What the Bible Reveals About Your Redemption Story

"Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God." - Revelation 19:1

The word hallelujah isn’t just a casual praise—it’s a powerful proclamation of victory, salvation, and worship. As we dig into Revelation 19, we see why this declaration is as crucial now as it will be for eternity.

Salvation: The Reason for Our Praise

The primary reason we shout “Hallelujah” is salvation. Revelation 19:1 opens with a triumphant declaration: "Salvation and glory and power belong to our God." This passage calls us to rejoice over salvation, a gift that frees us from both evil and sin. Let’s examine what salvation does for us and why it is something to celebrate endlessly.

1. Salvation Frees Us From Evil
   Salvation brings freedom from the grip of evil. Revelation describes the judgment of the “great prostitute”—a metaphor for the sinful world’s corrupt system—and God’s ultimate victory over it. Evil and corruption no longer have dominion over those who are saved. The text says, “The smoke from her goes up forever and ever.” Evil is not only defeated; it is defeated forever. This imagery of rising smoke signals that evil has been vanquished, never to return.
   
   In the struggles we face, it may seem like evil surrounds us, but God’s promise assures us that we are freed from evil’s hold. The victory over evil means that no matter what darkness we encounter, it does not control our future or our identity. Our present difficulties are temporary in the face of God’s eternal triumph.
   
   
2. Salvation Overcomes Sin
   Beyond freeing us from external evil, salvation delivers us from sin—the internal barrier between us and God. We all struggle with sin, but salvation reminds us that God doesn’t abandon us to fight sin alone. The gift of salvation is a transformative force that not only cleanses us from sin’s stain but also draws us closer to God.
   
   The Bible makes it clear that “salvation and glory and power belong to our God”—not to us. It is God’s work and God’s idea, planned from the very beginning. When Adam and Eve tried to cover their shame with fig leaves, God clothed them with garments, symbolizing His provision for our sins. Just as He covered Adam and Eve, He provides for us today through Jesus, the Lamb, who was sacrificed for our sins. Our salvation is not our doing; it’s God’s mercy, offered freely.
   
   

God’s Love and Provision from the Beginning
Salvation wasn’t a quick fix in response to human sin; it was always part of God’s plan. From the first moment humanity sinned, God stepped in with compassion. In Genesis, Adam and Eve’s shame is real and painful, and their attempts to cover it fail. But God, in love, provided them with clothing that truly covered them. Genesis 3:21 says, “The Lord God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins, and clothed them.”

This act of provision and grace points directly to Jesus’ sacrifice. Just as animals were sacrificed to clothe Adam and Eve, Jesus gave His life to cover our sin and shame. God’s love didn’t begin at the cross; it was there from creation, and it continues today. Our sin does not disqualify us from His love. In fact, it’s our very need for salvation that brought Jesus to us.

Why We Rejoice: Evil and Sin Are Defeated Forever
The victory in Revelation 19 is both final and eternal. Evil’s defeat is not temporary or partial. God’s judgment ensures that sin and death are conquered once and for all. The smoke of the defeated evil rises forever, symbolizing that its hold over creation is broken permanently.

This truth is powerful because it means we don’t have to live in fear of evil. Whatever struggle you’re facing, remember that God’s victory is not just for today; it’s eternal. Evil cannot and will not come back to rule. God’s people are freed forever. This assurance is why we continue to shout “Hallelujah!” in our hearts, our prayers, and our lives.

Salvation Belongs to God, and It’s for You
The beauty of salvation is that it’s not something we earn; it’s a gift that belongs to God but is given to us. Revelation tells us that “salvation and glory and power belong to our God.” It’s God’s idea, His gift, and His grace poured out on us. Salvation was never about human achievement. It is God’s invitation to join Him in eternal life, clothed not in our righteousness but in His.

We can rest in the assurance that our salvation is secure because it is in God’s hands. Jesus’ sacrifice was complete and final, covering all our sins, past and future. Our part is simply to believe and trust in the work He has done.

Responding to Salvation: Embrace a Life of Hallelujahs
Now that we understand the depth of salvation and God’s ultimate victory over evil, how do we respond?

1. Rejoice in Your Freedom
   Live each day with the knowledge that you are free from sin’s penalty and evil’s grasp. This doesn’t mean life will be without challenges, but it does mean you face them with the confidence of one who has been saved and secured by God Himself.
   
   
2. Share the Good News
   Salvation isn’t a private gift; it’s a message of hope for the world. As believers, we have the privilege and responsibility to share God’s love and victory with others. Tell your family, friends, and neighbors about the freedom that’s found in Jesus.
   
   
3. Live with Eternal Perspective
   We often focus on the immediate problems and struggles of life. But salvation calls us to look beyond today and see the eternal victory God has promised. Evil is defeated forever, and we are part of God’s kingdom. Let this truth shape how you live, think, and pray.
   
   

Eternally Shouting Hallelujah
In Revelation 19, we’re given a glimpse of eternity filled with worship and praise. As we live in the present, we’re part of that eternal chorus, joining with all of heaven and earth in proclaiming God’s greatness and love. Shouting “Hallelujah!” is more than a one-time declaration; it’s a way of life that celebrates God’s salvation today and forever.

So lift up your voice—God’s salvation has come, evil is defeated, and we are free forever. Hallelujah!

This blog is based on the message shared by Bellaire Campus Pastor Chris DeArman on Sunday November 3, 2024. Check out the full message below!