Lesson 13.The Triumph of God’s Love
Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny

Welcome to the final lesson of our study on Revelation and End-Time Prophecy. In this concluding lesson, we focus on the ultimate theme of the Bible: the triumph of God’s love over sin, death, and all evil. We will look at the final events of world history as described in the Holy Scriptures and see how God’s plan of salvation and justice is brought to completion.

We live in a world often marked by uncertainty, suffering, and injustice. This lesson offers comfort and hope by showing that God is ultimately in control and that His plan for humanity and the universe will be fulfilled. From the intense period of tribulation to the Millennium and the final judgment, we see how God’s justice, love, and sovereignty ultimately prevail.

In this lesson, we will cover the following main topics:

1. Hope in Difficult Times: How God’s promises and the return of Christ give us comfort and confidence, even in the darkest moments of tribulation.

2. Preparation for the Tribulation: The importance of a deep, personal relationship with Jesus as the only adequate preparation for the coming trials.

3. The Millennium on Earth: The symbolic significance of Satan’s imprisonment and the role of the righteous during these 1000 years.

4. The Final Judgment: The ultimate destruction of the wicked and the full revelation of God’s justice.

5. Two Eternities: The consequences of our choices and the two possible eternities – eternal life or eternal death.

Through the study of these topics, we will recognize the profound significance of God’s love, as demonstrated in His actions to save humanity and ultimately overcome evil. This lesson encourages us to remain steadfast in faith, trust in God’s promises, and live a life that reflects His justice and love. Join us on this journey to discover the overwhelming love and grace of God, culminating in His triumphant victory over sin.

13.1 Hope in the Time of Trouble
God’s Promises for the End Times

Read Revelation 22:11-12; Daniel 12:1-2; and Jeremiah 30:5-7. What events occur directly before the Second Coming?

The Bible passages in Revelation 22:11-12, Daniel 12:1-2, and Jeremiah 30:5-7 paint a clear picture of the events that will happen immediately before the Second Coming of Christ. These passages speak of a time of intense tribulation and testing that humanity will experience.

After the end of the period of human probation, an unprecedented time of trouble will begin, described in Daniel 12:1 as a “time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then.” Revelation 16 describes this period as the pouring out of the seven last plagues upon the wicked world. These plagues are reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt, but God’s people will be protected even in this scenario.

In Daniel 12:1, we are given a special promise: “But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.” This refers to the “Book of Life,” in which the names of those who have remained faithful to Jesus are written (see also Philippians 4:3; Revelation 13:8; 20:12, 15; 22:19). Those who have kept their faith will not be blotted out from the Book of Life (Revelation 3:5).

These promises give us hope in difficult times. They remind us that God does not forget His people and that despite the upcoming trials and plagues, there is salvation and eternal life in store for the faithful. Our loyalty to Jesus and trust in His promises are the keys to standing firm during this time of tribulation and experiencing final redemption.

Read 1 John 3:1-3; 8:29; and 14:30. What is the only sufficient preparation for the coming time of tribulation?

The Bible passages 1 John 3:1-3; 8:29; and 14:30 show us that the only sufficient preparation for the coming time of tribulation is a deep, personal relationship with Jesus. This relationship is characterized by an unwavering desire to please Jesus in all things and to lead a life of purity as He did.

1 John 3:1-3 speaks of the great love the Father has given us by calling us His children. This love motivates us to purify ourselves just as Jesus is pure. In John 8:29, Jesus states that He always does what pleases the Father, demonstrating the deep connection and constant pursuit of God’s will that we should also aim for.

John 14:30 describes how there was nothing in Jesus’ heart that responded to Satan’s deceptions. We are to reflect this aspect of His character. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can lead a life marked by purity and independence from satanic influences.

During the time of tribulation, God’s people will have such a deep relationship with Jesus that nothing will be able to shake it. Their primary goal will be to please Him and follow His example. This close connection and purity are brought about by the working of the Holy Spirit in us.

In summary, the only sufficient preparation for the coming time of tribulation is to maintain an intimate and pure relationship with Jesus. This relationship is characterized by a life that constantly strives to please Jesus and reflect the purity of His character. In this way, we will be able to stand firm and overcome the challenges of the tribulation.

Read Psalm 27:5; 91:1-11; and Revelation 3:10-12. What comforting promises does God give us for the time of tribulation?

The Bible passages Psalm 27:5; 91:1-11; and Revelation 3:10-12 offer us deep and comforting promises for the time of tribulation. These promises remind us that God is our protection and refuge in difficult times.

Psalm 27:5 promises that God will hide us in His sanctuary in times of trouble and set us high upon a rock, a symbol of security and stability. This assurance gives us peace, knowing that God will protect us amidst the difficulties.

Psalm 91:1-11 speaks of the security we find in God’s shadow. Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will not fear the terrors of the night or the arrows that fly by day. This passage emphasizes that God’s angels will guard us and keep us in all our ways, giving us the confidence that we are safe in every situation because God protects us.

Revelation 3:10-12 promises that Jesus will keep those who have kept His word from the hour of trial that is coming upon the whole world. This passage also emphasizes that we, as overcomers, will have a secure place in the temple of God. This promise assures us that our faith and loyalty will be rewarded.

There are misunderstandings about the time of tribulation and the role of the Mediator. When Jesus ends His mediation in the heavenly sanctuary, it does not mean that we are alone and must rely on our own strength. Jesus has assured us that He will always be with us (Matthew 28:20). Our faith trusts even when we cannot see and remains steadfast, even when the world around us collapses.

During the time of tribulation, our faith will be strengthened, and our longing for eternity will grow. Our only desire will be to live forever with Jesus. These promises give us comfort and hope that God will never leave us and will protect us in all trials and difficulties.

The events and promises described in the Bible passages have profound significance for our daily lives and faith. They are not just predictions of future events but also offer practical guidance and hope for everyday life.

1. Strengthening of Faith: The assurance that God protects and saves us in times of tribulation strengthens our faith and trust in Him. This motivates us to hold on to our faith in all situations, even when faced with difficulties.

2. Daily Purity and Sanctification: The call to be pure like Jesus (1 John 3:1-3) and to please Him in all things (John 8:29) means striving daily to lead a life that aligns with God’s will. This includes prayer, Bible study, and striving for a holy lifestyle.

3. Trusting in God’s Protection: Psalm 91:1-11 and Psalm 27:5 remind us that God is our refuge and protection. These promises give us courage and trust to place ourselves in God’s hands and rely on His preservation, no matter what happens in daily life.

4. Maintaining Loyalty: Revelation 3:10-12 encourages us to remain faithful, even when trials and temptations come. This means being steadfast in our daily lives, keeping God’s word, and serving Him faithfully.

5. Living with an Eternal Perspective: The hope of final redemption and eternal life motivates us to focus on what truly matters. It reminds us that our earthly worries and troubles are temporary and that we should work towards eternal fellowship with Jesus.

6. Encouragement and Comfort: These promises offer comfort in difficult times. They remind us that we are not alone and that God is always with us (Matthew 28:20). Amidst suffering and challenges, we can trust in His presence and help.

By integrating these principles into our daily lives, our faith becomes not only a source of hope and strength in difficult times but also an active, living testimony to God’s presence and faithfulness.

Trust that God protects and guides you through all trials; His promises are your strength and hope, no matter what challenges you face.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-the-triumph-of-gods-love-13-1-hope-in-the-time-of-trouble/

12.6 Summary
Faithfulness, Outpouring of the Spirit, and Worldwide Proclamation

The lesson “The Last Events of Earth” deals with end-time prophecy and the final events that will occur according to biblical teaching. It emphasizes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the loud cry, and the last proclamation of the gospel. By examining Bible passages such as Revelation 18:1–4; Habakkuk 2:14; and Matthew 24:14, it is clarified that God’s work on earth will be completed through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The lesson emphasizes the important role that each individual plays in being open and receptive to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit by devoting themselves to prayer, repentance, Bible study, faith, fellowship with fellow believers, and evangelism. Overall, the lesson teaches that as believers, we can actively contribute to overcoming the obstacles that restrain the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and that we are part of a greater divine plan aimed at renewing the world and spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.

The connection between Lesson 12 and our everyday life and faith is profound and practical. The teachings of this lesson remind us that we live in a time characterized by spiritual significance and divine providence. Here are some aspects that illustrate the connection:

1. Prayer: The lesson emphasizes the importance of prayer as an essential part of our spiritual life. By giving priority to prayer and staying in constant communication with God, we prepare our minds and hearts to be filled by the Holy Spirit. In daily life, we can consciously set aside time for prayer to strengthen our spiritual connection and prepare for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

2. Repentance and Cleansing: The lesson encourages constant self-examination to recognize and confess sin. By cleansing our lives and turning away from things that separate us from God, we open ourselves to the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit. In daily life, this means becoming aware of actions or attitudes that contradict God’s will and working to rid ourselves of them.

3. Bible Study and Meditation: Regular study of the Bible and meditation on God’s Word can sharpen our spiritual perception and allow us to delve deeper into God’s plan. In everyday life, we can make time for reading and studying the Bible and reflect on how we can apply God’s Word in our daily lives.

4. Faith and Expectation: A spirit of faith and expectancy enables us to be open to the workings of the Holy Spirit. In daily life, we can work on strengthening our faith by firmly trusting that God will do His work and actively striving to do His will.

5. Fellowship with Fellow Believers: By engaging in a supportive and encouraging Christian community, we can strengthen each other’s faith and be jointly prepared for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. In daily life, this means actively participating in church life and encouraging and supporting each other in faith.

6. Service and Evangelism: When we actively strive to spread the gospel and tell others about God’s love, we open ourselves to the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world around us. In daily life, we can seek opportunities to tell others about our faith and encourage them to turn to God.

These aspects show that the teachings from Lesson 12 have direct implications for our daily lives and our faith. By preparing for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and consciously opening ourselves to God’s work, we can actively contribute to renewing the world and spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Defending God’s truth may be difficult, but we must stand firm, even when it’s unpopular.

1.Why is an understanding of end-time events very important for the coming crisis? How does the Holy Scriptures protect against deception?

An understanding of end-time events is extremely important for the coming crisis as it helps us recognize the signs of the times and prepare for what lies ahead. The Holy Scriptures serve as protection against deception by providing us with clear instructions and prophetic insights that help us distinguish truth from falsehood. By adhering to God’s Word, we can recognize deceptions and guard ourselves against them.

2.Democratic societies around the world have been a bulwark of religious freedom for centuries. How might that quickly change?

Democratic societies have been a bulwark of religious freedom for centuries, but these freedoms could quickly change, especially in times of increasing global tensions and political upheavals. Laws could be enacted to restrict or even abolish religious freedom, especially when religious beliefs conflict with state interests or political goals. These changes could be brought about through political decisions, societal pressure, or the rise of authoritarian regimes.

3.Consider the above statement by Ellen White. What decisions are you making today that could lead you to be among those confessing Adventists tomorrow?

The decisions we make today could lead us to be among the confessing Adventists who stand up for their faith amid the end-time crisis. These decisions include:

1. Decision for Obedience: We can choose today to be faithful to God and His Word by consciously deciding to obey His commandments, including the Sabbath, as a sign of our dedication to God.

2. Study of the Holy Scriptures: By seriously engaging with the Bible today and understanding the teachings of Scripture, we can be better prepared tomorrow to face the challenges of the end-time crisis and defend our faith.

3. Prayer and Spiritual Community: We can develop the habit of praying regularly today and engaging in spiritual fellowship with other believers. By doing so, we strengthen our spiritual connection to God and build a network of support and encouragement.

4. Decision for Integrity: We can decide today to live a life of integrity that aligns with our faith. By living according to moral and ethical principles in all areas of our lives, we prepare ourselves to stand firm in difficult times.

5. Preparation for Resistance: We can start today to prepare for possible resistance and trials that we may encounter tomorrow. This means strengthening our convictions, mentally and emotionally fortifying ourselves, and being aware that our faith could present us with challenges. By making conscious decisions today that align with our faith and dedication to God, we can prepare ourselves to be among the confessing Adventists who remain steadfast amid the end-time crisis.

4.How does the message of the second angel change under the loud cry, and what personal preparations can we make to receive the latter rain, which is to complete God’s work on earth?

The message of the second angel intensifies under the loud cry, becoming more urgent and intense. During this time, the warning against receiving the mark of the first beast, which calls for the worship of the false Sabbath, is emphasized. People are admonished to remain faithful to the true God and to turn away from the false teachings and traditions of the world. Personal preparations to receive the latter rain, which is to complete God’s work on earth, could include:

1. Prayer and Spiritual Dedication: We can engage more intensely in prayer and develop a deep spiritual dedication to open our hearts and minds to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

2. Repentance and Cleansing: It is important to examine our hearts and turn away from all sins. Through repentance and cleansing, we prepare ourselves to be filled by the Holy Spirit.

3. Deepening Bible Study: We can intensify our Bible study and delve deeper into God’s Word to better understand His truth and be firmly rooted in our faith.

4. Faith and Expectation: A strong trust in God and the firm expectation that He will complete His work prepares us to receive the blessing of the latter rain.

5. Fellowship with Fellow Believers: By actively participating in a supportive Christian community, we can strengthen each other’s faith and jointly prepare for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

6. Service and Evangelism: We can actively strive to spread the gospel and tell others about God’s love. By engaging in service to others, we open ourselves to the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world around us.

By making these personal preparations, we can be prepared to receive the blessing of the latter rain, which will complete God’s work on earth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-earths-closing-events-12-6-summary/

12.5 The Loud Cry
The Final Proclamation of the Gospel

Read Revelation 18:1–4; Habakkuk 2:14; and Matthew 24:14. How is God’s work on earth said to be completed according to these verses?

In Revelation, the angel announces the fall of Babylon and proclaims the glory of God in a way that illuminates the whole earth. This angel represents human messengers commissioned by the divine power and authority of Christ to proclaim the gospel. Similar to the disciples in New Testament times, to whom Christ had given authority over the powers of hell, the messengers of the end times will, with the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit, illuminate the whole world with the glory of God.

The Greek word “exousia” in the New Testament often refers to Christ’s triumph over the powers and authorities of hell. In Matthew 10:1, Jesus gives his disciples authority over these powers. In Matthew 28:18, He sends them out again with “all authority in heaven and on earth.” Just as the New Testament church proclaimed the gospel in a few years, the end-time church, filled with the Holy Spirit, will proclaim the gospel with unprecedented power.

In the end times, the Holy Spirit will be poured out with unprecedented power, and the gospel will spread rapidly to the ends of the earth. Thousands will convert in a day, and God’s grace and truth will impact the entire planet. In this way, the world will be warned, and the gospel and the hope it offers will be spread worldwide.

The prophet Hosea says: “Let us strive to know the Lord; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.” (Hosea 6:3). This shows that God’s work on earth will be completed through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The early rain, which causes the seed to sprout, symbolizes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the beginning of the apostolic age, while the latter rain, which ripens the harvest, points to the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the end of days to prepare the harvest of souls.

Overall, the great work of proclaiming the gospel will conclude with no less unfolding of God’s power than at its beginning. The prophecies fulfilled at the outpouring of the early rain will be fulfilled in the same way at the outpouring of the latter rain at the end. God’s servants, with faces shining with holy dedication, will hurry from place to place to proclaim the heavenly message. Thousands of voices will spread the warning across the entire earth, and miracles will happen, the sick will be healed, signs and wonders will follow the believers.

What holds back the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the latter rain, and the loud cry? However small our role as individuals may seem, what role can we play to be open and receptive to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?

The powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the latter rain, and the loud cry may be hindered by obstacles such as sin, indifference, worldly distractions, and lack of prayer. Our own weaknesses, doubts, and tendency to be overwhelmed by life’s challenges can also contribute to delaying this outpouring. Yet, despite these hindrances, as individuals, we can play an important role in being open and receptive to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

By:

1. Prayer: By giving priority to prayer and remaining in constant communication with God, we prepare our minds and hearts to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

2. Repentance and Cleansing: We should constantly examine ourselves to recognize and confess sin. By cleansing our lives and turning away from things that separate us from God, we open ourselves to the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit.

3. Bible Study and Meditation: Through regular study of the Bible and meditation on God’s Word, we can sharpen our spiritual perception and delve deeper into God’s plan. This enables us to discern the guidance of the Holy Spirit more clearly.

4. Faith and Expectation: A spirit of faith and expectation allows us to be open to the workings of the Holy Spirit. By firmly trusting that God will do His work and actively striving to do His will, we pave the way for a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

5. Fellowship with Fellow Believers: By engaging in a supportive and encouraging Christian community, we can strengthen each other in faith and be prepared together for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

6. Service and Evangelism: When we actively seek to spread the gospel and tell others about God’s love, we open ourselves to the movement of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world around us.

While our role as individuals may seem small, through our dedication, prayer, and faith, we can help overcome the obstacles that hinder the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. By willingly making our contribution and preparing ourselves for the work of the Holy Spirit, we can be part of a larger divine plan aimed at renewing the world and spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.

The connection between these prophetic events and our everyday lives lies in the readiness for repentance, dedication to God’s work, and active participation in spreading the gospel. We can overcome the obstacles to the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the latter rain, and the loud cry by devoting ourselves to prayer, aligning our lives with the will of God, studying the Scriptures, strengthening our faith, and actively engaging in service and evangelism. Despite our individual weaknesses and limited abilities, through our dedication, faith, and willingness, we can contribute to the completion of God’s work on earth.

By prioritizing our prayer, purifying our hearts, and living in anticipation of the Holy Spirit’s work, we prepare the way for God’s powerful outpouring on earth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-earths-closing-events-12-5-the-loud-cry/