In this "Revelation" devotional, Senior Pastor Mike Woodruff delves into one of the most pivotal images in the book: the scroll sealed with seven seals, introduced in Revelation chapter 5.

Pastor Mike explains that this scroll represents God’s perfect plan for history—His design to defeat evil, vindicate His people, and bring about the restoration of all creation. The dramatic tension arises when no one in heaven or on earth is found worthy to open it, until the announcement comes: the Lion of Judah has triumphed and is qualified. Yet when John turns, he sees not a conquering lion, but a Lamb looking as if it had been slain. This stunning revelation shows that Jesus is worthy not through force, but through His sacrificial death on the cross.

Join us for a powerful look at how the crucified Lamb holds the future in His hands, assuring us that history is not random, evil does not have the final word, and our hope is anchored in the One who alone is worthy to unfold God’s ultimate plan.

Don't Miss the Rest of the Series:
Watch the full "Revelation" Devotional series here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDrtLuCNhew7-vYFAjG0kGaDHsWMdEtot

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More Revelation Series Resources: https://christchurchil.org/revelation

In this "Revelation" devotional, Senior Pastor Mike Woodruff examines one of the book's most striking images: Jesus portrayed with a sharp, double-edged sword coming from His mouth, found in Revelation 1 and later in Revelation 19.

Pastor Mike explains that this powerful symbol is not about physical violence, but about the piercing, unmasking power of God’s Word. Drawing a connection to Hebrews 4:12—which describes the Word of God as living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword—he clarifies that the sword represents divine truth, judgment, and the ultimate authority of Christ's speech. In a world where Roman swords enforced Caesar's will, Jesus conquers and reigns through His Word, which cuts to the heart, exposes evil, and brings justice.

This episode invites us to see Jesus in His full, resurrected glory and to understand the transformative, penetrating power of His truth in our lives and in the world.

Don't Miss the Rest of the Series:
Watch the full "Revelation" Devotional series here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDrtLuCNhew7-vYFAjG0kGaDHsWMdEtot

Connect with Us:
Visit our website: https://christchurchil.org
More Revelation Series Resources: https://christchurchil.org/revelation

In this devotional from our "Revelation" series, Senior Pastor Mike Woodruff addresses a beautiful and symbolic question: Why are the prayers of God’s people described as incense in heaven?

Looking at Revelation 5 and 8, Pastor Mike explores the imagery of golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. This powerful symbol, rooted in the temple worship of the Old Testament, elevates our understanding of prayer from mere communication to sacred communion. It assures us that our prayers—especially those lifted from places of suffering or persecution—are not forgotten or ignored. They are treasured by God, collected in His presence, and actively engaged with in heaven.

This short message is a profound encouragement: your prayers matter. They rise before God as a pleasing aroma, and He moves in response. Be reminded to pray with confidence, knowing that heaven is listening.

Don't Miss the Rest of the Series:
Watch the full "Revelation" Devotional series here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDrtLuCNhew7-vYFAjG0kGaDHsWMdEtot

Connect with Us:
Visit our website: https://christchurchil.org
More Revelation Series Resources: https://christchurchil.org/revelation