Monday 15 July 2013

Read: Revelation 7:9-17

Imagine yourself at a large concert, a large festive parade, or large sporting event, and imagine the energy of the crowd around cheering and shouting in support of the event. Now, take that image and multiply 1000 times, and multiply it again; imagine the earth-shaking energy of the crowd and thunderous noise rising from it. If you can continue to multiply it again and again, you begin to get a glimpse for the vision of Revelation. Before the throne of God, John sees this amazing crowd of people, praising and worshipping God in a loud voice.

 

ENGAGE—This is our dream. It is what we, the Church, the body of Christ, are here to do. We are given the privilege of bringing to life this vision of seeing people from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne of God, lifting up one voice in praise and worship of the Lord Jesus Christ. In this great crowd stands believers who stand the test of time, persevere for their faith, and are washed by the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ.

 

We dream of a world that will no longer be plagued with human suffering, where shelter is found in the presence of God; the poor and homeless will no longer hunger and thirst, clothed from the threat of the elements; every tear wiped away, and life to the fullest is found in the arms of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

This dream will not simply come to pass, it is something that God entrusts to His Church to bring to life. We play a significant part in reaching out into people's lives, firstly, with the life-changing blood of Christ, so that they might be washed of their sins. Secondly, to take part in the transformation of life, to set the captives free, feed the hungry, clothe the poor, and bring peace and comfort to the broken. So that, one day, we might stand before the throne of God praising and worshipping Him in one thunderous voice.

 

Prayer:

Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.

 

Adoration:

 

Confession:

 

Thanks:

 

Supplication:

¥ Praise God that one day He will redeem the world and restore His people to himself. Praise God that all nations will bow before Him and praise Him for who He is. Pray that God would fill you and the rest of your congregation with a passion to see this vision realised.

¥ Pray for the ministry of Student Life on University campuses around Australia. Pray that God would equip and enable those who work with Student life to be sharing their faith on campus. Pray that through their work that many people would come to saving faith in Christ. Pray that God would grow a spirit of generosity in people’s hearts to support this important work.

 

My Additional Prayer Points.

1/.

 

2/.

 

Discussion Questions For Families and Groups

1. Do you think this is something we can achieve? Why? What do think we are doing towards achieve this? Why not? What are some of the barriers? Be honest.

2. What would it take to make this a reality? What do you think would need to happen our churches?

 

We’d love to know what were your thoughts. Head to: http://j.mp/engage-survey and fill out the online survey. If we have enough information, you might see it on Sunday.