 3:22

Yesterday we examined the first three churches Jesus addressed in Revelation Chapter 2. Today, we continue His personal letters by looking at the remaining churches found in Revelation Chapter 3.

What strikes me most is that, among these churches, only one receives no rebuke whatsoever—the church at Philadelphia.

Another receives, perhaps, the strongest warning found anywhere in Scripture for believers—the church at Laodicea.

As I reflected on these churches, my thoughts went all the way back to Genesis.

The contrast reminded me of Cain and Abel.

One approached God in humble faith.

The other approached God on his own terms.

That same conflict has never disappeared.

Throughout Scripture, there are only two ways to live:

• God's way.
• Man's way.

The seven churches beautifully illustrate these two spiritual mindsets.

---

Sardis

The Church That Looked Alive...But Was Dead

Jesus begins by exposing something man could never see.

"You have a name that you are alive, but you are dead."

• Sardis possessed an excellent reputation.
• People admired them.
• Their programs probably flourished.
• Attendance may have been impressive.
• Yet Jesus looked beyond appearances into the heart.
• He saw empty religion.
• Activity without intimacy.
• Reputation without reality.
• Their problem wasn't persecution.
• Their problem was spiritual complacency.
• How frightening that a church can appear successful to everyone...

...while Christ declares it spiritually dead.

---

Philadelphia

The Church Jesus Commended

Then comes one of the most encouraging letters in all of Scripture.

Philadelphia was not impressive by worldly standards.

Jesus even says,

"You have a little strength."

Notice He didn't criticize their weakness.

He praised their faithfulness.

They had:

• kept His Word
• not denied His name
• patiently endured
• remained faithful despite opposition

Their strength was never their greatness.

Their strength was their dependence upon Christ.

This sounds remarkably like Abel.

Abel never trusted his own works.

He came God's way.

The believers in Philadelphia also came God's way.

They were not trying to impress God.

They simply loved Him.

Notice the promises Jesus gives them.

"I have set before you an open door."

Only Jesus opens doors no one can shut.

Only Jesus closes doors no one can open.

The faithful never have to manipulate circumstances.

God Himself directs their path.

"I will keep you from the hour of trial."

This promise has generated much discussion among Bible students.

Many who hold a pre-tribulation understanding of Scripture see this as a beautiful picture of Christ preserving His Church before the coming Tribulation.

Regardless of one's prophetic position, the point remains wonderfully clear:

Jesus protects those who belong to Him.

"I will make him a pillar."

Pillars don't move.

They remain.

Faithfulness today results in permanence tomorrow.

What a contrast to Laodicea.

• Philadelphia desired Christ.
• Laodicea desired comfort.
• Philadelphia treasured God's approval.
• Laodicea treasured worldly success.
• Philadelphia possessed little...
• ...yet was rich.
• Laodicea possessed much...

...yet was spiritually bankrupt.

---

Laodicea

The Church That Made Jesus Sick

No church receives stronger language.

Jesus says,

"Because you are lukewarm...I will vomit you out of My mouth."

This is not the language of hatred.

It is the language of grief.

The greatest danger was not outright rebellion.

It was comfortable Christianity.

Notice what they believed.

"I am rich..."

"I have become wealthy..."

"I have need of nothing."

• Their greatest problem wasn't money.
• It was self-sufficiency.
• Success had quietly replaced dependence.
• Prosperity had replaced prayer.
• Religion had replaced relationship.
• They believed they needed nothing...

...while standing desperately in need of everything.

Jesus responds with shocking words.

"You do not know..."

• you are wretched
• miserable
• poor
• blind
• naked

Notice something tragic.

Jesus is outside His own church.

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock."

We often use this verse in evangelism.

Yet in context, Jesus is speaking to a church.

They had become so self-centered that Christ Himself had been left outside.

• What an image.
• Busy church.
• Active programs.
• Financial prosperity.
• Religious activity.
• But Jesus wasn't even inside.

---

Cain and Abel: A Pattern That Never Ends

As I studied these churches, I couldn't help but think of Cain and Abel.

• Abel came by faith.
• Cain came by self-effort.
• Abel obeyed God's revelation.
• Cain substituted his own ideas.
• Abel humbled himself.
• Cain exalted himself.

That same conflict appears throughout Scripture.

Philadelphia reflects the heart of Abel.

• They possessed little.
• Trusted Christ completely.
• Obeyed His Word.
• Loved His name.

Laodicea reflects many characteristics associated with "the way of Cain" described in Jude 11—not because they literally were Cain, but because they exhibited the same dangerous disposition of self-sufficiency, spiritual pride, and approaching God on their own perceived adequacy rather than in humble dependence.

The contrast is striking.

• One church says:

"Lord, we need You."

• The other says:

"We need nothing."

• One receives open doors.

The other finds Jesus knocking from outside.

---

The Message for Every Believer

These seven churches are far more than ancient congregations.

They reveal seven conditions of the human heart.

Every believer should ask:

• Which church most resembles my walk with Christ?
• Am I becoming spiritually comfortable?
• Do I love Jesus more than success?
• Have I substituted activity for intimacy?
• Am I walking in humble dependence—or quiet self-sufficiency?

The encouraging truth is that every letter ends with hope.

Jesus calls every church to repent, overcome, and return.

His desire has never been condemnation.

His desire has always been restoration.

May we strive to be like the believers in Philadelphia—faithful, humble, obedient, and steadfast—so that one day we may hear the words every believer longs to hear:

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

 

 

Revelation Chapter 2: Christ's Message to the Churches—A Call to Return, Remain Faithful, and Repent

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."
— Revelation 2

As I continue studying the opening chapters of Revelation, I am reminded that these letters are far more than ancient correspondence sent to churches nearly two thousand years ago. They are Christ's personal evaluation of His Church—then and now.

Jesus knows every church completely. He sees what others cannot see. He knows our works, our motives, our endurance, our compromises, and our love for Him. Nothing escapes His eyes.

What is especially sobering is that each letter begins with encouragement where encouragement is deserved. Yet the Lord never ignores sin or spiritual decline. His loving rebuke always has one purpose: restoration before judgment.

These messages deserve careful examination because they reveal the kinds of churches—and individual believers—that either please or grieve the heart of Christ.

---

The Church at Ephesus: The Church That Left Its First Love

Revelation 2:1-7

What Jesus Commended

Ephesus was an impressive church.

Jesus praised them because they:

• Worked diligently.
• Persevered through hardship.
• Refused to tolerate false teachers.
• Tested those claiming to be apostles.
• Defended sound doctrine.
• Endured suffering without quitting.

From the outside, this church appeared exceptionally healthy.

Many churches today would gladly exchange places with Ephesus.

Yet Jesus saw something no one else could.

What Jesus Found Wrong

"Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love." (Revelation 2:4)

Notice what Jesus did not say.

He did not accuse them of abandoning sound doctrine.

He did not accuse them of moral failure.

He did not accuse them of laziness.

He said they had left their first love.

Some understand this to mean they no longer loved Christ with the passion they once had. Others also see that their love for one another had grown cold because genuine love for Christ always produces genuine love for people.

Their service continued.

Their theology remained sound.

Their ministries were active.

But their relationship with Christ had become mechanical.

Duty had replaced delight.

Activity had replaced intimacy.

Why This Was So Serious

Jesus desires more than correct doctrine.

He desires our hearts.

It is entirely possible to become so busy serving God that we gradually stop enjoying fellowship with Him.

Christian service should always flow from love—not merely obligation.

The greatest commandment has never changed:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart.

Christ's Prescription

Jesus gives three simple commands:

• Remember where you once were.
• Repent.
• Return to the works motivated by your first love.

The warning is sobering.

Failure to repent would result in their lampstand—their testimony and usefulness—being removed.

---

The Church at Smyrna: The Suffering Church

Revelation 2:8-11

Unlike every other church in this chapter except Philadelphia later in Revelation, Smyrna receives no rebuke.

What Jesus Knew

He knew:

• Their poverty.
• Their persecution.
• Their suffering.
• Their slander.
• Their future imprisonment.

Yet Jesus also declared that they were spiritually rich.

How different God's evaluation is from ours.

The world measures success by wealth, influence, and comfort.

Jesus measures faithfulness.

Why They Were Suffering

Believers in Smyrna refused to worship the Roman emperor.

Their loyalty belonged exclusively to Jesus Christ.

Because of that commitment, many lost:

• Their jobs.
• Their possessions.
• Their freedom.
• Even their lives.

Jesus never promised immediate relief.

Instead, He prepared them for greater testing.

"Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life."

The Lesson for Us

Many Christians today expect following Christ to eliminate hardship.

The New Testament teaches exactly the opposite.

Faithfulness often invites opposition.

The question is never whether suffering comes.

The question is whether we remain faithful when it does.

---

The Church at Pergamos: The Compromising Church

Revelation 2:12-17

Pergamos lived in one of the darkest spiritual environments of the Roman Empire.

Jesus described it as the place "where Satan's throne is."

The church existed in a culture saturated with idolatry, emperor worship, and immorality.

What Jesus Commended

Despite intense pressure, believers had not denied Christ.

Even after Antipas was martyred for his faith, many remained loyal to Jesus.

Their courage deserved praise.

What Jesus Found Wrong

Yet compromise had quietly entered the church.

Jesus specifically mentions two dangerous influences.

1. The Doctrine of Balaam

Balaam could not successfully curse Israel.

Instead, he persuaded Israel to compromise with the surrounding pagan culture.

The result was idolatry and sexual immorality.

The lesson is timeless.

When Satan cannot destroy God's people through persecution, he often attempts to corrupt them through compromise.

2. The Doctrine of the Nicolaitans

Although scholars debate every detail, the Nicolaitans appear to have encouraged believers to blend Christianity with pagan practices and moral compromise.

Instead of remaining separate from the culture, they adapted to it.

The danger was not open denial of Christ.

The danger was gradual accommodation.

Why Jesus Took This Seriously

Truth without love is dangerous.

But love without truth is equally dangerous.

Jesus never asks His people to compromise biblical truth in order to gain acceptance.

The church is called to influence the culture—not be absorbed by it.

Christ's Warning

Jesus called them to repent immediately.

If they refused, He Himself would confront the false teaching within the church.

The battle was ultimately spiritual, and Christ would defend the purity of His church.

---

A Common Theme

These three churches faced entirely different challenges.

Ephesus had lost its passion.

Smyrna endured persecution.

Pergamos tolerated compromise.

Yet Jesus knew each church perfectly.

He gave each exactly what they needed.

One needed to return.

One needed encouragement.

One needed repentance.

The same Lord still walks among His churches today.

He knows what no pastor, elder, or church member fully sees.

He examines every ministry, every motive, and every heart.

---

A Personal Examination

As I studied these three churches, I found myself asking several questions.

Have I allowed ministry to replace intimacy with Christ?

Am I willing to remain faithful when following Jesus becomes costly?

Have I quietly accepted compromises that God's Word clearly rejects?

These are not merely questions for ancient churches.

They are questions every believer should ask before standing before Christ at the Bema Seat.

One day every believer's life will be evaluated—not to determine salvation, which is secured entirely through faith in Jesus Christ—but to evaluate our faithfulness, obedience, and stewardship.

That reality should motivate us to love Christ more deeply, stand more courageously, and refuse every compromise that weakens our testimony.

May we hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

And may we respond while there is still time.

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 2:29)

Revelation Isn't Complicated: Most Christians Just Start Wrong - by Connect The Dots - Greg Rooney

Jul 30, 2026 #Revelation #BibleStudy #BookOfRevelation Most people get lost in the Book of Revelation because they start in the wrong place.

This episode establishes the method, structure, and framework for studying Revelation section by section — text first, distinctions held, timeline kept.

▶ WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: 

• Why Revelation is the unveiling of Jesus Christ — not a symbol-hunting puzzle 

• Historical background: John, Patmos, and the seven churches (95–96 AD) 

• How Revelation functions as a letter, a prophecy, AND an unveiling 

• Two foundational reading principles 

• Three questions to ask at every passage: Who? Where? When? 

• Why Israel, the nations, and the Church must be kept distinct 

• Revelation 1:19 — the structural key that organizes the entire book 

• The broad prophetic timeline from the Church Age to the Eternal State

⏱ CHAPTERS 

0:00 Why most people start Revelation wrong

1:03 The method: Text First · Distinctions Held · Timeline Kept 

2:35 Historical background: John & Patmos 

3:46 The seven churches of Asia 

5:04 Revelation is three things at once 

7:01 Reading Principle 1 — Begin with Christ 

8:35 Reading Principle 2 — Revelation produces faithfulness 

10:09 Three questions for every passage 

10:59 Keeping Israel, the Nations & the Church distinct 

12:28 Revelation 

1:19 — the structural key 

15:04 What must not be joined together 

16:41 The dispensational method explained 

17:02 The broad prophetic timeline 

20:04 Why distinctions matter today 

21:23 Pastoral application 

22:33 Free study guides & companion series 

24:14 Episode 2 preview — The Glorified Christ 25:07 The blessed hope ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

📖 FREE STUDY GUIDES, CHARTS & OUTLINES — Section by section as the series releases within 24 hours: 👉 https://www.greg-rooney.com

▶ COMPLETED COMPANION SERIES: 

✅ The Rapture Series:

• The Rapture Series

✅ The Bema Seat of Christ Series

• The Bema Seat of Christ — Rewards in Heave...

✅ The Tribulation Period — The 70th Week of Daniel

• The 70th Week of Daniel - 7 Year Tribulati...

✅ The Millennial Kingdom Series

• The Millennial Kingdom Series

▶ NEXT EPISODE: The Glorified Christ — Revelation 1:4–20

📺 Full series on Connect The Dots with Greg Rooney: 

👉 / @connect-the-dots

Research on Early Dating of Revelation

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KM_3hW38uncxrZ5vV2WEPyhOSQor6rpU/view

#Revelation #BibleStudy #BookOfRevelation #EndTimes #BiblicalProphecy

The Shepherd's Anchor - Based on the teachings of John Barnett's YouTube video "Finding Eternal Peace in Revelation (HIAE-8) [How It All Ends]

The Shepherd's Anchor - Based on the teachings of John Barnett's YouTube video "Finding Eternal Peace in Revelation (HIAE-8) [How It All Ends]

This is an Expositional Study of Matthew 5, 24 and Revelation Part 8 - God's Kingdom Come Today and Forever (The Lord's Prayer)

• Pray without ceasing
• Pray for God's Kingdom to come
• We're supposed to be living it - "Resting in the hope of His coming for the church

Revelation 1: God wants us to see Jesus clearly each day - As our Creator, comforting us.

Revelation 2-3: God wants us to see Jesus with us all our days on earth - As our Redeemer, coaching us.

Revelation 4-22: God wants us to see Christ's Kingdom - As our Judge, Rewarding Us.

1 Corinthians 3:13-15 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 New King James Version 13 "each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

Jesus planted His Greatest Church in the shadow of Satan's Temple - To have any church at Ephesus was really a miracle.

Ephesus - The Loveless Church - The Bottom Line:  Jesus no longer held first place in their eyes. (Note: Church is not a building - It's People.) Their hearts no longer belonged to Him.  The prognosis was simple: REPENT

Revelation 2:5a (Jesus asks us to reset our compass ): Jesus maps the way back with these three commands: (REMEMBER, REPENT, DO).  Jesus already asks all of us to "SEEK FIRST" (Matthew 6:33), and "live by every word of God" (Matthew 4:4), and "set our affection on above" (Colossians 3:1). "If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God."

Now Jesus asks us to RESET our attention (antenna) and stay focused on Him.  The spiritual disciplines or "Works" we need to do again are always the same.

Personal note:  One of the Greek words for the Holy Spirit is Paracletos, a term used in the New Testament, meaning Comforter, Counselor, or Helper - It actually means to walk alongside.  The Holy Spirit walks alongside us.  He hears us; He can help us if we will let Him.

Colossians 3:2 - "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth."

Point your attention (dish antenna) on things above, not on things of earth.  You can tell immediately where someone's dish is pointed.  If their entire life is consumed with this world, protecting what they have in this world, getting more of this world, enjoying money, and they are desperately trying to get it all in.  This is where their dish is pointed.  And that's why so many people, you know, say the most confessed thing: "I don't have time for the word, for that long prayer.  I don't have time for memorizing verses.  I don't have enough time for that!  That instantly tells us where their antenna is pointed.

5b. (Jesus Asks Us to Reset Our Compass:) Just like in any marriage or relationship, it's about time, focus, and trust.

• Do we invest our prime time with Jesus?
• Do we focus upon Him, intentionally looking right at Him as He speaks, and try to understand everything He has to say?
• He wants our prayers, reading His Word, memory work, sacrificial giving, evangelizing, and serving -  to all stay prompted by a consuming love (John 14:21)

If you belong to Jesus, then He wants us to know that everything we do, think, and say is either:

1. Pleasing To Him, or
2. Not Pleasing to Him.

6. Jesus Knows Our Loves & Hates: Revelation 2:6 - Jesus knows what we love and hate; and what we hate and what He hates!

7. Jesus Reveals Genuine Salvation: Revelation 2:7a.  The evidence of salvation is in John 10, "My sheep hear my voice"... so those with "ears" are His, and we respond to Him when we hear His voice.  It is God's Spirit within us that empowers or response.  We, by faith, want to respond.

8.  Jesus speaks to all believers through the ages: Revelation 2:7b.  This message is to the plural, "churches", not just to the saints of Ephesus, but to all saints, in Every Church, throughout the ages.

9.  JESUS SEES US AS WE WILL BE: Revelation 2:7c.  We are "overcomers".  He began a good work in us (Phil. 1:16) and will finish.  We are "Kept" by the power of God (1 Peter 1:15)

He that began a good work in us will finish it.  We are not alone or our own.  He wants us to "finish well" with good works.  (See Judgment Seat of Christ known as the Bema Seat.  1 Corinthians 3:12-15 - 12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

The Church At Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11)

The Persecuted Church

8 “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, ‘These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: 9 “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. 

11 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.” ’

10. Only Jesus can identify with all our struggles: Revelation 2:8 - Jesus describes Himself as "dead" & "alive" as they were facing fatal persecution. Jesus knows what we are suffering and helps us through afflictions.

11. Our Greatest Sympathizer is Jesus: Revelation 2:9 - Jesus knows our financial and emotional pains, plus when we are verbally abused.

THE MOST IMPORTANT BOOK I'VE WRITTEN--Christ's Last Words To His Church Book Overview - John Barnett Teaching

Christ's Last Words to His Church in Revelation 2 & 3:

Revelation is the only book exclusively devoted to introducing us to what our Master and Savior Jesus is doing RIGHT NOW. It completes God’s revelation of Himself to humanity through Christ.

In chapter 1: the Majesty of Jesus, He wants us to know He is walking among us and watching our lives.

In chapters 2-3: the Message of Jesus, He warns us about areas that have tripped up past generations of believers. He wants us to stay on the right path.

In chapters 4-22: the Mission of Jesus, Christ shows us what He has planned for the end of the earth. If you really believe God's Word, then you believe Jesus Christ is here right now.

He walks among us, looking at us as we gather to see if we are being what He asks us to be and doing what He left us to do.

Everything revolves around the church Jesus said He was building.

Are you doing and being what He asks each of us to do and be for His church?

Preparing For Eternity

 

2 Peter Chapter 3: Living Today in Light of Christ's Return

"Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless."
—2 Peter 3:14 (NKJV)

One of the greatest dangers facing the Church today is not persecution—it is forgetfulness.

As Peter writes the final chapter of his second letter, he knows his earthly ministry is almost over. Instead of introducing something new, he reminds believers of truths they already know but desperately need to remember.

His message is just as relevant today as it was nearly two thousand years ago.

Remember What God Has Already Said

Peter begins by urging believers to remember the words spoken by the prophets and the commandments of Jesus Christ through His apostles.

God has never left His people without direction.

Throughout Scripture, the Lord repeatedly reveals His plans, His promises, and His warnings. When believers neglect God's Word, they become vulnerable to deception, discouragement, and spiritual compromise.

Our confidence is not found in current events or public opinion—it is found in the unchanging Word of God.

Expect Scoffers in the Last Days

Peter then delivers one of Scripture's clearest prophecies concerning the last days.

He warns that scoffers will come, mocking the promise of Christ's return.

They will ask:

"Where is the promise of His coming?"

This sounds remarkably familiar today.

Many reject the Bible because they assume history has always continued uninterrupted. Peter explains that these skeptics deliberately ignore two enormous historical facts:

• God created the heavens and the earth by His Word.
• God judged the ancient world through the global Flood.

The God who spoke creation into existence and judged the world once before is fully capable of fulfilling every prophecy concerning Christ's return.

God's promises never expire.

God's Delay Is Actually His Mercy

Perhaps the greatest misunderstanding about the Lord's return is the belief that He is delaying because He is unwilling or unable.

Peter answers that question beautifully:

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise... but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9)

What appears to some as delay is actually divine mercy.

Every additional day represents another opportunity for someone to hear the Gospel and place their faith in Jesus Christ.

God's patience should never be mistaken for indifference.

The Day of the Lord Will Come

Peter reminds us that the Day of the Lord will arrive suddenly.

The present heavens and earth are being reserved for future judgment.

This world, with all its achievements, possessions, wealth, and human pride, is temporary.

One day everything affected by sin will give way to God's perfect righteousness.

For believers, this is not a reason for fear.

It is a reason for hope.

Christ is not merely coming to judge wickedness—He is coming to establish righteousness forever.

How Then Should We Live?

Peter asks one of the most searching questions in all of Scripture:

"Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness?" (2 Peter 3:11)

Bible prophecy is never intended simply to satisfy curiosity.

It is intended to transform character.

Knowing Christ could return at any time should motivate us to:

• pursue holiness,
• remain faithful,
• serve others,
• share the Gospel,
• redeem every opportunity for God's glory.

Our future hope should shape our present priorities.

Beware of Spiritual Drift

Peter closes by warning believers not to be carried away by error.

False teaching never announces itself as false.

It often appears attractive, reasonable, and culturally acceptable.

That is why believers must remain anchored in Scripture.

Discernment grows as we continually study God's Word and remain dependent upon the Holy Spirit.

Continue Growing

Peter's final words summarize the Christian life beautifully:

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:18)

Spiritual growth is never complete this side of Heaven.

Every day presents another opportunity to know Christ more deeply, trust Him more completely, and serve Him more faithfully.

That is the calling of every believer until He comes.

Final Thoughts

Peter's final chapter leaves us with both urgency and hope.

Jesus Christ is coming again.

God's patience is an expression of His mercy.

His promises remain certain.

His timing is perfect.

May we be found faithful—living with holy expectation, proclaiming the Gospel boldly, and growing daily in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Because when we truly believe Christ is coming soon, it changes the way we live today.

"To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen." (2 Peter 3:18)