“Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water’ ” (Revelation 14:6-7).

In John’s vision he had a glimpse of a truth that reinforces what Jesus said during His days on earth. “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). This statement drives the Church in its desire to see everyone hear the good news about Jesus. John’s vision reveals that this will be accomplished.

So many issues divide us. We see daily the consequences of racism, religious hostility, geographical barriers and the simple selfishness that keeps people separated from each other. Most of us would admit that geographical separation makes it easier for us to focus on the problems in our own backyards and not feel the pain of those who live far away from us. The only unifying force in our world is the gospel of Jesus Christ. It transcends all our differences. No matter where we are in the world when we come together to worship with other believers we know we’re with our family. Heaven will consist of “every nation, tribe, language and people.”

I love the expression “the eternal gospel.” Human opinions may change, styles come and go and the philosophies of various cultures continually fluctuate. The good news about Jesus, though, is eternal. It is not only true now but the truth of the gospel will last forever. Its results aren’t temporary; they are eternal. In heaven we will still be living out the blessing we received because of the eternal gospel.

The book of Revelation wraps up truth that has been declared throughout Scripture. The apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11). The proper response to the “day of judgment” will be worship!