The Blessed Dead

Introduction

Revelation 14:13 “And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!””

Context of ch. 14, 3 angels have just made three declarations:

Fear God, honor & worship him

Judgment upon systems

Judgment upon people

Revelation 14:12 “Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.”

“This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.” (NIV84)

Aka, in light of the above context, disciples of Jesus should continue to obey, patiently enduring worldly repercussions

Thoughts from this blessing:

We will be with Christ forever

Blessed (favored) forever those who die in the Lord

Voice from heaven: angel? Spirit being? God? We do not know

There is no soul sleep, no cease to exist, no annihilation. Eternity awaits us at death’s door

Blessed indeed!

The Holy Spirit amplifies this blessing. Essentially God giving an Amen

Serving Christ is not for the fainthearted

Rest From labors

V 9-11 says those who reject Christ never find relief

V12 says to endure persecution patiently

Our actions have eternal consequences

Prayers, giving, service, seeds sown … none of it goes unnoticed by God

Avoid Pharisee mentality (praise from others

The good you have done follows you into eternity

Leads to an Important question: Who is your audience?

Conclusion

Here is a test to see if your mission on earth is finished. If you are alive, it isn’t.

Francis Bacon (Philosopher)

As long as there’s breath in our lungs, there’s work to be done

Don’t get comfortable; You’re not home yet