What Precedes Heaven
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Nov 30, 2025
Series: The Hope of Heaven
Main text: Revelation 20:1–10
Revelation 20: The calm after the storm (see timeline)
Three interpretations regarding the Millennium
- Amillennialism: the Millennium is pure symbolism
- Post Millennialism: Jesus will come after the Millennium.
- Pre Millennialism: Jesus must come before the church can enjoy a thousand years of peace on earth
I. SATAN RESTRAINED (Revelation 20:1–3)
A. The Bound (Rev 20:1-2)
1 Peter 5:8 – “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
B. The when Satan is Bound
C. The where Satan is Bound (Rev 20:3)
D. The for which Satan is Bound
II. THE SAVIOR’S REIGN
How the Millennium Begins
• Jesus returns physically to earth.
Zechariah 14:4 – His feet stand on the Mount of Olives.
Acts 1:11 – He will return in the same manner He left.
A. of His Reign
Jeremiah 23:5 – A righteous King will rule with justice.
B. of His Reign
• Curse on creation lifted.
Isaiah 35:1 – “The desert shall… blossom as the rose.”
• Harmony in the animal kingdom (Isaiah 11:6–7).
• No sickness (Isaiah 33:24).
• No crime, war, or fear.
Isaiah 2:4 – “They shall beat their swords into plowshares…”
• Righteousness reigns; Satan removed.
III. THE SAINTS’ ROLE (Revelation 20:4–6)
A. of the Saints
2 groups will reign with Jesus:
- The saints who have come back with the Lord (1 Corinthians 6:2–3)
- Those beheaded for their witness (Rev 20:4)
B. of the Saints
Read Rev 20:5, 20:6, 20:14-15
IV. SINNERS REBEL (Revelation 20:7–9)
A. of Rebels (Rev 20:9)
B. of the Devil
Revelation 20:10 – Satan cast into the lake of fire forever.
Matthew 25:41 – The lake of fire was prepared for the devil.
CONCLUSION
If we believe these truths, they should produce:
1. Anticipation — Matthew 24:44.
2. Evangelism — urgency to reach others.
3. Examination — 2 Corinthians 13:5 “Examine yourselves…”
The Promise of Rewards in Heaven
Series: The Hope of Heaven
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Nov 23, 2025
Main Text: II Corinthians 5:10
I. PICTURE OF THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST
– Judgment Seat = “Bema” (Raised platform for judgments)
– Examples:
• Herod Agrippa – Acts 12
• Paul – Corinth
• Grecian Games platform for rewarding victors
II. PEOPLE OF THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST
– “We” (Believers) – 2 Corinthians 5
– All believers reviewed; unbelievers judged at Great White Throne (Revelation 20:11–15)
III. PURPOSE OF THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST
– Not guilt or innocence—settled at Calvary
– Evaluation of service, faithfulness, obedience
IV. PROVOCATION FOR THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST
A. Reason (v.9)
– To be “well pleasing” to Christ
B. Reason (v.11)
– Awareness of unbelievers’ judgment compels evangelism
– Acts 20:31; Romans 10:1; Romans 9:3
C. Reason (v.14)
– Christ’s love constrains us
FIVE CROWNS GIVEN
1. Crown – I Corinthians 9:25–27 (Discipline & victory over the flesh)
2. Crown of – I Thessalonians 2:19 (Soulwinner’s crown)
3. Crown of – II Timothy 4:7–8 (Loving Christ’s appearing)
4. Crown of – James 1:12 (Faithfulness under trial; persecution)
5. Crown of – I Peter 5:4 (Faithful shepherds/pastors)
Conclusion:
– Christ’s love motivates service.
– One day crowns will be cast before Him in worship.
The Praise in Heaven
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Nov 9, 2025
Series: The Hope of Heaven
Text: Revelation 4–5
Introduction
In Heaven, praise will remain forever:
• No more need for prayer – we’ll be in God’s presence.
• No more need for preaching – truth will be complete.
• But praise will continue for all eternity.
Our goal now: prepare ourselves to worship in Heaven.
I. The Person on the Throne — Revelation 4:2–3
“Throne” = God’s sovereignty, authority, and control (mentioned 46 times in Revelation).
Even when life seems out of control—God reigns:
• Personal struggles (family, health, finances).
• World crises (wars, disease, nations in turmoil).
Two types of stone mentioned to represent the Throne:
• Jasper (clear as crystal): His and all-consuming .
• Sardine stone (red): The work of Christ; the blood sacrifice
Describing God is like describing the wind—you can’t see Him, but you see His impact.
II. The People Around the Throne — Revelation 4:4, 9–11
• 24 Elders: Represent all the redeemed—12 tribes (O.T.) + 12 apostles (N.T.).
• 4 Living Creatures: Angelic beings full of discernment.
Their example: continual worship and casting crowns before God.
Our goal on earth: to begin worshipping like Heaven’s saints.
III. The Praise Unto the Throne — Revelation 4:9–11; 5:9–14
Angels and saints together worship the Lamb in a crescendo of worship:
• Revelation 1:6 – Twofold: glory and dominion.
• Revelation 4:11 – Threefold: glory, honor, power.
• Revelation 5:13 – Fourfold: blessing, honor, glory, power.
• Revelation 7:12 – Sevenfold: blessing, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, might.
Several reasons why Jesus is worthy:
1. Because of – He made all things (Rev. 4:11).
2. Because of the – He has prevailed (Rev. 5:5).
3. Because of – He redeemed us with His blood (Rev. 5:9).
“You’re mine because I made you, and you’re mine because I bought you.”
IV. Four Things I Can Learn About Worship
1. Worship is about the – God is the center of it all. True worship focuses on who He is and what He’s done.
2. Worship is about – Fix your eyes on Heaven. (Colossians 3:1–3)
3. Worship is about the – Present troubles prepare eternal glory. (2 Corinthians 4:16–18)
4. Worship is about – We worship together as the body of Christ. (Revelation 5:11–12; 19:6)
Conclusion
Psalm 16:11 – “In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
“When we’ve been there ten thousand years… we’ve no less days to sing God’s praise than when we first begun.”
A Portrait of the Heavenly City
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Nov 2, 2025
Series: The Hope of Heaven
Bible text: Revelation 21
Introduction
-
Earthly cities—no matter how great—cannot compare with the city God is preparing for His children.
-
The “New Jerusalem” is a real, physical city where God and His people will dwell forever
-
Read Revelation 3:12; Revelation 21:2
-
During the Millennium, the city will hover above the earth; in the eternal state, it will rest on the renewed earth as the center of eternal life.
I. The Dimensions of the City – Revelation 21:15–16
-
The city is a perfect cube, measuring 1,500 miles in length, width, and height — large enough for all believers of all time.
-
Estimated to hold billions of people comfortably.
-
The design reflects the Holy of Holies, also a cube (1 Kings 6:20), emphasizing God’s eternal presence with His people (Revelation 21:3).
II. The Description of the City
A. The Holy City – Revelation 21:2
-
A city entirely without sin, corruption, or deceit — holy because everyone in it will be holy.
-
Only those cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ will enter
“A holy city will be one in which no lie will be uttered in 100 million years, no evil word will ever be spoken. No shady business deals will ever be discussed, no unclean picture will ever be seen, no corruption of life will ever be manifest. It will be holy because everyone in it will be holy.” Wycliffe Bible Commentary
B. The Freedom from Pain – Revelation 21:4
-
“God shall wipe away all tears.”
-
No more sorrow, pain, regret, or death; even painful memories will be gone.
C. The Pearly Gates – Revelation 21:12, 17–18, 21
-
Twelve gates inscribed with the names of Israel’s tribes.
-
Each gate is made of a single pearl, reminding us that entry into heaven was bought through Christ’s suffering.
D. The Foundations of Precious Stones – Revelation 21:19–20
-
Twelve foundation layers of dazzling gemstones (jasper, sapphire, emerald, amethyst, etc.), symbolizing eternal beauty and glory.
E. The Streets of Gold – Revelation 21:21
-
Transparent golden streets reflect the glory of God.
-
In heaven, believers will walk forever in perfect fellowship and obedience with Him.
F. The Lamb Is the Light – Revelation 21:23; Isaiah 60:19
-
No sun or moon—the Lamb (Jesus Christ) is its light.
-
The entire city radiates with the glory of God (1 Corinthians 2:9).
G. The River of Life – Revelation 22:1–2
-
A River in Scripture symbolizes 2 things:
-
Pleasure – Psalm 36:8
-
Prosperity – Psalm 1:3
-
-
Life in God’s city will be full of purity, pleasure, and abundance.
III. The Denial to the City – Revelation 21:8, 27
-
Not everyone will enter heaven.
-
Those who live unrepentantly in sin will be cast into the lake of fire.
-
Entry is reserved for those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
-
Our mission: to be Christ’s ambassadors, pointing others toward heaven (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Conclusion
-
Heaven is real — a prepared place for a prepared people.
-
As Adrian Rogers said, believers are not on “death row,” but “life row” (John 11:26).
-
If you want to be glory-bound, you must first be glory-born through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Preparation of Our Bodies
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Oct 26, 2025
Main text: 1 Corinthians 15:35–49
I. Analogy of the Resurrected Body (vv. 35–38)
A. Death – Like a seed, our body must die before new life begins (1 Cor. 15:36, John 12:24).
B. Difference – The seed changes form—our resurrected bodies will be gloriously transformed. (1 Cor. 15:37)
C. Continuity – The same life, yet wonderfully changed; God preserves our identity (1 Cor. 15:38)
II. Answers Regarding the Resurrected Body
A. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:42
– Sown in corruption, raised in incorruption; no more decay, sickness, or death.
B. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:43
– Raised in glory, like Christ’s glorious body (Philippians 3:20–21; 1 John 3:2).
– Recognizable and real—Jesus ate and was touched after His resurrection (Luke 24:39).
C. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:43b
– Raised in power, unlimited and strong (John 20:19).
D. Our Bodies Will Be – 1 Corinthians 15:44
– Suited for eternal living; no more struggle between flesh and spirit.
III. Anticipation of the Resurrected Body
In a moment, all believers—dead or alive—will be changed (1 Corinthians 15:51–52).
Our corruptible, weak bodies will become incorruptible, powerful, and eternal.
Christians long for heaven, our eternal home prepared by God.
“I still can hardly believe it, I, with
shriveled bent fingers, atrophied muscles,
gnarled knees, and no feeling from the
shoulders down, will one day have a new
body, light, bright, and clothed in
righteousness, powerful & dazzling. Can
you imagine the hope this gives someone
spinal cord injured like me?
Or someone who is cerebral palsied,
brain-injured, or who has multiple
sclerosis? Imagine the hope this gives
someone who is manic-depressive. No
other religion, no other philosophy
promises new bodies, new hearts and
minds. Only in the gospel of Christ do
hurting people find such incredible hope.”
Joni Eareckson Tada
No Other Name
Sermon by Pastor Bob Johnson / Oct 19, 2025
Text: Acts 4:8-12
Introduction
Background of the text.
Acts 3: Peter and John healed a lame man.
Apostolic age
Apostle’s Qualifications
The apostles were endowed with miraculous power to -authenticate their divine commission
-validate their message
-to advance the early Christian church.
Acts 4:1-3
Acts 4:5-7 The Sanhedrin
History only confirms what God’s Word declares!
No Other Name!
- The Testimony of a Resurrected Savior. v10
Acts 4:10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
Peter shares three highlights regarding the testimony of a resurrected Savior.
First, Peter highlights a description of Jesus.
“by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth”
His Humanity
His Deity
His Humility
Next, Peter highlights the crucifixion of Jesus.
“whom you crucified”
The Jews should have recognized Jesus as Messiah simply from the fulfillment of prophecy.
|
Psalm 22:16-18 |
His hands and feet will be pierced, his garments divided, and his enemies cast lots for his clothing. |
Matthew 27:35 |
|
Isaiah 53:5 |
Messiah is wounded, suffering, bruised, |
Matthew 27:57-60 |
|
Isaiah 53:12 |
Punished among thieves/transgressors. |
Mark 15:27 |
|
Zechariah 12:10 |
He was pierced |
John 19:34 |
|
Zechariah 11:12 |
Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver |
Matthew 26:15 |
|
Psalm 34:20 |
No bones broken |
John 19:33 |
Peter highlights the resurrection of Jesus.
“whom God raised from the dead”
Did you know that He was seen by over 520 eyewitnesses after His resurrection and before His ascension?
-Mary Magdelene and several other women. John 20:11-18
-2 Followers of Jesus on the road to Emmaus. Luke 24:13-32
-His brother James and all the Apostles. 1 Corinthians 15:7
-Over 500 people at once. 1 Corinthians 15:6
- The Testimony of a Firm Foundation. V.11
Acts 4:11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
Peter shares three expressions in this verse regarding a firm foundation.
1st Expression – “This is the stone”
Isaiah 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.
2nd Expression – “Which was set at nought of you builders”
Psalm 118:22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.
Matthew 21:42 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?
3rd Expression – “which is become the head of the corner.”
1 Peter 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
Ephesians 2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
- The Testimony of a Changed Life. V.8.
Acts 4:8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
Let’s look at several observations regarding a changed life.
Peter’s Name – Then Peter
John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.
Peter’s Power – Filled with the Holy Spirit
Peter’s Boldness – said unto them
Peter’s Conclusion – No Other Name
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Philippians 2:10-11 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? If He is, do you speak his name with boldness and love?
There is NO OTHER NAME!!
The Pathway of Heaven
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / October 12, 2025
Series: Heaven
Main text: John 3:1–16
I. The Enquirer Regarding Heaven
A. – Most Impressive
– Pharisee: Guardian of the law.
– Member of the Sanhedrin: Ruling council of 71 elders.
– Israel’s Teacher: Respected, rich, and religious.
B. – Impacted by Jesus’ miracles and words.
– Wonders if Jesus is the Messiah.
C. – Came by night seeking truth (John 3:2).
– Searching beyond religion for real relationship with God.
II. The Explanation Regarding Heaven
A. Need for New Birth Informed
– Religion and morality cannot save; one must be born again.
– Salvation is spiritual, not physical (John 3:3).
B. Need for New Birth Illustrated
1. Different – Physical vs. Spiritual (vv.6–7).
2. Different – The Spirit moves unseen yet powerfully (v.8).
3. Different – The serpent lifted up (Num. 21:8–9; John 3:14–16).
→ Salvation comes by faith in the crucified Christ.
III. The Effect Regarding Heaven
Nicodemus publicly identified with Jesus at His burial.
Calvary changed his life—no longer a secret disciple.
True salvation leads to boldness and transformation.
Conclusion
God’s grace reaches both the moral and the broken.
Every soul must choose: Will you be born again and follow Christ?
John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world…”
A Place Called Heaven
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Oct 5, 2025
Series: HEAVEN
Main Text – John 14:1–4
I. The Reality of Heaven
Jesus comforts His disciples: John 14:1–4.
He prepares us for His departure and for our own.
Heaven is a real place (topos = place, John 14:2).
Descriptions: a country, a city, a kingdom, a Father’s house.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:10; Acts 1:10–11; Isaiah 14:13.
II. The Riches of Heaven
A. The in Heaven – Hebrews 9:24.
– Beauty of Christ surpasses all.
B. The in Heaven – Hebrews 12:23.
– Reunion with loved ones, the church of the firstborn.
C. The of Heaven – 1 Peter 1:3–4.
– Our inheritance is reserved in heaven.
D. The of Heaven – Philippians 3:20.
– Our citizenship is in heaven now.
E. The of Heaven – Matthew 5:12.
– Rewards for faithful service.
F. The of Heaven – Matthew 6:19–21; 1 Thessalonians 2:19.
– True treasure = souls, eternal investment.
G. The of Heaven – Revelation 21:27; Luke 10:20.
– Names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
Conclusion
Tom Brady’s story of success yet emptiness.
“Why do I have 3 Super Bowl rings and still
think there’s something greater out there for
me? I mean, maybe a lot of people would
say, ‘Hey man this is what it is all about. I
reached my goal, my dream, my life.’ Me, I
think: there’s got to be more than this. I
mean this can’t be what it’s all cracked up to
be. I mean, I’ve done it. I’m 27. And what
else is there for me?” – Tom Brady
Ultimate longing of every heart = Heaven.
Jesus said: John 14:6 – He is the way to Heaven.
Belief Behaving Boldly
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / Sept 28, 2025
Main text: Ephesians 6:18–20
“I preach on Sunday – but I have 450 members who take my message on Monday and preach it wherever they go.” – Henry Ward Beecher
I. Battle for Souls
Read Ephesians 6:18
- Our primary strength in the battle = Prayer
- We are in a war (Ephesians 6:10–18).
- Satan fears the believer who appeals to Almighty God.
2 things about prayer:
1. – sights the enemy.
2. – fights the enemy.
Persevere in prayer – Satan never gives up.
Paul’s request: prayer for souls.
II. Burden for Souls
We are on earth for a greater purpose: winning souls.
True fulfillment = becoming a courageous Christian.
Jesus showed the value of one soul (Luke 15):
- Lost sheep – shepherd searched until found.
- Lost coin – woman hunted until found.
- Lost son – father waited for his return.
Christ’s burden: He wept, prayed, fasted, lost sleep.
Paul’s burden: Acts 20:31; Romans 10:1; Romans 9:3
Jeremiah’s burden: Lamentations 1
III. Boldness for Souls
Read Ephesians 6:19-20
Paul in Rome:
– Desired to preach in Rome → went as a prisoner.
– Saw opportunity in chains (Philippians 1:12–13).
2 Timothy 2:9 – ‘….The word of God is not bound.’
Difficulties = opportunities to share Christ.
Paul’s prayer = boldness in walk and talk.
IV. Business of Souls
Read Ephesians 6:20
Satan’s goal = distract believers from witnessing.
We are ambassadors for Christ (v.20).
– Represent Heaven.
– Used to shake Satan’s kingdom.
Our main task:
1. Win souls for Christ.
2. Make sure we keep doing #1.
‘Politics is my day job. Sharing Jesus is my main job.’ – Charlie Kirk
V. Blessing of Souls
Paul’s joy in prison = fruit of souls won
Joy in Luke 15:
1. Shepherd found sheep → party.
2. Woman found coin → party.
3. Father welcomed son → biggest party.
Luke 15:10 – ‘….there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’
True joy comes from everyday witnessing.
Evil wanted a funeral — God brought revival.
Sermon by Dr. Emir Caner
Sept 21, 2025
Please use the space below for your sermon notes.