In his sermon "What They Are Doing And Saying," Paul Mahan explores the theological concept of salvation as depicted in Revelation 7. The main argument asserts that worship in heaven mirrors the worship of believers on earth, emphasizing that the righteous in heaven are those chosen by God who reflect His glory through worship. Mahan supports this idea with various Scripture references including Revelation 7:9-10, John 3:16, and Romans 8:29-30, highlighting how God’s salvation is entirely His work, devoid of human merit. The doctrinal significance lies in its reaffirmation of Reformed theology's emphasis on divine sovereignty in salvation and the sufficiency of Christ's righteousness as the means of redemption for the elect.
Key Quotes
“What they are doing, what those in heaven are doing and saying, is what they were doing and saying while on this earth.”
“It’s not good works that save us, but grace that saves us. It’s not us keeping the law. We can’t. But it’s Christ keeping the law.”
“Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne and unto the Lamb. Salvation from the choosing to the crowning belongs to God.”
“God gets all the glory. He won’t share His glory. And let me tell you, folks, true worshipers don’t share it.”
Revelation 7 depicts a great multitude in heaven worshiping God, affirming that salvation belongs to Him.
In Revelation 7, John sees a great multitude from all nations and tongues standing before the throne of God, clothed in white robes and worshiping the Lamb. They proclaim, 'Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne and unto the Lamb,' indicating that all aspects of salvation are attributed to God alone. The multitude's song of praise emphasizes God's sovereign role in the salvation of His people, reflecting the biblical truth that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works. This cosmic worship is a reminder that God's mercy, election, and redemptive work extend beyond a single nation or tribe, demonstrating His sovereign grace in choosing a people from every corner of the earth.
Revelation 7:9-10, John 3:16, Romans 8:29-30
Scripture affirms that salvation from beginning to end is God's work, as stated in Romans 8:30.
The doctrine of salvation being fully God's work is clearly articulated in Scripture. Romans 8:29-30 outlines the golden chain of redemption, wherein God foreknows, predestines, calls, justifies, and glorifies His people, ensuring that every aspect of salvation is orchestrated by Him. It emphasizes that it is not through human effort or decision, but through God's sovereign will and grace that individuals are saved. Furthermore, statements such as 'salvation belongs unto the Lord' echo throughout the Bible, reinforcing the idea that every gift—faith, repentance, and righteousness—is granted by God. Therefore, true worship recognizes that we contribute nothing to our salvation but receive it as an unmerited gift from our gracious God.
Romans 8:29-30, Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 3:5
Worship is a vital expression of gratitude, acknowledging God's sovereignty and works in our lives.
Worship is central to the Christian faith as it reflects the believer's relationship with God and serves as an expression of thanksgiving and reverence. In Revelation 7, we see the multitude in heaven continually worshipping God, affirming the truth of salvation and God's sovereignty. This act of worship is not limited to heavenly beings but is also essential for Christians on earth, acting as a response to God's grace and a declaration of His glory. Worship is a means of aligning our hearts with God's truth, recognizing the depth of our neediness and His fulfilling grace. As believers, engaging in true worship connects us with the eternal reality of who God is, enabling us to declare 'Salvation belongs to our God' both in our lives and our communities.
Revelation 7:11-12, John 4:24, 1 Corinthians 4:7
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