August 10, 2008
“The Alpha and Omega”
Revelation 21:6-8; 22-27

I. Christ is the Alpha and Omega in regard to our salvation –
1. He is called the Author and Finisher of our faith – Hebrews 12:2
2. He made our salvation possible with His death on the cross – Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 1:18-19
3. We cannot persevere successfully without a continued connection to Him – John 15:5

II. Christ is the Alpha and Omega in regard to everything –
1. He began, created our universe – John 1:1-3
2. He will end our current Heaven and Earth - Revelation 21:1… “for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away”
3. He is the All and All of the New Heaven and Earth, where He will shine brighter than the sun / where He is with His Father the true Temple – Revelation 21:22-23
4. He with His Father are our eternal life – John 17:3

III. Yet, Christ is also the Alpha and Omega, the First and Last, in regard to judgment – Revelation 21:6b-8
1. His gift of the Holy Spirit is free to those who see their need rightly, who humbly confess their sin and repent - :6b
2. He gives great reward to those who OVERCOME this world, who have a real relationship with Him - :7
3. Yet, He is not fooled or mocked by anyone - :8; Galatians 6:7-10
A. There will be people who think they are Christians who will be judged – Matthew 7:21-23
B. Let us be careful to make our calling and election sure – 2 Peter 1:2-11
C. It is by grace such is accomplished – Ephesians 2:8-10; John 1:16

"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

T'was Grace that taught...
my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear...
the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...
we have already come.
T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...
and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be...
as long as life endures.

When we've been here ten thousand years...
bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise...
then when we've first begun.

John Newton

Pastor Arnold Brevick