26th May 2026

26th May 2026


Pray (ACts) 


Read (Revelation 4v1-3) 


Message (Scott Woodburn)


Heaven is an actual place beyond the sky and the stars. It is where Jesus is and it is the place where Christians go when they die. Initially the Christian will endure a separation of body and soul with the body placed in the grave. Even so, the Christian's soul will be made perfect and be carried by the angels to the place called Paradise.


It is hard to understand how but the Christian will still be conscious and aware of what is going on in Heaven. No one will be disappointed although all will wait for the resurrection when body and soul will be rejoined forever. But what is Heaven like right now? We catch a little glimpse of glory in Revelation 4.


John was called by Jesus up to Heaven in the Spirit; where he saw a throne and someone on the throne. Who was it? It was God with authority and power to rule. The beauty of the Lord shone out with God described as having the appearance "of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald." (v3). Jasper is white or translucent displaying the dazzling brightness of God's holiness and carnelian is red showing the fierceness of God's wrath. The emerald green rainbow reminds us of God's promise to Noah and His grace to sinful humanity (Genesis 9v13). No wonder Scripture says that God covers Himself with light (Psalm 104v2) dwelling in unapproachable light (1st Timothy 6v16).


There is great and awesome beauty to be found in this world - the Grand Canyon is breathtaking, the view from Slieve Croob is awesome and the Bride on her wedding day is a sight to behold. Nevertheless, the beauty of the Lord is more than we can comprehend. When we think about Heaven in terms of what we will or won't be able to do we miss the one vital focus of John's vision - on the throne is God Himself in unspeakable, majestic and glorious beauty. Brothers and sisters, by faith you will get to see the Lord and your eyes will have never seen anything or anyone as staggeringly beautiful as Him. 


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q77 What is required in the ninth commandment? The ninth commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between man and man, and of our own and our neighbor’s good name, especially in witness bearing.
​