Open The Doors And See All The People

Every church leader faces the age-old anxiety of an empty sanctuary. After announcements, invitations, and even the promise of cookies, we still wonder whether anyone will show up.

That same question echoes through Revelation 5, 6, and 7. John sees the Heavenly Temple in all its magnificence. It’s different from Earthly representations, with a sea of glass large enough to cleanse the whole world, no altars because Jesus has already paid the price, and no bread because He Himself is the Bread of Life. Yet something is missing. There are countless angels, elders, and living creatures present in worship. The doors of Heaven are open, and an invitation has gone out—but there aren’t any people!

In response, everyone present waits eagerly for Jesus to open a scroll with seven seals. We know the scroll contains utter calamity: conquest, war, famine, death, and despair. So why rejoice over nothing but judgment and suffering?

Because it means humanity will finally return to God. Opening the scroll, one seal at a time, begins the process of redemption. It will involve a lot of suffering, but it’s suffering with a purpose. Think of it like a mother in labour; there’s a lot of excruciating pain, but also the excitement and joy of new life (John 16:21). God uses the suffering in our lives to gather His people until, at last, Heaven’s church is full again.

We might not understand our trials, but every hardship is part of God’s plan to give us new life. So when suffering comes, don’t run away. The door to Heaven is wide open, and the invitation remains. Step inside and trust that God knows exactly what He’s doing.

Watch the full sermon here.