WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:05.360 Well, let's begin our worship this evening by singing to God's praise in Psalm 40. 00:00:06.000 --> 00:00:09.740 ! Psalm 40, the Scottish Psalter, page 259. 00:00:10.580 --> 00:00:14.780 We're going to sing from verse 1 down to the end of double verse 5. 00:00:15.400 --> 00:00:19.120 I waited for the Lord my God and patiently did bear. 00:00:19.600 --> 00:00:23.080 At length to me he did incline my voice and cry to hear. 00:00:23.620 --> 00:00:27.039 He took me from a fearful pit and from the miry clay. 00:00:27.039 --> 00:00:31.679 And on a rock he set my feet, establishing my way. 00:00:31.739 --> 00:00:34.240 We'll sing from verse 1 to the end of double verse 5. 00:00:34.679 --> 00:00:36.740 We stand to sing to God's praise. 00:00:57.039 --> 00:00:59.039 He took me from a fearful pit. 00:00:59.039 --> 00:01:15.239 At length to me he did incline my voice and cry to hear. 00:01:15.239 --> 00:01:25.659 He took me from a fearful pit. 00:01:25.659 --> 00:01:33.099 And from the miry clay. 00:01:33.099 --> 00:01:50.099 And on a rock he set my feet, establishing my way. 00:01:50.099 --> 00:02:01.060 He put a new song in my mouth. 00:02:01.060 --> 00:02:08.099 A road to magnify. 00:02:08.099 --> 00:02:18.639 Many shall see it and shall fear. 00:02:18.639 --> 00:02:26.459 And on the glory high. 00:02:26.460 --> 00:02:45.000 O blessed is the man whose trust upon the Lord we lie. 00:02:45.000 --> 00:03:03.699 O blessed is the man whose trust upon the Lord we lie. 00:03:03.699 --> 00:03:13.239 O Lord my God, full many are. 00:03:13.239 --> 00:03:21.219 The wonders Thou hast done. 00:03:21.219 --> 00:03:39.219 Thy gracious thought to us, Lord, far above all thoughts are gone. 00:03:39.219 --> 00:03:49.460 In order none can reckon of them. 00:03:49.460 --> 00:03:57.000 To thee they pray and declare. 00:03:57.000 --> 00:04:06.579 And speak of them I hold them o'er. 00:04:06.580 --> 00:04:14.440 And come, be number thou. 00:04:19.439 --> 00:04:21.460 Let's bow heads in a word of prayer. 00:04:21.560 --> 00:04:22.259 Let us pray. 00:04:24.020 --> 00:04:30.220 Lord, our gracious God, we do come acknowledging you at the end of this day as we come. 00:04:30.740 --> 00:04:36.420 We so much to give thanks to you for thankful for your goodness and mercy that follows. 00:04:36.420 --> 00:04:40.720 As thankful for every blessing that we have day by day. 00:04:40.720 --> 00:04:44.960 Thankful for your faithfulness and your mercy that are new each morning. 00:04:45.720 --> 00:04:47.580 And we do thank you for this day. 00:04:48.060 --> 00:04:49.879 We thank you that it is your day. 00:04:50.400 --> 00:04:52.080 The day that the Lord has made. 00:04:52.400 --> 00:04:55.340 And the day that we can rejoice and be glad in. 00:04:56.180 --> 00:05:00.960 For we thank you that you remind us in this day of all that you are to us. 00:05:00.959 --> 00:05:03.500 As we gather around your word. 00:05:03.500 --> 00:05:06.319 And as we gather as a people together. 00:05:06.819 --> 00:05:09.399 With the joy of worship in our hearts. 00:05:09.500 --> 00:05:11.299 The joy of praise on our lips. 00:05:12.060 --> 00:05:14.500 The joy of the Lord as our strength. 00:05:14.879 --> 00:05:19.139 We thank you for every reason that we have to give thanks to you. 00:05:19.959 --> 00:05:24.839 And we do come this evening anew just seeking your blessing upon us. 00:05:24.839 --> 00:05:27.899 Seeking that you will be in our midst this evening together. 00:05:28.199 --> 00:05:30.459 As we worship you once more together. 00:05:30.459 --> 00:05:33.719 As we come reflecting on who you are. 00:05:34.219 --> 00:05:38.019 As we come to behold the Lamb of God once again. 00:05:38.179 --> 00:05:41.579 To look on the one who came as promised. 00:05:42.259 --> 00:05:44.579 The one who came and dwelt among us. 00:05:45.159 --> 00:05:47.299 The one who came to give his life. 00:05:47.399 --> 00:05:50.379 And the one who as we will reflect this evening. 00:05:50.379 --> 00:05:54.240 Will come again to take us to be with himself. 00:05:54.740 --> 00:05:57.699 We thank you for your word that instructs us. 00:05:57.860 --> 00:06:00.379 And guides us at every step we take. 00:06:00.959 --> 00:06:02.860 Even as we have sung we are reminded. 00:06:03.459 --> 00:06:06.879 Of the great blessing that is ours as we wait upon you. 00:06:07.339 --> 00:06:10.399 That you are one who hears our voice and our cries. 00:06:11.040 --> 00:06:13.779 That you are the one for whom to many we can say. 00:06:13.879 --> 00:06:16.659 That you have taken us from the fearful pit. 00:06:16.740 --> 00:06:18.040 And from the miry clay. 00:06:18.040 --> 00:06:20.520 That you have set our feet on a rock. 00:06:20.640 --> 00:06:22.240 And established our ways. 00:06:22.340 --> 00:06:25.260 And that you have put a new song in our mouths. 00:06:25.780 --> 00:06:29.760 That we are a people who can magnify you as our God. 00:06:30.360 --> 00:06:33.260 And we thank you Lord for the way that you have done. 00:06:33.800 --> 00:06:35.160 So much for us. 00:06:35.500 --> 00:06:37.620 And we pray that you will continue to remind us. 00:06:37.820 --> 00:06:40.840 That even now we only see but a little. 00:06:41.400 --> 00:06:43.680 We see but through our glass darkly. 00:06:44.160 --> 00:06:47.580 But the day will come when we will see face to face. 00:06:48.040 --> 00:06:50.460 So that even the things we cannot understand. 00:06:51.120 --> 00:06:54.240 Even the things that we don't have comprehension of. 00:06:54.319 --> 00:06:57.720 The things that are beyond our reach or our understanding. 00:06:58.260 --> 00:07:01.060 We thank you that all of these things are in your hands. 00:07:01.660 --> 00:07:04.040 And even the purposes and the reasons why. 00:07:04.600 --> 00:07:06.580 The many questions that we can have. 00:07:07.220 --> 00:07:09.540 Lord there is nothing that is beyond you. 00:07:10.000 --> 00:07:11.300 And you have all the answers. 00:07:11.300 --> 00:07:13.600 And we just come in faith. 00:07:14.060 --> 00:07:15.560 To lean upon you. 00:07:15.980 --> 00:07:17.819 And to love you with all our hearts. 00:07:18.300 --> 00:07:20.960 So may you guide us in every step we take. 00:07:21.040 --> 00:07:23.560 And even as we go into this week ahead. 00:07:23.780 --> 00:07:25.060 As so often is the case. 00:07:25.139 --> 00:07:28.040 And we come away of a time of communion. 00:07:28.460 --> 00:07:32.939 As we come away from a time of blessing and encouragement around your word. 00:07:32.939 --> 00:07:35.100 Lord so often as we go into the week. 00:07:35.240 --> 00:07:37.240 We know that the devil will be active. 00:07:37.879 --> 00:07:39.459 That he is never far from us. 00:07:39.500 --> 00:07:42.000 To take our joy away from us. 00:07:42.540 --> 00:07:45.100 And we never know how that might come. 00:07:45.180 --> 00:07:46.079 Or how it might be. 00:07:46.220 --> 00:07:47.199 But Lord we pray. 00:07:47.660 --> 00:07:49.639 That you will guard us and protect us. 00:07:49.899 --> 00:07:52.240 That you will surround us with your presence. 00:07:52.420 --> 00:07:53.199 And your protection. 00:07:53.899 --> 00:07:55.019 Day after day. 00:07:55.860 --> 00:07:58.839 All your people who have professed your name. 00:07:58.899 --> 00:08:01.439 Lord we thank you that they have that great assurance. 00:08:01.439 --> 00:08:03.399 Of the words never will I leave you. 00:08:03.719 --> 00:08:04.879 Or forsake you. 00:08:05.439 --> 00:08:07.579 And for those maybe who are still seeking you. 00:08:07.719 --> 00:08:12.379 And fear that absence of you in their hearts or their lives. 00:08:12.519 --> 00:08:14.939 We pray that you will make yourself known to them. 00:08:15.420 --> 00:08:16.660 In a very real way. 00:08:17.139 --> 00:08:20.800 To give them an understanding and a knowledge of who you are. 00:08:20.899 --> 00:08:22.899 In a new way. 00:08:23.420 --> 00:08:25.459 In a way that their hearts are opened. 00:08:26.019 --> 00:08:27.279 And their ears hear. 00:08:27.279 --> 00:08:29.040 Even for the first time. 00:08:29.040 --> 00:08:33.080 Of the wonders of our saviour Christ Jesus. 00:08:33.899 --> 00:08:35.060 And so we pray Lord. 00:08:35.159 --> 00:08:38.080 That you will continue to bless us together this evening. 00:08:38.240 --> 00:08:40.940 And as we go into the fellowship later on as well. 00:08:41.000 --> 00:08:42.360 That we will be encouraged there. 00:08:42.440 --> 00:08:44.779 As we remember Donald Buchanan. 00:08:44.879 --> 00:08:46.680 As he will be speaking to us. 00:08:47.159 --> 00:08:50.060 We thank you for his life and testimony. 00:08:50.240 --> 00:08:53.920 And for his encouragement to so many of us. 00:08:53.919 --> 00:08:55.579 Over the years and we pray. 00:08:56.120 --> 00:08:57.779 That you will encourage him this evening. 00:08:58.279 --> 00:09:00.199 That you will bless him and uphold him. 00:09:00.299 --> 00:09:01.099 And keep him. 00:09:02.259 --> 00:09:04.500 Lord we do thank you that you are one. 00:09:04.679 --> 00:09:07.639 Who is near to be called upon. 00:09:07.740 --> 00:09:09.059 In all our different needs. 00:09:09.699 --> 00:09:11.319 And we understand Lord. 00:09:11.419 --> 00:09:12.879 That the things of this world. 00:09:13.079 --> 00:09:15.779 That are beyond our understanding. 00:09:15.779 --> 00:09:18.279 At times that there is a purpose. 00:09:18.279 --> 00:09:20.579 And a reason for all things. 00:09:21.199 --> 00:09:23.699 Even the things that we see day by day. 00:09:23.819 --> 00:09:25.919 Just now when we reflect on. 00:09:26.399 --> 00:09:27.759 The world in which we live. 00:09:27.860 --> 00:09:30.259 And the tragedies that so often surround us. 00:09:30.819 --> 00:09:31.980 When we think of wars. 00:09:32.319 --> 00:09:35.399 And just things that. 00:09:36.139 --> 00:09:37.600 Terror events that go beyond. 00:09:37.699 --> 00:09:40.100 Our understanding at times as well. 00:09:40.600 --> 00:09:41.559 We think of the grief. 00:09:41.720 --> 00:09:42.860 And pain and sorrow. 00:09:43.459 --> 00:09:45.399 All around our world this evening. 00:09:45.399 --> 00:09:47.019 In so many different ways. 00:09:47.799 --> 00:09:49.220 And we pray Lord for you. 00:09:49.419 --> 00:09:51.459 As the God of all comfort. 00:09:52.039 --> 00:09:53.639 The God who knows and sees. 00:09:53.759 --> 00:09:54.759 His people's needs. 00:09:54.879 --> 00:09:55.759 That you would come. 00:09:56.199 --> 00:09:57.340 In your power. 00:09:58.059 --> 00:09:59.559 We pray that for ourselves. 00:09:59.699 --> 00:10:02.319 As a people locally here as well. 00:10:02.379 --> 00:10:03.720 Even as we have heard. 00:10:03.779 --> 00:10:04.939 In these last few hours. 00:10:04.980 --> 00:10:06.419 Of a woman missing in back. 00:10:06.519 --> 00:10:09.019 We pray for the search that goes on there. 00:10:09.100 --> 00:10:11.059 That she might be found safe and well. 00:10:11.740 --> 00:10:12.720 We commit her. 00:10:12.720 --> 00:10:13.559 And family. 00:10:13.559 --> 00:10:16.579 And all who are out searching for our Lord. 00:10:16.659 --> 00:10:17.459 To your care. 00:10:17.699 --> 00:10:18.779 And to your keeping. 00:10:19.319 --> 00:10:21.679 That you would help in these times of need. 00:10:21.719 --> 00:10:22.239 And here. 00:10:22.739 --> 00:10:23.979 You're praying people. 00:10:24.719 --> 00:10:26.699 We do pray Lord as well. 00:10:26.759 --> 00:10:29.439 That you would bless your church. 00:10:29.659 --> 00:10:30.759 We thank you for it. 00:10:31.119 --> 00:10:32.579 To all ends of the earth. 00:10:32.580 --> 00:10:35.080 We thank you for the many visitors. 00:10:35.080 --> 00:10:36.860 That come through our doors. 00:10:37.180 --> 00:10:38.600 Here from week to week. 00:10:38.600 --> 00:10:40.020 And even today. 00:10:40.259 --> 00:10:41.840 As we were able to share fellowship. 00:10:41.840 --> 00:10:42.639 And communion. 00:10:42.960 --> 00:10:45.200 With people from other parts of our land. 00:10:45.740 --> 00:10:47.040 We thank you for that. 00:10:47.120 --> 00:10:48.259 We thank you for every way. 00:10:48.720 --> 00:10:50.740 We are enabled to engage with people. 00:10:50.740 --> 00:10:51.940 From near and far. 00:10:52.500 --> 00:10:55.139 We thank you for the way the church. 00:10:55.139 --> 00:10:56.160 Has been open again. 00:10:56.320 --> 00:10:58.020 For the cruise ships visiting. 00:10:58.600 --> 00:11:01.299 Thank you already for encouraging stories. 00:11:01.299 --> 00:11:02.720 Of how people have been met. 00:11:02.799 --> 00:11:03.559 With a warmth. 00:11:03.799 --> 00:11:05.500 And the love of the gospel. 00:11:05.639 --> 00:11:07.319 And been encouraged in their faith. 00:11:07.899 --> 00:11:10.019 We thank you for the remarkable ways Lord. 00:11:10.100 --> 00:11:11.220 That people can come. 00:11:11.799 --> 00:11:13.419 From all ends of the earth. 00:11:13.980 --> 00:11:16.199 And that we can meet with your children. 00:11:16.200 --> 00:11:16.920 Here and hear. 00:11:17.480 --> 00:11:18.800 And just see the wonder. 00:11:19.280 --> 00:11:21.720 Of the far reaching power of the gospel. 00:11:22.259 --> 00:11:23.759 That on land or sea. 00:11:23.879 --> 00:11:24.940 Or wherever it is. 00:11:25.400 --> 00:11:27.379 That your name is being praised. 00:11:27.940 --> 00:11:29.800 So we pray that people will come. 00:11:29.920 --> 00:11:30.920 And go from here. 00:11:31.000 --> 00:11:32.340 Encouraged and strengthened. 00:11:32.520 --> 00:11:34.640 And even remembering us in prayer. 00:11:35.280 --> 00:11:36.020 And we thank you. 00:11:36.020 --> 00:11:37.100 That as we remember them. 00:11:37.200 --> 00:11:38.400 They can remember us. 00:11:38.840 --> 00:11:41.040 And pray for the gospel here too. 00:11:41.660 --> 00:11:43.200 We thank you too Lord. 00:11:43.200 --> 00:11:46.660 For the gospel that bears fruit. 00:11:47.040 --> 00:11:49.120 For that is your promise in your word. 00:11:49.660 --> 00:11:51.640 It's not just a word that goes out. 00:11:51.900 --> 00:11:55.800 To minister without purpose. 00:11:56.420 --> 00:11:58.080 For we thank you that your word. 00:11:58.180 --> 00:11:59.520 Builds up your people. 00:12:00.180 --> 00:12:02.900 Your word is used to encourage. 00:12:02.900 --> 00:12:05.000 And to strengthen and to rebuke. 00:12:05.460 --> 00:12:07.960 And we thank you that throughout the world. 00:12:08.420 --> 00:12:10.340 Among so many people and nations. 00:12:10.520 --> 00:12:12.920 That the word is indeed bearing fruit. 00:12:13.200 --> 00:12:15.440 As we hear so often in these days. 00:12:15.680 --> 00:12:17.920 Of a stirring of the gospel. 00:12:18.080 --> 00:12:20.420 Among especially young people. 00:12:20.660 --> 00:12:21.540 Throughout our land. 00:12:21.640 --> 00:12:23.879 We heard it again on Friday evening. 00:12:23.879 --> 00:12:25.879 From the street pastor service. 00:12:26.440 --> 00:12:28.879 Of how there is encouraging news. 00:12:29.460 --> 00:12:30.879 Of cities and towns. 00:12:30.879 --> 00:12:33.000 Where so many young people. 00:12:33.240 --> 00:12:35.400 Are being stirred up by the gospel. 00:12:35.900 --> 00:12:36.879 So many have questions. 00:12:38.180 --> 00:12:39.740 And we thank you that that is true. 00:12:40.180 --> 00:12:42.180 Even here in our own midst as well. 00:12:42.179 --> 00:12:43.859 We thank you for all our young people. 00:12:43.859 --> 00:12:45.719 Who come week by week. 00:12:45.719 --> 00:12:47.859 To sit under the word of God. 00:12:47.859 --> 00:12:50.879 And we pray to be able to help them understand. 00:12:51.259 --> 00:12:54.139 And to help them with questions they might have. 00:12:54.259 --> 00:12:56.359 Or issues they might be going through. 00:12:56.919 --> 00:12:58.500 That we would see that unity. 00:12:58.500 --> 00:12:59.399 And that bonds. 00:12:59.559 --> 00:13:01.379 The bonds of love in our midst. 00:13:01.620 --> 00:13:03.839 To be able to encourage one another. 00:13:03.959 --> 00:13:05.459 And to strengthen one another. 00:13:05.460 --> 00:13:07.740 And so we pray and thank you. 00:13:07.940 --> 00:13:09.220 For the very fact. 00:13:09.220 --> 00:13:11.040 That you are God who is active. 00:13:11.259 --> 00:13:12.620 God who is working. 00:13:13.200 --> 00:13:14.920 We thank you for the way we have been encouraged. 00:13:14.920 --> 00:13:17.120 Even today with new members. 00:13:17.300 --> 00:13:20.040 And we pray for Donald and Ann Smith. 00:13:20.139 --> 00:13:23.259 Thankful for their coming into membership with us. 00:13:23.400 --> 00:13:25.780 And we thank you for Rebecca and McDonald as well. 00:13:26.340 --> 00:13:27.440 We pray for them. 00:13:27.560 --> 00:13:28.360 For their families. 00:13:28.639 --> 00:13:32.660 And for their Christian witness. 00:13:32.659 --> 00:13:34.019 Here in our congregation. 00:13:34.019 --> 00:13:36.579 And in all that they do in our community as well. 00:13:36.860 --> 00:13:38.299 That you would encourage them. 00:13:38.500 --> 00:13:39.039 Bless them. 00:13:39.120 --> 00:13:39.839 And keep them. 00:13:40.219 --> 00:13:41.659 And all of us together Lord. 00:13:41.740 --> 00:13:42.419 That we would know. 00:13:42.919 --> 00:13:43.719 That love. 00:13:44.039 --> 00:13:45.279 That steadfast love. 00:13:45.639 --> 00:13:47.600 That surrounds us day by day. 00:13:48.240 --> 00:13:49.980 So hear our prayers Lord. 00:13:50.039 --> 00:13:51.379 As we continue in our worship. 00:13:52.019 --> 00:13:53.319 Guide us in all that we do. 00:13:53.439 --> 00:13:54.679 And all that we say. 00:13:55.299 --> 00:13:57.100 And may you go with us in the week ahead. 00:13:57.639 --> 00:13:58.539 And in all that we do. 00:13:58.639 --> 00:13:59.980 May we know your presence. 00:14:00.240 --> 00:14:00.879 Your peace. 00:14:00.879 --> 00:14:03.559 And give glory to you in all things. 00:14:03.879 --> 00:14:06.580 As we ask all with forgiveness of our sins. 00:14:07.019 --> 00:14:08.159 In Jesus name. 00:14:08.580 --> 00:14:09.059 Amen. 00:14:12.539 --> 00:14:15.460 We're going to sing again to God's praise. 00:14:15.580 --> 00:14:17.419 In Psalm 103. 00:14:17.700 --> 00:14:19.059 The Sing Psalms version. 00:14:20.039 --> 00:14:21.740 Page 135. 00:14:24.519 --> 00:14:25.940 Of the psalm books. 00:14:26.340 --> 00:14:27.440 Psalm 103. 00:14:27.440 --> 00:14:30.060 We're going to sing from verse 1. 00:14:30.160 --> 00:14:31.840 Down to the end of verse 14. 00:14:32.040 --> 00:14:32.580 The tune is. 00:14:33.080 --> 00:14:34.460 Before the throne. 00:14:35.600 --> 00:14:37.240 And this psalm of course. 00:14:38.140 --> 00:14:39.940 Speaks about the great love. 00:14:40.200 --> 00:14:41.020 Of God. 00:14:41.300 --> 00:14:42.180 Towards us. 00:14:42.300 --> 00:14:42.720 And how. 00:14:43.500 --> 00:14:45.240 We see in verse 12. 00:14:45.380 --> 00:14:46.260 As far as east. 00:14:46.700 --> 00:14:47.620 Is from the west. 00:14:47.720 --> 00:14:48.740 So far as love. 00:14:48.820 --> 00:14:49.660 Has borne away. 00:14:50.200 --> 00:14:51.180 There are many sins. 00:14:51.260 --> 00:14:51.980 And trespasses. 00:14:52.120 --> 00:14:52.980 And all the guilt. 00:14:53.460 --> 00:14:54.480 That on us lay. 00:14:54.480 --> 00:14:55.940 And we thank God. 00:14:55.940 --> 00:14:56.860 That he is a God. 00:14:56.940 --> 00:14:57.820 Who remembers us. 00:14:57.860 --> 00:14:58.960 And we come this evening. 00:14:59.159 --> 00:15:01.139 To praise our God. 00:15:01.620 --> 00:15:03.019 Praise God my soul. 00:15:03.100 --> 00:15:04.159 With all my heart. 00:15:04.240 --> 00:15:05.259 Let me exalt. 00:15:05.539 --> 00:15:06.920 His holy name. 00:15:07.279 --> 00:15:08.159 We stand to sing. 00:15:08.220 --> 00:15:09.600 Verse 1 to 14. 00:15:09.600 --> 00:15:17.399 Praise God my soul. 00:15:17.399 --> 00:15:20.659 With all my heart. 00:15:21.019 --> 00:15:23.659 Let me exalt. 00:15:23.659 --> 00:15:26.840 His holy name. 00:15:27.300 --> 00:15:29.960 Forget not all. 00:15:29.960 --> 00:15:32.340 His benefits. 00:15:33.340 --> 00:15:35.580 His grace my soul. 00:15:35.580 --> 00:15:36.820 Is sung. 00:15:37.060 --> 00:15:38.100 Growing. 00:15:38.100 --> 00:15:40.100 His grace my soul. 00:15:40.100 --> 00:15:43.100 The Lord forgives you. 00:15:43.100 --> 00:15:45.100 All your sins. 00:15:46.100 --> 00:15:47.720 And gives you. 00:15:47.720 --> 00:15:49.019 Your sin. 00:15:49.019 --> 00:15:50.100 Yes. 00:15:50.100 --> 00:15:51.899 Of his grace. 00:15:52.560 --> 00:15:53.740 Your life. 00:15:53.860 --> 00:15:55.100 He rescues. 00:15:56.100 --> 00:15:58.220 From the grave. 00:15:58.639 --> 00:16:00.340 And climbs you. 00:16:00.340 --> 00:16:02.340 In his tender. 00:16:03.340 --> 00:16:06.340 And climbs you. 00:16:06.340 --> 00:16:08.340 In his tender. 00:16:08.340 --> 00:16:08.340 00:16:08.340 --> 00:16:09.340 In his tender. 00:16:09.340 --> 00:16:09.340 00:16:09.340 --> 00:16:10.340 In his tender. 00:16:10.340 --> 00:16:11.340 In his tender. 00:16:11.340 --> 00:16:12.340 He satisfies. 00:16:12.340 --> 00:16:14.340 His sure. 00:16:14.340 --> 00:16:16.340 He desires. 00:16:16.340 --> 00:16:18.340 From his. 00:16:18.340 --> 00:16:18.340 00:16:18.340 --> 00:16:19.340 Allending. 00:16:19.340 --> 00:16:20.340 Source. 00:16:20.340 --> 00:16:22.340 Of good. 00:16:22.340 --> 00:16:23.340 So. 00:16:23.340 --> 00:16:24.340 That just. 00:16:24.340 --> 00:16:25.340 Like. 00:16:25.340 --> 00:16:26.340 The. 00:16:26.340 --> 00:16:27.340 In his. 00:16:27.340 --> 00:16:57.340 In his ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth ninth 00:16:57.340 --> 00:17:06.380 Israel's sons, his mighty deeds to Israel's sons. 00:17:06.380 --> 00:17:19.480 The Lord is merciful and kind, to anger slow and full of grace. 00:17:19.480 --> 00:17:31.559 He will not constantly reprove, or in his anchor hide his face. 00:17:32.019 --> 00:17:44.400 He does not punish our his deeds, or give our sins their just reward. 00:17:44.400 --> 00:17:56.640 A British love as high as death, towards all those who fear the Lord. 00:17:57.060 --> 00:18:02.400 Towards all those who fear the Lord. 00:18:02.400 --> 00:18:15.740 As far as he's still strong the West, so far his love has borne away. 00:18:16.220 --> 00:18:27.400 Our many sins and trespasses, and all the guilt that on us lay. 00:18:27.400 --> 00:18:40.800 Just as a father loves his child, so God loves souls to give his name. 00:18:40.799 --> 00:18:52.839 But he remembers, we are does, and well he knows our feeble frame. 00:18:53.279 --> 00:18:58.799 And well he knows our feeble frame. 00:18:58.799 --> 00:19:07.500 We're going to read the word of God together now in the book of Revelation. 00:19:08.779 --> 00:19:14.359 On chapter 22, the last chapter of this book. 00:19:15.440 --> 00:19:19.960 Revelation chapter 22, we'll read the whole of the chapter together. 00:19:21.659 --> 00:19:24.139 Let's hear the word of God. 00:19:24.140 --> 00:19:31.300 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, 00:19:31.680 --> 00:19:37.560 flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb, through the middle of the street of the city. 00:19:38.320 --> 00:19:44.240 Also on either side of the river the tree of life, with its twelve kinds of fruit, 00:19:44.900 --> 00:19:46.700 yielding its fruit each month. 00:19:47.560 --> 00:19:50.620 The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 00:19:50.619 --> 00:19:57.939 No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, 00:19:58.279 --> 00:20:00.759 and his servants will worship him. 00:20:01.559 --> 00:20:06.519 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads, 00:20:07.019 --> 00:20:08.599 and night will be no more. 00:20:09.239 --> 00:20:11.959 They will need no light of lamp or sun, 00:20:12.299 --> 00:20:14.459 for the Lord God will be their light, 00:20:14.859 --> 00:20:17.479 and they will reign forever and ever. 00:20:17.480 --> 00:20:19.720 And he said to me, 00:20:19.980 --> 00:20:22.400 These words are trustworthy and true. 00:20:23.200 --> 00:20:26.400 And the Lord, the God of the spirits of the prophets, 00:20:26.940 --> 00:20:30.940 has sent his angel to show his servants what must soon take place. 00:20:32.079 --> 00:20:34.779 And behold, I am coming soon. 00:20:35.500 --> 00:20:39.200 Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book. 00:20:40.579 --> 00:20:44.220 I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. 00:20:44.220 --> 00:20:46.500 And when I heard and saw them, 00:20:46.700 --> 00:20:51.180 I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me. 00:20:51.819 --> 00:20:53.000 But he said to me, 00:20:53.220 --> 00:20:55.220 You must not do that. 00:20:55.600 --> 00:20:57.600 I am a fellow servant with you, 00:20:58.059 --> 00:20:59.839 and your brothers the prophets, 00:21:00.220 --> 00:21:02.819 and with those who keep the words of this book. 00:21:03.660 --> 00:21:04.640 Worship God. 00:21:05.460 --> 00:21:06.559 And he said to me, 00:21:06.880 --> 00:21:09.900 Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, 00:21:10.360 --> 00:21:11.819 for the time is near. 00:21:11.819 --> 00:21:14.700 Let the evildoer still do evil, 00:21:14.960 --> 00:21:16.919 and the filthy still be filthy, 00:21:17.019 --> 00:21:19.059 and the righteous still do right, 00:21:19.279 --> 00:21:21.519 and the holy still be holy. 00:21:22.319 --> 00:21:24.619 Behold, I am coming soon, 00:21:25.079 --> 00:21:27.139 bringing my recompense with me, 00:21:27.579 --> 00:21:30.639 to repay everyone for what he has done. 00:21:31.439 --> 00:21:33.379 I am the Alpha and the Omega, 00:21:33.759 --> 00:21:35.200 the first and the last, 00:21:35.299 --> 00:21:36.720 the beginning and the end. 00:21:37.359 --> 00:21:39.500 Blessed are those who wash their robes, 00:21:39.500 --> 00:21:42.400 so that they may have the right to the tree of life, 00:21:42.900 --> 00:21:45.720 and that they may enter the city by the gates. 00:21:46.460 --> 00:21:47.839 Outside are the dogs, 00:21:48.000 --> 00:21:48.799 and the sorcerers, 00:21:48.880 --> 00:21:50.400 and the sexually immoral, 00:21:50.900 --> 00:21:51.740 and murderers, 00:21:51.819 --> 00:21:52.500 and idolaters, 00:21:52.880 --> 00:21:56.000 and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. 00:21:56.000 --> 00:21:57.960 I, Jesus, 00:21:58.099 --> 00:22:03.319 have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. 00:22:04.079 --> 00:22:06.500 I am the root and the descendant of David, 00:22:06.599 --> 00:22:08.660 the bright morning star. 00:22:09.440 --> 00:22:11.019 The spirit and the bride say, 00:22:11.119 --> 00:22:11.400 Come, 00:22:12.039 --> 00:22:13.940 and let the one who hears say, 00:22:14.099 --> 00:22:14.380 Come, 00:22:15.039 --> 00:22:16.640 and let the one who is thirsty, 00:22:16.900 --> 00:22:17.180 Come, 00:22:17.819 --> 00:22:22.140 let the one who desires take the water of life without price. 00:22:22.140 --> 00:22:27.540 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book. 00:22:28.020 --> 00:22:29.180 If anyone adds to them, 00:22:29.340 --> 00:22:32.980 God will add to him the plagues described in this book. 00:22:33.400 --> 00:22:36.380 And if anyone takes away from the words of the book of the prophecy, 00:22:37.080 --> 00:22:39.740 God will take away his share in the tree of life, 00:22:40.140 --> 00:22:43.240 and in the holy city which are described in this book. 00:22:43.940 --> 00:22:47.020 He who testifies to these things says, 00:22:47.340 --> 00:22:49.540 Surely I am coming soon. 00:22:49.539 --> 00:22:50.539 Amen. 00:22:50.980 --> 00:22:51.500 Come, 00:22:51.899 --> 00:22:52.639 Lord Jesus. 00:22:53.379 --> 00:22:56.559 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. 00:22:57.279 --> 00:22:57.799 Amen. 00:23:00.639 --> 00:23:03.859 We're going to sing again to God's praise, 00:23:03.960 --> 00:23:05.799 this time in Psalm 147, 00:23:06.639 --> 00:23:08.159 in the Sing Psalms version, 00:23:08.319 --> 00:23:09.559 Psalm 147, 00:23:10.039 --> 00:23:11.920 page 192. 00:23:12.819 --> 00:23:16.319 We'll sing from verse 1 to verse 7. 00:23:16.319 --> 00:23:19.240 Psalm 147, 00:23:19.339 --> 00:23:20.579 page 192. 00:23:20.639 --> 00:23:21.679 At the beginning of the psalm, 00:23:21.720 --> 00:23:22.839 O praise the Lord, 00:23:23.299 --> 00:23:26.019 how good it is to sing him songs of praise, 00:23:26.399 --> 00:23:28.659 how pleasant to give thanks to him 00:23:28.659 --> 00:23:31.439 for all his gracious ways. 00:23:31.939 --> 00:23:32.879 We sing to the tune, 00:23:33.059 --> 00:23:33.839 Free Church, 00:23:34.220 --> 00:23:35.240 Psalm 147, 00:23:35.319 --> 00:23:36.740 verse 1 to 7. 00:23:36.740 --> 00:23:36.799 Amen. 00:23:36.799 --> 00:23:36.879 Amen. 00:23:36.879 --> 00:23:36.879 00:23:36.879 --> 00:23:36.879 00:23:36.879 --> 00:23:36.879 00:23:36.879 --> 00:23:36.879 00:23:36.879 --> 00:23:38.879 Amen. 00:23:38.879 --> 00:23:38.879 00:23:38.879 --> 00:23:38.879 00:23:38.879 --> 00:23:38.879 00:23:46.319 --> 00:23:47.200 Bum, 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:47.200 00:23:47.200 --> 00:23:57.080 who it is to sing his songs of praise. 00:23:57.080 --> 00:24:05.080 How blessed to give thanks to him 00:24:05.640 --> 00:24:12.759 for the whole of his nation's praise. 00:24:12.759 --> 00:24:19.980 The Lord builds up Jerusalem 00:24:19.980 --> 00:24:27.759 and he is his alone 00:24:27.759 --> 00:24:36.259 who reaches out to Israel 00:24:36.259 --> 00:24:43.480 to bring the exiles home. 00:24:43.480 --> 00:24:52.480 He heals death, he heals broken hearts, 00:24:52.480 --> 00:24:59.480 he shores the loose alay, 00:24:59.480 --> 00:25:07.700 he sets the number of the stars 00:25:07.700 --> 00:25:14.700 and calls them each lying. 00:25:14.700 --> 00:25:24.700 Great day, sorrow and great in power, 00:25:24.920 --> 00:25:30.920 his wisdom is profound. 00:25:30.920 --> 00:25:38.140 The Lord sustains the weak, 00:25:38.140 --> 00:25:46.920 the cast, the wicked to the ground. 00:25:46.920 --> 00:25:56.140 Sing to the Lord with the fullness 00:25:56.140 --> 00:26:02.140 which I his grace proclaim. 00:26:02.140 --> 00:26:11.860 And with the music of the heart 00:26:11.860 --> 00:26:18.860 give glory to his name. 00:26:18.859 --> 00:26:27.699 We turn back together to our reading 00:26:27.699 --> 00:26:30.299 in Revelation chapter 22. 00:26:31.240 --> 00:26:33.779 And we can read again at verse 3. 00:26:35.000 --> 00:26:37.879 Revelation 22 and at verse 3. 00:26:39.079 --> 00:26:42.219 No longer will there be anything accursed, 00:26:42.639 --> 00:26:45.719 but the throne of God and of the Lamb 00:26:45.720 --> 00:26:48.559 will be in it and his servants 00:26:48.559 --> 00:26:50.860 will worship him. 00:26:54.360 --> 00:26:56.880 Are you a good timekeeper? 00:26:57.880 --> 00:26:59.880 If someone says to you, 00:27:00.019 --> 00:27:01.160 I'll meet you for lunch 00:27:01.160 --> 00:27:04.539 at half past 12 in a certain place, 00:27:04.980 --> 00:27:07.339 what time do you arrive? 00:27:08.339 --> 00:27:10.539 Are you there for half past 12? 00:27:10.539 --> 00:27:13.960 Or are you one who when a friend asks 00:27:13.960 --> 00:27:16.059 for a half past 12 lunch meeting, 00:27:16.159 --> 00:27:19.460 they're expecting maybe a one o'clock start? 00:27:20.559 --> 00:27:23.319 Some of us will be very rigid with time. 00:27:23.980 --> 00:27:26.000 If someone says half 12, 00:27:26.220 --> 00:27:27.259 it's half 12. 00:27:28.159 --> 00:27:29.519 Some will be early. 00:27:29.659 --> 00:27:30.819 They like to be there early 00:27:30.819 --> 00:27:33.180 before the other person is 00:27:33.180 --> 00:27:34.460 just to make sure they arrive. 00:27:34.619 --> 00:27:37.859 Others are maybe a little bit more flexible, 00:27:38.200 --> 00:27:38.859 shall we say. 00:27:38.859 --> 00:27:41.740 But how is God 00:27:41.740 --> 00:27:44.259 when it comes to timekeeping? 00:27:45.439 --> 00:27:48.179 We sang together in Psalm 40 00:27:48.179 --> 00:27:50.799 and it speaks about the psalmist there 00:27:50.799 --> 00:27:54.079 waiting patiently on God. 00:27:54.799 --> 00:27:57.979 Does that mean that God was late? 00:27:59.519 --> 00:28:01.759 You get that sense in the psalm 00:28:01.759 --> 00:28:03.279 that the psalmist was crying out, 00:28:03.799 --> 00:28:05.000 waiting patiently on God, 00:28:05.079 --> 00:28:05.779 almost asking, 00:28:06.419 --> 00:28:07.319 where is God? 00:28:07.319 --> 00:28:09.779 Was God late? 00:28:10.619 --> 00:28:10.980 No. 00:28:12.220 --> 00:28:14.879 God's timing is perfect. 00:28:15.659 --> 00:28:17.200 Even when there may be times 00:28:17.200 --> 00:28:18.759 when we ask of him, 00:28:19.399 --> 00:28:20.480 where are you? 00:28:21.019 --> 00:28:23.379 Or why aren't you doing something about this? 00:28:23.460 --> 00:28:25.500 When we're questioning God's timing, 00:28:25.700 --> 00:28:29.200 God's timing is always perfect. 00:28:30.599 --> 00:28:33.619 He has time in his hands. 00:28:33.619 --> 00:28:35.439 Now this weekend, 00:28:35.559 --> 00:28:39.119 we've been looking at the theme of the Lamb of God. 00:28:40.299 --> 00:28:41.719 The Lamb of God. 00:28:42.059 --> 00:28:46.139 Last evening we saw how the Lamb of God was promised. 00:28:46.759 --> 00:28:49.199 So as you're looking at the Old Testament, 00:28:49.419 --> 00:28:51.419 you see the Lamb of God being promised. 00:28:51.619 --> 00:28:52.919 And then in John, 00:28:53.319 --> 00:28:55.439 the opening chapter of John's Gospel, 00:28:55.579 --> 00:28:57.259 we looked at John the Baptist saying, 00:28:57.259 --> 00:29:02.220 Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. 00:29:02.940 --> 00:29:06.019 We saw the Lamb was promised and the Lamb came. 00:29:06.819 --> 00:29:10.539 Then this morning we're reflecting on the Lamb who was punished. 00:29:11.579 --> 00:29:14.079 As we looked at Isaiah chapter 53, 00:29:14.220 --> 00:29:18.500 again it was in that light of the promise of the Lamb of God who would come. 00:29:18.500 --> 00:29:21.480 But then we were seeing how he would be punished, 00:29:21.599 --> 00:29:23.660 how by his stripes he would be healed. 00:29:24.200 --> 00:29:26.420 And how we read in the Gospel of John again, 00:29:26.500 --> 00:29:27.400 in John 19, 00:29:28.019 --> 00:29:31.279 they're seeing just how that worked out with the cross. 00:29:31.839 --> 00:29:33.900 The Lamb of God punished. 00:29:35.039 --> 00:29:39.240 Well this evening I want us to think about the Lamb of God once again. 00:29:40.079 --> 00:29:43.799 And we're thinking this evening of the Lamb of God praised. 00:29:44.559 --> 00:29:46.960 The Lamb of God praised. 00:29:46.960 --> 00:29:51.039 That's what we see here in verse 3 of chapter 22. 00:29:52.140 --> 00:29:57.640 The Lamb will be in it and his servants will worship him. 00:29:58.480 --> 00:30:05.039 There is a day coming when the people of God will praise the Lamb of God. 00:30:06.180 --> 00:30:12.720 And it all ties together in the sense of timing with God. 00:30:12.819 --> 00:30:16.759 The three things that we've looked at are all tied together with the timing. 00:30:16.960 --> 00:30:24.120 The timing of God coming into the world was God's perfect time. 00:30:24.779 --> 00:30:27.640 He had been promised and he came. 00:30:28.539 --> 00:30:31.980 The timing of the Lamb of God being punished 00:30:31.980 --> 00:30:36.539 was at the precise time that God wanted it. 00:30:36.640 --> 00:30:40.220 You read in the book of Romans chapter 5 verse 6, 00:30:40.220 --> 00:31:10.200 It says, 00:31:10.220 --> 00:31:17.920 And what we've come to see this evening now is that all that is still to come 00:31:17.920 --> 00:31:21.140 is in God's perfect timing. 00:31:22.500 --> 00:31:25.819 Revelation, the book of Revelation as a whole, 00:31:26.000 --> 00:31:29.960 is full of references to the Lamb of God. 00:31:29.960 --> 00:31:32.380 From chapter 5 through to the end, 00:31:32.819 --> 00:31:37.660 you find the Lamb of God is mentioned again and again. 00:31:37.660 --> 00:31:44.060 In chapter 5, it begins by speaking about the scrolls that were to be opened 00:31:44.060 --> 00:31:50.740 to break the seven seals as it speaks of in verse 1 of chapter 5. 00:31:51.779 --> 00:31:55.560 And who is able to open it is the question. 00:31:56.480 --> 00:31:58.480 Well, we find the answer again in verse 6. 00:31:58.480 --> 00:32:10.460 The Lamb was the one who was able to open. 00:32:10.460 --> 00:32:14.079 And the Lamb, as you see then from chapter 5 through to the end of the book, 00:32:14.440 --> 00:32:18.019 is the one who is going to be in the midst of his people. 00:32:18.740 --> 00:32:21.759 He is going to be in the midst of his people. 00:32:22.579 --> 00:32:26.559 In verse 5 of chapter 22, it says there, 00:32:26.660 --> 00:32:27.880 The night will be no more. 00:32:27.960 --> 00:32:30.340 They will need no light of lamp or sun, 00:32:30.339 --> 00:32:32.599 for the Lord God will be their light, 00:32:32.639 --> 00:32:34.139 and they will reign forever and ever. 00:32:34.419 --> 00:32:37.759 So there's this sense of eternity 00:32:37.759 --> 00:32:41.279 and what is ahead of us forever and ever 00:32:41.279 --> 00:32:44.299 if we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:32:44.879 --> 00:32:48.199 And it will be to be with the Lamb. 00:32:48.819 --> 00:32:50.559 And the Lamb will be praised. 00:32:50.720 --> 00:32:52.980 The Lamb will be worshipped. 00:32:53.639 --> 00:32:58.199 But notice the context of this chapter as well, chapter 22. 00:32:58.200 --> 00:33:03.940 The context of it is very much when the Lord Jesus is speaking about his coming. 00:33:04.920 --> 00:33:06.360 And the words he says, 00:33:07.000 --> 00:33:07.860 I am coming. 00:33:08.660 --> 00:33:10.380 In verse 7 he says, 00:33:10.860 --> 00:33:13.720 Behold, I am coming soon. 00:33:14.640 --> 00:33:17.759 So there's that sense of time once again. 00:33:17.880 --> 00:33:20.580 In verse 12 he says again, 00:33:20.740 --> 00:33:26.259 Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me. 00:33:26.259 --> 00:33:32.500 And then the last words of this book are again in verse 20. 00:33:32.680 --> 00:33:35.019 He who testifies to these things says, 00:33:35.339 --> 00:33:38.220 Surely I am coming soon. 00:33:38.539 --> 00:33:43.680 So there's a sense of the coming of the Lord. 00:33:44.700 --> 00:33:48.259 And the question that that raises for us is, 00:33:48.900 --> 00:33:50.440 When might this be? 00:33:52.000 --> 00:33:53.740 When might this happen? 00:33:53.740 --> 00:33:55.940 If he is coming soon. 00:33:56.640 --> 00:34:00.059 And he wrote, this book was written 2,000 years ago. 00:34:00.480 --> 00:34:02.620 Well, what is soon with the Lord? 00:34:04.200 --> 00:34:05.259 Is he coming? 00:34:05.559 --> 00:34:06.460 That's the question. 00:34:07.180 --> 00:34:08.519 We don't need to believe this. 00:34:08.599 --> 00:34:11.360 If he was going to come, he'd have come by now. 00:34:12.179 --> 00:34:13.599 But that's not true. 00:34:14.860 --> 00:34:15.920 He is coming. 00:34:16.659 --> 00:34:20.139 And soon to him is in his right time. 00:34:20.139 --> 00:34:24.400 So we need to concern ourselves about this. 00:34:25.299 --> 00:34:30.679 We need to concern ourselves about not just the fact that he came in the first place, 00:34:30.819 --> 00:34:34.420 Behold the Lamb of God, as John the Baptist saw him. 00:34:34.980 --> 00:34:38.219 But we must remember that the Lamb is coming again. 00:34:39.199 --> 00:34:41.859 And that the Lamb will be in the midst of the throne. 00:34:41.860 --> 00:34:46.280 But the question is, will we be there with him? 00:34:47.180 --> 00:34:50.500 Will we be found worshipping him? 00:34:51.140 --> 00:34:53.780 We need to concern ourselves. 00:34:54.220 --> 00:34:55.740 Because he is not late. 00:34:56.480 --> 00:34:58.140 He has not delayed his coming. 00:34:58.519 --> 00:35:00.340 He has not put off his coming. 00:35:00.800 --> 00:35:01.700 He is coming. 00:35:02.039 --> 00:35:04.940 As it says here, he is coming soon. 00:35:04.940 --> 00:35:10.920 And so we want to see three things out of this chapter this evening. 00:35:11.619 --> 00:35:15.000 Three things that Jesus teaches us in these words. 00:35:15.139 --> 00:35:18.480 The first thing is that there is an opportunity given. 00:35:19.860 --> 00:35:23.500 And then the second thing we see is the authority he has. 00:35:24.440 --> 00:35:28.820 And then the third thing is the invitation that is given. 00:35:29.960 --> 00:35:31.980 First of all, we think of the opportunity. 00:35:31.980 --> 00:35:37.980 What do you do when you are waiting for someone to arrive? 00:35:39.099 --> 00:35:41.740 Do you sit and do nothing? 00:35:42.300 --> 00:35:47.139 Or do you keep busy with something else until they appear? 00:35:47.699 --> 00:35:51.039 Perhaps it depends just where you are at the time. 00:35:51.980 --> 00:35:54.960 If you are at home waiting for someone to come round, 00:35:55.039 --> 00:35:59.400 you might busy yourself with dishes or tidying up in some way. 00:35:59.400 --> 00:36:03.220 Just doing something that needs to be done in the house. 00:36:04.160 --> 00:36:06.740 Or if you are maybe going to meet someone off the ferry. 00:36:06.820 --> 00:36:08.320 You are waiting for the ferry to come in. 00:36:08.380 --> 00:36:12.900 Or if you are in a restaurant waiting for someone who is going to be at least half an hour late. 00:36:13.320 --> 00:36:16.000 You maybe find a book to read or catch up on. 00:36:16.480 --> 00:36:19.300 Texts or phone calls or something like that. 00:36:20.500 --> 00:36:24.440 When we are waiting, there is often something to be done. 00:36:24.440 --> 00:36:29.579 Waiting is not an excuse for inactivity. 00:36:30.639 --> 00:36:35.519 And that is especially when it comes to the return of the Lord. 00:36:36.800 --> 00:36:41.840 And so we see here that the Lord gives us opportunity. 00:36:42.960 --> 00:36:45.940 He says he is coming soon. 00:36:45.940 --> 00:36:56.340 But he is also saying to us in these words that this day and all the days that we have are really a day of opportunity. 00:36:57.480 --> 00:37:01.780 They are a time of his grace towards us. 00:37:02.920 --> 00:37:06.920 Because the fact is he could come at any moment. 00:37:07.980 --> 00:37:09.780 But we don't live like it. 00:37:10.519 --> 00:37:13.340 We are living more like he is not coming. 00:37:13.340 --> 00:37:16.740 If he was going to come, he would have come by now. 00:37:17.620 --> 00:37:19.320 But the reality is different. 00:37:19.820 --> 00:37:22.960 The reality is he could come at any moment. 00:37:24.420 --> 00:37:28.320 And what do we do in these times of opportunity? 00:37:28.519 --> 00:37:31.620 What do we do in these days of opportunity? 00:37:32.940 --> 00:37:34.640 Do we sit idly back? 00:37:35.220 --> 00:37:39.160 Or do we take heed of what the word of God says? 00:37:40.240 --> 00:37:41.820 It is a day of opportunity. 00:37:41.820 --> 00:37:44.559 And in verse 7 where he says, 00:37:45.200 --> 00:37:46.460 I am coming soon, 00:37:47.340 --> 00:37:49.300 it is followed by a statement. 00:37:50.539 --> 00:37:55.519 Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book. 00:37:56.600 --> 00:38:01.780 So you see, it is not waiting for his coming soon without doing anything. 00:38:02.700 --> 00:38:07.660 It is blessed is the one who keeps the word of the prophecy of this book. 00:38:07.659 --> 00:38:12.559 What are we doing with our time as we wait? 00:38:14.719 --> 00:38:16.279 Are we wasteful? 00:38:16.779 --> 00:38:20.019 Or are we making the most of our time? 00:38:21.159 --> 00:38:24.879 Psalm 39 is a psalm that speaks about time. 00:38:24.880 --> 00:38:30.640 It speaks about using our time for vain things in verse 6. 00:38:31.460 --> 00:38:35.300 Many of the things that we do in life, it can all be in vain. 00:38:35.300 --> 00:38:41.440 We see it in the Old Testament as well. 00:38:41.960 --> 00:38:45.920 When the writer to Ecclesiastes is speaking about vanity, vanity. 00:38:46.080 --> 00:38:46.980 All is vanity. 00:38:47.680 --> 00:38:49.539 The things done under the sun. 00:38:50.039 --> 00:38:53.320 When we're going about our life in that business of just time, 00:38:53.420 --> 00:38:55.340 it's just a commodity that we use. 00:38:55.740 --> 00:38:59.460 We're in the hamster's wheel, just that routine day by day. 00:38:59.460 --> 00:39:00.940 But it seems to be in vain. 00:39:01.260 --> 00:39:06.599 When there's no focus, when there's no attention given to why are we doing these things. 00:39:07.579 --> 00:39:09.039 So Psalm 39 is similar. 00:39:09.199 --> 00:39:11.559 It speaks about doing things in vain. 00:39:11.699 --> 00:39:18.539 But it also speaks with us, too, about perspective as well, about how we see our time. 00:39:19.320 --> 00:39:21.900 David, the psalmist, says in verse 5, 00:39:21.900 --> 00:39:31.180 So he's seeing God, isn't it? 00:39:31.840 --> 00:39:35.380 He's seeing how short, really, our time is. 00:39:35.460 --> 00:39:38.160 On earth, how brief our time is. 00:39:38.660 --> 00:39:40.340 To an eternal God. 00:39:41.300 --> 00:39:44.019 A God who is there without beginning and without end. 00:39:44.800 --> 00:39:47.780 Time is not the way we see time. 00:39:47.780 --> 00:39:51.340 But for David and for ourselves, our time is brief. 00:39:52.019 --> 00:39:55.100 And yet our time is a time of opportunity. 00:39:56.380 --> 00:39:58.900 Time is a precious commodity. 00:39:59.220 --> 00:40:04.800 Each minute is a gift that cannot be taken back, cannot be retrieved. 00:40:05.539 --> 00:40:08.660 We are reminded of that so often. 00:40:09.760 --> 00:40:11.700 How our time can be cut short. 00:40:12.500 --> 00:40:15.980 How our time can be wasted in so many things. 00:40:16.840 --> 00:40:20.860 And so we think of living in a day of opportunity. 00:40:21.900 --> 00:40:23.700 The Lamb of God is coming. 00:40:24.100 --> 00:40:26.760 But we are now in a day of opportunity. 00:40:27.160 --> 00:40:29.740 There are things we need to busy ourselves with. 00:40:30.340 --> 00:40:32.620 There are things that we need to do on a daily basis. 00:40:32.760 --> 00:40:35.240 But are we doing them in light of the Lord? 00:40:36.280 --> 00:40:39.940 Or are we doing them just in that vanity, vanity, all is vanity. 00:40:40.380 --> 00:40:42.480 Just going through the motions. 00:40:42.480 --> 00:40:49.019 Time is an opportunity to come to the Lamb of God. 00:40:49.500 --> 00:40:52.059 To hear these words of John the Baptist. 00:40:52.360 --> 00:40:55.960 Behold, look, see, the Lamb of God. 00:40:56.039 --> 00:40:57.659 It takes away the sin of the world. 00:40:57.719 --> 00:41:00.300 Because the Lamb is coming to judge. 00:41:01.500 --> 00:41:04.659 And so is our time well spent. 00:41:04.659 --> 00:41:12.239 When you look at verse 10, we are reminded that this time is a time of opportunity as well. 00:41:13.179 --> 00:41:14.359 And he said to me, 00:41:14.440 --> 00:41:17.500 Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book. 00:41:17.579 --> 00:41:19.599 For the time is near. 00:41:20.599 --> 00:41:23.440 The word is still open to us. 00:41:23.579 --> 00:41:26.599 The word is still being proclaimed in these days. 00:41:26.599 --> 00:41:29.159 Because the time is near. 00:41:29.159 --> 00:41:32.699 What are we doing then while we wait? 00:41:33.719 --> 00:41:37.599 Are we waiting in obedience, ready for his coming? 00:41:38.119 --> 00:41:41.239 Or are we waiting with a sense of time as my own? 00:41:41.819 --> 00:41:43.619 I'll do as I please. 00:41:45.179 --> 00:41:47.399 John Wesley was once asked, 00:41:48.159 --> 00:41:52.960 What would you do if you knew the Lord was returning this time tomorrow? 00:41:54.239 --> 00:41:55.799 And his answer was this. 00:41:55.800 --> 00:41:59.860 I would go to bed and go to sleep, 00:42:00.400 --> 00:42:03.960 wake up in the morning and go on with my work. 00:42:04.660 --> 00:42:08.740 For I would want him to find me doing what he had appointed. 00:42:11.300 --> 00:42:13.600 If I was to ask you that question, 00:42:14.340 --> 00:42:19.180 if you knew the Lord was coming this time tomorrow, 00:42:19.760 --> 00:42:21.480 what would you do? 00:42:21.480 --> 00:42:26.360 Can you answer like John Wesley and say, 00:42:26.460 --> 00:42:28.860 What I would just do what I would be doing? 00:42:28.920 --> 00:42:32.460 Because I am already doing what the Lord has appointed for me. 00:42:33.199 --> 00:42:35.179 If you can say that, praise God. 00:42:37.000 --> 00:42:38.800 But if you can't say that, 00:42:39.820 --> 00:42:41.619 that is a more serious matter. 00:42:43.219 --> 00:42:45.059 Today is a day of opportunity. 00:42:45.059 --> 00:42:49.960 A time of grace to be made right with God 00:42:49.960 --> 00:42:52.719 before he comes. 00:42:53.659 --> 00:42:57.219 The Lamb of God is coming soon. 00:42:58.659 --> 00:43:02.900 The second thing we see here is the authority that he has. 00:43:04.599 --> 00:43:07.759 What authority does Jesus have? 00:43:07.760 --> 00:43:11.660 Is he one among many that we can look to? 00:43:12.040 --> 00:43:16.140 One among many gods that we can seek to please in this life 00:43:16.140 --> 00:43:19.940 in the hope that there might be something to come later on? 00:43:20.680 --> 00:43:22.080 Is that the Jesus that we see? 00:43:22.140 --> 00:43:24.000 Is that the God that we worship? 00:43:24.540 --> 00:43:27.000 Should we really take these words seriously? 00:43:28.340 --> 00:43:29.200 Well, we should. 00:43:30.380 --> 00:43:32.780 And when we go back to what John the Baptist said, 00:43:33.160 --> 00:43:33.460 he said, 00:43:33.460 --> 00:43:35.559 Behold the Lamb of God. 00:43:37.059 --> 00:43:39.240 God was sending this Lamb. 00:43:39.380 --> 00:43:41.500 God was sending his Son. 00:43:42.460 --> 00:43:45.199 So God gave him authority. 00:43:47.199 --> 00:43:50.480 And he has all authority under heaven and earth. 00:43:50.539 --> 00:43:52.380 That's what we read in the Scriptures, 00:43:52.940 --> 00:43:53.840 in the Gospels. 00:43:55.199 --> 00:43:56.740 And in verse 12 here, 00:43:56.800 --> 00:43:59.720 we are reminded again in light of his coming. 00:43:59.940 --> 00:44:02.539 Soon we are reminded of his authority. 00:44:02.539 --> 00:44:05.139 Behold, I am coming soon, 00:44:05.599 --> 00:44:08.340 bringing my recompense with me 00:44:08.340 --> 00:44:11.860 to repay everyone for what he has done. 00:44:14.199 --> 00:44:15.860 So verse 12 says, 00:44:16.380 --> 00:44:17.679 I am coming soon. 00:44:17.739 --> 00:44:19.340 And he has authority. 00:44:19.500 --> 00:44:21.099 And then this authority is followed 00:44:21.099 --> 00:44:23.440 by saying, I am. 00:44:24.099 --> 00:44:26.679 And we have two of these in verse 13 00:44:26.679 --> 00:44:28.099 and then in verse 16. 00:44:28.679 --> 00:44:29.420 And he says, 00:44:29.420 --> 00:44:32.039 I am the Alpha and the Omega, 00:44:32.159 --> 00:44:33.400 the first and the last, 00:44:33.920 --> 00:44:36.119 the beginning and the end. 00:44:37.039 --> 00:44:40.039 And this takes us back again to John 1. 00:44:41.039 --> 00:44:42.539 In the beginning was the Word, 00:44:42.599 --> 00:44:43.840 and the Word was with God, 00:44:43.880 --> 00:44:45.240 and the Word was God. 00:44:45.599 --> 00:44:47.920 He was in the beginning with God. 00:44:48.019 --> 00:44:49.860 All things were made through him, 00:44:50.200 --> 00:44:52.380 and without him was not anything made 00:44:52.380 --> 00:44:53.260 that was made. 00:44:53.980 --> 00:44:56.079 And so we're taken back again there. 00:44:56.079 --> 00:44:58.299 He is the Alpha and the Omega, 00:44:58.420 --> 00:45:00.299 the beginning and the end. 00:45:01.900 --> 00:45:04.420 And so we see here his authority. 00:45:05.179 --> 00:45:07.259 He was there when everything began, 00:45:07.699 --> 00:45:10.360 and he will be there when everything comes 00:45:10.360 --> 00:45:11.799 to a conclusion. 00:45:11.800 --> 00:45:17.039 Who created the world? 00:45:17.760 --> 00:45:19.300 And for what purpose? 00:45:20.280 --> 00:45:23.220 It's a question that's kind of often discussed 00:45:23.220 --> 00:45:24.380 and often asked, 00:45:24.480 --> 00:45:26.180 and there's different kinds of points 00:45:26.180 --> 00:45:27.820 of view with it all. 00:45:28.400 --> 00:45:30.720 People will have all their different theories 00:45:30.720 --> 00:45:31.960 about it. 00:45:33.280 --> 00:45:34.200 And for many years, 00:45:34.300 --> 00:45:37.560 people would really hold on the Word of God. 00:45:37.680 --> 00:45:39.460 God made the heavens and the earth. 00:45:39.460 --> 00:45:41.460 He created all things. 00:45:42.420 --> 00:45:43.820 But then we find in our day, 00:45:44.240 --> 00:45:46.300 more and more people will rubbish that idea 00:45:46.300 --> 00:45:48.519 and look at all kinds of other theories 00:45:48.519 --> 00:45:50.940 as to the creation of the world. 00:45:51.559 --> 00:45:53.440 The creation by God is something 00:45:53.440 --> 00:45:55.099 that's pushed out more and more. 00:45:56.400 --> 00:45:59.159 But we have to rely on the Word of God. 00:45:59.679 --> 00:46:01.320 This is something that's discussed 00:46:01.320 --> 00:46:02.940 down through all generations. 00:46:03.199 --> 00:46:05.079 It's amazing how even in the Scriptures 00:46:05.079 --> 00:46:06.519 you find it discussed. 00:46:06.519 --> 00:46:09.579 In the book of Job, Job chapter 38, 00:46:09.719 --> 00:46:12.500 where the Lord is saying to Job, 00:46:12.980 --> 00:46:13.380 he says, 00:46:13.480 --> 00:46:15.099 Where were you when I laid the foundation 00:46:15.099 --> 00:46:15.820 of the earth? 00:46:16.539 --> 00:46:18.759 Tell me, if you have understanding, 00:46:18.920 --> 00:46:20.400 who determined its measurements? 00:46:20.739 --> 00:46:21.539 Surely you know. 00:46:22.940 --> 00:46:24.940 Or who stretched the line upon it? 00:46:25.380 --> 00:46:27.539 Or what, where its bases sunk? 00:46:27.659 --> 00:46:29.659 Or who laid its corners? 00:46:29.860 --> 00:46:31.940 There's questions there given to Job. 00:46:32.360 --> 00:46:33.480 Do you have the answers? 00:46:33.480 --> 00:46:37.300 Where were you when the foundations were laid? 00:46:38.619 --> 00:46:40.820 That's the question for ourselves as well. 00:46:41.300 --> 00:46:42.360 Do we have the answers? 00:46:43.480 --> 00:46:45.280 Or are we trusting by faith 00:46:45.280 --> 00:46:48.059 in the Word that was with God in the beginning? 00:46:48.740 --> 00:46:50.639 The Lamb of God who was there, 00:46:51.340 --> 00:46:52.740 for whom all things were created 00:46:52.740 --> 00:46:55.280 and by whom all things were created. 00:46:55.699 --> 00:46:57.179 So there's this fascination 00:46:57.179 --> 00:47:01.260 looking back to the beginning of creation. 00:47:01.260 --> 00:47:04.240 But what about the end? 00:47:05.240 --> 00:47:07.080 What about the end? 00:47:08.040 --> 00:47:10.260 Again, people have their own theories. 00:47:11.220 --> 00:47:12.960 The end is just nothing. 00:47:13.940 --> 00:47:16.140 We die and that's it. 00:47:17.900 --> 00:47:19.920 What hopeless lives we have 00:47:19.920 --> 00:47:21.660 if that's all we have. 00:47:22.540 --> 00:47:24.540 But when we look to the Word of God, 00:47:24.780 --> 00:47:27.180 we see there's so much more to the end. 00:47:27.179 --> 00:47:30.940 There's so much more to look forward to 00:47:30.940 --> 00:47:33.219 if we are trusting in the Lord. 00:47:34.399 --> 00:47:36.699 But the question is, are we? 00:47:37.779 --> 00:47:40.659 Can we look forward to His coming soon? 00:47:41.079 --> 00:47:43.960 To the day when the Lamb will come again 00:47:43.960 --> 00:47:47.559 and we have to appear before His judgment seat. 00:47:47.559 --> 00:47:50.880 He is the Alpha and the Omega, 00:47:50.980 --> 00:47:52.139 the first and the last, 00:47:52.239 --> 00:47:54.340 the beginning and the end. 00:47:55.799 --> 00:47:58.559 He created and He will recreate. 00:47:59.500 --> 00:48:02.119 A new heavens and a new earth. 00:48:03.779 --> 00:48:05.719 We're reminded too in verse 16 00:48:05.719 --> 00:48:06.360 where He says, 00:48:07.460 --> 00:48:09.799 I am the root and descendant of David, 00:48:09.920 --> 00:48:12.739 the bright morning star. 00:48:12.739 --> 00:48:15.459 Again, we are just reminded there 00:48:15.459 --> 00:48:16.779 of His authority, 00:48:17.559 --> 00:48:18.339 His power, 00:48:18.479 --> 00:48:19.879 the descendant from David, 00:48:20.000 --> 00:48:21.199 the one who was promised, 00:48:21.779 --> 00:48:23.039 the one who we saw coming, 00:48:23.159 --> 00:48:24.439 the one who we saw punished, 00:48:25.019 --> 00:48:26.699 the one who we know will come again 00:48:26.699 --> 00:48:29.059 and the one who will be praised. 00:48:29.539 --> 00:48:31.739 He is the bright morning star. 00:48:33.359 --> 00:48:34.739 It means to be elevated. 00:48:35.599 --> 00:48:36.739 He is lifted up. 00:48:37.459 --> 00:48:40.319 And the Lord will indeed be lifted up. 00:48:40.320 --> 00:48:42.860 When you think of the coming of the Lord, 00:48:42.960 --> 00:48:44.600 we are told every knee shall bow 00:48:44.600 --> 00:48:46.340 and every tongue confess 00:48:46.340 --> 00:48:48.400 that Jesus Christ is Lord. 00:48:50.539 --> 00:48:52.680 And it's so important that we remember 00:48:52.680 --> 00:48:54.740 He is coming soon. 00:48:56.039 --> 00:48:59.660 He has authority over all things. 00:49:00.640 --> 00:49:03.100 Power and authority to bring all things 00:49:03.100 --> 00:49:05.400 to come to pass. 00:49:06.620 --> 00:49:09.880 The Lamb has all authority. 00:49:10.320 --> 00:49:14.180 But the final thing we want to see from this 00:49:14.180 --> 00:49:16.680 and the amazing thing as we conclude 00:49:16.680 --> 00:49:19.400 is that we see that there is an invitation. 00:49:20.660 --> 00:49:22.140 There is an invitation. 00:49:23.519 --> 00:49:24.300 He says, 00:49:24.820 --> 00:49:25.140 Come. 00:49:26.480 --> 00:49:27.920 In verse 17, 00:49:28.100 --> 00:49:30.640 the Spirit and the bride say, 00:49:30.820 --> 00:49:31.120 Come. 00:49:31.920 --> 00:49:34.600 And let the one who hears say, 00:49:34.780 --> 00:49:35.080 Come. 00:49:35.700 --> 00:49:37.380 And let the one who is thirsty, 00:49:37.980 --> 00:49:38.340 Come. 00:49:38.340 --> 00:49:41.500 Let the one who desires take the water of life 00:49:41.500 --> 00:49:43.440 without price. 00:49:45.019 --> 00:49:48.019 We all get maybe invitations to different things. 00:49:48.200 --> 00:49:50.780 And invitations can be exciting. 00:49:51.380 --> 00:49:53.519 You get an invitation to dinner. 00:49:53.640 --> 00:49:55.820 You get an invitation to a birthday party 00:49:55.820 --> 00:49:56.400 or a wedding. 00:49:56.760 --> 00:49:59.940 You get an invitation to a grand opening of something. 00:50:00.019 --> 00:50:00.820 Or if you're fortunate, 00:50:01.019 --> 00:50:02.480 maybe even get an invitation 00:50:02.480 --> 00:50:05.079 invitation to the royal garden party. 00:50:06.420 --> 00:50:09.619 All kinds of invitations come. 00:50:10.340 --> 00:50:13.539 And yet there's none that compare to this. 00:50:14.480 --> 00:50:16.579 The Spirit and the bride say, 00:50:16.760 --> 00:50:17.079 Come. 00:50:18.139 --> 00:50:20.440 Let the one who hears say, 00:50:20.639 --> 00:50:20.940 Come. 00:50:20.940 --> 00:50:25.019 The Lamb of God is inviting us. 00:50:25.880 --> 00:50:27.800 He is inviting us to be with him. 00:50:28.260 --> 00:50:31.079 To be with him around the throne. 00:50:31.320 --> 00:50:32.860 Seeing the Lamb as slain. 00:50:33.519 --> 00:50:37.780 Worshipping him with all that we are forever and ever. 00:50:37.780 --> 00:50:43.840 But we must respond to the invitation now. 00:50:45.160 --> 00:50:48.140 The invitations of the Lamb are throughout Scripture. 00:50:48.640 --> 00:50:51.040 Again, just going back to John 1. 00:50:51.820 --> 00:50:53.320 There was an invitation there. 00:50:53.380 --> 00:50:54.460 We read it last night. 00:50:55.140 --> 00:50:57.580 We didn't reflect on it as such. 00:50:57.740 --> 00:51:01.000 But in verse 39 or verse 38, 00:51:01.080 --> 00:51:03.560 Jesus turned and saw them following him. 00:51:03.640 --> 00:51:05.500 That's some of John the Baptist's disciples. 00:51:05.500 --> 00:51:06.539 And said to them, 00:51:06.840 --> 00:51:07.880 What are you seeking? 00:51:08.300 --> 00:51:09.260 And they said to him, 00:51:09.340 --> 00:51:10.820 Rabbi, which means teacher, 00:51:11.300 --> 00:51:12.300 where are you staying? 00:51:12.940 --> 00:51:13.719 He said to them, 00:51:13.940 --> 00:51:15.900 Come and you will see. 00:51:16.420 --> 00:51:18.420 A simple invitation. 00:51:18.699 --> 00:51:21.079 Come and you will see. 00:51:22.599 --> 00:51:25.840 And a time that would change them. 00:51:26.179 --> 00:51:28.139 A time that they would hear that invitation. 00:51:28.699 --> 00:51:29.760 Not long after that, 00:51:29.820 --> 00:51:31.260 Jesus is speaking to others 00:51:31.260 --> 00:51:32.480 in the Gospel of Mark. 00:51:32.900 --> 00:51:34.099 And he says to the fishermen, 00:51:34.099 --> 00:51:35.139 Come, follow me, 00:51:35.139 --> 00:51:37.440 and I will make you fishers of men. 00:51:38.819 --> 00:51:41.699 And so there's all these powerful invitations 00:51:41.699 --> 00:51:42.559 that go out. 00:51:43.359 --> 00:51:45.739 Invitations like Matthew 11, verse 28. 00:51:45.900 --> 00:51:46.579 Come to me, 00:51:46.859 --> 00:51:49.019 all you that labor and are heavy laden, 00:51:49.079 --> 00:51:50.759 and I will give you rest. 00:51:52.559 --> 00:51:55.019 And when we accept the invitation to come, 00:51:55.279 --> 00:51:56.420 we have a promise, 00:51:56.539 --> 00:51:58.339 as John 6 gives to us, 00:51:58.339 --> 00:51:59.900 whoever comes to me, 00:51:59.980 --> 00:52:02.480 I will never cast out. 00:52:02.480 --> 00:52:05.039 There's personal invitations. 00:52:05.039 --> 00:52:05.780 There's personal invitations. 00:52:06.260 --> 00:52:08.099 When you think of Zacchaeus, 00:52:08.360 --> 00:52:10.400 the little man who was up the tree. 00:52:11.480 --> 00:52:13.460 And Jesus calls him and says, 00:52:13.780 --> 00:52:14.199 Come down, 00:52:14.320 --> 00:52:17.320 for today I must abide at your house. 00:52:19.159 --> 00:52:20.519 There's so many. 00:52:21.039 --> 00:52:24.519 He invited Lazarus to come out of the grave. 00:52:24.760 --> 00:52:25.019 He said, 00:52:25.099 --> 00:52:26.579 Lazarus, come forth. 00:52:26.579 --> 00:52:29.279 Not even death itself could hold 00:52:29.279 --> 00:52:32.900 at the power of Jesus' word. 00:52:34.000 --> 00:52:36.539 There are invitations from the Lord 00:52:36.539 --> 00:52:37.900 with gracious promises 00:52:37.900 --> 00:52:40.420 to all who will come to him. 00:52:41.599 --> 00:52:44.199 And that's the invitation that we have this evening. 00:52:44.719 --> 00:52:46.139 The invitation to come 00:52:46.139 --> 00:52:48.179 and be with the Lamb of God 00:52:48.179 --> 00:52:50.000 for all eternity. 00:52:50.199 --> 00:52:51.840 The Spirit and the Bride say, 00:52:51.980 --> 00:52:52.340 Come. 00:52:52.340 --> 00:52:54.340 Let him who hears say, 00:52:54.460 --> 00:52:54.740 Come. 00:52:55.059 --> 00:52:56.519 And let him who is thirsty, 00:52:56.760 --> 00:52:57.079 Come. 00:52:57.539 --> 00:52:59.760 It's there for us just to come. 00:53:00.460 --> 00:53:01.740 Come, he sees. 00:53:04.039 --> 00:53:07.100 The Lamb that John the Baptist saw, 00:53:07.780 --> 00:53:09.480 the Lamb that we were remembering 00:53:09.480 --> 00:53:11.620 this morning punished, 00:53:12.500 --> 00:53:14.019 is the one who says, 00:53:14.480 --> 00:53:14.800 Come. 00:53:16.000 --> 00:53:18.480 Come and worship me. 00:53:18.620 --> 00:53:19.900 Come and behold forever 00:53:19.900 --> 00:53:20.420 forever. 00:53:21.059 --> 00:53:22.260 The Lamb of God 00:53:22.260 --> 00:53:23.180 who takes away 00:53:23.180 --> 00:53:25.760 the sin of the world. 00:53:26.539 --> 00:53:28.480 Come and worship. 00:53:28.760 --> 00:53:30.300 Come and praise 00:53:30.300 --> 00:53:31.720 this Lamb. 00:53:32.539 --> 00:53:33.800 As verse 3 says, 00:53:34.300 --> 00:53:35.340 There is that hope 00:53:35.340 --> 00:53:36.260 of a new heaven 00:53:36.260 --> 00:53:37.360 and a new earth. 00:53:37.480 --> 00:53:39.800 No longer will be anything accursed, 00:53:40.619 --> 00:53:42.079 but the throne of God 00:53:42.079 --> 00:53:44.019 and the Lamb will be in it 00:53:44.019 --> 00:53:45.700 and his servants 00:53:45.700 --> 00:53:47.720 will worship him. 00:53:47.719 --> 00:53:51.119 will you be there? 00:53:52.619 --> 00:53:53.779 Will you be worshipping 00:53:53.779 --> 00:53:55.500 around the throne? 00:53:56.219 --> 00:53:58.539 Worshipping the Lamb of God 00:53:58.539 --> 00:54:01.239 for all eternity? 00:54:02.799 --> 00:54:03.799 Some of these things 00:54:03.799 --> 00:54:05.319 are so hard for us 00:54:05.319 --> 00:54:06.779 to understand. 00:54:06.919 --> 00:54:08.099 They're so hard for us 00:54:08.099 --> 00:54:09.239 to comprehend. 00:54:09.500 --> 00:54:11.219 We were reflecting on this 00:54:11.219 --> 00:54:12.139 in the manse a little 00:54:12.139 --> 00:54:12.939 this afternoon. 00:54:12.940 --> 00:54:14.659 And I quoted 00:54:14.659 --> 00:54:17.220 a hymn by Richard Baxter. 00:54:17.300 --> 00:54:18.440 I'm going to quote it again 00:54:18.440 --> 00:54:19.860 here this evening. 00:54:20.920 --> 00:54:22.420 And listen to these words. 00:54:23.380 --> 00:54:24.960 Christ leads me through 00:54:24.960 --> 00:54:26.280 no darker rooms 00:54:26.280 --> 00:54:28.460 than he went through before. 00:54:29.139 --> 00:54:31.639 He that unto God's kingdom comes 00:54:31.639 --> 00:54:34.200 must enter by his door. 00:54:35.320 --> 00:54:36.559 Come, Lord, 00:54:36.659 --> 00:54:38.500 when grace hath made me meet, 00:54:38.960 --> 00:54:40.679 thy blessed face to see. 00:54:40.679 --> 00:54:42.779 For if thy work on earth 00:54:42.779 --> 00:54:43.519 be sweet, 00:54:43.799 --> 00:54:46.000 what will thy glory be? 00:54:46.879 --> 00:54:48.279 Then I shall end 00:54:48.279 --> 00:54:49.659 my sad complaints 00:54:49.659 --> 00:54:52.019 and weary sinful days 00:54:52.019 --> 00:54:55.059 and join with the triumphant saints 00:54:55.059 --> 00:54:57.960 that sing my Saviour's praise. 00:54:58.739 --> 00:55:01.239 My knowledge of that life is small, 00:55:01.819 --> 00:55:03.519 the eye of faith is dim, 00:55:04.359 --> 00:55:06.879 but tis enough that Christ knows all 00:55:06.880 --> 00:55:10.360 and I shall be with him. 00:55:12.519 --> 00:55:14.119 There's so many things 00:55:14.119 --> 00:55:15.180 that we don't know. 00:55:16.460 --> 00:55:17.960 But is it not enough 00:55:17.960 --> 00:55:20.039 that Christ knows all 00:55:20.039 --> 00:55:23.059 and we shall be with him? 00:55:24.340 --> 00:55:27.260 The Lamb of God was promised. 00:55:28.660 --> 00:55:29.480 He came. 00:55:30.460 --> 00:55:32.160 John the Baptist pointed us 00:55:32.160 --> 00:55:33.000 towards him. 00:55:33.000 --> 00:55:35.179 Behold the Lamb of God 00:55:35.179 --> 00:55:37.760 who takes away the sin of the world. 00:55:38.920 --> 00:55:41.760 The Lamb of God was punished. 00:55:43.280 --> 00:55:44.880 He came with a purpose 00:55:44.880 --> 00:55:47.340 to give his life. 00:55:48.559 --> 00:55:50.800 The Lamb was sacrificed 00:55:50.800 --> 00:55:53.460 once and for all. 00:55:55.159 --> 00:55:56.820 Today is a day of opportunity 00:55:56.820 --> 00:55:59.840 to prepare for the time 00:55:59.840 --> 00:56:02.559 when we might gather round his throne 00:56:02.559 --> 00:56:04.559 and worship him. 00:56:05.720 --> 00:56:06.940 To be there 00:56:06.940 --> 00:56:08.600 is to trust 00:56:08.600 --> 00:56:10.780 in the Lamb of God 00:56:10.780 --> 00:56:12.400 who takes away 00:56:12.400 --> 00:56:14.120 the sin of the world. 00:56:14.740 --> 00:56:15.700 Let us pray. 00:56:18.480 --> 00:56:20.280 Our Father in heaven, 00:56:20.420 --> 00:56:22.620 may you bless your word again to us 00:56:22.620 --> 00:56:25.160 as we go from here this evening. 00:56:25.300 --> 00:56:26.200 We pray that you will 00:56:26.200 --> 00:56:28.260 make your word go with us, 00:56:28.260 --> 00:56:29.860 that it will resonate 00:56:29.860 --> 00:56:30.840 in our ears 00:56:30.840 --> 00:56:31.900 and in our hearts 00:56:31.900 --> 00:56:33.520 and guide us 00:56:33.520 --> 00:56:34.600 in your paths. 00:56:35.440 --> 00:56:36.940 For we hear these words 00:56:36.940 --> 00:56:38.080 and we can put them off. 00:56:38.920 --> 00:56:39.420 Behold, 00:56:39.560 --> 00:56:40.860 I am coming soon 00:56:40.860 --> 00:56:42.420 and soon 00:56:42.420 --> 00:56:44.220 seems so far away 00:56:44.220 --> 00:56:44.860 for us. 00:56:45.660 --> 00:56:46.960 But yet we do not know 00:56:46.960 --> 00:56:48.000 when will that 00:56:48.000 --> 00:56:48.500 will be. 00:56:49.300 --> 00:56:50.340 And so help us 00:56:50.340 --> 00:56:51.360 to be prepared. 00:56:52.120 --> 00:56:53.520 Help us to be a people 00:56:53.520 --> 00:56:54.740 who are looking 00:56:54.740 --> 00:56:56.040 and longing for you. 00:56:56.039 --> 00:56:57.380 when we might say, 00:56:57.559 --> 00:56:57.860 come, 00:56:58.159 --> 00:56:58.880 Lord Jesus. 00:56:59.860 --> 00:57:00.840 May we find 00:57:00.840 --> 00:57:02.900 that faith 00:57:02.900 --> 00:57:03.699 in our hearts. 00:57:03.800 --> 00:57:04.380 May we find 00:57:04.380 --> 00:57:05.159 that hope 00:57:05.159 --> 00:57:06.039 in you 00:57:06.039 --> 00:57:06.960 to make us ready 00:57:06.960 --> 00:57:07.920 for that day 00:57:07.920 --> 00:57:09.019 for all eternity 00:57:09.019 --> 00:57:10.639 when we might praise 00:57:10.639 --> 00:57:11.199 and worship 00:57:11.199 --> 00:57:11.880 the Lamb 00:57:11.880 --> 00:57:13.219 who was slain. 00:57:13.659 --> 00:57:14.679 Hear our prayers. 00:57:14.820 --> 00:57:15.559 Continue with us 00:57:15.559 --> 00:57:16.320 and pardon us 00:57:16.320 --> 00:57:17.559 for all our sin 00:57:17.559 --> 00:57:18.559 as all we ask. 00:57:18.759 --> 00:57:20.019 We ask in Jesus' name. 00:57:20.539 --> 00:57:20.860 Amen. 00:57:20.860 --> 00:57:20.960 Amen. 00:57:20.960 --> 00:57:25.980 We're going to 00:57:25.980 --> 00:57:26.760 conclude 00:57:26.760 --> 00:57:27.699 by singing 00:57:27.699 --> 00:57:28.639 to God's praise 00:57:28.639 --> 00:57:30.220 in Psalm 111, 00:57:31.920 --> 00:57:33.119 the Scottish Psalter 00:57:33.119 --> 00:57:33.639 version, 00:57:34.820 --> 00:57:36.559 page 391. 00:57:38.639 --> 00:57:40.360 Psalm 111. 00:57:44.659 --> 00:57:45.420 We'll sing 00:57:45.420 --> 00:57:46.179 from verse 1 00:57:46.179 --> 00:57:47.340 to verse 4, 00:57:47.440 --> 00:57:48.220 a psalm again 00:57:48.220 --> 00:57:49.059 of praise 00:57:49.059 --> 00:57:49.719 to the Lord. 00:57:49.880 --> 00:57:51.219 Praise ye the Lord 00:57:51.219 --> 00:57:52.480 with my whole heart. 00:57:52.980 --> 00:57:54.139 I will God's praise 00:57:54.139 --> 00:57:54.619 declare 00:57:54.619 --> 00:57:55.579 where the assemblies 00:57:55.579 --> 00:57:56.460 of the just 00:57:56.460 --> 00:57:58.719 and congregations are. 00:57:59.259 --> 00:57:59.719 There's the theme 00:57:59.719 --> 00:58:00.179 of praise 00:58:00.179 --> 00:58:00.619 but then there's 00:58:00.619 --> 00:58:01.759 the reason of praise 00:58:01.759 --> 00:58:02.380 in verse 2. 00:58:02.500 --> 00:58:03.159 The whole works 00:58:03.159 --> 00:58:04.440 of the Lord our God 00:58:04.440 --> 00:58:05.500 are great 00:58:05.500 --> 00:58:06.500 above all measure. 00:58:06.719 --> 00:58:07.239 Sought out 00:58:07.239 --> 00:58:07.739 they are 00:58:07.739 --> 00:58:08.420 of everyone 00:58:08.420 --> 00:58:09.599 that doth 00:58:09.599 --> 00:58:10.460 therein 00:58:10.460 --> 00:58:11.099 take pleasure. 00:58:11.279 --> 00:58:12.539 The Tunis Argyle 00:58:12.539 --> 00:58:13.360 will sing 00:58:13.360 --> 00:58:14.239 from verse 1 00:58:14.239 --> 00:58:15.420 to verse 4. 00:58:15.420 --> 00:58:15.519 Amen. 00:58:15.519 --> 00:58:15.519 00:58:19.059 --> 00:58:24.460 Praise ye the Lord 00:58:24.460 --> 00:58:28.940 with my whole heart. 00:58:28.940 --> 00:58:36.340 I will not praise thee there 00:58:36.340 --> 00:58:40.200 where he has 00:58:40.200 --> 00:58:46.100 semblings of the just 00:58:46.100 --> 00:58:52.000 and convications 00:58:52.000 --> 00:58:53.559 have. 00:58:53.559 --> 00:58:57.559 The whole works 00:58:57.559 --> 00:59:01.519 so the Lord 00:59:01.519 --> 00:59:03.420 our God 00:59:03.420 --> 00:59:05.199 are great 00:59:05.199 --> 00:59:10.279 above all measure, 00:59:10.279 --> 00:59:12.079 so 00:59:12.079 --> 00:59:13.699 tarn 00:59:13.699 --> 00:59:14.400 the 00:59:14.400 --> 00:59:16.019 heart 00:59:16.019 --> 00:59:17.079 of 00:59:17.079 --> 00:59:18.519 every 00:59:18.519 --> 00:59:19.420 one 00:59:19.420 --> 00:59:22.500 that doth 00:59:22.500 --> 00:59:24.599 tiling 00:59:24.599 --> 00:59:25.519 tiling 00:59:25.519 --> 00:59:26.019 tiling 00:59:26.019 --> 00:59:26.799 tiling 00:59:26.799 --> 00:59:27.199 tiling 00:59:27.199 --> 00:59:45.199 His word most honourable is, most glorious and pure, 00:59:45.199 --> 01:00:03.199 And His untainted righteousness forever doth endure. 01:00:03.199 --> 01:00:20.199 His words most wonderful we have made to be caught upon. 01:00:20.199 --> 01:00:36.779 The Lord is gracious and He is full of compassion. 01:00:38.819 --> 01:00:43.939 I'll give thanks for the food that we'll be having next door and then close with the benediction. 01:00:44.900 --> 01:00:50.240 Lord, our gracious God, we thank You that every good and perfect gift is from above. 01:00:50.400 --> 01:00:54.720 We thank You for every provision that You make for us, Lord, day by day. 01:00:54.820 --> 01:00:57.099 We have so much to give thanks for. 01:00:57.179 --> 01:01:01.320 And we pray Your blessing on the food prepared for us next door. 01:01:01.400 --> 01:01:07.320 And as we go together there for fellowship, we pray that You will continue to bless us and to be with us. 01:01:07.639 --> 01:01:11.519 And to praise You as our Lord and as our God. 01:01:11.519 --> 01:01:21.960 And now may grace, mercy and peace from God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit rest upon and abide with you all now and forevermore. 01:01:22.460 --> 01:01:22.920 Amen. 01:01:22.920 --> 01:01:52.920 Thank you, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, Father, 01:01:52.920 --> 01:02:10.920 Thank you.