VOLVER AL FUTURO | ROLANDO RIVEROS | CBI

The Goodness of the Lord and Invitation to Baptism

Introduction and Call to Action

• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's goodness, encouraging applause for Him as they approach the end of the year, emphasizing faith in God's ongoing work.

• An invitation is made for those interested in baptism to attend a class being held at the back of the venue.

Reading from Revelation

• The speaker reads Revelation 1:1-3, highlighting that it contains revelations meant for God's servants about things that will happen soon.

• Emphasis on blessings for those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy because "the time is near."

Theme: Back to the Future

Movie Reference

• The message's title is inspired by the movie "Back to the Future," which features characters traveling through time to correct past mistakes.

Conceptual Connection

• The speaker draws parallels between time travel in the film and understanding biblical prophecies, suggesting that knowing future events can help believers navigate their present lives.

Understanding Time Through Revelation

Importance of Knowing Future Events

• Imagining traveling into the future raises questions about investment decisions and life choices; knowledge of future events could prevent accidents or poor decisions.

Biblical Context

• The Book of Revelation offers insights into future events, inviting readers to understand what is coming as revealed to John.

Past, Present, and Future in Revelation

Structure of Revelation

• The speaker emphasizes understanding past experiences (John's context), present circumstances (the church's situation), and future promises outlined in Revelation.

Key Verses Explained

• In Revelation 1:19, John is instructed to write down what he has seen (past), what is now (present), and what will take place later (future).

John's Vision on Patmos

John's Experience

• John receives revelations while exiled on Patmos; his visions are significant as he was a close disciple of Jesus Christ.

Witnessing Christ’s Ministry

• John’s unique position as an apostle allows him to testify about Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and teachings effectively.

Messages to Seven Churches

Exhortation from God

• God communicates messages through John aimed at seven churches in Asia Minor; these messages include encouragement and warnings relevant both then and now.

Prophetic Insights

Looking Ahead

• Discussion shifts towards prophetic insights regarding what lies ahead after current church experiences; anticipation builds around future events described in chapters 4 onward.

Vision of Heaven

Description of Heavenly Scene

• John describes a vision where he sees a throne in heaven with one seated upon it; this imagery signifies divine authority over all creation.

Judgment vs. Redemption

Contrast Between Two Realities

• While there are dire judgments depicted from chapters 5 through 19 for those rejecting Christ, believers are assured redemption during heavenly celebrations.

Assurance for Believers

Hope Amidst Trials

• Encouragement given that despite earthly struggles or rejections faced by believers today, they have hope rooted in eternal promises from God.

Worship Around the Throne

Continuous Praise

• Descriptions continue with living creatures praising God day and night around His throne; worship reflects reverence due to His sovereignty over all creation.

Living Out Glory Today

Application for Present Life

• Emphasizes that glorifying God should not be limited only to eternity but must also manifest daily through actions reflecting His glory here on earth.