Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.

Revelation 20

Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years. Revelation 20:6

I wrapped my D-Group's study of Revelation - using Stephen Witmer's commentary and study guide - for week 9, which looks at Revelation 20:1-15. In review of this week, I see several key takeaways:

• I am reminded that while the unsaved earn their fate because of both what they did - their deeds - and because of their failure to submit and accept Jesus and repent, believers, including myself did nothing to earn our salvation. We are included in the book of life only through the grace of God. (Ephesians 2:8)
  
• The connection between the first and last Adam becomes more clear. Sin and death entered the world through the first Adam and it leaves the world through Christ - reversing the curse. (1 Corinthians 15:21-22)
  
• I am also reminded of my role as a priest in God's kingdom. (Revelation 20:6)
• While Satan does have power, God retains an upper hand and we know that God has already defeated sin - only that Satan's influence persists until Jesus returns.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an incredible awesome God who is full of amazing grace - You gave me eternal life and life to the full now here on earth, protecting me from sin and death and blessing me indescribably.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such a God.  My sin is daily and it continues.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.