MESSAGE FOR HOME COMING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2008

CHRISTIAN HOPE CHURCH OF CHRIST, PLYMOUTH, NORTH CAROLINA

by Reggie A. Braziel, minister

The Seven Wonders of Heaven The Seven Wonders of Heaven The Seven Wonders of Heaven The Seven Wonders of Heaven REVELATION 21:1 REVELATION 21:1 REVELATION 21:1 REVELATION 21:1----27272727

(Homeco(Homeco(Homeco(Homecoming Introduction)ming Introduction)ming Introduction)ming Introduction)

First of all I want to welcome each and every one of you to HOMECOMING SUNDAY First of all I want to welcome each and every one of you to HOMECOMING SUNDAY First of all I want to welcome each and every one of you to HOMECOMING SUNDAY First of all I want to welcome each and every one of you to HOMECOMING SUNDAY

here at Christian Hope. My ishere at Christian Hope. My ishere at Christian Hope. My ishere at Christian Hope. My isn’t it great to see the Lord’s House filled today. I n’t it great to see the Lord’s House filled today. I n’t it great to see the Lord’s House filled today. I n’t it great to see the Lord’s House filled today. I

don’t know about you, but I wish every Sunday could be Homecoming Sunday.don’t know about you, but I wish every Sunday could be Homecoming Sunday.don’t know about you, but I wish every Sunday could be Homecoming Sunday.don’t know about you, but I wish every Sunday could be Homecoming Sunday.

I know a number of you have loved ones and friends with you I know a number of you have loved ones and friends with you I know a number of you have loved ones and friends with you I know a number of you have loved ones and friends with you

this morning. Its as though we have a lot of “little reu this morning. Its as though we have a lot of “little reu this morning. Its as though we have a lot of “little reu this morning. Its as though we have a lot of “little reunions”nions”nions”nions”

within this one BIG reunion. within this one BIG reunion. within this one BIG reunion. within this one BIG reunion.

Sort of reminds you a little bit of HEAVEN doesn’t it? Which brings me to the Sort of reminds you a little bit of HEAVEN doesn’t it? Which brings me to the Sort of reminds you a little bit of HEAVEN doesn’t it? Which brings me to the Sort of reminds you a little bit of HEAVEN doesn’t it? Which brings me to the

subject I want to preach about this morning. For a few minutes this morning I would subject I want to preach about this morning. For a few minutes this morning I would subject I want to preach about this morning. For a few minutes this morning I would subject I want to preach about this morning. For a few minutes this morning I would

like for us to focus our thoughts on THE GRElike for us to focus our thoughts on THE GRElike for us to focus our thoughts on THE GRElike for us to focus our thoughts on THE GREATEST HOMECOMING OF ALL and that ATEST HOMECOMING OF ALL and that ATEST HOMECOMING OF ALL and that ATEST HOMECOMING OF ALL and that

is the HOMECOMING we will one day enjoy in HEAVEN.is the HOMECOMING we will one day enjoy in HEAVEN.is the HOMECOMING we will one day enjoy in HEAVEN.is the HOMECOMING we will one day enjoy in HEAVEN.

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Illustration Illustration Illustration Illustration (star (star (star (start here for Revivals)t here for Revivals)t here for Revivals)t here for Revivals)

They are known as THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD………They are known as THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD………They are known as THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD………They are known as THE SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD………

The great PYRAMIDS of Egypt The great PYRAMIDS of Egypt The great PYRAMIDS of Egypt The great PYRAMIDS of Egypt

The T The T The T The Taj Mahal in Indiaaj Mahal in Indiaaj Mahal in Indiaaj Mahal in India

The Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon

The Panama Canal The Panama Canal The Panama Canal The Panama Canal

The Empire State Building in NY city The Empire State Building in NY city The Empire State Building in NY city The Empire State Building in NY city

Saint Peter’s Basillica in Rome Saint Peter’s Basillica in Rome Saint Peter’s Basillica in Rome Saint Peter’s Basillica in Rome

And the Great Wall of China And the Great Wall of China And the Great Wall of China And the Great Wall of China

Some of these great wonders are natural, some are manSome of these great wonders are natural, some are manSome of these great wonders are natural, some are manSome of these great wonders are natural, some are man----mamamamade, all are de, all are de, all are de, all are

labeled a “WONDER” because of their UNIQUE SIZE , GRANDEUR orlabeled a “WONDER” because of their UNIQUE SIZE , GRANDEUR orlabeled a “WONDER” because of their UNIQUE SIZE , GRANDEUR orlabeled a “WONDER” because of their UNIQUE SIZE , GRANDEUR or

DESIGN.DESIGN.DESIGN.DESIGN.

F F F For the next few minutes I would like for us to think about or the next few minutes I would like for us to think about or the next few minutes I would like for us to think about or the next few minutes I would like for us to think about

THE SEVEN WONDERS OF HEAVEN.THE SEVEN WONDERS OF HEAVEN.THE SEVEN WONDERS OF HEAVEN.THE SEVEN WONDERS OF HEAVEN.

PPPPlease open your BIBLES to thelease open your BIBLES to thelease open your BIBLES to thelease open your BIBLES to the 21 21 21 21stststst chapter of the Book of Revelation. chapter of the Book of Revelation. chapter of the Book of Revelation. chapter of the Book of Revelation.

As you know, the apostle JOHN was exiled on the Isle of Patmos the last As you know, the apostle JOHN was exiled on the Isle of Patmos the last As you know, the apostle JOHN was exiled on the Isle of Patmos the last As you know, the apostle JOHN was exiled on the Isle of Patmos the last

years of his liyears of his liyears of his liyears of his life. It was on this island, GOD gave JOHN a glimpse into fe. It was on this island, GOD gave JOHN a glimpse into fe. It was on this island, GOD gave JOHN a glimpse into fe. It was on this island, GOD gave JOHN a glimpse into

the future of the WORLD and HUMANITY. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the future of the WORLD and HUMANITY. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the future of the WORLD and HUMANITY. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the future of the WORLD and HUMANITY. Inspired by the Holy Spirit,

John put into words what he saw in that divine revelation. John put into words what he saw in that divine revelation. John put into words what he saw in that divine revelation. John put into words what he saw in that divine revelation.

Rather than reading this passage in its entirety, we will read a fRather than reading this passage in its entirety, we will read a fRather than reading this passage in its entirety, we will read a fRather than reading this passage in its entirety, we will read a few ew ew ew

verses at a time as we examine each of the SEVEN WONDERS .verses at a time as we examine each of the SEVEN WONDERS .verses at a time as we examine each of the SEVEN WONDERS .verses at a time as we examine each of the SEVEN WONDERS .

The First Wonder of Heaven is…… The First Wonder of Heaven is…… The First Wonder of Heaven is…… The First Wonder of Heaven is……

The Wonder ofThe Wonder ofThe Wonder ofThe Wonder of Heaven's Existence Heaven's Existence Heaven's Existence Heaven's Existence

Revelation 21:1,2Revelation 21:1,2Revelation 21:1,2Revelation 21:1,2

1. One of the classic Christmas movies of all time is the movie 1. One of the classic Christmas movies of all time is the movie 1. One of the classic Christmas movies of all time is the movie 1. One of the classic Christmas movies of all time is the movie

“Miracle on 34“Miracle on 34“Miracle on 34“Miracle on 34thththth Street.” Street.” Street.” Street.” And one of the most memorable lines And one of the most memorable lines And one of the most memorable lines And one of the most memorable lines

from that movie is, from that movie is, from that movie is, from that movie is, “Yes Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus.”“Yes Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus.”“Yes Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus.”“Yes Virginia, there really is a Santa Claus.”

2. I would say to you this morning, “YES VIRGINIA, THERE REALLY2. I would say to you this morning, “YES VIRGINIA, THERE REALLY2. I would say to you this morning, “YES VIRGINIA, THERE REALLY2. I would say to you this morning, “YES VIRGINIA, THERE REALLY

IS A HEAVEN! The fact that such a magnificent place IS A HEAVEN! The fact that such a magnificent place IS A HEAVEN! The fact that such a magnificent place IS A HEAVEN! The fact that such a magnificent place eveneveneveneven

exists is a WONDER in and of itself. exists is a WONDER in and of itself. exists is a WONDER in and of itself. exists is a WONDER in and of itself.

3. Historical Literature has given us many wonderful make 3. Historical Literature has given us many wonderful make 3. Historical Literature has given us many wonderful make 3. Historical Literature has given us many wonderful make----believebelievebelievebelieve

lands such as: lands such as: lands such as: lands such as: The Land of Oz…….Never, Never Land…..CamelotThe Land of Oz…….Never, Never Land…..CamelotThe Land of Oz…….Never, Never Land…..CamelotThe Land of Oz…….Never, Never Land…..Camelot

……and Atlantis ……and Atlantis ……and Atlantis ……and Atlantis just to name a few.just to name a few.just to name a few.just to name a few.

These These These These places have captured the imagination of readersplaces have captured the imagination of readersplaces have captured the imagination of readersplaces have captured the imagination of readers

for many generations. If only they truly existed! for many generations. If only they truly existed! for many generations. If only they truly existed! for many generations. If only they truly existed!

4. I thin 4. I thin 4. I thin 4. I think some people believe HEAVEN is just another LAND OFk some people believe HEAVEN is just another LAND OFk some people believe HEAVEN is just another LAND OFk some people believe HEAVEN is just another LAND OF

MAKE BELIEVE. But JOHN tells us heaven is a very real place. MAKE BELIEVE. But JOHN tells us heaven is a very real place. MAKE BELIEVE. But JOHN tells us heaven is a very real place. MAKE BELIEVE. But JOHN tells us heaven is a very real place.

5. As a matter 5. As a matter 5. As a matter 5. As a matter----ofofofof----fact we find over 400 references to HEAVENfact we find over 400 references to HEAVENfact we find over 400 references to HEAVENfact we find over 400 references to HEAVEN

in the Bible. in the Bible. in the Bible. in the Bible.

Remember how Jesus began the LORD’S PRAYER?Remember how Jesus began the LORD’S PRAYER?Remember how Jesus began the LORD’S PRAYER?Remember how Jesus began the LORD’S PRAYER?

Our Father, who art in Our Father, who art in Our Father, who art in Our Father, who art in HEAVENHEAVENHEAVENHEAVEN, h, h, h, hallowed (holy) be your name.allowed (holy) be your name.allowed (holy) be your name.allowed (holy) be your name.

(Matt (Matt (Matt (Matthew 6:9)hew 6:9)hew 6:9)hew 6:9)

In In In In ACTS 1ACTS 1ACTS 1ACTS 1 on the day Jesus ascended, the two men in white clothing on the day Jesus ascended, the two men in white clothing on the day Jesus ascended, the two men in white clothing on the day Jesus ascended, the two men in white clothing

said to the apostles, said to the apostles, said to the apostles, said to the apostles, “Men of “Men of “Men of “Men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking intoGalilee, why do you stand here looking intoGalilee, why do you stand here looking intoGalilee, why do you stand here looking into

the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into HeavenHeavenHeavenHeaven,,,,

will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into HeavenHeavenHeavenHeaven.”.”.”.”

(Acts 1:11) (Acts 1:11) (Acts 1:11) (Acts 1:11)

And remember that wonderful promise the Apostle Paul wrote about And remember that wonderful promise the Apostle Paul wrote about And remember that wonderful promise the Apostle Paul wrote about And remember that wonderful promise the Apostle Paul wrote about

in in in in II CORINTHIANS 5:1 II CORINTHIANS 5:1 II CORINTHIANS 5:1 II CORINTHIANS 5:1 Now we know that if the earthly tent we live inNow we know that if the earthly tent we live inNow we know that if the earthly tent we live inNow we know that if the earthly tent we live in

is destroyed, we have a building f is destroyed, we have a building f is destroyed, we have a building f is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house inrom God, an eternal house inrom God, an eternal house inrom God, an eternal house in

Heaven Heaven Heaven Heaven....

6. These are just a few of the hundreds of scriptures that tell us 6. These are just a few of the hundreds of scriptures that tell us 6. These are just a few of the hundreds of scriptures that tell us 6. These are just a few of the hundreds of scriptures that tell us

HE HE HE HEAVEN is a very real place.AVEN is a very real place.AVEN is a very real place.AVEN is a very real place.

7. Yes, the first wonder of Heaven is the WONDER OF ITS EXISTENCE. 7. Yes, the first wonder of Heaven is the WONDER OF ITS EXISTENCE. 7. Yes, the first wonder of Heaven is the WONDER OF ITS EXISTENCE. 7. Yes, the first wonder of Heaven is the WONDER OF ITS EXISTENCE.

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The Second Wonder of Heaven is….. The Second Wonder of Heaven is….. The Second Wonder of Heaven is….. The Second Wonder of Heaven is…..

The Wonder of Heaven's PerfectionThe Wonder of Heaven's PerfectionThe Wonder of Heaven's PerfectionThe Wonder of Heaven's Perfection

Revelation 21:3Revelation 21:3Revelation 21:3Revelation 21:3----4444

1. Brothers and sisters, it just doe 1. Brothers and sisters, it just doe 1. Brothers and sisters, it just doe 1. Brothers and sisters, it just doesn’t get any more PERFECT thansn’t get any more PERFECT thansn’t get any more PERFECT thansn’t get any more PERFECT than

that. that. that. that.

(A) First, we will live in the (A) First, we will live in the (A) First, we will live in the (A) First, we will live in the PRESENCEPRESENCEPRESENCEPRESENCE of the of the of the of the PERFECT ONE.PERFECT ONE.PERFECT ONE.PERFECT ONE.

Notice the emphasis John places on God and usNotice the emphasis John places on God and usNotice the emphasis John places on God and usNotice the emphasis John places on God and us

being in the same place together. being in the same place together. being in the same place together. being in the same place together.

The dwelling of God is with men.The dwelling of God is with men.The dwelling of God is with men.The dwelling of God is with men.

God Himself will be with them and be their God. God Himself will be with them and be their God. God Himself will be with them and be their God. God Himself will be with them and be their God.

Truly one of the great wonders of Heaven is that Truly one of the great wonders of Heaven is that Truly one of the great wonders of Heaven is that Truly one of the great wonders of Heaven is that we whowe whowe whowe who

have been so UNHOLY will be living in the presence of the have been so UNHOLY will be living in the presence of the have been so UNHOLY will be living in the presence of the have been so UNHOLY will be living in the presence of the

One who is PERFECTLY HOLY for all One who is PERFECTLY HOLY for all One who is PERFECTLY HOLY for all One who is PERFECTLY HOLY for all eternity. The fact thateternity. The fact thateternity. The fact thateternity. The fact that

God, Himself would even want to live with us is a wonder in God, Himself would even want to live with us is a wonder in God, Himself would even want to live with us is a wonder in God, Himself would even want to live with us is a wonder in

and of itself. and of itself. and of itself. and of itself.

(B) But not only will Heaven be PERFECT because we will be living (B) But not only will Heaven be PERFECT because we will be living (B) But not only will Heaven be PERFECT because we will be living (B) But not only will Heaven be PERFECT because we will be living

in the PRESENCE of the PERFECT ONE, i in the PRESENCE of the PERFECT ONE, i in the PRESENCE of the PERFECT ONE, i in the PRESENCE of the PERFECT ONE, it will also be greatt will also be greatt will also be greatt will also be great

because we will be living in a PERFECT ENVIRONMENT. because we will be living in a PERFECT ENVIRONMENT. because we will be living in a PERFECT ENVIRONMENT. because we will be living in a PERFECT ENVIRONMENT.

NO MORE TEARS NO MORE TEARS NO MORE TEARS NO MORE TEARS

NO MORE DEATH NO MORE DEATH NO MORE DEATH NO MORE DEATH

NO MORE MOURNING NO MORE MOURNING NO MORE MOURNING NO MORE MOURNING

NO MORE CRYING NO MORE CRYING NO MORE CRYING NO MORE CRYING

NO MORE PAIN NO MORE PAIN NO MORE PAIN NO MORE PAIN

NO MORE SICKNESS NO MORE SICKNESS NO MORE SICKNESS NO MORE SICKNESS

NO MORE CANCER NO MORE CANCER NO MORE CANCER NO MORE CANCER

NO MORE HEART ATTACKS NO MORE HEART ATTACKS NO MORE HEART ATTACKS NO MORE HEART ATTACKS

NO MORE STROKES NO MORE STROKES NO MORE STROKES NO MORE STROKES

NO MORE ALZHEIMERS NO MORE ALZHEIMERS NO MORE ALZHEIMERS NO MORE ALZHEIMERS

NO MORE FUNERAL PROCESSIONS NO MORE FUNERAL PROCESSIONS NO MORE FUNERAL PROCESSIONS NO MORE FUNERAL PROCESSIONS

NO MORE AMBULANCES NO MORE AMBULANCES NO MORE AMBULANCES NO MORE AMBULANCES

NO MORE NO MORE NO MORE NO MORE HOSPITALS HOSPITALS HOSPITALS HOSPITALS

NO MORE EMERGENCY ROOMS NO MORE EMERGENCY ROOMS NO MORE EMERGENCY ROOMS NO MORE EMERGENCY ROOMS

NO MORE AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS NO MORE AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS NO MORE AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS NO MORE AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS

NO MORE MURDERS NO MORE MURDERS NO MORE MURDERS NO MORE MURDERS

NO MORE RAPES NO MORE RAPES NO MORE RAPES NO MORE RAPES

NO MORE ROBBERIES NO MORE ROBBERIES NO MORE ROBBERIES NO MORE ROBBERIES

NO MORE SUICIDES NO MORE SUICIDES NO MORE SUICIDES NO MORE SUICIDES

2. All the things that bro2. All the things that bro2. All the things that bro2. All the things that brought us so much sorrow and suffering in thisught us so much sorrow and suffering in thisught us so much sorrow and suffering in thisught us so much sorrow and suffering in this

imperfect world, will be absent in HEAVEN. imperfect world, will be absent in HEAVEN. imperfect world, will be absent in HEAVEN. imperfect world, will be absent in HEAVEN.

3. Yes the second great WONDER OF HEAVEN is the WONDER of its 3. Yes the second great WONDER OF HEAVEN is the WONDER of its 3. Yes the second great WONDER OF HEAVEN is the WONDER of its 3. Yes the second great WONDER OF HEAVEN is the WONDER of its

PERFECTION. PERFECTION. PERFECTION. PERFECTION.

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The Third Wonder of Heaven is…. The Third Wonder of Heaven is…. The Third Wonder of Heaven is…. The Third Wonder of Heaven is…. The Wonder of Heaven's Incredible SiThe Wonder of Heaven's Incredible SiThe Wonder of Heaven's Incredible SiThe Wonder of Heaven's Incredible Sizezezeze

Revelation 21:15Revelation 21:15Revelation 21:15Revelation 21:15----17171717

1. According to John, Heaven is laid out like a perfect cube that 1. According to John, Heaven is laid out like a perfect cube that 1. According to John, Heaven is laid out like a perfect cube that 1. According to John, Heaven is laid out like a perfect cube that

is……. is……. is……. is…….

*1,400 m *1,400 m *1,400 m *1,400 miles longiles longiles longiles long

*1,400 miles wide *1,400 miles wide *1,400 miles wide *1,400 miles wide

*And an incredible 1,400 miles high *And an incredible 1,400 miles high *And an incredible 1,400 miles high *And an incredible 1,400 miles high

This figures out to about 2 MILLIO This figures out to about 2 MILLIO This figures out to about 2 MILLIO This figures out to about 2 MILLION SQUARE MILES, which is aboutN SQUARE MILES, which is aboutN SQUARE MILES, which is aboutN SQUARE MILES, which is about

half the size of the United States. By comparison, NEW YORK CITY half the size of the United States. By comparison, NEW YORK CITY half the size of the United States. By comparison, NEW YORK CITY half the size of the United States. By comparison, NEW YORK CITY

is about 305 squar is about 305 squar is about 305 squar is about 305 square miles in size. This means you could fite miles in size. This means you could fite miles in size. This means you could fite miles in size. This means you could fit

the city of New York inside Heaven approximately 6,500 times the city of New York inside Heaven approximately 6,500 times the city of New York inside Heaven approximately 6,500 times the city of New York inside Heaven approximately 6,500 times

And surr And surr And surr And surrounding this massive cube is a WALL that is ounding this massive cube is a WALL that is ounding this massive cube is a WALL that is ounding this massive cube is a WALL that is

200 FEET THICK. Now I don’t know about you, but I would 200 FEET THICK. Now I don’t know about you, but I would 200 FEET THICK. Now I don’t know about you, but I would 200 FEET THICK. Now I don’t know about you, but I would

feel perfect feel perfect feel perfect feel perfectly SAFE and SECURE behind a wall that thick.ly SAFE and SECURE behind a wall that thick.ly SAFE and SECURE behind a wall that thick.ly SAFE and SECURE behind a wall that thick.

2. As incredible as the massive width and breadth of heaven is, 2. As incredible as the massive width and breadth of heaven is, 2. As incredible as the massive width and breadth of heaven is, 2. As incredible as the massive width and breadth of heaven is,

the he the he the he the height is what truly amazes me.ight is what truly amazes me.ight is what truly amazes me.ight is what truly amazes me.

The average jumbo jet flies at an altitude of about 7 The average jumbo jet flies at an altitude of about 7 The average jumbo jet flies at an altitude of about 7 The average jumbo jet flies at an altitude of about 7----8 miles8 miles8 miles8 miles

above the ear above the ear above the ear above the earth. Mt. Everest, the world’s tallest mountain isth. Mt. Everest, the world’s tallest mountain isth. Mt. Everest, the world’s tallest mountain isth. Mt. Everest, the world’s tallest mountain is

approximately 5 ½ miles high. HEAVEN is 1,400 miles high. approximately 5 ½ miles high. HEAVEN is 1,400 miles high. approximately 5 ½ miles high. HEAVEN is 1,400 miles high. approximately 5 ½ miles high. HEAVEN is 1,400 miles high.

If Heaven were a sky scraper it would be nearly 375,000 stories high. If Heaven were a sky scraper it would be nearly 375,000 stories high. If Heaven were a sky scraper it would be nearly 375,000 stories high. If Heaven were a sky scraper it would be nearly 375,000 stories high.

3. Yes, one of the truly great wonders of heaven 3. Yes, one of the truly great wonders of heaven 3. Yes, one of the truly great wonders of heaven 3. Yes, one of the truly great wonders of heaven is theis theis theis the

WONDER OF ITS INCREDIBLE SIZE. WONDER OF ITS INCREDIBLE SIZE. WONDER OF ITS INCREDIBLE SIZE. WONDER OF ITS INCREDIBLE SIZE.

The fourth wonder of Heaven is…..The fourth wonder of Heaven is…..The fourth wonder of Heaven is…..The fourth wonder of Heaven is….. The Wonder of Heaven's Incredible The Wonder of Heaven's Incredible The Wonder of Heaven's Incredible The Wonder of Heaven's Incredible

BeautyBeautyBeautyBeauty

Revelation 21:11 Revelation 21:11 Revelation 21:11 Revelation 21:11----14; 1814; 1814; 1814; 18----21212121

1. It should not surprise us that God has creat 1. It should not surprise us that God has creat 1. It should not surprise us that God has creat 1. It should not surprise us that God has created Heaven to beed Heaven to beed Heaven to beed Heaven to be

a place of INDESCRIBABLE BEAUTY. Anything that God creates a place of INDESCRIBABLE BEAUTY. Anything that God creates a place of INDESCRIBABLE BEAUTY. Anything that God creates a place of INDESCRIBABLE BEAUTY. Anything that God creates

is BEAUTIFUL beyond description. is BEAUTIFUL beyond description. is BEAUTIFUL beyond description. is BEAUTIFUL beyond description.

Look at the SUN, the MOON and the STARS in the SKY above Look at the SUN, the MOON and the STARS in the SKY above Look at the SUN, the MOON and the STARS in the SKY above Look at the SUN, the MOON and the STARS in the SKY above

you and they DECLARE THE GLORY OF THE LORD. you and they DECLARE THE GLORY OF THE LORD. you and they DECLARE THE GLORY OF THE LORD. you and they DECLARE THE GLORY OF THE LORD.

Look at the mighty oceans…….and the winding, twisting rivers. Look at the mighty oceans…….and the winding, twisting rivers. Look at the mighty oceans…….and the winding, twisting rivers. Look at the mighty oceans…….and the winding, twisting rivers.

Look at the majestic mountains and the Look at the majestic mountains and the Look at the majestic mountains and the Look at the majestic mountains and the luscious green valleys.luscious green valleys.luscious green valleys.luscious green valleys.

Look at the RAINBOW in the sky after a spring RAIN…..or a Look at the RAINBOW in the sky after a spring RAIN…..or a Look at the RAINBOW in the sky after a spring RAIN…..or a Look at the RAINBOW in the sky after a spring RAIN…..or a

blanket of FRESH FAL blanket of FRESH FAL blanket of FRESH FAL blanket of FRESH FALLEN SNOW…………and they all tell usLEN SNOW…………and they all tell usLEN SNOW…………and they all tell usLEN SNOW…………and they all tell us

everything that comes from the hands of GOD is a masterpiece. everything that comes from the hands of GOD is a masterpiece. everything that comes from the hands of GOD is a masterpiece. everything that comes from the hands of GOD is a masterpiece.

2. I don’t belie 2. I don’t belie 2. I don’t belie 2. I don’t believe our human minds can even begin to wrap aroundve our human minds can even begin to wrap aroundve our human minds can even begin to wrap aroundve our human minds can even begin to wrap around

just how beautiful HEAVEN is going to be. just how beautiful HEAVEN is going to be. just how beautiful HEAVEN is going to be. just how beautiful HEAVEN is going to be.

What John is des What John is des What John is des What John is describing for us here is a place that so glistening,cribing for us here is a place that so glistening,cribing for us here is a place that so glistening,cribing for us here is a place that so glistening,

so brilliant in color it was as though he were looking at the so brilliant in color it was as though he were looking at the so brilliant in color it was as though he were looking at the so brilliant in color it was as though he were looking at the

most luxurious piece of JEWELRY he had ever seen. most luxurious piece of JEWELRY he had ever seen. most luxurious piece of JEWELRY he had ever seen. most luxurious piece of JEWELRY he had ever seen.

3. In 3. In 3. In 3. In verse 11 verse 11 verse 11 verse 11 John describes the over all beauty of Heaven as beiJohn describes the over all beauty of Heaven as beiJohn describes the over all beauty of Heaven as beiJohn describes the over all beauty of Heaven as beingngngng

like like like like jasper. jasper. jasper. jasper. The greek word that is used for jasper in this verseThe greek word that is used for jasper in this verseThe greek word that is used for jasper in this verseThe greek word that is used for jasper in this verse

refers to a completely clear DIAMOND wi refers to a completely clear DIAMOND wi refers to a completely clear DIAMOND wi refers to a completely clear DIAMOND with the brilliant light ofth the brilliant light ofth the brilliant light ofth the brilliant light of

God’s radiant glory shining out of it. God’s radiant glory shining out of it. God’s radiant glory shining out of it. God’s radiant glory shining out of it.

The foundation of the Heavenly city is made of 12 PRECIOUS The foundation of the Heavenly city is made of 12 PRECIOUS The foundation of the Heavenly city is made of 12 PRECIOUS The foundation of the Heavenly city is made of 12 PRECIOUS

GEMS. Because some of the names of these g GEMS. Because some of the names of these g GEMS. Because some of the names of these g GEMS. Because some of the names of these gems hasems hasems hasems has

changed through the centuries it is difficult to identify all changed through the centuries it is difficult to identify all changed through the centuries it is difficult to identify all changed through the centuries it is difficult to identify all

twelve. But we do recognize EIG twelve. But we do recognize EIG twelve. But we do recognize EIG twelve. But we do recognize EIGHT of these gems as beingHT of these gems as beingHT of these gems as beingHT of these gems as being

the same gems that were in the BREASTPLATE of the High the same gems that were in the BREASTPLATE of the High the same gems that were in the BREASTPLATE of the High the same gems that were in the BREASTPLATE of the High

Priest of the Old Testa Priest of the Old Testa Priest of the Old Testa Priest of the Old Testament.ment.ment.ment.

Chalcedony Chalcedony Chalcedony Chalcedony--------------------is a SKY BLUE gem with translucent, colored stripes.is a SKY BLUE gem with translucent, colored stripes.is a SKY BLUE gem with translucent, colored stripes.is a SKY BLUE gem with translucent, colored stripes.

Sardonyx Sardonyx Sardonyx Sardonyx------------------------has parallel layers of RED and WHITE.has parallel layers of RED and WHITE.has parallel layers of RED and WHITE.has parallel layers of RED and WHITE.

Chrysolite Chrysolite Chrysolite Chrysolite------------------------is a gem with transparent GOLD or YELLOWISH tonesis a gem with transparent GOLD or YELLOWISH tonesis a gem with transparent GOLD or YELLOWISH tonesis a gem with transparent GOLD or YELLOWISH tones....

Beryl Beryl Beryl Beryl----------------------------------------------------has a wide range of color from emerald green to goldenhas a wide range of color from emerald green to goldenhas a wide range of color from emerald green to goldenhas a wide range of color from emerald green to golden

yellow. yellow. yellow. yellow.

TopazTopazTopazTopaz------------------------------------------------is a soft yellow or yellow green.is a soft yellow or yellow green.is a soft yellow or yellow green.is a soft yellow or yellow green.

ChrysopraseChrysopraseChrysopraseChrysoprase----------------is is is is like an APPLE green colorlike an APPLE green colorlike an APPLE green colorlike an APPLE green color

JacinthJacinthJacinthJacinth----------------------------------------is a deep red or reddish brown is a deep red or reddish brown is a deep red or reddish brown is a deep red or reddish brown

AmethystAmethystAmethystAmethyst------------------------iiiis a purple gem.s a purple gem.s a purple gem.s a purple gem.

Now I tell you all that just to give you an idea of the brilliant, Now I tell you all that just to give you an idea of the brilliant, Now I tell you all that just to give you an idea of the brilliant, Now I tell you all that just to give you an idea of the brilliant,

rich colors of the FOUNDA rich colors of the FOUNDA rich colors of the FOUNDA rich colors of the FOUNDATION of heaven.TION of heaven.TION of heaven.TION of heaven.

4. And of course there’s the 12 GATES of HEAVEN , each gate 4. And of course there’s the 12 GATES of HEAVEN , each gate 4. And of course there’s the 12 GATES of HEAVEN , each gate 4. And of course there’s the 12 GATES of HEAVEN , each gate

made of a SINGLE PEARL. Of course a made of a SINGLE PEARL. Of course a made of a SINGLE PEARL. Of course a made of a SINGLE PEARL. Of course a pearls are producedpearls are producedpearls are producedpearls are produced

by the wounding of the oyster’s flesh against the shell it by the wounding of the oyster’s flesh against the shell it by the wounding of the oyster’s flesh against the shell it by the wounding of the oyster’s flesh against the shell it

inhabits. inhabits. inhabits. inhabits.

These gi These gi These gi These giant PEARL gates will serve as eternal reminderant PEARL gates will serve as eternal reminderant PEARL gates will serve as eternal reminderant PEARL gates will serve as eternal reminder

to all of us that CHRIST’S FLESH was wounded on the Cross to all of us that CHRIST’S FLESH was wounded on the Cross to all of us that CHRIST’S FLESH was wounded on the Cross to all of us that CHRIST’S FLESH was wounded on the Cross

in order to provide us with ETERNAL LIFE. in order to provide us with ETERNAL LIFE. in order to provide us with ETERNAL LIFE. in order to provide us with ETERNAL LIFE.

5. Yes, the FOURTH WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER of its 5. Yes, the FOURTH WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER of its 5. Yes, the FOURTH WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER of its 5. Yes, the FOURTH WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER of its

BEAUTY. BEAUTY. BEAUTY. BEAUTY.

The Fifth Wonder of Heaven is….. The Fifth Wonder of Heaven is….. The Fifth Wonder of Heaven is….. The Fifth Wonder of Heaven is…..

The Wonder of Heaven's HolinessThe Wonder of Heaven's HolinessThe Wonder of Heaven's HolinessThe Wonder of Heaven's Holiness

Revelation 21:22Revelation 21:22Revelation 21:22Revelation 21:22----26262626

1. NO TEMPLE……NO SUN 1. NO TEMPLE……NO SUN 1. NO TEMPLE……NO SUN 1. NO TEMPLE……NO SUN……NO MOON……NO NIGHT…..NO……NO MOON……NO NIGHT…..NO……NO MOON……NO NIGHT…..NO……NO MOON……NO NIGHT…..NO

CLOSED GATES. HEAVEN is going to be a place of awesome CLOSED GATES. HEAVEN is going to be a place of awesome CLOSED GATES. HEAVEN is going to be a place of awesome CLOSED GATES. HEAVEN is going to be a place of awesome

Holiness! Holiness! Holiness! Holiness!

NO TEMPLE NO TEMPLE NO TEMPLE NO TEMPLE------------------------because to be in the glorious presence of because to be in the glorious presence of because to be in the glorious presence of because to be in the glorious presence of

God, the Father and God, the Son will be like be God, the Father and God, the Son will be like be God, the Father and God, the Son will be like be God, the Father and God, the Son will be like being insideing insideing insideing inside

a HOLY TEMPLE. They are that TEMPLE. a HOLY TEMPLE. They are that TEMPLE. a HOLY TEMPLE. They are that TEMPLE. a HOLY TEMPLE. They are that TEMPLE.

NO NEED FOR A SUN OR MOON……..because the NO NEED FOR A SUN OR MOON……..because the NO NEED FOR A SUN OR MOON……..because the NO NEED FOR A SUN OR MOON……..because the brilliantbrilliantbrilliantbrilliant

radiance of God the Father and God the Son will illuminate radiance of God the Father and God the Son will illuminate radiance of God the Father and God the Son will illuminate radiance of God the Father and God the Son will illuminate

all of Heaven. all of Heaven. all of Heaven. all of Heaven.

And there will never be NIGHT in HEAVEN…….It will be a place And there will never be NIGHT in HEAVEN…….It will be a place And there will never be NIGHT in HEAVEN…….It will be a place And there will never be NIGHT in HEAVEN…….It will be a place

of NEVER of NEVER of NEVER of NEVER----ENDING DAY, because the brilliant raENDING DAY, because the brilliant raENDING DAY, because the brilliant raENDING DAY, because the brilliant radiance ofdiance ofdiance ofdiance of

God the Father and God the Son will never stop shining. God the Father and God the Son will never stop shining. God the Father and God the Son will never stop shining. God the Father and God the Son will never stop shining.

And the GATES of HEAVEN will ne And the GATES of HEAVEN will ne And the GATES of HEAVEN will ne And the GATES of HEAVEN will never be closed. Here on earthver be closed. Here on earthver be closed. Here on earthver be closed. Here on earth

we CLOSE OUR GATES, WE LOCK OUR DOORS, and we FASTEN we CLOSE OUR GATES, WE LOCK OUR DOORS, and we FASTEN we CLOSE OUR GATES, WE LOCK OUR DOORS, and we FASTEN we CLOSE OUR GATES, WE LOCK OUR DOORS, and we FASTEN

DOWN OUR WINDOWS DOWN OUR WINDOWS DOWN OUR WINDOWS DOWN OUR WINDOWS because of ALL THE UNHOLY things that because of ALL THE UNHOLY things that because of ALL THE UNHOLY things that because of ALL THE UNHOLY things that

go on in the dark of night. Because there is NO UNHOLINESS go on in the dark of night. Because there is NO UNHOLINESS go on in the dark of night. Because there is NO UNHOLINESS go on in the dark of night. Because there is NO UNHOLINESS

and NO NIGHT in heaven…………there will never be any needand NO NIGHT in heaven…………there will never be any needand NO NIGHT in heaven…………there will never be any needand NO NIGHT in heaven…………there will never be any need

to SHUT HEAVEN’S GATES. to SHUT HEAVEN’S GATES. to SHUT HEAVEN’S GATES. to SHUT HEAVEN’S GATES.

2. Yes, the FIFTH great wo 2. Yes, the FIFTH great wo 2. Yes, the FIFTH great wo 2. Yes, the FIFTH great wonder of HEAVEN is the WONDER ofnder of HEAVEN is the WONDER ofnder of HEAVEN is the WONDER ofnder of HEAVEN is the WONDER of

Heaven’s Holiness. Heaven’s Holiness. Heaven’s Holiness. Heaven’s Holiness.

********************************************************************************************

The Sixth Wonder of Heaven is…… The Sixth Wonder of Heaven is…… The Sixth Wonder of Heaven is…… The Sixth Wonder of Heaven is…… The Wonder of Who Won't Be In HeavenThe Wonder of Who Won't Be In HeavenThe Wonder of Who Won't Be In HeavenThe Wonder of Who Won't Be In Heaven

Revelation 21:27Revelation 21:27Revelation 21:27Revelation 21:27

1.One of 1.One of 1.One of 1.One of the wonderful things about HEAVEN is that those people the wonderful things about HEAVEN is that those people the wonderful things about HEAVEN is that those people the wonderful things about HEAVEN is that those people

who made this world a dangerous and deadly place in which towho made this world a dangerous and deadly place in which towho made this world a dangerous and deadly place in which towho made this world a dangerous and deadly place in which to

live are NOT GOING TO BE THERE.live are NOT GOING TO BE THERE.live are NOT GOING TO BE THERE.live are NOT GOING TO BE THERE.

2. Heaven is going to be absolutely wonderful because of all2. Heaven is going to be absolutely wonderful because of all2. Heaven is going to be absolutely wonderful because of all2. Heaven is going to be absolutely wonderful because of all

the “NO MORES!.”the “NO MORES!.”the “NO MORES!.”the “NO MORES!.”

----No more RAPISTSNo more RAPISTSNo more RAPISTSNo more RAPISTS

----No more MURDERERSNo more MURDERERSNo more MURDERERSNo more MURDERERS

---- No more ROBBERS No more ROBBERS No more ROBBERS No more ROBBERS

----No more PEDIPHILESNo more PEDIPHILESNo more PEDIPHILESNo more PEDIPHILES

----No more WIFE BEATERSNo more WIFE BEATERSNo more WIFE BEATERSNo more WIFE BEATERS

----No more CHILD ABUSERSNo more CHILD ABUSERSNo more CHILD ABUSERSNo more CHILD ABUSERS

----No more CON ARTISTSNo more CON ARTISTSNo more CON ARTISTSNo more CON ARTISTS

----No more KIDNAPPERSNo more KIDNAPPERSNo more KIDNAPPERSNo more KIDNAPPERS

----No more ARSONISTSNo more ARSONISTSNo more ARSONISTSNo more ARSONISTS

----No more SERIAL KILLERSNo more SERIAL KILLERSNo more SERIAL KILLERSNo more SERIAL KILLERS

----No more MANIACAL DICTATORSNo more MANIACAL DICTATORSNo more MANIACAL DICTATORSNo more MANIACAL DICTATORS

----No more SUICIDE BOMBNo more SUICIDE BOMBNo more SUICIDE BOMBNo more SUICIDE BOMBERSERSERSERS

----No more AL QUIDA TERRORISTSNo more AL QUIDA TERRORISTSNo more AL QUIDA TERRORISTSNo more AL QUIDA TERRORISTS

NOTHING……NOTHING IMPURE WILL EVER ENTERNOTHING……NOTHING IMPURE WILL EVER ENTERNOTHING……NOTHING IMPURE WILL EVER ENTERNOTHING……NOTHING IMPURE WILL EVER ENTER

HEAVEN, NOR W HEAVEN, NOR W HEAVEN, NOR W HEAVEN, NOR WILL ANYONE WHO DOES WHAT ISILL ANYONE WHO DOES WHAT ISILL ANYONE WHO DOES WHAT ISILL ANYONE WHO DOES WHAT IS

SHAMEFUL OR DECEITFUL! SHAMEFUL OR DECEITFUL! SHAMEFUL OR DECEITFUL! SHAMEFUL OR DECEITFUL!

3. Yes, the SIXTH great WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER 3. Yes, the SIXTH great WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER 3. Yes, the SIXTH great WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER 3. Yes, the SIXTH great WONDER of HEAVEN is the WONDER

of WHO WON’T BE THERE. of WHO WON’T BE THERE. of WHO WON’T BE THERE. of WHO WON’T BE THERE.

************************************************************

This brings us to ………This brings us to ………This brings us to ………This brings us to ………

The Seventh Wonder of Heaven is….. The Seventh Wonder of Heaven is….. The Seventh Wonder of Heaven is….. The Seventh Wonder of Heaven is…..

The Wonder of Who Will Be In HeavenThe Wonder of Who Will Be In HeavenThe Wonder of Who Will Be In HeavenThe Wonder of Who Will Be In Heaven

Revelation 21:27 Revelation 21:27 Revelation 21:27 Revelation 21:27 again (with emphaagain (with emphaagain (with emphaagain (with emphasis on the latter part of the verse)sis on the latter part of the verse)sis on the latter part of the verse)sis on the latter part of the verse)

1. We have already learned that GOD, THE FATHER will be there.1. We have already learned that GOD, THE FATHER will be there.1. We have already learned that GOD, THE FATHER will be there.1. We have already learned that GOD, THE FATHER will be there.

VER VER VER VERSE 3 Now the dwelling of God is with men, and HeSE 3 Now the dwelling of God is with men, and HeSE 3 Now the dwelling of God is with men, and HeSE 3 Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He

will live with them. They will be His people, will live with them. They will be His people, will live with them. They will be His people, will live with them. They will be His people, and and and and

God Himself will be with them and be their God. God Himself will be with them and be their God. God Himself will be with them and be their God. God Himself will be with them and be their God.

I don’t believe any one of us c I don’t believe any one of us c I don’t believe any one of us c I don’t believe any one of us can even begin to imagine what itan even begin to imagine what itan even begin to imagine what itan even begin to imagine what it

is going to be like to be living in the very presence of the One is going to be like to be living in the very presence of the One is going to be like to be living in the very presence of the One is going to be like to be living in the very presence of the One

who created who created who created who created us. The One who knew us and loved us beforeus. The One who knew us and loved us beforeus. The One who knew us and loved us beforeus. The One who knew us and loved us before

we were ever born. we were ever born. we were ever born. we were ever born.

2. And we have already learned that JESUS CHRIST w 2. And we have already learned that JESUS CHRIST w 2. And we have already learned that JESUS CHRIST w 2. And we have already learned that JESUS CHRIST will be there.ill be there.ill be there.ill be there.

In In In In VERSE 23 VERSE 23 VERSE 23 VERSE 23 we read that we read that we read that we read that THE LAMBTHE LAMBTHE LAMBTHE LAMB (referring to JESUS CHRIST, (referring to JESUS CHRIST, (referring to JESUS CHRIST, (referring to JESUS CHRIST,

THE LAMB OF GOD) will be THE LAMP of THE LAMB OF GOD) will be THE LAMP of THE LAMB OF GOD) will be THE LAMP of THE LAMB OF GOD) will be THE LAMP of heaven. heaven. heaven. heaven.

In their hit song, In their hit song, In their hit song, In their hit song, “I Can Only Imagine” “I Can Only Imagine” “I Can Only Imagine” “I Can Only Imagine” the group MercyMethe group MercyMethe group MercyMethe group MercyMe

talks about what it might be like talks about what it might be like talks about what it might be like talks about what it might be like for us the very first time for us the very first time for us the very first time for us the very first time

we see Jesus…… we see Jesus…… we see Jesus…… we see Jesus……

Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel?Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel?Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel?Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel?

Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of You be still? Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of You be still? Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of You be still? Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of You be still?

Will I stand in Your presence or to my knees will Will I stand in Your presence or to my knees will Will I stand in Your presence or to my knees will Will I stand in Your presence or to my knees will I fall? I fall? I fall? I fall?

Will I sing for You Jesus? Will I be able to speak at all? Will I sing for You Jesus? Will I be able to speak at all? Will I sing for You Jesus? Will I be able to speak at all? Will I sing for You Jesus? Will I be able to speak at all?

I can only imagine…….I can only i I can only imagine…….I can only i I can only imagine…….I can only i I can only imagine…….I can only imagine.magine.magine.magine.

3. And we know the PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT of GOD will be3. And we know the PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT of GOD will be3. And we know the PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT of GOD will be3. And we know the PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT of GOD will be

there…… there…… there…… there……

Revelation 21:10 And He carried me Revelation 21:10 And He carried me Revelation 21:10 And He carried me Revelation 21:10 And He carried me away in the Spiritaway in the Spiritaway in the Spiritaway in the Spirit

to a mountain great and high, and showed me the to a mountain great and high, and showed me the to a mountain great and high, and showed me the to a mountain great and high, and showed me the

Holy City, Jerusalem, coming d Holy City, Jerusalem, coming d Holy City, Jerusalem, coming d Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven fromown out of heaven fromown out of heaven fromown out of heaven from

God. God. God. God.

The Holy Spirit has been our COMFORTING COMPANIONThe Holy Spirit has been our COMFORTING COMPANIONThe Holy Spirit has been our COMFORTING COMPANIONThe Holy Spirit has been our COMFORTING COMPANION

since that day we f since that day we f since that day we f since that day we first accepted Jesus Christ. Isn’t itirst accepted Jesus Christ. Isn’t itirst accepted Jesus Christ. Isn’t itirst accepted Jesus Christ. Isn’t it

comforting to know, the Holy Spirit will still be with us comforting to know, the Holy Spirit will still be with us comforting to know, the Holy Spirit will still be with us comforting to know, the Holy Spirit will still be with us

for all eternity for all eternity for all eternity for all eternity....

4. And we know the ANGELS will all be there. Throughout 4. And we know the ANGELS will all be there. Throughout 4. And we know the ANGELS will all be there. Throughout 4. And we know the ANGELS will all be there. Throughout

the Book of Revelation we read about the ANGELS many the Book of Revelation we read about the ANGELS many the Book of Revelation we read about the ANGELS many the Book of Revelation we read about the ANGELS many

times. Won’t it be great to be with these MINISTERING times. Won’t it be great to be with these MINISTERING times. Won’t it be great to be with these MINISTERING times. Won’t it be great to be with these MINISTERING

SPIRITS who looked after us while we were here on earth. SPIRITS who looked after us while we were here on earth. SPIRITS who looked after us while we were here on earth. SPIRITS who looked after us while we were here on earth.

5 5 5 5. And won’t it be wonderful to meet the GREAT MEN and. And won’t it be wonderful to meet the GREAT MEN and. And won’t it be wonderful to meet the GREAT MEN and. And won’t it be wonderful to meet the GREAT MEN and

WOMEN we read about in the SCRIPTURES? Moses…..Elijah…. WOMEN we read about in the SCRIPTURES? Moses…..Elijah…. WOMEN we read about in the SCRIPTURES? Moses…..Elijah…. WOMEN we read about in the SCRIPTURES? Moses…..Elijah….

A A A Abraham…..Sarah……Ruth….Mary Magdalene…..braham…..Sarah……Ruth….Mary Magdalene…..braham…..Sarah……Ruth….Mary Magdalene…..braham…..Sarah……Ruth….Mary Magdalene…..

Mary the Mother of Jesus……..Joseph the earthly father of Jesus Mary the Mother of Jesus……..Joseph the earthly father of Jesus Mary the Mother of Jesus……..Joseph the earthly father of Jesus Mary the Mother of Jesus……..Joseph the earthly father of Jesus

……..John the ……..John the ……..John the ……..John the Baptist…….Peter…….Paul……John the Baptist…. Baptist…….Peter…….Paul……John the Baptist…. Baptist…….Peter…….Paul……John the Baptist…. Baptist…….Peter…….Paul……John the Baptist….

…………THEY’LL ALL BE THERE! …………THEY’LL ALL BE THERE! …………THEY’LL ALL BE THERE! …………THEY’LL ALL BE THERE!

6. CHRISTIANS FROM EVERY NATION will be there too 6. CHRISTIANS FROM EVERY NATION will be there too 6. CHRISTIANS FROM EVERY NATION will be there too 6. CHRISTIANS FROM EVERY NATION will be there too…….Brothers…….Brothers…….Brothers…….Brothers

and Sisters and Sisters and Sisters and Sisters----inininin----Christ we have never met before. And for theChrist we have never met before. And for theChrist we have never met before. And for theChrist we have never met before. And for the

first time we will see the LORD’S CHURCH in first time we will see the LORD’S CHURCH in first time we will see the LORD’S CHURCH in first time we will see the LORD’S CHURCH in all her radiant all her radiant all her radiant all her radiant

glory! glory! glory! glory!

7. And of course we are ALL looking forward to seeing OUR LOVED 7. And of course we are ALL looking forward to seeing OUR LOVED 7. And of course we are ALL looking forward to seeing OUR LOVED 7. And of course we are ALL looking forward to seeing OUR LOVED

ONES and FRIENDS who have gone on before us. ONES and FRIENDS who have gone on before us. ONES and FRIENDS who have gone on before us. ONES and FRIENDS who have gone on before us.

Most of us has had the sad experience of going to a funeralMost of us has had the sad experience of going to a funeralMost of us has had the sad experience of going to a funeralMost of us has had the sad experience of going to a funeral

to beid farewell to someone we loved so dear. to beid farewell to someone we loved so dear. to beid farewell to someone we loved so dear. to beid farewell to someone we loved so dear.

--------Perhaps you have already laid to rest your preciousPerhaps you have already laid to rest your preciousPerhaps you have already laid to rest your preciousPerhaps you have already laid to rest your precious

husband or your dear , sweet wife. husband or your dear , sweet wife. husband or your dear , sweet wife. husband or your dear , sweet wife.

---- Perhaps you Perhaps you Perhaps you Perhaps you have already said your last earthly goodbye have already said your last earthly goodbye have already said your last earthly goodbye have already said your last earthly goodbye

to your mom or dad. to your mom or dad. to your mom or dad. to your mom or dad.

---- Perhaps you have gone through the hea Perhaps you have gone through the hea Perhaps you have gone through the hea Perhaps you have gone through the heartbreaking experiencertbreaking experiencertbreaking experiencertbreaking experience

of burying a son or daughter cut down in the prime of their life. of burying a son or daughter cut down in the prime of their life. of burying a son or daughter cut down in the prime of their life. of burying a son or daughter cut down in the prime of their life.

Or maybe it was a b Or maybe it was a b Or maybe it was a b Or maybe it was a brother…..or a sister…..or a lifelong friend.rother…..or a sister…..or a lifelong friend.rother…..or a sister…..or a lifelong friend.rother…..or a sister…..or a lifelong friend.

8. In his book, 8. In his book, 8. In his book, 8. In his book, The Applause of Heaven, The Applause of Heaven, The Applause of Heaven, The Applause of Heaven, Max Lucado describesMax Lucado describesMax Lucado describesMax Lucado describes

the moment the moment the moment the moment of our glad reunion with our loved ones. Listenof our glad reunion with our loved ones. Listenof our glad reunion with our loved ones. Listenof our glad reunion with our loved ones. Listen

carefully…….. carefully…….. carefully…….. carefully……..

“You’ll be home soon, too. You may not have n“You’ll be home soon, too. You may not have n“You’ll be home soon, too. You may not have n“You’ll be home soon, too. You may not have noticed it, butoticed it, butoticed it, butoticed it, but

you are closer to home than ever before. Each moment is you are closer to home than ever before. Each moment is you are closer to home than ever before. Each moment is you are closer to home than ever before. Each moment is

a step taken. Each breath is a step taken. Each breath is a step taken. Each breath is a step taken. Each breath is a page turned. Each day is a mile a page turned. Each day is a mile a page turned. Each day is a mile a page turned. Each day is a mile

marked, a mountain climbed. You are closer to home than marked, a mountain climbed. You are closer to home than marked, a mountain climbed. You are closer to home than marked, a mountain climbed. You are closer to home than

you’ve eve you’ve eve you’ve eve you’ve ever been.r been.r been.r been.

Before you know it, your appointed arrival time will come; Before you know it, your appointed arrival time will come; Before you know it, your appointed arrival time will come; Before you know it, your appointed arrival time will come;

you’ll descend the ramp and enter you’ll descend the ramp and enter you’ll descend the ramp and enter you’ll descend the ramp and enter the City. You’ll see faces the City. You’ll see faces the City. You’ll see faces the City. You’ll see faces

that are waiting for you. You’ll hear your name spoken by those that are waiting for you. You’ll hear your name spoken by those that are waiting for you. You’ll hear your name spoken by those that are waiting for you. You’ll hear your name spoken by those

who love you who love you who love you who love you. And , maybe, just maybe, in the back, behind. And , maybe, just maybe, in the back, behind. And , maybe, just maybe, in the back, behind. And , maybe, just maybe, in the back, behind

the crowds the crowds the crowds the crowds--------the One who would rather die than live without youthe One who would rather die than live without youthe One who would rather die than live without youthe One who would rather die than live without you

will remove His nail will remove His nail will remove His nail will remove His nail----pierced hands from His heavenly robepierced hands from His heavenly robepierced hands from His heavenly robepierced hands from His heavenly robe

and applaud. and applaud. and applaud. and applaud.

9. Yes, the SEVENTH wonder of HEA9. Yes, the SEVENTH wonder of HEA9. Yes, the SEVENTH wonder of HEA9. Yes, the SEVENTH wonder of HEAVEN is the WONDER of WHOVEN is the WONDER of WHOVEN is the WONDER of WHOVEN is the WONDER of WHO

will be there. will be there. will be there. will be there.

ConclusionConclusionConclusionConclusion

This morning/evening after looking at the Seven This morning/evening after looking at the Seven This morning/evening after looking at the Seven This morning/evening after looking at the Seven

Wonders of Heaven, I believe we can understand why Wonders of Heaven, I believe we can understand why Wonders of Heaven, I believe we can understand why Wonders of Heaven, I believe we can understand why

this will be this will be this will be this will be the greatest Homecoming of all.the greatest Homecoming of all.the greatest Homecoming of all.the greatest Homecoming of all.

And if I were to ask you, “How many of you want to And if I were to ask you, “How many of you want to And if I were to ask you, “How many of you want to And if I were to ask you, “How many of you want to

go to heaven,” I would imagine everybo go to heaven,” I would imagine everybo go to heaven,” I would imagine everybo go to heaven,” I would imagine everybody here woulddy here woulddy here woulddy here would

raise his hand. raise his hand. raise his hand. raise his hand.

But this brings us to a very sobering truth. And that is But this brings us to a very sobering truth. And that is But this brings us to a very sobering truth. And that is But this brings us to a very sobering truth. And that is

NOT EVERYONE IS GOING TO HEAVEN.NOT EVERYONE IS GOING TO HEAVEN.NOT EVERYONE IS GOING TO HEAVEN.NOT EVERYONE IS GOING TO HEAVEN.

*Those who had NO PLACE for JESUS in their hearts in this life*Those who had NO PLACE for JESUS in their hearts in this life*Those who had NO PLACE for JESUS in their hearts in this life*Those who had NO PLACE for JESUS in their hearts in this life

will find NO PLACE with JESUS in eternity. will find NO PLACE with JESUS in eternity. will find NO PLACE with JESUS in eternity. will find NO PLACE with JESUS in eternity.

* * * * Those who REJECTED JESUS in this life will be rejected BY Those who REJECTED JESUS in this life will be rejected BY Those who REJECTED JESUS in this life will be rejected BY Those who REJECTED JESUS in this life will be rejected BY

JESUS in eternity when He says those dreadful words, “Depar JESUS in eternity when He says those dreadful words, “Depar JESUS in eternity when He says those dreadful words, “Depar JESUS in eternity when He says those dreadful words, “Departttt

from me you evil doers, I never knew you.” from me you evil doers, I never knew you.” from me you evil doers, I never knew you.” from me you evil doers, I never knew you.”

What are you going to do my friend?What are you going to do my friend?What are you going to do my friend?What are you going to do my friend?

What are you going to do with the reWhat are you going to do with the reWhat are you going to do with the reWhat are you going to do with the rest of your life? You say, “Well I plan st of your life? You say, “Well I plan st of your life? You say, “Well I plan st of your life? You say, “Well I plan

to WORK. to WORK. to WORK. to WORK.

Then what? “Well I plan to retire.”Then what? “Well I plan to retire.”Then what? “Well I plan to retire.”Then what? “Well I plan to retire.”

Then what? “Well I plan to travel Then what? “Well I plan to travel Then what? “Well I plan to travel Then what? “Well I plan to travel and enjoy life and spend time withand enjoy life and spend time withand enjoy life and spend time withand enjoy life and spend time with

my family.” my family.” my family.” my family.”

Then what? “Well I’ll probably die.”Then what? “Well I’ll probably die.”Then what? “Well I’ll probably die.”Then what? “Well I’ll probably die.”

Then what? Then what? (LEAD INTO INVITATION)Then what? Then what? (LEAD INTO INVITATION)Then what? Then what? (LEAD INTO INVITATION)Then what? Then what? (LEAD INTO INVITATION)