It often seems in this world that God is not in control. There is much crime, war, disease and death. In the midst of trouble it is good to know that God still reigns. The seventh trumpet will blow and we see the coronation of the King.

1 – The shout of acclamation (vs. 15)

The kingdom (it is not plural) of this world have become the kingdom of the Lord God and he will reign for ever more. This verse was the inspiration for Handel’s Messiah. Why is this so important? It was Satan who ruled the kingdom of this world. See John 12:31 & 2 Corinthians 4:4. Satan is still ruling but it is coming to an end. It will be replaced with an everlasting kingdom.

The kingdom of Satan does not care about its citizens. Satan would pat your head as you sink in quicksand! God cares about us. God will restore His kingdom on earth. Christ will return to become king of kings and Lord of lords. He will be absolute. There will be no other rulers. Is the Lord already ruling in your life? Make sure you are on the winning side! Jesus will not have to run for re-election. He will rule for ever.

2 – A song of adoration (vs. 16-18)

When Jesus takes over there is unfettered praise in Heaven. This is the event that has been looked for since the Satan had caused Adam and Eve to fall in the Garden of Eden. Down for the centuries the prince of death has been in charge.

• The rejoicing of the saints (vs. 16-17) – They fell on their faces and worshipped God. They are giving thanks. This is what we will be doing in Heaven. It is a realisation of what God has done to us. We won’t be calling God “the man upstairs”. He is the Lord God Almighty. We need to have a life of thanksgiving. Heaven is a thankful place and you can do it on earth. It is hard to criticise someone if you are a thankful person.
• The reign of the Saviour (vs. 17) – Jesus is taking over the universe. This world is a sinking ship. It is a world which is riddled with crime, disease, apathy, divorce, racism, etc. Things are getting worse. No one is able to fix this world – except Jesus.
• The rage of the sinner (vs. 18) – There is rejoicing in heaven and rage on earth. There is coronation in heaven and confusion on earth. There is jubilation in heaven and judgment on earth. There is power in heaven and pain on earth. There is majesty in heaven and misery on earth. There is glory in heaven and grief on earth. The people on earth are still complaining. They don’t want God ruling in their lives. They want to do their own thing. However, judgment is coming for the sinner!
• The reward of the servant (vs. 18) – There is a reward for those who are servants to the Lord whether small or great. We look at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart.

3 – A scene of affirmation (vs. 19)

The temple of God was open in Heaven. It is as God intended.

• It was a symbol of God’s presence – The children of Israel knew it. Our God is with us.
• It was a symbol of God’s promise – We are not alone. We are not on the losing side. God keeps His promises and He has the power to back it up!

Categories: Revelation