Overview

“Jesus Christ is the great trustee of divine revelation. It is through Him that we (gain) knowledge of what to look for (during) the closing scenes of this world’s history.  God gave this revelation to Christ, and communicated the same to John.”¹

No human is independently qualified to unravel the hidden mysteries of the book of Revelation.  God is the author of this book and it is only to be completely understood in the final hours of earth’s history.  Even then, we will only be able to understand it when God sees that we are ready to receive it.  Just as holy men of God wrote the books of the Bible through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, so the interpretation of this book must be accomplished through that same Spirit.

The stage is now set for the closing scenes in the drama of earth’s history.  Correspondingly, the hidden mysteries of Revelation are being unrolled for our final enlightenment.  It must be with much trepidation and prayer that we begin to unroll this the most important book for this serious hour of earth’s history.

The key to understanding the book of Revelation is found by allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our thinking and in the word “signified” found in the very first verse.  This word means to put in signs and symbols, to signify.  The general rule for serious Bible study is to look for the literal meaning first, and then, if there is a symbolic meaning, consider it.  But the word “signified” tells us that just the opposite is true when studying the book of Revelation.  The word “revelation” itself means to reveal.  Thus, with the guidance of the Spirit, we “reveal in symbolic language.”  The spirit of prophecy supports that Revelation was written primarily in symbolic language. “In figures and symbols, subjects of vast importance were presented to John, which he was to record, that the people of God living in his age and in future ages might have an intelligent understanding of the perils and conflicts before them.”²  Because this book is largely symbolic, we must follow an important rule for a correct understanding: never mix literal and symbolic.  It will take a determined effort not to give a literal interpretation to certain words that tend to cause us to think literally.  For example, a verse speaking about, “life,” “death,” or “kings,” may not be talking about literal life or death, or even kings, but instead is referring to spiritual ones, as we shall see in our study.  Error most often results when studying Revelation because the literal interpretation is used in place of that which God intended to be applied symbolically.  John’s introduction to the book of Revelation in the first ten verses of the first chapter has a mixture of some obvious literal statements as well as other verses that are symbolic.  As we begin our verse-by-verse study, however, the questions concerning the literal and symbolic interpretations will be made clear.

“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His servants – things which must shortly take place.  And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John,”

The book of Revelation is now opening to the understanding of God’s people.  This may be a startling statement as very few people have a true understanding of this book.  As previously noted the word “Revelation” means to reveal.  John wrote this book primarily to reveal Jesus Christ to mankind during a specific period of history.  It is also very obvious that Jesus is the theme of this book.  Revelation refers to our Savior as the Lamb twenty-eight times—more than in all other Bible books.  The first chapter uses a name for our Lord, or a pronoun referring to Him, forty-nine times and in the first three chapters 137 times.  The book of Revelation is not only from Jesus but is also a revelation of Jesus.  The very first verse tells us this book was written primarily for the closing hours of earth’s history.  God gave it to John “to show His servants – things which must shortly take place.”  We would not say “shortly” in reference to events taking place 2000 years subsequent.  The last chapter of this book also supports the fact that it was mainly written for those living at the end of time.  “Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.”³  And again, at the close of the last chapter, John writes,  “He who testifies these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.”⁴  These words could only be applicable to the period of time we now refer to as “the time of the end,” that is time after 1844 A. D.

Notice also that the first verse tells us how this book came to us.  God gave it to Jesus Christ, Jesus gave it to the angel, the angel gave it to John, and John, in turn, gave it to us.

“Who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, and to all things that he saw.  Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.”

Verse 2 is one of the literal phrases, documenting the fact that John was an actual witness to the testimony of Jesus and to all that he saw Him do, and heard Him say.  God’s people throughout time are promised, in Verse 3, a great blessing by reading and studying this book.  This blessing, however, is only for those who will accept and “keep,” that is, obey all that they learn from this book.  Another wonderful promise is also given here.  God promises that even those who are unable to read can receive a great blessing by just hearing “the words of this prophecy.”

Verse 3 also emphasizes that this book is primarily open to those living in our day, “the time of the end.”  These first 3 Verses of Revelation further point out that the people living in our day should spend as much time as possible studying this book.  We are told, “The last book of the New Testament Scriptures is full of truth that we need to understand.”⁵  An additional powerful statement points out the importance of this book:  “When we as a people understand what this book means to us there will be seen among us a great revival.”⁶  But we are also told that this book, especially the three angel’s messages, “will not be understood until the unrolling of the scroll.”⁷  Let us thus begin “unrolling the scroll.”

“John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne,”

John, in Verse 4, sends his personal greetings to all Christians emphasizing that the content of his book comes right from the heart of the Savior.  The opening statement reveals that John is addressing his book primarily to the Christian community.  The parent Christian congregation was removed from Jerusalem to the Roman province called Asia shortly before 70 A. D. thus in this reference John is addressing the entire church community in his day.

John continues in Verse 4 by saying, “Grace to you and peace from Him,”(Jesus). This was a very common salutation of the early Christians and appears to be a combination of the Greek equivalent of grace (charis) and the Hebrew greeting of (shalom,) peace.  The combination of these two words as a greeting is found eighteen times in the New Testament.  John additionally conveys this salutation from our Lord, the One “who is and who was and who is to come.”  The reference at the end of the verse to “the seven Spirits who are before the throne,”⁸ is a symbolic reference to the perfection of God’s work for us through the power of His Holy Spirit.

Revelation 1: 5

”And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.  To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,”

The New Testament record of the life of Jesus pictures Him as “the faithful witness.”  The statement that He is “the firstborn from the dead” is not difficult to understand.  Revelation 13:8 says He is, “The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”  This promise of the Father and the Son that Jesus would die for all was considered complete at the time the promise was made to Adam and Eve.  Thus, the sacrificial death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus were retroactive to Adam.  Jesus went through it all so all may have life.  The title, “Firstborn from the dead,” means all those that are resurrected from the grave have life because of the life and death of Jesus.

The next phrase of Verse 5 says, “and the ruler over the kings of the earth.” Daniel said to King Nebuchadnezzar “He (God) removes kings and raises up kings.”⁹  God is the true king of the earth.  The last part of Revelation 1:5 reads:  “To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood.”  Jesus literally died so He could spiritually cleanse us from our sins.

The Scriptures here are clear that the redeemed from earth will not literally be kings and priests until they reach heaven.  God’s people are, however, symbolic kings and priest before God as we present the plan of salvation to the inhabitants of this world.  A number of other texts also make this very clear.  Revelation 5:10 states that Christ will make us “kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on earth.” 1 Peter 2:5, points out:  “You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”  And 1Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

The last part of Revelation 1:6 states, “to Him (Jesus) be glory and dominion forever and ever.” This is a symbolic, as well as, a literal picture of what Jesus will always be to His redeemed.  The word “glory” in its literal interpretation means splendor, honor, praise, and worship.  Our Lord Jesus Christ is our Ruler or Master, and He is the King of kings.  Symbolically, “glory” is the beautiful spiritual aspect of ones character.  When Moses met God on Mount Sinai He asked, “Please, show me Your glory.”  God said to Moses, “I will make all my goodness pass before you.”¹⁰  The meaning of “goodness” is the moral quality of one’s character.  Moses saw the perfect character or goodness of God on Mount Sinai.  We become “kings and priests” to God by allowing Christ to develop in us characters that constantly tell others of our Lord.  The only thing that we can take from this earth is a good character.  We are told: “Character-building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings; and never before was its diligent study so important as now.”¹¹  To allow the Holy Spirit to develop in us a beautiful character will prepare us for the latter rain and the Second Coming of our Lord.  “The Holy Spirit ever abides with him who is seeking perfection of Christian character.”12

So this verse has both a literal and a symbolic meaning.  We shall always look to Jesus as the One we glory in, literally and spiritually.

“Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, and they also who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him.  Even so, Amen.”

It is understandable that this verse should be in the first chapter. The book of Revelation prepares us for this event by presenting a graphic picture of Christ’s Second Coming with all the hosts of heaven, described as clouds of angels.  “They also which pierced Him,” is a prophetic description of a special resurrection of those who had a part in the crucifixion of Christ.  Jesus predicted this when He said to the high priest at His mockery of a trial:  “I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.”¹³  There is no doubt that those who participated in the crucifixion of Christ will be included in the nations or tribes of this earth who will “mourn because of Him.”  It is understandable the Lord would design that the climax of history be presented in this strategic spot as the seventh verse of the first chapter of Revelation.  Remember, “seven” symbolically means completeness.  So here, in the first chapter, Jesus is telling us that those who accept the teachings of this book, and are obedient, will be among those who will be ready for this event.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

This verse is both literal and symbolic.  The first and last letters of the Greek alphabet symbolize the fact that Jesus Christ is everything to us.  He is the beginning and the end for the universe and for us both literally and spiritually.

Revelation 1: 9

“I, John, both your brother and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.”

John tells us where he is literally, on the island of Patmos, and why he is there.

“I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,

John is plainly saying the Lord gave him a vision on the Sabbath.  The only day the Lord ever referred to in the Bible, as “His day” is the Sabbath.  Jesus said in Mark 2:28,  “The Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.”  In Isaiah 58:13, God calls the Sabbath, “My holy Day.”  There are many other references to the Sabbath as the Lord’s day, but there are no references in the Bible to any day other than the Sabbath being called the Lord’s day.  If God didn’t call any other day the “Sabbath,” then neither should we.

“A loud voice, as of a trumpet” is a symbolic expression.  The “loud voice” symbolically means the whole world will hear the messages John has been given in vision.  The trumpet, usually a ram’s horn, was used to assemble the people to hear an urgent message from God.  “When he (the watchman) sees the sword coming upon the land, if he blows the trumpet and warns the people, then whoever hears the sound of the trumpet and does not take warning, if the sword comes and takes him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.”¹⁴ 

Jesus here instructs John to send the messages to the seven churches. Even though they were literal churches in John’s day, they are symbolic of the church of God during seven periods of history from the apostolic church to the last symbolic church in Earth’s history, the Lao-dician church.  Each of the seven messages to the seven churches has an important message for the last church.  The entire book of Revelation, in fact, even though it has been a blessing for all who have read it in the past, was written primarily to the last church, the Laodicean church.

“Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me.  And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands.”

In vision John hears the voice of Christ and sees a very beautiful, symbolic picture of the Savior.  He sees Him walking among the lamp-stands.  The seven lampstands are identified in the twentieth verse as the seven churches.

Revelation 1: 13

“And in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band.”

The beauty of Jesus can only be understood as we understand the symbolism of John’s vision.  The “garment down to the feet” is symbolic of the lovely character of Jesus, His righteousness.  His garment of holi-ness He offers to us as a free gift.  We need not walk around in filthy rags, symbolic of our own unrighteousness, for we can accept His beautiful robe, the robe of a spotless character.  Speaking of the saints standing before God, we read: “Their warfare is ended, their victory won.  They have run the race and reached the prize.  The palm branch in their hands is a symbol of their triumph, the white robe an emblem of the spotless righteousness of Christ which now is theirs.”¹⁵  In vision Zechariah heard: “Take away the filthy garments from him.” And to him He said, “See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes.”¹⁶

“His head and His hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire.”

The head is the seat of intelligence.  Isaiah speaks of “joy on their heads.”¹⁸  Joy is found in the mind even though it has an effect upon the whole being.  The “hair” is symbolic again of character. 1 Cor. 11:15 reads: “But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering.”  Glory or character is given to us by Jesus and is a covering to cover our nakedness, which is symbolic of sin.  White is an emblem of purity; the mind of Jesus is pure.  We are also told, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”¹⁹

The “eyes” symbolize what the mind focuses on. Psalm 19:8, “The commandments of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.” And Proverbs 23:26 says, “My son, give me your heart, And let your eyes observe my ways.” So “eyes like a flame of fire” depict the fact that His thoughts only focused on what was pure and lovely.  Fire symbolically represents purification.  “Everything that can endure fire, you shall put through the fire, and it shall be clean.”²⁰  With Jesus in our hearts we also will focus our eyes on the pure and on the lovely.  “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, …if there be any virtue and if there be anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.”²¹

“His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters.”

The feet symbolize the path one travels in life and brass is a symbolic representation of humanity.  Psalm 119:105 says,  “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” clearly suggesting that the feet are symbols of the path we travel through life.  Many texts in Scriptures speak of “vessels of brass” and a vessel is symbolic of a person.  Speaking of the Apostle Paul, Acts 9:15 says, “He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.”  Notice that the path that Jesus traveled through life was “refined in a furnace.”  A furnace is symbolic of trials and a purification process.  Psalm 12:6 clearly presents this fact:  “The words of the LORD are pure words, Like silver tried in a furnace of earth, Purified seven times.”  It is said of Jesus, “though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things that He suffered.”²²

His voice is said to be “as the sound of many waters.”  The sound of water flowing in a mountain brook is very peaceful and a pleasant soothing sound.  Jesus is “the Word” and His word brings comfort and peace.

“He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength.”

This verse is symbolic of what Christ is to His people.  It pictures Him as our light, our salvation, and our protector as well as our guide. The right hand of God is symbolic of righteousness and salvation.  “Your right hand is full of righteousness.”²³  “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, And Your right hand will save me.”²⁴

 In the right hand of Christ are seven stars.  These seven stars are very important for they symbolize the total work of our Lord for us, the complete plan of salvation.  Seven is God’s number and it is an emblem for perfection and completeness.  In verse 20, these stars are identified as “the angels of the seven churches.”  An “angel” also means a messenger, a message, or a messenger with a message.  Anyone who gives a message from God is a figurative angel.  “Time is short. The first, second, and third angel’s messages are the messages to be given to the world.  We hear not literally the voice of the three angels, but these angels in Revelation represent a people who will be upon the earth and give these messages.”²⁵  The messages of the three angels found in Revelation 14:6-14 are very important for they contain God’s last message to earth’s inhabitants.  We will cover this in a later chapter.  The two-edged sword is the word of God as contained in the Holy Scriptures.  Jesus Christ is the Word made human, see John 1:1,14 TEV.

The phrase “His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength” is a symbolic picture of Christ as the spiritual light of the world.  Jesus said: “I am the light of the world.  He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”²⁶  Jesus, because He is the spiritual light of the world, is spoken of as the sun. “The sun of righteousness will arise with healing in His wings.”²⁷  Another text that clearly illustrates this is Psalm 84:11:  “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

“And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead.  But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, ‘Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.’”

John records how this vision and the sight of Jesus overwhelmed Him.  But when Jesus said to him “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last,” He was saying to John and to us, “Don’t be afraid; I will care for you for I am everything to you.”  He laid His right hand on John revealing to him and to us, that He saves us.

This first chapter of Revelation records John’s first vision.  It appears that there are eight main visions that John receives and records in the book of Revelation.  The first four are given in 1-14.  These four visions seem to be given primarily to prepare God’s people for the Second Coming of Jesus.  The last four visions are in Chapters 15-22 and seem to cover the judgment, the Second Coming and the home of the saved.  These main eight visions do not mean that John only had eight visions while writing the book of Revelation; only John could reveal that fact.  But it is interesting that eight is a symbol of salvation.  Daniel tells us that God is “the wonderful Numberer.”

“I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold I am alive forevermore. Amen.  And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”

The last sentence in verse 18 has both a literal and a symbolic meaning.  The word “keys” symbolically means, “to open.” (Judges 3:25). Jesus, in His word, clearly tells the human race how to escape from both literal and spiritual death.  Every person who will be lost will first die spiritually.  The Spirit of God speaks to every rational being sometime during his or her life.  Those who reject the call of the Spirit will die spiritually.  Even though one may be dead spiritually one can come to life if he responds to the Holy Spirit’s call.  This fact is made clear in Ephesians 5:14.  “Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”

“Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.”

John is told to continue to write, as more visions of the future will be presented to him.

“The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.”

This verse is given to identify some of the symbols of this chapter.

Notes
Chapter – 1

7 BC 953; 2- AA 583; 3- Rev 22:7; 4- Rev 22:20; 5- COL 133; 6- TM 113; 7- 8T 159; 8- Rev 1:4; 9- Dan 2:21; 10- Ex 33:18, 19; 11- E d 225; 12- RH 11/30/97; 13- Mat 26:64; 14- Eze 33:3, 4; 15- GC 665; 16- Zec 3:4; 17- 7BC 965; 18- Isa 35:10; 19- Phil 2:5; 20- Num 31:23; 21- Phil 4:8; 22- Ps 12:6; 23- Ps 48:10; 24- Ps 138:7; 25- 1888 p. 926; 26- John 8:12; 27- Mal 4:2.

Revelation 2: 1-7

The Old Testament prophecies revealed the Messiah of the human race.  The New Testament records the fulfillment of those Old Testament prophecies and further expands the details of the plan of salvation.  The Gospels of the New Testament reveal the Savior’s earthly life, His ministry, sufferings, death, resurrection, and ascension.  The last book of the Bible, even though it has been a blessing to all who have read it since the days of John, was designed primarily to reveal Jesus Christ to earth’s last generation in such a way as to prepare them for Christ’s Second Coming, thus emphasizing the importance of this book for these critical days.  The first chapter of Revelation symbolically describes Jesus walking among the seven candlesticks, which we now understand represents the seven churches. This picture illustrates our Lord’s care and concern for His people.  The picture is reinforced as He says, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”¹  Along this same line we are told, “Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.”²  This second chapter of Revelation begins an introduction of the seven churches.  Keep in mind that the number seven means perfection and complete-ness, and is used many times throughout the Book. The seven churches picture a complete history of the people of God from the time Christ established the New Testament apostolic church to the Second Coming.  Each church also contains a message for the time in which it existed.  The messages from Christ to each church also are applicable to each succeeding church. Each message also particularly applies to the last church.  The proof for this is found in the following text.  “For everything that was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that by being steadfast and through the encouragement the Scriptures give, we might hold our hope fast.”³  The seventh or last church, the Laodicean church, is the church that will be on earth when Jesus comes.  The name of this Church, in fact, means “a judging of the people.”  The theme of the book of Revelation is Jesus and His message of preparation and judgment directed too us. So, the book of Revelation is written primarily for the last church.

The Church of Ephesus
The First Church

Revelation 2: 1

“To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven lampstands:”

Ephesus was the first church of the seven. The estimated time for this church is from 31 A. D. to 100 A. D. The name “Ephesus” is generally believed to mean desirable. This is a fitting name for this church for the One who established it is the “Desire of all Ages.” He is clearly identified as the founder of this church for He holds it in His right hand. His right hand is also symbolic of His righteousness and salvation. Christ freely offers salvation and His righteousness to each of the seven churches, and particularly to each person therein, by extending His right hand to them.

This first church was the apostolic church, the church of the apostles. This period may be referred to as the Age of Apostolic Purity. Ephesus was a leading city of the Roman province of Asia in John’s day and it was probably the most prominent of all the churches.

Revelation 2: 2

“I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil.  And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars;”

Jesus said, “I know your works.”  This phrase is repeated seven times, so we can be sure we will not be able to keep anything from Him.  He knows our “labor” and our “patience.”  Meaning the Lord is well aquatinted with our spiritual warfare, our deeds, and our actions.  Patience is a spiritual characteristic presented in this book as a very important characteristic; it is mentioned twice in this first church and is mentioned seven times in the book of Revelation.  Indeed, without the patience of the saints we will not be one of them.

This church is commended for its stand for truth and against evil.  Many modern church leaders ignore the sins of its members, so they lose the blessing of God by not taking care of the situation.  One reason the story of Achan is recorded in the Bible is to illustrate the seriousness of allowing sin to remain in the camp.

The leaders of the church of the Ephesians wanted members who lived what they claimed to believe, who “walked the talk.”  The leaders of this church would not tolerate false teaching.  Diligently they would investigate the claims of those who would come among them with new or different teachings.  They put into practice the counsel given to them that they should “test the spirits whether they are of God.”⁴  They remembered  Paul’s  warning that “savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock … speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after themselves.”⁵   Remember that everything we find as counsel for the first church applies also to the last church that is to us.

Revelation 2: 3

“And you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary.”

Jesus said, “I know your works.”  This phrase is repeated seven times, so we can be sure we will not be able to keep anything from Him.  He knows our “labor” and our “patience.”  Meaning the Lord is well aquatinted with our spiritual warfare, our deeds, and our actions.  Patience is a spiritual characteristic presented in this book as a very important characteristic; it is mentioned twice in this first church and is mentioned seven times in the book of Revelation.  Indeed, without the patience of the saints we will not be one of them.

Revelation 2: 4

““Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”

We must accept the warning given to the church of Ephesus and guard against losing our first spiritual love. When one allows the cares of life to interfere with his spiritual walk he will lose the love of the truth. Paul says that unless we love the truth we will not be saved. “They will perish because they did not welcome and love the truth so as to be saved.”⁶ How can we protect ourselves from backsliding? The Holy Spirit is the messenger of truth and we must allow the Spirit to control our lives. Human beings are physical, mental, and spiritual and God intended that our lives should be balanced. The physical affects the mental and vise versa and both affect the spiritual, so we must keep all in balance. Likewise, there are three things that keep the spiritual life sound. These are Bible study, prayer, and sharing our faith with others. A person neglecting any one of these is in danger of loosing his first love. Even a minister of the gospel, as Paul says, must, “discipline (myself,) lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”⁷ Each of us should remember “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.”⁸

Revelation 2: 5

“Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.”

The call to repent is given in the book of Revelation seven times. It is twice given to the Ephesians in this verse. They were urged to repent because “they had lost their first love.” “The losing of the first love is specified as a moral fall, and this loss is represented as something that will affect the entire spiritual life. God says, of those who have lost this love, that unless they repent, He will come to them, and remove their candlestick out of its place.”⁹

The call to repent echoes the call made by John the Baptist. His call was made to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah. Jesus also made the same call saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”¹⁰ This same call will be again given to “prepare the way of the Lord,”¹¹ for Christ’s Second Coming. Jesus also calls the last church to repent. Since we live in the final hours of earth’s history, it is time for each of us to heed this call to repent and prepare for the coming of our Lord.

Revelation 2: 6

“But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.”

The “Doctrine of the Nicolaitans … was that the gospel of Christ made the Law of God of no effect; that by ‘believing’ we are released from the necessity of being doers of the Word.¹²”  We face the same deception today taught by many Evangelical churches.  It teaches that people can sin right on into the kingdom of heaven.  This doctrine also includes that if you are once converted you can never be lost.  These teachings are falsehoods that the Bible does not teach.  The Bible teaches that Jesus came not only to suffer and die for mankind, but also to show us how to live.  The Scriptures also tell us that Jesus had nothing that is not available to us.  If we accept the love of Jesus in our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to control our lives, we “can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.”¹³  We are also told, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”¹⁴  The mind of Christ, a symbol of His right-eousness, is offered to us as a gift.  Would we sin if we had the mind of Christ?  No! We would hate sin just as He did.  “Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.”¹⁵  This “new birth” is exactly that, becoming a new person.  When we are “born of God” we allow the Holy Spirit to control the life and we “cannot sin,” because we will not sin.  What is it that keeps us from sinning?  The text is very clear, “for His seed remains in him.”  “The seed is the word of God.”¹⁶  If His seed remains in us it will keep us from sinning.  When we allow the word of God, through the Holy Spirit, to control the life we do not sin.  “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.17  Remember Jesus, when He was tested by the devil responded, four times in fact, “It is written.”¹⁸  Sin is a choice.  The only reason people sin is because they choose to.   “He who has not sufficient faith in Christ to believe that He can keep him from sinning, has not the faith that will give him an entrance into the kingdom of God.  Christ came to make us partakers of the divine nature, and His life declares that humanity, when combined with divinity, does not sin.”¹⁹  So, God assures us that the Holy Spirit will give us all the power necessary for obedience.

Revelation 2: 7

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.  To him who overcomes I will give to eat of the tree of life in the midst of the Paradise of God.”

The final message from Christ to the apostolic church of Ephesus is contained in Revelation 2:7.  The appeal from the Lord Himself is for each person who studies this book to do so in sincerity by having his spiritual ears in tune with the Holy Spirit.  This appeal is made to each of the seven churches.  The last sentence has both a literal and a figurative application.  We may symbolically eat of the tree of life now.  If we now partake of the fruit of this spiritual tree of life, heaven (paradise) and eternal life can begin for us here on earth.  The Bible teaches that when we share the plan of salvation with others it becomes a tree of life to them and we also are blessed as a result.  “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.”²⁰  “The knowledge that comes from God is the bread of life. It is the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations.”²¹  Only those who are filled with the fruit of the “tree of life” will eat of the literal tree of life.

Notes
Chapter – 2

1- Mat 28:20 KJ; 2-.Ps 121:4; 3-.Rom 15:4 GT; 4-.1John 4:1; 5- Acts 20:30; 6-.2Thes 2:10 TEV; 7-.1Cor 9:27; 8-.RH 10-12-05; 9-7BC 957; 10- Mat 4:17;  11-.Isa 40:3; 12-.ST 01-02-12; 13-Phil 4:13; 14-.Phil 2:5; 15-.1John3:9; 16-.Lk 8:11; 17-.Ps 119:11; 18-.Mat 4:4,6,7,10; 19-.MH 180; 20-.Prov 11:30; 21-.MS 102– 190.

Revelation 2: 8-11

Smyrna

The Second Church

The Meaning and Significance of the Name Smyrna

The second Church of Revelation was named Smyrna. The estimated time for this church was from A. D. 100-323.  Smyrna means, “sweet smelling” and is synonymous with the word myrrh.  Myrrh was a lovely fragrant ointment manufactured from a plant of the same name.  The Smyrna church was to pass through bitter persecution, but instead of being destroyed by it, she came forth as a fragrant victor.

The city of Smyrna is approximately forty miles north of Ephesus.  It is one of the oldest cities in the world.  Of the seven churches identified by city in Revelation, Smyrna is the only one in existence today as a thriving city.

Revelation 2: 8

“And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life.”

“The angel of the church” is believed by some to be the leadership of the church, but that phrase symbolically means the message to the church and to us and notice it is the Lord Himself who gives the counsel to each church and not the leaders; He is, in fact, the One who gives the message to each of the seven churches covering the seven periods of time.  The message of this book comes to each church, according to this verse, by way of our Savior’s death and resurrection.

Revelation 2: 9

“I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of these who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.”

The Lord not only cares for us, He also knows all about us.  He knows the trials and tribulation we go through.  Notice in this verse, however, that the trials of life can so shape our characters that we can become spiritually rich.  Someone once said, “There are many rich poor men, and many a poor rich man.”  The truly rich people in the world are they who are rich in faith and know what it is to hold to the faithfulness of God.  True wealth is the gold of faith, love, and truth.

The Lord says He knows “the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not.” The word “Jew” here is not used in a literal sense but is a symbolic term denoting a quality or standard.  The apostle Paul makes this fact clear when he says, “For you are not real Jews just because you were born of Jewish parents or because you have gone through the Jewish initiation ceremony of circumcision.  No, a real Jew is anyone whose heart is right with God.”1  Paul also makes this clear when he says that in God’s sight all human beings are the same and that God is no respecter of persons.  “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”2  In Revelation 2:9 above, Jesus also reiterates the standard expressed by the leaders of the Church in Ephesus regarding “walking the talk” stating that those who do not live what they claim to believe are taking the Lord’s name in vain and are guilty of blasphemy.  Further, He is saying, they are not really members of the church of God, but belong to Satan’s group.

Revelation 2: 10

“Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer.  Indeed, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days.  Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

The words of Christ in this verse, directed to the people of Smyrna, are a prophetic picture of what they would face.  “You will have tribulation ten days.”  This is prophetic time and means ten literal years.  God permitted (not caused) persecution as a means of testing their faith.  Diocletian’s first decree against the Christians was in the year 303 A. D.  This persecution continued until Constantine issued the so-called “edict of toleration,” in A. D. 313.  During this time, Diocletian carried out an aggressive persecution against the church.  Christians were constantly in danger of confiscation of their property, subject to arrest and various means of torture and death for their belief.  The church of Symrna was a faithful church even in the face of this persecution and death.  Christ Himself promises them, a diadem of victory.  The phrase, “the devil is about to cast,” shows that this prophecy has a double application.  The Bible, as we know, is written in such a way that the closer we get to the end the greater the application.

Just as the Roman government made laws against the practice of Christianity on pain of death, so laws will again be made against the true followers of Jesus.  This is the symbolic picture of this part of the verse for us.  We shall cover this in more detail in a latter chapter.

Revelation 2: 11

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.  He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.”

The Lord calls each church to be faithful.   These seven calls made by our Lord are calling His true people to be ready for any test and to prepare and be prepared for what is coming.

Notes
Chapter – 3

1. Rom 2:28, 29 TLB; 2- Gal 3:28.

Revelation 2: 12-17

Pergamos

The Third Church

The book of Revelation was given to the people of God for all times as a guide, to comfort and to give spiritual strength.  “The One who revealed these mysteries to John will give to the diligent searcher for divine truth a foretaste of heavenly things.  Those whose hearts are open to the reception of truth will be enabled to understand its teachings, and will be granted the blessings promised to those who ‘hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.’”¹  The entire Bible was written by the inspiration of God.  This becomes especially evident when we realize, as I have said, that, it was written in such a way that the closer we come to the end of the world the more force, power, and meaning it has.  And, since the book of Revelation promises a blessing to all that read it, if they allow the Holy Spirit to guide them, we each should take advantage of that blessing.  Even beyond this general blessing for all, this book has much more meaning for the people living in this hour of earth’s history than ever before.  For although the major lines of Bible prophecy focus on the closing scenes of this world’s history, the book of Revelation is primarily directed to our day.  The messages of the seven churches should be of great interest, and value, to us.

Revelation 2: 12

“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write.  These things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword:”

The estimated time of the Pergamos church was 313 to 538 A. D.  The name Pergamum means “citadel” or “stronghold.”  Pergamos was once an important city and at one time had even been the capital city of the Roman province of Asia.  It was one of the chief cities of the Hellenistic world for many years.  This city rose to be not only popular, but also was considered to be almost impregnable.  The city was begin-ning to decline in importance relative to Ephesus, when John began to write the book of Revelation.

Notice that the message to this church comes from the same “One” who is identified in the first chapter, the Lord Himself, the One who brings righteousness and salvation to each of the seven churches.  He is identified for this church as the One with “the sharp two-edged sword.” Jesus refers to His message to this church as a rebuke for allowing themselves to be deceived by various false doctrines.  Since the sym-bolical “two-edged sword” (the Scriptures) was available to them, they should have been able to ward off falsehood.

Revelation 2: 13

“I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is.  And you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.”

Pergamos, had become distinguished as the first city to become a cult and worshiped Domitian, a living emperor who demanded worship as a “lord god”.  Citizens were persecuted for refusing to worship him. Pergamos was quite large and, because of its many pagan temples, was considered a very religious city.  The reference “where Satan’s throne is” was, considering these facts, very appropriate.  It was also around this time that the papacy was blending paganism and Christianity through corrupt priests inspired by Satan.

Even though the Ephesus church was known as the persecuted church, the Pergamos church also faced some persecution and martyrdom at its beginning.  The Lord mentions Antipas, His faithful martyr.  This Pergamos church did rise from a persecuted sect to a position of exaltation after the time of Domitian.  The “blended” Christianity became very popular, especially after the professed conversion of Emperor Constantine in A. D. 323.  It was during the close of the Pergamos church that the papacy was established as the religious leader and subsequent political power of Western Europe.

Revelation 2: 14

“But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality.”

A true prophet’s thoughts would have been concerned with the cause of God and not with just his own desires, but Balaam’s interest were only what Balaam wanted.  He may have been a true prophet at one time, but he became a tool of Satan.  The symbolism of the two sins that Balaam taught God’s people were the blending of paganism with Christianity.  Symbolically, to eat and drink is to accept into the spiritual mind that which is taught.  This is why the Bible pictures human beings as “vessels;” truth and falsehood are poured into the mind and, in turn, it is poured out of the mouth into another’s mind.

“Everything is pure to those who are themselves pure; but nothing is pure to those who are defiled and unbelieving, for their minds and consciences have been defiled. ^2”

A woman is a church—good or bad.  Symbolically, sexual immo-rality is being spiritually deceived, as clearly pictured in Revelation seven-teen.  This deception occurs when the true people of God become impure by a relationship with a spiritual harlot, symbolic of an impure church.  Ezekiel prophesied that Babylon, the harlot of the book of Revelation and also called Jezebel, would defile God’s true people, symbolized as Jerusalem.  Notice Ezekiel’s prophecy: “And the Babylonians came to her into the bed of love, and they defiled her with evil desire, and when she was polluted by them, she [Jerusalem] broke the relationship and pushed them away from her in disgust.”³  This defilement is still continuing.  The Seventh-day Adventist Church is clearly not Babylon, but we still have some among us who believe and teach falsehood or Babylonian doctrines.  The apostle Peter, telling that this sin would continue in the church to the end, said, “They have eyes full of harlotry, insatiable for sin. They beguile and bait and lure away unstable souls.  Their hearts are trained in covetousness—lust, greed. [They are exposed to cursing,] children of a curse! Forsaking the straight road they have gone astray; they have followed the way of Balaam, [the son] of Beor, who loved the reward of wickedness.”⁴  This false teaching can be very appealing and can entrap one just as easily as literal adultery can entrap.  Only through the power of the Spirit of God can we be victorious over these spiritual immoralities taught by Satan.

Revelation 2: 15

“Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.”

Notice that the Babylonian doctrine of Nicolaitans (i.e. Some of Calvinism in our modern times) is still being taught after being intro-ducedto the people of the Ephesus church.

Revelation 2: 16

“Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.”

This strong warning reveals the seriousness of the spiritual condition of the church at Pergamos.  It no doubt is a continued warning to the following churches and especially for us today.  Paul provided advice that can mean victory for those living now, just before Jesus returns.  “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of the soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”⁵  The Living Bible translation makes it even clearer: “For whatever God says to us is full of living power: it is sharper than the sharpest dagger, cutting swift and deep into our innermost thoughts and desires with all their parts, exposing us for what we really are.”

Revelation 2: 17

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.  To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat.  And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it”

This verse emphasizes the fact that God wants each one of us to partake of the spiritual food, symbolic for His Word, which He offers to us to give us victory over sin.  The more one studies the word the more of the “hidden manna” is revealed to that individual. The symbolic “white stone” offered to us by Christ is His righteousness, which is also His character.  White is a symbol of purity and a stone is a symbol of the permanent character of Christ.  When we accept the spirit of Christ to guide and control our lives we become steadfast and secure like Him.  Peter quotes the prophecy of Isaiah relating to the Messiah: “Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, and he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.”⁶

Many of the literal descriptions of the Old Testament paint a beautiful symbolic picture for us today.  Notice how the apostle Paul presents the literal journey of Israel as a symbolic presentation for us.  First the literal picture:  “Moreover You led them by day with a cloudy pillar, and by night with a pillar of fire, to give them light on the road which they should travel. You came down also on Mount Sinai, and spoke with them from heaven, and gave them just ordinances and true laws, good statutes and commandments. You made known to them Your holy Sabbath, and commanded them precepts, statues and laws, by the hand of Moses Your servant. You gave them bread from heaven for their hunger, and brought water out of the rock for their thirst, and told them to go in to possess the land which You had sworn to give them.”⁷  Now, notice the spiritual application given to this story. “Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink.  For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ.”⁸

The “new name” mentioned here is a symbolic picture of the transformation of character that each one of God’s people shall experience as they accept the righteousness of Christ.  The experience of becoming a new person in Christ is unique to each person.  The “new name” will likely encompass a detailed personal experience of the victory of each individual through Christ.

Notes
Chapter – 4

1- Rev. 1:3; 2- Titus 1:15 TEV;  3- Eze. 23:17 AV; 4- 2Peter 2:14, 15 AV; 5- Heb 4:12; 6- 1Peter 2:6; 7- Neh 9:12-15; 8- 1Cor 10:1-4.

Revelation 2: 18-29

Thyatira

The Fourth Church

The fourth church is Thyatira.  It’s estimated time is from 538 to 1517 A. D. and it has been called “The Corrupt Church.” The meaning of the name Thyatira is not clear, but one suggested meaning is, “sacrifice of the penitent.”  This could be an understandable meaning when one considers the sacrifice made by many during this time. This was an era characterized by papal supremacy.  History records this period as “The Dark ages” and there is no doubt it was a difficult time for those who truly loved God and were attempting to serve Him.  Another reason for this to be referred to, as “The Dark ages” was that this was a time when the gift of prophecy was not in existence.  The word of God says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish:” Proverbs 29:18 KJV. Another fitting description of this time would be “The Age of Adversity.”

Thyatira was only a cavalry outpost until Seleucus, one of Alex-ander’s generals, built this city about 280 B. C. It became a thriving city in the days of the apostle Paul.  The city of Thyatira was distinguished by a number of successful trades and crafts during this time.  It was also a city where instruments of brass and bronze were manufactured. One other craft was the dyeing of cloth.  The apostle Paul, in the story of Lydia, mentions that she was a woman who was a seller of purple from this city.  Tradition has it that Lydia was the one responsible for taking the gospel to this city.  Also a very beautiful temple had been built here in honor of the sun god Apollo.

Revelation 2: 18

“And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write, These things says the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like fine brass:”

The introduction to each of the seven churches refers the reader back to the lovely figurative picture of Christ in chapter one.  We understand that each message came from the Master Himself.  In the phrase “His feet like fine brass” we see the figure of His humanity.  In Joshua 6:19 we read of “vessels of brass.”  The feet are symbolic of the path one walks through life.  Jesus was the “Son of man,” He walked upon earth, as do all men.  The brass serpent erected by Moses (See Numbers 21:8,9) represented the humanity of Jesus who would carry the sins of the whole human race and died on a tree for all.

Revelation 2: 19

“I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first.”

The Thyatiran period of about 1000 years was longer than that of any other of these seven churches.  The only commendation found was that of their works, “the last are more than the first.”  As the Today’s English Version puts it, “I know that you are doing more now than you did at first.”  Towards the end of this period a great Reformation occurred and brought forth great men like Luther, Knox, Calvin, Zwingli, Wycliffe, the Wesleys and many others.  The work of these men led many to reject tradition and to stand for truth and come back to the true God.

Revelation 2: 20

“Nevertheless I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and beguile My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.”

 Just as in Revelation 2:14, we have the reference to the symbolism of “sexual immorality and (to) eat things sacrificed to idols.”  The only difference is that in Thyatira, it is over a much longer period of time.  The reference to Jezebel is very significant.  Ahab, king of Israel, married Jezebel, a princess of Phoenicia, who thus became the Queen of Israel.  She, as Queen, introduced Israel to sun worship and because of her influence, led most of the nation into idolatry.  History records that sun worship, a foundation of pagan worship, came into Christianity mainly during the time of this church.

Revelation 2: 21

“And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.”

God surely gave her substantial time to repent and there were many voices clearly pointing out her errors and calling for her to repent and stand for truth.  But this church, called Jezebel or Babylon, was just like Pharaoh in that she hardened her heart.

Revelation 2: 22

“Indeed I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds.”

The disease of sin, especially the sin of substituting false doctrine in place of truth, is not only inexcusable, but also fatal.  This “sickbed” is the spreading of this spiritual disease we will call the Lucifer twist.  In 2 Peter 3:16 we are told that some are ignorant and change the meaning of Scripture, or they, “twist to their own destruction, as they also do the rest of Scriptures” To change the meaning of any doctrine presented in Scripture is very dangerous to spiritual health.  The doctrines pertaining to salvation are clearly taught, but acceptance depends on whether we will allow the Spirit of God or the spirit of the evil one to control and guide us.

The above verse, Revelation 2:22, is a symbolic prophecy fore-telling exactly what is taking place today among the various churches.  This prophecy foretells the uniting of apostate Christianity—uniting on whatever points of doctrine they hold in common.  But this is contrary to God’s word, which calls men to unite only under the banner of complete truth.  “Teach me Your way, O Lord; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name.” Psalm 86:11.  Those who bind themselves together, by the rejection of truth, are headed for destruction. “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” Proverbs 14:12.  Those who bow to the idol of conformity will face “a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation” Daniel 12:1.

Revelation 2: 23

“And I will kill her children with death.  And all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts.  And I will give to each one of you according to your works.”

Spiritual death is generally fatal, but there is a possibility for one to become spiritually alive by the Spirit even though previously dead spiritually.  This is made clear in Ephesians 5:14, “Awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”  Spiritual death otherwise becomes final in the physical death.  Human beings are com-posed of physical, mental, and spiritual components.  The spiritual com-ponent dies when truth is rejected.  The children of the harlot will be faced with a decision as the Spirit of truth is presented to them.  Those who accept tradition or false teachings rather than truth are accepting death spiritually in place of life.  These children of Jezebel, as told in the verse above, die spiritually as they accept the traditions of the church instead of the truth in Jesus.  God searches the heart as he judges each one and each will be accepted or rejected according to their decision.

Revelation 2: 24

“But to you I say, and to the rest of Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, and who have not known the depths of Satan, as they call them, I will put on you no other burden.”

The Lord is saying to those who are loyal believers of this church, who do not hold to the doctrine of Jezebel, that they will be accepted.  God always accepts those who live up to all the light they have if, they do not refuse to accept truth as it is made known to them.  The statement you “have not known the depths of Satan” is much clearer in the Today’s English Version.  “You have not learned what the others call the deep secrets of Satan.”  God did not put a further burden on them than to be faithful to the light that had shown upon them.

Revelation 2: 25

“But hold fast what you have till I come.”

Jesus, in the words of this verse, is telling them, and all who would follow after, to live what you claim to believe.  Those who follow this advice will be ready for the Second Coming of Christ regardless of what time period they live.

Revelation 2: 26

“And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations—“

The book of Revelation uses the word “overcome” eight times; “eight” is the symbol of salvation.  This word describes a continuing to overcome or continuous victory.  “To keep My works until the end,” is a phrase that encourages the faithful to continuously develop Christ like characters.  The words of Revelation 2:10 also apply here; “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”  Notice what else God says His people will have.  “I will give (you) power over the nations.” What does the Lord mean by this statement?  The wicked are dead so this is referring to the time when the righteous are with Christ for a thousand years in heaven. Revelation 20:4 covers this period of time.  “I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them.”  The word “judgment” in this verse is a Greek word meaning to “sentence” or to render a “verdict.”  1Corinthians 6:2, 3 clearly teaches that those who go through this life are elected to also pass sentence on the wicked.  “Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?  And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters?  Do you not know that we shall judge angels?  How much more, things that pertain to this life?”  Everything God does is fair.  In any given situation, if we could see the end from the beginning, we would have it none other than God’s way.

Revelation 2: 27

            “’He shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the potter’s vessels shall be broken to pieces’ – as I also have received from My Father.”

This verse is still referring to the judgment by the righteous.  The word “rule” in this verse is from a Greek word, which means, “to shepherd,” the “rod of iron” is mainly symbolic of the Ten Command-ments.  The Law of God will be the standard used by the saints in the sentencing of the wicked.  The breaking of the potter’s vessels is a reference to the destruction of the wicked and the setting up of Christ’s kingdom.  In Daniel 2:34, 35 the stone cut out without hands is Christ, “The Great Mountain.”  “You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found.  And the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.”  Christ said He received this kingdom from His Father.  The fact that the great mountain fills the earth helps us understand that it represents not only Christ, but also all His people who are called mount Zion.

Revelation 2: 28

“And I will give him the morning star.”

This is a beautiful thought, for Christ, the “Bright and Morning Star,” gave Himself for us as “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”  Now He says, after sin is eradicated, that He gives Himself to the one who overcomes, that is to the human race forever. What a sacrifice!

Revelation 2: 29

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

This statement from Jesus is repeated to each of the seven churches.  It’s message to one and all:  {If you are in tune spiritually, you will closely follow the counsel I have given you and you will be ready when I come.}

Sardis

The Fifth Church

Revelation 3: 1

“And to the angel of the church of Sardis write, these things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.”

The word Sardis has two meanings.  One meaning is “a precious stone.”  The second is “that which remains.”  The time for this church is said to be from 1517 to 1798.  That which remains would thus be a more fitting description since, after nearly 1200 years of papal supremacy, few genuine believers are left.  It is clear that the message to this church comes from the One who is the light of the world, the One who holds the churches, that is the seven stars in His saving right hand.

At the beginning of His message to this church Jesus presents a scathing rebuke.  Rather than being a church that is spiritually alive and well, as this church claimed to be, the Lord said, “ you are dead.”  The history of this Church reflects the struggle between the papacy and the reformers.  The reformer’s goal was to lead the church to the One who was “the way, the truth, and the life,”¹ and their main theme was “Back to the Bible.”

The city of Sardis, a city of western Asia Minor, was about fifty miles east of Smyrna.  It was considered a wealthy city primarily due to its textile manufacturing and jewelry making.  It was called “a great city” not only for its prosperity, but also because its location was very favorable for commerce.

The first coins were minted in Sardis under the opulent Croesus.  Cyrus the Great overpowered the city in 546 B. C.  The great temple of Artemis was an enormous 300 by 160 feet.  Archeologists have discov-ered, along the Pactolas River through the city, a Roman villa and bath, two Byzantine churches, and the gold-smelting establishment of King Croesus.  Along the Izmir-Ankara highway archeological finds have been extensive.  On the north side of the road stood more than thirty Byzantine shops.  Behind the shops a synagogue was discovered that was three times larger than any synagogue preserved in Palestine.  Believed to date to the first half of the third century, it is four hundred feet long and sixty feet wide, and the structure has been partially restored.  North of the syna-gogue lay a gymnasium complex consisting of a large court for athletic exercises and baths.  The entrance gate, two stories high, has now been completely restored. ²

Revelation 3: 2

“Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.”

The counsel of Christ “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming, ” advises us to remain ready for the end can come unexpectedly.  As a well-known verse states, “Only one life, twill soon be passed; Only what’s done for Christ will last.”³

In Sardis, after centuries of papal supremacy, there were few genuine believers left.  This church was known as a dead and dying church.  It was also known as having a form of godliness without the power, as noted in the phrase, “I have not found your works perfect before God.”  Nevertheless, Jesus here tells those who would still be faithful to be continually on guard and to build on the faith they still have left.

Revelation 3: 3

“Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent.  Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.”

Although many of the people of Sardis had departed from the true way, all was not lost, as some believers continued to still hold fast.  This phrase “hold fast,” means continue holding tight, “don’t give up.”

As we previously noted, the word “repent” is repeated seven times in Revelation.  In Revelation 2:5 repent is used twice, first, when the church of Ephasus lost their first love and then for neglecting to faithfully work for God.  The third call to repent was to the Pergamos church for accepting the Nicolaitans false teaching that we cannot live without sin.  The fourth and the fifth calls to repent were to the church in Thyatira for not guarding against false doctrine and deception.  The sixth one was to the church at Sardis, for not holding fast to truth.  And we will see the last one is a call from Christ to repent of the lukewarm spiritual condition prevalent in the last church.

Revelation 3: 4

“You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me. in white, for they are worthy.”

The history of this period describes how difficult it was to stand for truth during this time. Remember, this was the time when millions of people died for their faith.  But Jesus has told us, “Because narrow is the gate; and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”⁴  In the context of this history, we can appreciate this statement of Jesus, “they shall walk with Me, in white, for they are worthy.”

Revelation 3: 5

“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.”

Jesus in this verse predicted the time of the judgment that we shall cover in detail in a later chapter.

Revelation 3: 6

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

 This appeal is to the reader to allow the Holy Spirit to guide in the study of the book of Revelation.  This appeal is especially meaningful today for this is the book that contains the message especially for us to prepare for the end of earth’s history.

Notes
Chapter – 6

1- Jo 14:6; 2- New Unger’s Bible Dictionary 1129, 1130; 3- Author unknown; 4- Mat 7:14.

Philadelphia

The Sixth Church

Revelation 3: 7

“And to the angel of the church of Philadelphia write. These things says He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens.”

The Asian City of Philadelphia was founded in 150 B. C. The estimated prophetic time of this church is very short, from 1798 to 1844.  The meaning of the word Philadelphia, “brotherly love,” is well known to us.  The name was derived from the city’s founder, Attalus II, whose loyalty to his brother gained him the title “Philadelphus.”  In the early part of the nineteenth century William Miller, a Baptist minister, began to earnestly study the books of Daniel and Revelation.  With the Spirit of God clearly leading him, his efforts sparked a great religious awakening.  Miller’s preaching of the nearness of the Second Coming of Christ convinced many ministers from nearly all denominations.  Many of these men joined with Miller to give the alarm to the world, and pointed the believers to “the blessed hope.”  Through the Spirit of God, selfishness in this group was laid aside and a spirit of sacrifice and love seemed to bind the believers together.  The meaning of the city’s name truly expressed the spirit of the believers who received the Advent Message up to the autumn of 1844.  The introductory verse to this church is very descriptive of these believers for they possessed “the key of David” which is love.  Love is the motivating power of God that binds Him together with His people.  And since David was “a man after God’s own heart,”¹ he also had the “key” of love to bind hearts together.  This key of love binds God and man together through Christ.  The subject of love is the most important subject in the Bible.  By putting two Scriptures together we find proof of this fact.  “Dear friends, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Whoever loves is a child of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.”²  The next text tells us what knowing God does for us.  “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”³  Really knowing God brings us eternal life.  It was God’s great love that caused Him to send His only Son with the plan to save the human race.  We like David must be men and women “after God’s own heart,” then too we will have the “key of David.”

Revelation 3: 8

“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.”

The Lord said, “I have set before you an open door.”  A door of opportunity was opened wide and a great revival not only swept the United States, but throughout many countries of the world as well.  God gave, through His Spirit, “a little strength” to William Miller and he gave a powerful message, a message that stirred the whole country from 1831 to 1844.  God’s last church, the last of the seven churches of Revelation, in fact came forth as a result of this open door.  Jesus said, “I am the Door.”⁴  The opening of John’s book, the Revelation of Jesus, introduced the last true church to the world.  The commendation given to the Philadelphian church is by far the best of any of the seven churches.  This church had not denied God’s name and they had kept His word.

Revelation 3: 9

“Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie—indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.”

This verse painted a very accurate prophetic picture of false members of this church.  Some members were carried along by the excitement of the movement but were not genuine believers.  Many of these were truly “of the synagogue of Satan.”  They were in it for selfish reasons, for what they thought they could get out of it.  These people claimed to be true spiritual Jews, true believers, but withdrew when things did not go, as they desired.  These people, “who say they are Jews and are not, but lie” only outwardly bow when everyone bows their knee to God, and admit they were wrong.  It is only then that they realize God truly loves His people, those who are called by His name, “Love.”

Revelation 3: 10

“Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.”

This verse refers to the literal time of the great disappointment when only those who held firm to their belief in God were safe.  They went through an “hour of trial,” a short period of time, and those faithful, in the fall of 1844 A.D. had the privilege of forming God’s last true church.  Verse ten, even though it applied literally to the Philadelphian church, has an even greater message symbolically to the church today.  Today’s English Version gives an accurate picture of these true people:

“Because you have kept my command to endure, I will also keep you safe from the time of trouble which is coming upon the world to test all the people on earth.”

It is necessary for God’s people to go through a time of testing and trouble before Jesus comes in order to develop a character fit for the kingdom of God.  It is this time of testing that will illuminate and provide the opportunity for us, through the Holy Spirit, to eliminate the defects in our character.  We are told that even Jesus “learned obedience by the things which He suffered.”⁵   We too will learn obedience through suffering, just as Jesus did.

Revelation 3: 11

“Behold, I come quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.”

The belief of the nearness of Jesus’ coming was so vivid and real to them they even established a date for when they expected His coming.  It was clearly a bitter disappointment when the date passed, but as they restudied the great prophecies of the Bible the words of this verse were a great comfort to them.  No doubt the faithful repeated these precious words of encouragement many times; “Hold fast what you have, that no one take your crown.”

Revelation 3: 12

“He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more.  And I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God.  And I will write on him My new name.”

A pillar represents an overcomer, one who will “go out no more.”  This type of individual will love and be established in the truth.   Paul identified some of the pillars in the apostolic church.  “Recognizing the charge entrusted to me, James, Peter, and John, who were regarded as pillars of the church, openly acknowledged Barnabas and me as fellow-workers, agreeing that we should go to the Gentiles, and they to the Jews.”⁶  Being a pillar in the church of God would clearly be a great honor.

The phrase “write on him the name of God” means to transform the person’s character and cause him to become like Jesus.  He will be worthy to become a citizen of the New Jerusalem.  What gives a person a character like that of his Master?  It is by learning the true meaning of love and becoming a loving and lovable Christian.

Revelation 3: 13

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Those who accept the message from Jesus are the ones who are in harmony spiritually.  They not only hear, but also allow the Spirit of God to so control their lives that—they live what they believe.

Notes
Chapter – 7

1- Acts 13:22; 2- 1John 4:7,8 TEV; 3- John 17:3; 4- John 10:7; 5- Heb 5:8; 6- Gal 2:9 The 20^th Century Version.

Revelation 3: 14-22

Philadelphia

The Eighth Church

Revelation 3: 14

“And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write. These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God.”

This church is the last of the seven churches and its name “Laodicea” means, “a judging of the people.”  This meaning is very important for it pictures the time when the members of this group will be living.  The Laodicean period symbolically covers the period of time during which the Great High Priest is conducting the judgment in the heavenly sanctuary.  This church and the judgment began in 1844 and will continue until the close of man’s probation just prior to Jesus’ return.  It is during this time that every individual will be judged for life or death.  The names of every believer who ever lived will be either retained in the book of life or forever blotted out.  The members of this church have the responsibility of giving the last message, the judgment hour message, to mankind.  From this church will come the group of people who are alive when Jesus comes, the believers who will see the closing prophecies fulfilled before their eyes.  This is the grandest hour of earth’s history; the hour that all the Bible writers would have liked to live, for it is the hour they wrote about.

The message to this last church comes from the One identified as “the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness.”¹   There can be no question from this identification that the One who gives this message to His people is Christ.

Of all seven of the churches this one is very precious to our Lord, for His work for us is nearly finished.  He has provided us everything we need for victory and salvation; He even stands at the door of our hearts asking to come in.

Revelation 3: 15

“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot.  I could wish you were cold or hot.”

This message is the final message from the Lord Himself to His last church, the remnant people.  The “remnant” means the last surviving faithful followers.  Jesus says He knows us; He knows what we are doing.  It is very painful for Jesus to see our “lukewarm” spiritual condition.  He doesn’t say our condition is hopeless, but He does say He wishes it were different.  The condition of discipleship has not changed; it is still, “deny himself…and follow Me”²  Jesus is disappointed in the members of this church mainly because they should be the most zealous for they live in the grandest hour of earth’s history.  Of all the people who have ever lived on earth those living now should be completely dedicated and on fire for God.

Revelation 3: 16

“So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of My mouth.”

This verse pictures how bad our spiritual condition is in the sight of our Lord.  Clearly many of the members of His last church are not whole-hearted Christians. To be lukewarm spiritually is so repulsive to Him that He would vomit us out of His mouth.  The Lord wants to make it very clear to us just how bad our situation is and how intolerable it is to Him.  The picture presented by our Lord is very repulsive, but He does not leave us without hope.

Revelation 3: 17

“Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—“

Here, Jesus is warning us not to be fooled.  Most of the members of the Laodicean church feel spiritually safe and secure.  They positively know they are members of God’s last remnant church; they have no doubt about the truth of their doctrines including the true Sabbath and what happens to people when they die?  They also believe their names are written in the book of life; what more could they ask?  No wonder they feel rich and think they have need of nothing.  But the people of this last church, living just before the Lord’s coming, will hear these shocking words from Jesus.  “You are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”³  Almost every church member has read what Jesus teaches about the deplorable condition of the church today.  But most members consider that picture as being applicable to everyone but himself or herself.

To have this knowledge and yet be in the poor spiritual condition that Jesus describes is deception, and this is a tragedy.  Yet let us consider the facts.  We seldom go without a physical meal; yet most of us have only one spiritual meal a week.  How long would we live if we ate only one meal a week?  Is it any wonder the members of this Church are in such a weak spiritual condition?  Many of us could be rich spiritually if we spent as much time in the prayerful study of the Bible as we do watching the TV.  In the next verse, however, Jesus gives us the solution to our deplorable condition.

Revelation 3: 18

“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.”

Is it possible to become rich spiritually?  Yes! Jesus himself gives us the specific instructions on how to become spiritually rich.  He says, “Buy from Me gold refined in the fire.”  Gold is God’s symbol of faith, love, and truth, but how do we buy it from Jesus?  We buy it by following the instructions in Isaiah 55: 1, “Ho! everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come buy and eat.  Yes, come buy wine and milk without money and without price.”  If you thirst (truly desire) for the word of God, the water of life, (Rev 21:6) and you begin to drink (study in earnest), you will receive the wine and milk.  The cost is only the time you spend in the study of the Word.  The “milk” is the simple things contained in God’s word. (See 1 Peter 2:2).  This “wine” is any doctrine necessary or pertaining to salvation.  There are two kinds of wine found in the Bible.  The sweet wine, which does not intoxicate, the wine Jesus gave to His disciples, proclaim(s) the Lord’s death till He comes.”⁵  The other “wine” is the wine of Babylon.  This is the wine causing spiritual intoxication.  This “wine” is falsehood or deception; this wine is called the “doctrines of devils.”⁶  Bible reference to “wine” is seldom referring to literal wine, but generally is describing a spiritual wine.  Gold “refined in fire” is the faith and love acquired by trial and tests.  The testing of our faith makes us rich.

The “white garment” is the righteousness of Christ.  We do not earn this garment, it is the free gift of salvation that when worn gives us the righteousness of Christ.  Isaiah describes this beautiful gift:  “Awake, awake! Put on your strength, O Zion; put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city!”⁷  Another verse even makes it clearer: “I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garment of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness.”⁸  “It is impossible for man to save himself.  He may deceive himself in regard to this matter, but he cannot save himself.  Christ’s righteousness alone can avail for his salvation, and this is the gift of God.  This is also the wedding garment in which you must appear to be a welcome guest at the marriage supper of the Lamb.”⁹

The phrase, “that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed,” makes obvious, that the robe Christ gives to us is the key to salvation.  Nakedness has been a symbol of sin ever since Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden and lost their “robe” of righteousness, their garment of spiritual light.  The return of that robe of light comes from the One, who said, “I am the light of the world.”¹⁰  He is willing to give us His righteousness since “all our righteousness is as filthy rags.”¹¹

The reference “anoint (our) eyes with eye salve, that (we) may see,” is the promised Holy Spirit, working through the gift of the Spirit of Prophecy, to give us all the help we need to develop characters fit for God’s eternal kingdom.  In defining this gift we must remember the Spirit of Prophecy was not given for doctrine, for again and again we are told in these writings, “go to the Bible for doctrine.”  The gift of the Spirit of Prophecy was primarily given for character development.

Revelation 3: 19

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.  Therefore be zealous and repent.”

This phrase foresees that the church will soon face a time of test and trial.  During this time of testing “everything that can be shaken (our beliefs) will be shaken (tested for fastness or strength) that those who cannot be shaken (who holdfast) may remain.”¹² When this test comes, remember Jesus said, (“All those whom I love I correct and discipline. Therefore, … repent.”) ¹³

Revelation 3: 20

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”

Remember, this verse is mainly written to us, the last church.  Jesus knocks on the door of each heart today and wants to come in.  The reason He continues to knock is because He does not wish to give us up; He knows our spiritual condition so He keeps on knocking.  If we will dine with Him now, while probation is still open, we will be ready for the “marriage supper of the Lamb.”¹⁴

Revelation 3: 21

“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”

 Jesus promises those who overcome not just a home with Him, but to reign with Him.  Eternal life with Christ will be wonderful beyond our imagination.  This verse foretells the time when God will make “us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth ¹⁵.”

Revelation 3: 22

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

This is the seventh and final time this phrase is expressed in Revelation and should indicate its great significance to us as seven is God’s number and symbolically denotes perfection and completeness.  The urgency of Christ’s last message to His last church is very evident.  Our prayer should be that our hearts would be in tune with the Holy Spirit so that we will cherish this message.

In this message to the Laodicean church Jesus gives His last and most solemn appeal in an effort to prepare a people for His Second Coming.  In love He not only rebukes the members, but also He pleads for His judgment bound people to sit with Him and partake of His saving counsel.  Listen to His appeal from the Goodspeed Translation:  Hear I stand knocking at the door.  If anyone listens to my voice and opens the door, I will be his guest and dine with him, and he with me.16  Through the power of His Holy Spirit He knocks at the door of our hearts.  Anyone who truly listens to the voice of Jesus will open his heart and accept the personal message just as Nicodemus and the woman at the well did.  His words transformed their lives and it will do the same today.  This fact is borne out by the Spirit of Prophecy.  “This fearful message will do its work.  When it was first presented, it led to close examination of heart.  Sins were confessed, and the people of God were stirred everywhere.”17  So, if we meditate on this message and take it to heart we will be prepared for Christ’s return.

Notes
Chapter – 8

1- Rev. 3:14; 2- Mat. 16:24; 3- Rev 3:17; 5- 1Cor 11:26; 6- 1Tim 4:1 KJV; 7- Isa 52:1; 8- Isa 61:10; 9- RH 12/20/92; 10- Jo 9:5; 11- Isa 64:6; 12- 7MR 189; 13- Rev 3:19 J. B. Phillips Translation; 14- Rev 19:9; 15- Rev 5:10; 16- Rev 3:20 GT; 17- 1T 186.

Revelation  4

The Throne of God

There seems to be a disagreement, in our Schools of Religion, on Revelation 4 and 5 as to whether these chapters are speaking of Judgment or the Inauguration of Christ.  Either way the premise is that of a historical interpretation or of a pre-advent judgment scenario.  If these chapters are interpreted correctly it really doesn’t matter.  All agree that both of these chapters portray a throne room scene.  A correct understanding of the pre-advent activities taking place at heaven’s throne resolves any controversy.  The Scriptures do not support the interpretation, of some, that the throne is movable and is, at times in the holy place and at other times in the most holy.  Ellen White gives us a clear picture of the throne room and its activities, notice:  “In the temple in Heaven, the dwelling-place of God, his throne is established in righteousness and judgment.  In the most holy place is his law, the great rule of right by which all mankind are tested.  The ark that enshrines the tables of the law is covered with the mercy-seat, before which Christ pleads his blood in the sinner’s behalf. Thus is represented the union of justice and mercy in the plan of human redemption.  This union infinite wisdom alone could devise, and infinite power accomplish; it is a union that fills all Heaven with wonder and adoration.  The cherubim of the earthly sanctuary, looking reverently down upon the mercy-seat, represent the interest with which the heavenly host contemplate the work of redemption. This is the mystery of mercy into which angels desire to look—that God can be just while he justifies the repenting sinner, and renews his intercourse with the fallen race; that Christ could stoop to raise unnumbered multitudes from the abyss of ruin, and clothe them with the spotless garments of his own righteousness, to unite with angels who have never fallen, and to dwell forever in the presence of God.”¹

Revelation  4 : 1

“After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven.  And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me, saying, ‘Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.’”

This verse and chapter clearly presents a preview of the entire work of Christ.  Even though the book of Revelation has been a blessing to millions of Christians of the past, as already shown, it was written primarily for the last church, it is an end-of-time, step-by-step instruction book.  Since we are the people living in “the time of the end” our prayers should be that God would open our minds and hearts to receive with gladness His word in this great book.

“After these things,” What does John mean by this phrase?  He is speaking of what he saw in the visions he recorded in the first three chapters.  In chapter one he tells us how this book came to be, and also that it is recorded in symbolic language.  John then introduces the Star of Revelation, Jesus Christ, and gives a beautiful symbolic picture of our Lord.  In the first chapter John takes us into the Holy Place of the sanc-tuary where the seven lamp-stands or candlesticks are located.  He identi-fied them as the seven churches.  These lamp-stands also represent those previous meanings mentioned, such as, Jesus the Light of the world, the full power of the Holy Spirit, as well as those who accept Christ into their lives, for they each become a light in the world.  John sees Jesus walking among the seven churches.  Our Lord established the first of the seven churches while here on earth and He has been walking among them caring for them ever since as the priest cared for the candlesticks in the earthly sanctuary and kept them burning brightly

Just after presenting the seventh church, the Laodicean church, John says in Rev. 4:1, “after these things.”  This is an important bit of information for “Laodicea” means a judging of the people and Chapter 4, as we have said, introduces a preview of the work of our Lord in preparing His people for His Second Coming—and this work includes His future work of judgment.  After the vision of the seven churches, the King James Version records that John saw “a door was opened in heaven.”  The word “opened” means to open up; so John saw, in vision, the door into the Heavenly Sanctuary open up.  The phrase, “standing open,” as given in some versions does not give the true picture of the scene.  When the Laodicean church comes on the scene then Christ moves from the Holy Place into the Most Holy to begin His ministry of judgment.  And those who are living during the closing of the judgment are invited into the Most Holy Place.  For remember that the court is symbolic of justification, the Holy Place is sanctification, and the Most Holy Place is glorification or perfection.  At the sealing the 144,000 enter into the Most Holy Place.  We are now told to direct our prayers to the Most Holy Place, for we know that Christ is now there.  “When the priest offered incense before the Lord, he looked toward the ark; and as the cloud of incense arose, the divine glory descended upon the mercy seat and filled the Most Holy Place … As in that typical service the priest looked by faith to the mercy seat which he could not see, so the people of God are now to direct their prayers to Christ, their great High Priest, who, unseen by human vision, is pleading in their behalf in the sanctuary above.”²

The door John saw opening in heaven not only pictures the work of Christ for us, but it is also a symbolic representation of our Lord.  Jesus said, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.”³  Before 1844, the door into the Most Holy Place of the heavenly sanctuary was closed to mankind, but it is now open.  We find this fact supported in the Spirit of Prophecy.

“But clearer light came with the investigation of the sanctuary question.  They now saw that they were correct in believing that the end of the 2300 days in 1844 marked an important crisis.  But while it was true that that door of hope and mercy by which men had for eighteen hundred years found access to God, was closed, another door was opened, and forgiveness of sins was offered to men through the intercession of Christ in the most holy.  One part of His ministration had closed, only to give place to another.  There was still an “open door” to the heavenly sanctuary, where Christ was ministering in the sinner’s behalf.”⁴

Since the Spirit of Prophecy supports the fact that the throne room is the judgment scene and that Revelation is an end-time book we can clearly see that this chapter is a preview of the complete work of Christ.  It is true that, according to this chapter, Christ first enters into the Holy Place to begin His work before entering into the Most Holy.  This is presented clearly by the Spirit of Prophecy in these words:  “The holy places of the sanctuary in heaven are represented by the two apartments in the sanctuary on earth.  As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the temple of God in heaven, he beheld there ‘seven lamps of fire burning before the throne.’ Revelation 4:5.”⁵

Then John continues, “in my ears was a voice with the ring of a trumpet. Which I had heard at first, speaking to me and saying, ‘Come up here, and I will show you what must happen in the future.’”⁶ In biblical times, the trumpet was used to assemble the people to hear an urgent message from God.  After being symbolically summoned for this message, John is instructed to, “Come up here.”  However, since John is already in vision this message is also inviting us to come up spiritually so we may understand the message.  When we surrender our will to the control of the Holy Spirit and pray for God to open our minds, then we also will understand!  The sounding of the trumpet, the urgent message from God, can be understood through the power of the Spirit. Notice also that what is to be revealed to John is the unfolding of the future.

Revelation  4 : 2

“Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven, and One sat on the throne.”

John first reiterates his connection with the Holy Spirit and then takes us in vision to the throne room, which the Psalmist helps us understand is the judgment seat of God.  “You sat on the throne judging in righteousness.” And, “But the LORD shall endure forever; He has prepared His throne for judgment.”⁷  Before we look at the judgment scene that both Daniel and John saw we must look at the prophecy, which foretold the coming judgment.  Revelation 14:7 say, “the hour of His judgment has come.”  Some versions say, “has arrived.”  And Daniel presents the awesome picture of the judgment as the Supreme Court of the Universe.  “I watched till thrones were put in place, And the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, And the hair of His head was like pure wool.  His throne was a fiery flame, Its wheels a burning fire; A fiery stream issued And came forth from before Him.  A thousand thousands ministered to Him; Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him.  The court was seated, And the books were opened.   I was watching in the night visions, And behold, One like the Son of Man, Coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, And they brought Him near before Him.  Until the Ancient of Days came, and a judgment was made in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for the saints to possess the kingdom.”⁸  The symbolic language in these verses is both describing the beauty and character of God the Father as well as giving us a staggering picture of the immensity of the great judgment scene.  This fourth chapter of Revelation introduces the sanc-tuary scene and also calls for character development so we may be ready when our names come up before the judgment.

“And He who sat there was like a jasper and a sardius stone in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, in appearance like an emerald.”

The key to understanding this verse is the word “stone.”  What does a stone mean in symbols?  “Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation.”⁹  “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner-stone.”¹⁰  It is clear that both these stones represent Christ.  But before we go on with the meaning of verse three notice this text.  “That our sons [may be] as plants grown up in their youth; [that] our daughters [may be] as corner stones, polished [after] the similitude of a palace.”¹¹  The Bible teaches that every human being, symbolically, is a precious stone to God and that if we allow Him to refine and polish us we will be fit gem-stones for His kingdom.  Revelation 4 is not only teaching us to be preparing for judgment, but it is also teaching us how to be prepared through the polishing process of character development.  Again we are told that, “Character building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings; and never before was its diligent study so important as now.”¹²  In this fourth chapter of Revelation God gives an urgent trumpet call for us, not only to prepare now for the judgment, but also to be prepared for the Second Coming of Christ.  This chapter is also, along with chapters 5, and 6, setting out the sealing work.

Going back to the meaning of Verse 3, the colors of the stones appear to John to be like “jasper,” (most likely blue), “sardius,” (deep red), and he also saw an emerald green rainbow as well.  These three colors, plus gold, were used in the sanctuary service and have great symbolic significance.  Blue represents truth as well as the Ten Commandments.  The common expression we use, “true blue,” is based on this fact from the Bible.  Some believe, that God wrote the Ten Commandments on blue stone.  In the sanctuary service, the priests wore a robe of white with a blue border at the bottom of the garment; the sleeves were also trimmed in blue.  While performing their services they were to remember as they saw the blue border that they were in the service of God.  And when they saw the blue above their hand they were to remember that, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.”¹³  The deep red represents the blood of “the Lamb (Messiah) slain from the foundation of the world.” Green represents spiritual life as seen in Psalm 52:8:  “But I am like a green olive tree in the house of my God; I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever.”  In the Ark of the Covenant there was Aaron’s rod, a green almond branch, which budded.  This was a symbol of Christ. “Not like these is the portion of Jacob, For He (the Messiah) is former of all things, and Israel is the rod of His inheritance, Jehovah of Hosts is His name.”¹⁴ The emerald green rainbow, like the rainbow for Noah, is figurative of the fact that all God’s promises will come to pass.  Green is a symbol of spiritual life and the green rainbow is a figure of the promise of the power of the latter rain.

“Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white robes; and they had crowns of gold on their heads.”

Who are the twenty-four elders? We know they are human beings saved from earth for they are clothed with white robes and have crowns on their heads.  The crown is a symbol of glory, or character development.  A crown of glory is mentioned eight times and eight is the symbol of salvation.  The crown of life is also mentioned and victorious human beings are given eternal life.  Those who have victory over sin are given white robes, representing the righteousness of Christ and their names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.

To His disciples Jesus said, “When the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”¹⁵  This obviously identifies the occupants of twelve of these thrones.  Could these twenty-four elders be twelve individuals from the Old Testament and twelve from the new?—possibly.

In fact, the design of the Holy City, New Jerusalem pictures the twenty-four pillars or leaders from the New and Old Testaments.  Revelation 21:12 of the Revised Standard Version speaks of the New Jerusalem and reads, “It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed.”  We are told that “Jacob begot the twelve patriarchs” (See Acts 7:8) and they became the twelve tribes of Israel.  John named the twelve leaders of the twelve tribes; they were the eleven sons of Jacob plus Manasseh, Dan was the (Judas) of the Old Testament.  These are the twelve stones or pillars from the Old Testament, but there are also twelve foundation stones from the New Testament with Jesus being the Chief Cornerstone.  Revelation 21:14, in the Today’s English Version, gives a clear picture of these twelve foundation stones: “The city’s wall was built on twelve foundation stones, on which were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”  “So Jesus said unto them, ‘Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.’”  Here we have a clear picture of the twenty-four elders.

Revelation  4 : 5

“And from the throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.” 

This verse contains a powerful appeal.  Lightning is a symbolic representation of the Second Coming of Christ.  In Matthew 24:27 Jesus points this out:  “For as lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”  Since thunder is a symbol of the voice of God and the verse mentions other “voices” as well it is evident that the twenty-four elders are also calling for God’s judgment bound people to prepare for our Lord’s return.  The verse also informs us on how to be prepared for that event.  We can be prepared only as we receive the full measure of the Holy Spirit. Lamps of fire, as it were, fell on the disciples on the day of Pentecost, but the verse reveals that the complete Holy Spirit, called the “seven lamps” or latter rain, are available to those who will be ready for it.

“Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal. And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, were four living creatures full of eyes in front and in back.”

John is attempting to describe his observations of a scene set in heaven that human language cannot adequately express, consequently he describes it as looking like a “sea of glass like crystal,” obviously very beautiful flooring.  He sees four creatures or living beings by the throne, beings that are highly symbolic and very important for us to understand.  To understand them, we must consider the entire description and the meanings of these symbols given in the next few verses. John first notes that the creatures are “full of eyes in front and in back.”  Eyes are a symbolic representation of knowledge and understanding.  Psalm 19: 8 makes this very plain: “The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure enlightening the eyes.”  Eyes looking every direction or seeing everything everywhere, as described in our verse above are describing God’s watch care.  “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.” Prov. 15:3.  The old King James is more accurate, it says “eyes before and behind.”  We find that before and behind is not talking about direction, but through the Spirit God’s people can see the past and the future as they study the book of Revelation.

The “sea of glass” is also very significant.  A “sea” is a symbol of a great multitude of people.  The word “glass” means transparent.   God’s last true people will be so surrendered to God that they will be open to the control of His Holy Spirit.  They will be as the Psalmist says: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.”¹⁶  This sea of glass is said to be “like crystal.”  Crystal is said to be like ice or like diamonds shinny and reflecting light.  These people reflect the character of God.  A paraphrase of 2Cor 4:6 is a good example of God’s remnant.  “God has kindled a flame in my heart to make me a beacon light to the world.”  Another text values Crystal more than gold; how can that be?  Symbolic gold is said to be faith, love, and truth.  What could be more valuable than gold?  The love of God is said to be so far above human understanding that it will be our admiration and study throughout eternity.  God’s love is compared to crystal.

“The first living creature was like a lion, the second living creature like a calf, the third living creature had a face like a man, and the fourth living creature was like a flying eagle.”

The figurative creatures pictured in this verse, individually and collectively are a representation of Jesus and His total work as Savior and Redeemer of all His people.  When Israel camped or traveled they were arranged in four groups each consisting of three tribes.  The three tribes stationed on the east were under the banner of the tribe of Judah, represented on their flag as a lion.  The three tribes on the south were under the flag of Rubin and on their flag was a picture of a man.  On the west there were three tribes under the banner of Ephraim, represented as a bull.  The three tribes on the north were under the leadership of Dan and on their banner was a flying eagle.

Each banner represented Christ and pictured a portion of His work.  Christ is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, our spiritual strength.  Jesus is the God-man pictured on the banner of Rubin, the Son of God and the Son of Man for He came as a human being to save all people.  The symbol on the flag of Ephraim was a bull, representing the sacrifice or death of Christ for all people.  The symbol on the banner of Dan was a flying eagle, representing the Second Coming of Christ.  There is a verse in Exodus with a prophetic picture of the Second Coming of our Lord expressed this way, “I bore you on eagles’ wings, and brought you to Myself.”¹⁷  The banner with the eagle includes the three tribes on the north.  The Bible likens the kingdom of heaven, where God is and the New Jerusalem, as the sides of the north.  “Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion on the sides of the north, the city of the great king.”¹⁸  Let us be ready to travel to the sides of the north when Jesus comes for His people.  These twelve tribes with twelve thousand in each tribe make up 144,000 people.

The number of these living beasts referred to in Rev. 4:7, “four,” a number that represents “worldwide,” a reference which includes all of God’s people.  The symbol of the four living creatures is used because the work of Christ was accomplished to include everyone who will accept.  These four living creatures are symbolic of God’s true people who are controlled by the Spirit of Christ.

“And the four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!”

The eyes of God are symbols of complete knowledge; He knows us better than we know ourselves.  Wings are symbols of God’s trust and protection.  “He shall cover you with his feathers, And under his wings you shall take refuge.”¹⁹  Eyes are of watch-care as described in Verse 6 above.  The “six” wings, represented in Verse 8 are a symbolic figure of labor, for remember that six is a symbol of labor.  What is the labor that we humans exert in order to develop characters fit for God’s kingdom? “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”²⁰  But how can work count since we can do nothing to earn salvation?  It is clear that the only work we can do is the surrender of the will.  The very next verse makes this very clear.  “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”²¹

Not resting day or night is a descriptive phrase of the diligence of God’s true people who have a connection with heaven just as Paul admonished.  “Pray without ceasing.”²²  They are thrilled to be able to serve God with all their hearts; they have reached a point in their experience where sin is repulsive to them and serving God is the greatest pleasure on earth.  Verse 8 in no way pictures God’s people sitting on a cloud playing a harp for eternity.  Nor does it literally picture them just repeating the words recorded over, and over, throughout eternity.  The Bible teaches that God’s people will experience joy without ceasing.  This connection with God is expressed in another way. “Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.”²³  And further Jesus said, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”²⁴  Our Lord, considers His work for us a pleasure as expressed by the symbolic voices of His people in the words “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty.” This fact is further emphasized by the next verse.

Revelation  4 : 9

“Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever,”

Revelation  4 : 10

“The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying:”

The word “fall” in this verse does not mean to fall literally for fall has two symbolic meanings, the negative one means to fail, but the positive one means to be sustained or to die to self.  Notice these two texts: “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with his hand.”²⁵  And, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.”²⁶  The person who dies to self will not fail; he will find life and find it more abundantly.

“You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.”

Human beings, not just the twenty-four elders, will continually praise God, for life and for the joy they experience each day as they continue to exist.  If we love life here and now, remember, we haven’t seen anything yet!

Notes
Chapter – 9

1- GC 88 415; 2- PP 353; 3- John 10::9; 4- GC 429, 430; Ps 141:3; 5- GC 414; 6- Rev 4:1 J. B. Phillips; 7- Ps 9:4, 7; 8- Dan 7:9, 13, 22; 9- Isa 28:16; 10- Ps 118:22; 11- Ps 144:12 KJV; 12- Ed 225; 13- Eccl 9:10; 14- Jer 10:16 KJV; 15- Mat 19:28; 16- Ps 139:23 KJ; 17- Ex 19:4; 18- Ps 48:2; 19-Ps 91:4; 20- Phil 2:12; 21- Phil 2:13; 22- 1 Thes 5:17; 23- Ps 121:4; 24- Mat 28:20 KJ; 25- Ps 37:24; 26- John 12:24.

The Lion of the Tribe of Judah

Revelation  5

Some say that this scroll is not in the right hand of God; but the Spirit of Prophecy states—after quoting the first three verses of Rev.5: “There in His open hand lay the book, the roll of the history of God’s providences, the prophetic history of nations and the church.  Herein was contained the divine utterances, His authority, His commandments, His laws, the whole symbolic counsel of the Eternal, and the history of all ruling powers in the nations.  In symbolic language was contained in that roll the influence of every nation, tongue, and people from the beginning of earth’s history to its close.”¹

Revelation  5 : 1

“And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals.”

As we have seen, the right hand of God is a symbol of right-eousness and salvation; it is mentioned sixty three times in the Bible.  The scroll God is holding contains a sealed message of two parts.  We know this because the right hand of Him who sits on the throne is holding a scroll written on both the inside and on the back, symbolically pointing out that it is written on two sections.  What is the book or  “scroll” that was in two sections and sealed?  The two-part scroll is the book, Daniel, and Revelation.  “But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.” “And he said, ‘Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.’” “Many shall be purified, made white, and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand.”²  “The books of Daniel and the Revelation are one.  One is a prophecy, the other a revelation; one a book sealed, the other a book opened.”³  When was it to be opened?  Daniel was told that it would be opened at a certain time in history when “many shall run to an fro, and knowledge shall increase.”  When did our rapid transportation begin and coincidentally at what time in history was there a great increase in knowledge?  Clearly the early eighteen hundreds evidenced the begin-ning of this period.  However, even though the books of Daniel and Revelation would begin to be opened in the early 1800’s, they would not be completely opened until the time of the seventh seal of Revelation or, as we shall see in Revelation chapter 6, just after the sealing of the 144,000.  In other words these books would open and would be partially understood, as the scroll unrolls.  We will study more on this subject when we study Revelation chapters 6 and 7.

Revelation  5 : 2

“Then I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, ‘Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals?’

Who is this strong angel?  This same angel called a mighty angel in Revelation chapter 10 when He opens the little book or scroll.  He is without question the Lord Himself, the “Lion of the tribe of Judah.”  We were told in Revelation 4:11 who is worthy and the One who is worthy will be again identified before this chapter ends.

Revelation  5 : 3 

“And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll, or to look at it.”

This scroll could not be opened to the understanding of man until the prescribed time.  And there is only One in the universe able to open it.  The identity of that One is given to us in the very first verse of Revelation.  “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place.”  Jesus will unroll the scroll, which is the book of Revelation, as the Spirit of God directs.

“So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or look at it.”

John has reason to weep for no one is found to open, to read, or even look at the scroll.  The Psalmist says, “They have together become corrupt; there is none who does good, no, not one.”⁴  Even though the book of Revelation contains blessing for many, from its inception it was written primarily for a certain people at a certain time in history.

Revelation  5 : 5

“But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.’”

The prophecy that Jesus would become the Lion of the tribe of Judah is first found in the book of Hosea (5:14).  As the physical lion has great physical strength, so Christ, the spiritual Lion, has great spiritual strength.  He is willing to give that great spiritual strength to us, for we are told: “I (We) can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, (us).”⁵ And just like John, we need not weep for Christ wants to open for us the entire book, the two scrolls of Daniel and Revelation, to cause through us a great revival and reformation.  “Before the final visitation of God’s judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times.”⁶

Revelation  5 : 6

“And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth.”

When John the Baptist saw Jesus he exclaimed, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”⁷  This slain Lamb and the four living creatures had “seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth.”  Remember, Jesus said that everything He had came from the Father.  Through the Father, Christ was given perfect wisdom and intelligence, symbolized by the seven horns and seven eyes. The number “seven” is symbolic of perfection. The seven eyes symbolize the perfect Holy Spirit; and it is by the Spirit that the story of His perfect salvation is to go to all the earth.  Remember horns symbolize power, in this case spiritual power.  The seven horns are the perfect spiritual power of those that are endowed with the latter rain of the Spirit of God and they become a force, and leaders, or horns (power) to give God’s last message of love.

“Then He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne.”

Remember that in the first verse of Revelation it tells how this book came to us.  John said that it is “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John.”  It came from God the Father to Jesus, to the angel and then to John who wrote it in a book.  So, Jesus took the little book of Daniel, written about six hundred years earlier, from the Father’s right hand and also gave it to John to show “the things which must shortly take place.”  These were the things that were to take place after the book of Daniel was opened.  This reference is to the last part of the book, the book of Revelation, which was especially written for God’s end time people.

“Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.”

The whole plan of Salvation revolved around the fact that the Lamb of God would die for man, for He was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.  “From the foundation of the world” means the death of the Messiah was retroactive; it would reach all the way back to the beginning of earth’s history; and it would span to the last individual who would accept His sacrifice.  The “incense” in the “golden bowls” or prayers of the saints gave them the spiritual strength necessary to accept salvation. As Jesus accepted the prophecy of this book there was song, praise, and great joy.  But after the Lamb opened this book there was still more prophesy to be fulfilled.  This is made clear in Revelation 10:11.  The Lord said to those who experienced the bitter disappointment:  “You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings.” 

“And they sang a new song, saying

“You are worthy to take the scroll,

And to open its seals; for You were slain,

And have redeemed us to God by Your blood

Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,

“And have made us kings and priests to our God;

And we shall reign on the earth.”

Those who go through the experience prophesied, after this book is opened, are the only ones who can learn this song.  This experience will be detailed primarily from chapter seven and is the experience of the hundred and forty four thousand who are prepared for the Second Coming of Christ.  (See Revelation 14:3)  Those who live through this period are a special people.  They fulfill God’s purpose for Israel as recorded in Exodus 19:6.  “You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests a holy nation.”  These people give God’s last message to the world, as we shall see when we study chapter fourteen of Revelation.

Revelation  5 : 10

“Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.”

An innumerable number is described here.  The message from the heart of each of these millions expresses the same thought; we are all here because of the Lamb.  The sentiments vocalized by all the intelligent beings of the universe reveals the perfect character of Christ.

“Saying with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!”

The seven points that are mentioned here power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory and blessing—reveal the perfect (number seven) character of Christ.

“And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying: Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever!”

All the intelligent beings of the universe, as well as all life, owe their existence to the Father and the Son and here they all express their joy for the gift of life.

“Then the four living creatures said, ‘Amen!’ And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped Him who lives forever and ever.”

The entire universe will turn their thoughts and worship to God the Father and the Son.

Notes
Chapter – 10

1- 5MR 7; 2-Dan 12:4, 9, 10; 3- 7BC 971; 4- Ps 53:3; 5- Phil 4:13; 6- GC 464; 7- John 1:29

The First Seal

The Four Horsemen

Revelation  6 . 1

“Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, ‘Come and see.’”

The Lamb of God opens the first seal and in thunderous tones says, “Come and see.”  We should especially pray that as we enter into the study of the seven seals that God would open our minds and hearts to receive these important messages. Why does Jesus announce the opening of the first seal with a “voice like thunder”?  Remember, thunder in Revelation, is an urgent message from God.  So this message must be very important for us.  In the time of Moses the voice of God came from Mount Sinai booming as thunder and it caused the people to tremble.  God’s messages for us today should impress us as much or more than it did at that time, for God is making His last appeal to mankind and His voice will soon be silent.  The seven seals are primarily messages to prepare the 144,000 for the sealing and for the reception of the latter rain so they will be ready for the Second Coming of Christ.

“And I looked, and behold, a white horse.  And he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to Him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.”

 Four points identify not only the individual in this verse, but also His mission:

1. He rides a white horse.
2. He has a bow.
3. He is given a crown.
4. He is a conqueror.

Who is the rider of the white horse?  First, we must know what a white horse symbolizes.  White as we have seen is a figure of purity as well as a symbol of Christ, while a horse has a number of figurative meanings.  It is a symbol of strength; it is also a symbol of battle or warfare, mainly in the great controversy between Christ and Satan; and finally it is a symbol of salvation.  There is only One individual in the vast universe with all four of these qualifications—purity, strength, victorious in battle, and bringing salvation, and that One is Jesus Christ.  So, a horse is a symbol of Christ or one who accepts Christ.

Verse two above pictures the first seal; and it is introduced by one of the four living creatures.  The first living creature is the Lion, which symbolizes strength.  Jesus is “the Lion of the tribe of Judah,” and He is our strength, especially our spiritual strength.  The rider of the white horse is also Jesus and He had a bow.  We mentioned this point when we talked about the rainbow in Chapter 9, but for our study of this first seal we shall consider some other vital points as we look at the word “bow.”  Any bow, whether it is a rainbow or a bow that shoots an arrow, is symbolic of God’s Word, and Christ is the Word.  “Thy bow was made quite naked, according to the oaths of the tribes, even thy word.”¹  One other text on this point will be helpful:  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”²  Becoming very skillful in using the bow as we shoot the arrows of truth is extremely important in this day in which we live.  Christ offers us the bow with its arrows of truth.  The bow with its arrows is a weapon designed for use in the great controversy with Satan.  And just as Jesus successfully used the bow, “It is written,” and victoriously met the test in His forty day confrontation with the devil, so we may be victorious, if we become skillful through the Spirit, in the use of the bow with its arrows of truth.

The fact that Jesus is the rider of the white horse is verified in Revelation 19:11:  “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse.  And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.” Jesus was able to ride the white horse because he is a conqueror.  Revelation 6:2 says, “A crown was given Him.”  The Father gave the crown of victory to His Son.  We, too, are offered a crown of victory.  Victory came to Jesus Christ as He allowed the Spirit of God His Father to control His life; for “He went forth conquering and to conquer;” so it may be with us.  In order to be victorious we must accept all seven seals in our experience with God.  They are offered to us as free gifts by faith.  “This is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith.”³

In Revelations 6:2‑8, the rider of each of the first four horses represents our Savior, and example, Jesus Christ.  Just as Jesus is referred to symbolically as light, salt, and wheat, to mention just a few, we too, when we “put on Christ,” acquire these symbols or develop these traits of character.  And when we allow the spirit of Christ to control us, we ride these horses with Him.  And the lion, the beast that introduces the rider of the white horse, represents Christ, for He is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and He is our spiritual strength and victory.

The Second Seal

SPIRITUAL CONFLICTS

Revelation  6 . 3, 4

“When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, ‘Come and see.’ And another horse, fiery red, went out.  And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword.”

Again Jesus invites us to be prayerfully committed to understanding this seal by personally inviting us to “Come and see.”  In this second seal our Lord uses the second living creature, the ox or a calf, to give the invitation to “come and see.”  The ox or calf is a symbol of His great sacrifice.

Who is the rider of the second horse?  The word “horse” has no negative meaning and since we now understand it symbolically we know that Jesus is also the rider of this horse.  In fact, as we have said, He is the rider of all four horses, and four is symbolic of worldwide, and the Word of God will go into the entire world.  This second horse was “fiery red.”  Red is a symbol of sin as well as blood.  “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”⁴  The fact that red represents blood is clear in the following verse:  “The Moabites saw the water on the other side as red as blood.” ⁵

It took the blood of Jesus to save mankind from sin.  Accepting salvation brings peace to an individual’s heart.  Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”⁶  But accepting Jesus does not always bring peace and harmony in homes, churches, or in communities.  Jesus told us this fact as recorded in the book of Matthew.

“Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth.  I did not come to bring peace but a sword.  “For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. “And a man’s foes will be those of his own household.” ⁷

The sword that Jesus introduces in these verses divides the true from the false.  The controversy between good and evil can be very fierce; in fact Jesus said, “that people would kill one another.”  This has happened literally, but here Jesus is speaking of spiritual death, spiritual death does lead to literal death unless there is a later conversion.  The members of one’s family who fight against truth will die spiritually unless they come to their senses. Many times a person under pressure from family or friends will give up and die spiritually.  Jesus said, “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.”⁸  This is all a part of the great controversy between Christ and Satan; and in Revelations 3:4, Jesus warns us of the possibility of facing this test.  Notice that Jesus tells us that the “great sword” is used in this conflict.  The spiritual battles mentioned here are always conflicts involving “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”⁹  Jesus pleads with each one of us, through His Spirit, “be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”¹⁰

This second seal is also a picture of the work of Christ as revealed by the second of the four creatures, the sacrificial calf or ox.  This seal reveals the work of Christ for His people during times of trial and persecution such as was suffered by the members of the Smyrna or second of the seven churches.  Each of these seals has a greater application for God’s people today than it had in the past.  Just as persecution and suffering brought spiritual riches to the church of Smyrna, just so will the Little Time of Trouble shape the characters of the last church and seal God’s people and prepare them for the Second Coming of Christ.  Victory will come to us just as it came to Jesus, if we too sacrifice self.  “No other victory we can gain will be so precious as the victory of gained self.”¹¹

The Third Seal

THE JUDGMENT

“When He opened the third seal. I heard the third living creature say, ‘Come and see.’ And I looked, and behold, a black horse, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand.”

Remember the four living creatures of Revelation 4, the lion, the ox, the man, and the eagle, represent Jesus, and introducing each of the first four seals, Jesus invites us to “Come and see.”  Because of their importance, our Lord wants us to have a thorough understanding of these seals, so He invites us to allow His Spirit to tune our hearts with His, so we will be receptive to His message.  The third living creature is the man, so Jesus “the Son of Man” opens this third seal.  This seal pictures the great judgment scene, which was only made possible by the sacrificial death of our precious Lord.

This time Jesus rides a black horse. Black is symbolic of moral darkness, mourning, hopelessness, and evil.  All of these pertain to the judgment.  Isaiah prophesies of this time of judgment as a time when darkness is covering the earth “and deep darkness the people”¹² but during this time God’s true people will be filled with His Spirit.  How can we be sure John is referring to the judgment?  The Old King James Version says, “he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.” When God was judging King Belshazzar, Daniel, reading the handwriting on the wall, read: “You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting.”¹³ It is very clear that a balance is a symbol of judgment.  Job 31:6 “Let me be weighed in a just balance, that God may know my integrity.”  We are now living in the judgment hour—a topic we shall cover in greater detail in a later chapter.

How does this parallel the third church, Pergamos?  This church was a symbol of “where Satan’s throne is.”  This is a reference to the beginning of the blending of paganism and Christianity.  Many of the people of Pergamos allowed themselves to be deceived; but the two-edged sword was available to them and they could have warded off the deception of falsehood.  The picture presented by this third church is a figurative picture of the last church, the judgment-hour church.  During the Perg-amos period, the papacy was established as the religious leader, especially after the professed conversion of Emperor Constantine in A. D. 323 and the bringing in the first Sunday law in A. D. 325.

The combining of paganism and Christianity during this time is a prophetic picture of what is transpiring in the Christian world today, and is evident that the judgment hour has arrived.  This parallelism, between the third church and the third seal is made clear in the next verse.

“And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, ‘A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine.”

The voice who said “Come and see,” is the One who came with the spiritual strength of a lion, the One who gave His life for us, the God-Man Jesus Christ, the One who is coming back for us.  He is the same One who is now calling for us to be faithful.  He is the One who said “a measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny.”¹⁴  What did He mean by this?  Wheat and barley represent God’s people, remember Jesus said, “Let the wheat and tares grow together until the harvest,” but someone asks, “Do you want us to go and gather them (the tares, the false wheat) up?”  But Jesus said, “No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them.  ‘Let both grow together until the time of harvest, and at the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into My barn.’” ¹⁵

This is a very important bit of information.  When will the wheat and tares be separated?  Jesus said, not until “the time of the harvest.”  He said let them grow together until that time.  If we separate ourselves into home churches, (as some are calling for today,) before that time we are going contrary to the word of Christ.  He said “I will say to the reapers, first gather together the tares and bind them in bundles.”  How will this separation take place?  God through His Spirit will send a message, which will shake the people into two groups, the wheat and the tares.  The time will soon be when, “everything will be shaken that can be shaken, that that which cannot be shaken may remain.”¹⁶  A measure is a standard and those who meet the standard will be ready for the judgment.  “So I said, ‘Where are you going?’ And he said to me, ‘To measure Jerusalem.’”¹⁷  Jerusalem is and has always been a symbol of the true church.  Each member will be tested, so we must give the people the message or the standard of righteousness to prepare him or her for this test.  We must spend time sharing the message with people, and those who are honest will accept God’s call as soon as they hear it.  “A measure of wheat for a penny,”—a penny is a day’s wages.  Jesus taught that it didn’t matter what time of the day one accepted Him as long as that individual became a faithful disciple, he would receive his wages.  Notice that Revelation 6:6 says that the wheat and barley comes in quantities of one and three.  We respond to the Spirit as individuals, but true religion includes the whole person the physical, mental, and spiritual natures.  We must have a balance of these three and this balance comes by character development.

Next the Lord said, “Do not harm (offend) the oil and the wine.”  Oil is the Holy Spirit and unfermented wine is any doctrine that pertains to salvation.  Anyone going contrary to the leading of the Spirit is offending or doing harm to himself and to the cause of God.  We shall also cover this subject in more detail in a later chapter.

The Fourth Seal

THE TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE

Revelation  6 . 7

“When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, ‘Come and see.’”

“And I looked, and behold, a pale horse.  And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him.  And power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by beasts of the earth.”

How could Jesus be the rider of this horse?  The rider’s name is Death; Jesus Himself clarifies this point.  Listen to Him!  “I am He who lives and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen.  And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.”¹⁸ Jesus died for us so He could have the keys of death and Hades.  Satan, when he fell from heaven, opened the subject of death, not only to this world, but to the entire universe as well.  The subject of death and the grave is brought to the front when the time of Jacob’s trouble comes on the scene.  Here Jesus introduces this subject and He makes His part clear in Matthew 10:28: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”  Jesus points out that the subject of death causes great concern; in fact, He calls it a “pale horse,” meaning it causes people great anxiety.  The prophet Joel 2:1, 2, 6 pictures this time in these words:  “Blow the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain!  Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for the day of the Lord is coming; for it is at hand:  A day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness.”  “Before them the people writhe in pain; all faces are drained of color.”  The Today’s English Version says, “Every face turns pale.”

The trumpet call from God is especially made to “My holy mountain.”  God makes this call to His people, which He calls, His holy mountain.  “Thus says the Lord: ‘I will return to Zion, and dwell in the midst of Jerusalem.  Jerusalem shall be called the City of Truth.  The Mountain of the Lord of hosts, The Holy Mountain.”¹⁹  A mountain is a symbol of God’s true people who reach a high spiritual plane.  In order to be prepared for the test during the time when the subject of death is a major issue, God’s people must reach that high spiritual plane.  Most people will reject the truth regarding the doctrine of death.  This subject, together with the Sabbath, will be the main cause for the persecution of God’s true people.  Jeremiah speaks about an awesome time when God will speak these words:  “Alas! For the day is great, so that none is like it; and it is the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it.”²⁰  The subject of death will be one of the main subjects that will bring about a time of trouble for God’s true people.  As we read in Today’s English Version, “every face turns pale.”

Four times the number four is used in relationship to this seal; they are:

1. The opening of the fourth seal.
2. The voice of the fourth living creature
3. Speaking of power over a fourth of the earth.
4. The four deaths.

All of these are symbolic representations of the fact that the issue over the subject of death will affect everyone worldwide.  The word “power” in this verse is the Greek word for authority and it emphasizes the fact that this issue affects everyone.  Those who reject the truth on this subject will die spiritually.  The truth of God’s Word is the sword, which when rejected, kills spiritually.  Dying spiritually from hunger is clearly presented in Amos 8:11, 12: “Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord GOD, “That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD.  They shall wander from sea to sea, And from north to east; They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the LORD, But shall not find it. These texts reveal that many will realize only when it is too late—that is, after probation for mankind closes—that they have willingly believed a lie.  The phrase that they will die “with death” means that they actually die spiritually caused by rejecting the truth on the subject of death.  The last phrase, that they will also die “by the beasts of the earth,” means that they die spiritually, when they reject God’s truth, as a result of the political pressure applied by laws made forbidding God’s true people from teaching the truth as it is contained in God’s Word, especially when they attempt to teach the truth on the subject of death.  Remember that “the beasts of the earth” are symbols of the nations of the earth.

The fourth living creature, the flying eagle, is tied to the fourth seal.  The fourth seal and the fourth church are both calling people to choose life or death.  Those who choose life will be borne up, as on eagles’ wings, to meet the Lord in the air.

The Fifth Seal

THE JUDGMENT OF THE DEAD

Revelation  6 . 9

“When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held.”

The Amplified version reads in part “I saw at the foot of the altar the souls of those whose lives had been sacrificed for adhering to the word of God.”  Why did John see the martyrs at the foot of the altar?  When a sacrifice was made upon an altar it represented the life of the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.  When the animal was killed, its blood was caught in a bowl or vessel (both the blood and the bowl represent Jesus) and some of the blood was put on the four horns of the altar; the rest was poured out at the foot of the altar.  The blood represented the life of Christ and the four horns represented all people worldwide. An altar is symbolic of the place of worship, and the people who worship there, and is a figure of sacrifice, and/or the cross upon which Christ was sacrificed.  The blood of the martyrs was spilled; not only for what they believed, but also in whom they believed.  Their blood was represented as being poured out at the base of the altar, signifying a symbol of their sacrifice as well as their worship.  [See Ex 29:12; 2Kings 18:22; Gen 22:8,9,14]

“And they cried with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?  Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.”

The symbolism of these texts is very evident when one considers the picture presented in these verses.  God said to Cain after he killed his brother Able:  “The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground.”²¹  We know that Abel’s blood did not literally cry out anymore than the blood of any other martyr did.  But we see that spiritually Abel’s blood did cry out to God and so does the blood of all martyrs.  God is a God of justice, and the judgment of the dead will determine the fate of all people who have died.  Notice that the martyrs all cried out with a voice asking “how long O Lord until you avenge our blood?”  In Deuteronomy 32:43, we are told that God “will avenge the blood of His servants, and render vengeance to His adversaries; He will provide atonement for His land and His people.”  This is a picture of God’s final judgment.

The Sixth Seal

GOD’S CARE FOR HIS PEOPLE

DURING THE SEALING WORK

Revelation  6 . 12, 13

“I looked when He opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood.  And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind.”

The first five seals are obviously symbolic, but the sixth seal does have a literal or secondary interpretation.  The literal interpretation began with the Lisbon earthquake on Nov. 1, 1755; it was one of the most devastating quakes ever recorded.  It was reported that 60,000 to 90,000 people died in six minutes.  This earthquake was followed by the dark day of May 19, 1780 and that night the moon had the appearance of blood. On the night of Nov. 13, 1833 a celestial phenomena occurred over a large part of the northeastern United States.  A shower of millions of shooting stars lit up the night sky.  These four mysterious and unique events set the stage for the greatest religious awakening ever experienced in the United States of America.  The preaching of William Miller and his associates shook the Christian community, not only here in the States, but also throughout the world.  Miller’s focus on the end of the world and the Second Coming of Christ was not only a startling message, but also it divided the Christian world into two groups. Two verses in Matthew 24:29, 30 were presented as a fulfillment of a prophecy of Christ. “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven”  This prophecy together with the 2,300 day-year prophecy of Daniel was regarded as positive proof that Christ’s Second Coming would soon take place. The rest of Chapter 6 is also interpreted as the literal Second Coming of Christ.

God allowed the use of these verses as a warning, for God always warns His people before every calamity or important event by giving a precise message through His servants.  Ezekiel 3:17 makes this very clear.  “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me.”  Revelation 6:14-17 constitutes a very dramatic warning even though these verses are a part of the sixth seal and the Lord does not come until after the seventh seal.  The scene in these verses is given only as a picture of the reaction of the wicked to the Second Coming and not as a literal prophecy of the Lord’s coming.

The sixth seal symbolically reveals God’s love and care for His people during the closing moments of the remnant church’s probationary period.  This idea is conveyed in these words: “Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.”²²  In order to understand this sixth seal and see God’s protection during this time we must know the symbolic meaning of earthquake, sun, moon, stars, and heaven.  One meaning of heaven, like Jerusalem, it is a symbol of God’s people, His church.  This is made very clear when we see how Jesus used the word “heaven” in His parables.  The word “earthquake” is the shaking of the church.  “The shaking of God blows away multitudes like dry leaves.”²³  The book of Revelation records God speaking to His end-time people, the message He gives is the message we need to prepare us for the Second Coming of our Lord.  In the book of Hebrews God tells us that those who refuse to obey His Word will be shaken out.  This shaking of God’s people is also recorded in the book of Joel 2:1, 10-13, where it is represented as an earthquake:  “Blow the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for the day of the Lord is coming, for it is at hand: The earth quakes before them, the heavens tremble; the sun and moon grow dark, and the stars diminish their brightness.  The Lord gives voice before His army, for His camp is very great; for strong is the One who executes his word.  For the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; who can endure it? ‘Now, therefore,’ says the Lord, ‘Turn to Me with all your heart; with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.’  So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.”  This is a prophetic call to all of God’s people who are living just before the shaking begins; this appeal is made to us.

Listen to Hebrews 12:25-28 from the J. B. Phillips Translation; it speaks of this same period of time:  “So be sure you do not refuse to hear the voice that speaks.  For if they who refused to hear those who spoke to them on earth did not escape, how little chance of escape is there for us if we refuse to hear the One who speaks from heaven.  Then his voice shook, the earth, but now he promises: Yet once more will I make to tremble Not the earth only, but also the heaven.  This means that in this final “shaking” all that is impermanent will be removed, that is, everything that is merely “made,” and only the unshakable things will remain.  Since then we have been given a kingdom that is “unshakable,” let us serve God with thankfulness in the ways which please him, but always with reverence and holy fear.”  These verses graphically tell us of the testing time before us.  The spirit of prophecy pictures this time in these words:  “Everything that can be shaken will the shaken, that that which cannot be shaken may remain.”²⁴  This symbolic earthquake affects the sun and the moon as well as the stars of heaven.  It will be so severe that many of the stars of heaven fall.  These stars are the church leaders who will not stand when the shaking comes.  “Many a star that we have admired for its brilliance will then go out in darkness.  Those who have assumed the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ’s righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness.”²⁵  The shaking of the last church especially affects the Lord who is represented as the sun; He is saddened by the great loss of those who claim to be His faithful followers.  The phrase “black as sackcloth of hair” is a symbol of mourning garb.  As Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem He wept as He thought of that large group of church members who would reject Him and be shaken out for one reason or another.  He, no doubt, also looked forward to the time of this last shaking.  This shaking will be a sad time for our loving Lord.

The moon has no light of its own; it gets its light from the sun, so it is a symbol of those who have accepted “the Sun of Righteousness” and reflect His light to those they come in contact with.  “But we Christians have no veil over our faces; we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord.  And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him.”²⁶  The “moon” is not only a symbol of the Word of God, but it is also a symbol of the holy men of God who wrote as the Holy Spirit moved them.  But primarily the moon is a person, a type of Christ, through whom God’s Word is reflected.  Satan’s hatred of Christ, during the closing scenes, will be clearly reflected in the attitude and actions by those who persecute the true followers of Jesus Christ.

Revelation  6 : 14 – 17

“Then the sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place.  “And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains, and said to the mountains and rocks, ‘fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of His wrath has come, and who shall be able to stand?”

The word “sky” can also be translated as heaven and symbolizes the church.  Both mountain and island also mean the church. (See Zec 8:3; Isa 41:1; 42:11, 12)  At the close of the sealing work the church is “moved out of its place.”  Notice that church and state will unite and make laws against God’s true people.  “As the decree issued by the various rulers of Christendom against commandment keepers shall withdraw the protection of government, and abandon them to those who desire their destruction, the people of God will flee from the cities and villages and associate together in companies, dwelling in the most desolate and solitary places.  Many will find refuge in the strongholds of the mountains.”²⁷  The next few verses graphically foretell this event.  Who are these seven categories of individuals mentioned in Verse 15?  God’s true people, especially the leaders among them, are called God’s kings.  Christ “has made us kings and priests to His God.”²⁸The Bible lists a number of men as great.  Moses, Daniel, Naaman, and Melchisedec are all called great men.  The Bible identifies the term “great man” for us:  “The great man humbles himself.”²⁹  Jesus tells us how to be rich men in Revelation 3:18:  Jesus said, “Buy from Me gold refined in fire, that you may be rich.”  The “mighty men,” the commanders,” the “free man,” and the “slave is all identified as God’s true people. (See the following texts, Zec 10:5, 6; Eph 6:8; 1 Cor 7:22; Jer 2:14).  David is called a “commander” in Isaiah 55:3, 4.  Some may ask, why doesn’t it mention the women in these verses?  The word “man” or “men” in the Bible includes women.  In Genesis 1:27 we are told:  “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”

The seven categories of human beings that are mentioned in the list in Revelation 6:15 covers all of mankind’s social and political life.  The phrase “hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains” must not be interpreted literally, when interpreting symbols, for we are not to mix literal and symbolic.  The word “hid” symbolically means to keep safe or in a safe place.  This is made very clear in Psalm 143:9 KJV:  “Deliver me, O Lord, from mine enemies: I flee unto thee to hide me.”  The word “caves” means protection or places of safety, (See Heb 11: 37-39 1Kings 18:13) and mountain, as we have seen, means the church.  The following statement clearly reveals God’s care for His people during the time of trouble.  “The eye of God, looking down the ages, was fixed upon the crisis which His people are to meet, when earthly powers shall be arrayed against them.  Like the captive exile, they will be in fear of death by starvation or by violence.  But the Holy One who divided the Red Sea before Israel, will manifest His mighty power and turn their captivity. ‘They shall be Mine, says the Lord of hosts, that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.’” Malachi 3:17KJV.  If the blood of Christ’s faithful witnesses were shed at this time, it would not, like the blood of the martyrs, be as seed sown to yield a harvest for God. Their fidelity would not be a testimony to convince others of the truth; for the obdurate heart has beaten back the waves of mercy until they return no more.  If the righteous were now left to fall prey to their enemies, it would be a triumph for the prince of darkness. Says the Psalmist:  ‘In the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle He shall hide me.’ Psalm 27:5.  Christ has spoken: ‘Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee; hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.  For, behold, the Lord cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity.’  Isaiah 26:20,21.KJV “Glorious will be the deliverance of those who have patiently waited for His coming, and whose names are written in the book of life.” ³⁰  The phrase “shut your doors behind you,”  as the New King James puts it, is used many times in Scripture to indicate going to God in prayer.  When God’s people commit themselves to His care and keeping He will care for them.  We all realize that in this day it is impossible to hide from authorities, only God can keep us safe.  The phrases “He shall hide me” and “set me high on a rock” reveals that we are trusting in God and His Word for He is our only safety.  If we are “high on a rock” we have reached that high spiritual plane and are relying on His Word, putting our trust in the Rock.  The symbolic meaning of “fall on,” in Revelation 6:16, means to cover us or care for us.  Jesus said in Luke 23:30, “-say to the mountains, ‘Fall on us!’ and to the hills, ‘cover us.’”  The Amplified Version says, “Fall on us! And to the hills, Cover (conceal, hide) us!”  It is evident that “fall on” means to hide us. God’s true people, His church, banning together in companies, encouraging each other in the Lord, this will be their comfort and safety during this time of trouble.  The question at the end of Verse 17, “who is able to stand?” confirms that this is a time of test, but the answer comes in Chapter 7; only those who are sealed will be able to stand.  And each one who is sealed will be translated when Jesus comes.  Read Psalm 91, for it is written primarily for those who will be living during the time of trouble and it is very evident that this psalm supports the symbolic meaning of the sixth chapter of Revelation.

Notes
Chapter – 11

1- Hab 3:9 KJ; 2- John 1:1; 3- 1 John 5:4; 4- Isa 1:18; 5- 2 Kings 3:22; 6- John 14:27; 7- Mat 10:34-36; 8- Mat 10:37; 9- Eph 6:17; 10- Rev 2:10; 11- MH 485; 12- Isa 60:2; 13- Dan 5:27; 14- Rev 6:6; 15- Mat 13:30; 16: 7MR 189; 17- Zec 2:2; 18- Rev 1:18; 19- Zec 8:3; 20- Jer 30:7; 21- Gen 4:10; 22- FLB 337; 23- 4T 89; 24- 9 T 15; 25- PK 188; 26- 2 Cor 3:18 LB; 27- GC 626; 28- Rev 1:6; 29- Isa 2:9 KJV; 30- GC 634.

The Sealing

Revelation  7 :  1 – 3

“After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree.  Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God.  And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, saying, ‘Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.”

The vision John saw recorded in this chapter is very important for the members of God’s last remnant church, for it involves the separating of the wheat and tares, the true from the false.  The four angels standing on the Four Corners of the earth symbolize that a message will be given worldwide and will be directed primarily, to begin with, to the members of God’s last true church.  Inspiration tells us that this message will bring a great revival and prepare a people for the Second Coming of Christ.  “Before the final visitations of God’s judgments upon the earth, there will be, among the people of the Lord, such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times.”¹  This final revival will bring about the sealing of God’s people.  The winds of strife will be held back until this sealing work is accomplished.  As this message is given the names of those who receive the seal of God will be retained in the book of life and they will be translated without seeing death at the Second Coming of Jesus.  Wind does, as we see in Daniel, symbolically represent strife or war.  In vision Daniel said:  “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me were the four winds of heaven churning up the great sea.”²  The “sea” in this text represents people, “multitudes and nations.”   (See Revelation 17:15).

The four angels not only refer to a worldwide message of revival among the members of God’s remnant church, but these angels also symbolize the message itself.  These four angels are the three angels of Revelation fourteen together with the fourth angel of Revelation eighteen.  Through the power of God’s Spirit the remnant church presents God’s last message to the entire world and gathers all God’s true people into His last true fold.  The work of these four angels not only separates the wheat from the tares, but it also separates the people of the world into just two groups, the saved and the lost.  This work is completed under very trying conditions.

Notice that just before the sealing work begins the winds of strife are held and do not “blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree” until this work is finished.  The word “earth” is a symbol of people, as in Jeremiah 22:29 where it says:  “O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD!” And it means that the people of God will be protected during this period.  “The sea” means there will be no worldwide strife or war involving the nations during the sealing.  But it does indicate here that the winds of strife are about to be turned loose, as we have seen recently in 9/11 and in Iraq, but they are held just a little longer until that work is completed.  “The trees,” mean individual members, God will protect His people during the sealing.  “East” is a symbol of the Second Coming; but its use in this verse is just to emphasize its nearness and to urge the people to accept the sealing message, which prepares God’s true church for the Lord’s return.

What kind of a message will be given during the sealing time?  It will be a message that will separate the true from the false.  It will also be a message that will cause those who receive it to love the truth to the point where they cannot be moved. “Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads—it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved—just as soon as God’s people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come.  Indeed, it has begun already; the judgments of God are now in the land, to give us warning, that we may know what is coming.”³  This statement was written a hundred years ago, and as a result, because of the last sentence some people have rejected it, but it is truer today than when it was written.  Some then were shaken out and many others remained true.  This fact is one of the amazing proofs for the validity of the Spirit of Prophecy.  As we know, the Bible was written by the inspiration of God, for, “—holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”⁴  The Bible was written in such a way that the closer we get to the end of earth’s history the more power, meaning, and force the message has.  The writings of the gift of prophecy are written in exactly the same way, for they too are written by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

What will cause the message given now to be so effective that it causes a great revival of primitive godliness?  This message will be very effective because it will be given primarily through individuals who will be totally controlled by the latter rain of the Holy Spirit.  As we have mentioned it will cause a great shaking in the church, but the genuine will be sealed and ready for the coming of Jesus.  “I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodi-ceans.  This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth.  Some will not bear this straight testimony.  They will rise up against it, and this will cause a shaking among God’s people.

“The testimony of the True Witness has not been half heeded.  This solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the church hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely disregarded.  This testimony must work deep repentance; all who truly receive it will obey it and be puri-fied.”⁵

One other point concerning the sealing is this:  The seal is not only “a settling into the truth, so they cannot be moved,” it is securing God’s law in the mind and heart that they will not be moved.  The seal of God is found in the law, for we read, “Seal the law among My disciples.”⁶  We know that a seal contains three very necessary points, the name of the authority doing the sealing, his office or title, and his jurisdiction or territory covering his realm.  Every president or king has a seal containing these three facts.  There is only one place in scripture where the seal of God is located and that is in the fourth commandment of His law.  This commandment contains the seal of God and every person who loves God will accept His seal with all their heart.  God’s seal is found in the very center of His law of love; it is found in the phrase, “Jehovah made the heavens and the earth.”⁷  “Jehovah” is His name and “made” identifies His title as the great Creator.  “The heavens and the earth,” or the entire universe, this phrase reveals the territory over which our great Jehovah God rules.

“And I heard the number of those who were sealed.  One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed:”

Since everything in this chapter is symbolic so is this number.  What could this number mean if it is literal?  Do you realize that if it were literal it would mean that only a 144,000 of about 14,000,000, more or less, members of the remnant church of God would be saved; this is a symbolic number.  All numbers from one through twelve have a symbolic meaning with the exceptions of nine and eleven.  Number “One” is God; this is very evident when we look at the Bible phrase “Holy One of Israel.”  Each time the number one is used, when it refers to God, it is capitalized.  Number “two” is a symbol of God’s word and the Holy Spirit, and or, the Old and New Testaments.  “Three” refers to the God-head, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; it also means the physical, mental, and spiritual natures of man.  “Four” refers to the four directions of the compass or worldwide.  “Five” is a human number, we have five senses, and five fingers on each hand.  We are told:  “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.”⁷  This number is mainly a symbol of the human effort.  “Six” is a figure of labor.  Seven is God’s number and means perfection and completeness.  The number “eight” is a symbol of salvation.  Neither nine nor eleven has any value symbolically.  “Ten” is the number of man and refers mainly to the political aspect of man, but ten at times also refers to the whole group of people or nations.  “Twelve” means a combination of the human and divine.  Five and seven literally equals twelve and five and seven symbolically also equals twelve.  Adam and Eve were created in the image and likeness of God; when they sinned their spiritual natures died; they were no longer human and divine.  When we allow God to dwell in us and control us, by His Spirit, we become human and divine.  When using numbers symbolically the fraction or the addition or even the multiplication does not matter, the meaning goes back to the original number.  Twelve times twelve is one hundred forty four and the spiritual meaning is the same as twelve, a combination of the human and divine.  Study these numbers with your Bible and a concordance, it will not only be good spiritual exercise, but it will be profitable as well.

The word “Israel” means one who overcomes or soldiers of God. All God’s people are a part of Israel or the seed of Abraham, whether born of Abraham or adopted into the family.  “You should realize, then, that the real descendants of Abraham are the people who have faith.”⁸  There are twelve gates into the city of God, the New Jerusalem, and everyone will enter in through the gate which best represents his or her character.  The twelve tribes listed in verses five through eight are the names of the twelve gates and will include all of God’s children from Adam to the last person saved.  We shall now look at the twelve tribes in relationship to the twelve different types of character, into which humanity is divided.

“Of the tribe of Judah twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Reuben twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Gad twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Asher twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Naphtali twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Manasseh twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Simeon twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Levi twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Issachar twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Zebulun twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Joseph twelve thousand were sealed; of the tribe of Benjamin twelve thousand were sealed.”

 These twelve groups represent all God’s people who have accepted the sacrifice of the Lamb of God and have surrendered their lives to the control of the Holy Spirit. They have regained, through the Holy Spirit, what Adam and Eve lost; they are forever a part of God’s eternal kingdom; they are human and divine.

The leader of each tribe had a banner or flag with a symbol representing their best character quality; this symbol was also a prophetic picture of the beautiful character of the Messiah to come.  The name of each tribe mentioned might have a much broader meaning, but only through Christ can we each develop a perfect character.  Each chosen leader is also a figurative picture of his or her personal traits of character, traits that he developed through the Holy Spirit, traits that God’s people are to emulate.

When the children of Israel moved from place to place they did so under the leadership of four main leaders.  The first tribe in the procession was the people of Judah.  Whenever the Israelites camped Judah was on the east.  The “east” pictured the prophetic promise of the first and Second Coming of the Messiah.  The two tribes, which also camped on the east and who traveled with the children of Judah under their banner were Zebulun and Issachar.  Reuben was on the south with Simeon and Gad and they marched under Reuben’s banner.  Ephriam camped on the west with Manasseh and Benjamin and they traveled together under the flag of Ephriam.  The three tribes camping on the north were Dan, Naphtali, and Asher and they marched together under the banner of Dan.  All four of these flags and the entire Israelite nation represented prophetically the fact that the message of salvation would come through their Messiah and was to go worldwide; they were to be a nation of priests.

We shall now look at the twelve tribes, as we have mentioned, in regards to their character traits.  Judah had on its flag a lion, which repre-sented great strength.  Of the ten older sons of Jacob, Judah was the most Christ-like.  The promised Messiah was to come through the tribe of Judah.  This is why Jesus is called the “Lion of the tribe of Judah.”⁹  Christ is the essence of spiritual strength; He is our salvation and our strength. And because salvation only comes through Him we are told: “salvation is of the Jews.”¹⁰

Those going in through the gate of Issachar will be under the banner displaying the symbol of a donkey; it was a symbol of strength and it was the animal that carried Christ into Jerusalem.  Issachar is a figure of liberality; he is also pictured as bringing a reward to the faithful.  When Jacob pronounced his blessing on Issachar he commended him for his strength.  Issachar was blessed with being one of the richest sons of Jacob spiritually.

The leaders of Zebulun on the east carried a flag with a boat or a ship as a figure symbolizing his work connected with the sea.  His name means a dwelling or a household.  Both of these are symbols of churches or places of meeting.  One characteristic of his name is that he is a neighborly person.  It appears that Zebulun is pictured as a soul winner one who took the time to share his faith.  What Daniel said would apply to Zebulun:  “Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.”¹¹  Some of the greatest soul winners will enter through this gate.

On the banner of Reuben on the south was pictured a man.  The name Reuben means, we have a son, for he was the firstborn son of Jacob.  The reason he is not the first one listed of the twelve tribes was because he was “unstable as water”¹² during his early years.  After Reuben became a true servant of God he became a symbol of dignity.  The symbol of the man on the flag of Reuben represented Jesus the Son of man, the most dignified human who ever walked the face of this earth.  Even though Reuben passed up the privilege of having the Messiah born through his descendants he could allow the Spirit of God to transform him to the point that he could eventually become a type of Christ.  All twelve of the individuals listed in Revelation seven became types of Christ.  Jesus is the door or gate into the Holy City.  Each of the twelve gates of the New Jerusalem bears the name of one of the men in the list in this chapter.  Remember we too are to reflect Christ.

The symbol on the banner of Gad represented an army; his name means fortunate and or organized divisions.  He was a man who was very brave and he was a symbol of victory.  Those people who enter through the gate of Gad will have the traits of character most like that of Gad.

The next son of Jacob on the south was Simeon who gained the victory over hate and violence.  The sword was the emblem on their flag; they learned to use the sword of the Lord, the word of God, as their weapon against sin.  They learned their lessons well and became symbols of obedience.  All who enter the city through this gate will develop beautiful characters and obedience becomes not only their watchword, but also their hearts desire.

Ephraim was the main tribe on the west and had a calf or ox on its flag.  Its banner represented the sacrifice of the Messiah who was to come and die for all.  Ephraim is not recorded in the final list of entry gates into the New Jerusalem in Revelation 7.  Joseph intended to bow out in favor of his two sons Ephraim and Manasseh.  The tribe of Levi was chosen for the priesthood and Dan was rejected because he led his people into idolatry.  God rejected Ephraim and accepted Joseph and Levi to make up the twelve tribes.  No doubt Levi took the place of Ephraim on the west because they were chosen for the priesthood and had been involved in the sacrificial system.  The tribe of Levi is listed as one of the gates of the New Jerusalem, so it is a symbol of one of the important characteristics needed to present a complete prophetic picture of the redeemed.  This tribe represents the leaders or ministers of the gospel.  Levi together with Simeon had some serious defects of character.  They were angry young men with a flair for violence and in their younger days they were very violent.  But through the power of God they gained the victory.  Levi, through the Spirit, became a symbol of love and unity, both important symbols representing many of the people of God’s last church.

Benjamin’s mother was Rachel, she died in childbirth.  Her last words were “I name him Benoni,” meaning “Son of my sorrow.”  His father named him Benjamin, meaning son of good fortune or son of happiness.  Remember that Jacob, through the Holy Spirit, named each one of his son’s names that prophetically pictured their characters.  The emblem on Benjamin’s flag was a wolf, which seems like a strange figure to us, but when you think of how wolves take care of their enemies it is not so strange.  Wolves ban together and are symbols of unity.  The beauty of Benjamin’s character reflected unity, victory, and productiveness.

Joseph most likely took the place of Dan on the north.  If this is true he had on his flag the figure an eagle.  The eagle is a symbolic picture of the Second Coming of Christ.  The Lord said, “I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself.”¹³  The tribe of Joseph is listed as one of the gates of the New Jerusalem.  The banner of the tribe of Joseph was also a fruit tree loaded with good fruit.  Joseph was a type of Christ; even the meaning of his name reflected the Lord’s character, his name means perfection.  All who are sealed will have so surrendered their lives to the control of the Holy Spirit that they have the righteousness of Christ and are therefore considered by God as perfect. Only one other tribe would have a higher honor than Joseph, and that is the tribe of Judah.

A deer was pictured on the flag of Naphtali and it is said that he was like a “doe set free that bears beautiful fawns.”¹⁴  Naphtali is portrayed as a very kind individual who was patient with everyone and dealt with his children not only tenderly, but also with love.  His children reflected his beautiful character.

The tribe of Asher was also on the north and his flag bore the figure of an olive tree.  The olive tree was a symbol of the spirit of fruitfulness, which was one of Asher’s traits of character.  He was also a very happy individual.  The fact that it is said of him that he would “dip his foot in oil,”¹⁵ meant that he found great joy in walking as the Spirit directed him.  Will you walk, as the Spirit directs you, and go through the gate of Asher?

Revelation  7 :  9,  10

“After these things I looked and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’”

This next scene, which John sees is a picture of a vast throng redeemed from this earth standing before God in heaven.  This innumerable number no doubt represents those who are gathered from all nations during the close of this world’s history.  Other scenes presented in the book of Revelation reveal that the 144,000 present a message that will gather all God’s true people into His one last true fold just before Jesus comes.  The palm branches are symbols of victory and white robes are a symbol not only of righteousness, but also that the name of each one individually is sealed in the book of life.

Notice, that they cry “with a loud voice.”  This is saying that the entire universe will hear that salvation came from God the Father, by and through the sacrifice of His Son.

“And all the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne, and worshiped God, saying:

Amen!  Blessing and glory and wisdom,

Thanksgiving and honor and power and might,

Be to our God forever and forever.  Amen.’”

These words of praise and worship picture the joy and wonder of it all, when all the intelligent beings in the universe realize that sin and sinners will soon be no longer, and peace and joy will be forever.

“Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, ‘Who are these arrayed in white robes, and where did they come from?’ And I said to him, ‘Sir, you know.’ So he said to me, ‘These are the ones who come out of great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple.  And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them.’”

The words of these verses picture a wonderful scene of joy, peace, and harmony that will be experienced by each individual endowed with the power of reason throughout the vast universe of God.  Each one now realizes that there will be a thousand years of peace.  Everyone knows the answer to the question asked by the elder, but each one will thrill as they hear the story of salvation repeated again and again.  And just think God will dwell among us!

“They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat; for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters.  And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

These verses are still speaking in symbolism.  The bread of life, the Lamb of God, will feed His flock.  He will give them living bread and give them the water of life.  The teachings of Jesus will be just as thrilling in heaven as they were here on earth.  Everyone will enter heaven “singing the songs of everlasting joy.  For them all sorrow and all sighing will be gone forever; only joy and gladness will be there.”¹⁶  Think of how enjoyable it will be during that thousand years; just think of all the wonderful people we will be able to get to know, we can now only read about them.

The last sentence is a prophetic statement that God will put an end to sorrow, and that it will never again enter the mind of any person.  As soon as the earth is made new all mental pain and anguish will be blotted from the memory.  “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.”¹⁷

Notes
Chapter – 12

1- GC 464; 2- Dan 7:2 NIV; 3- 10MR 252; 4- 2Peter 1:21; 5- EW 270; 6- Isa 8:16; 7- Ex 20:11; Young’s Literal Translation; 8- Gal 3:7 TEV; 9- Rev 5:5; 10- John 4:22; 11- Dan 12:3; 12- Gen 49:3, 4; 13- Ex 19:4; 14- Gen 49:21 NIV; 15- Deut 33:24 AV; 16- Isa 35:10 LB; 17- Isa 65:17.

The Seventh Seal and The Trumpets

We have seen that in the first eight verses of Chapter 7 it records the sealing of the 144,000 while the winds of strife are held back.  The rest of Chapter 7 pictures that there will also be “a great multitude” that will be gathered from every nation, but they “come out of great tribulation.”  The trumpets of Chapter 8 and 9 picture the vast majority of the world rejecting God.  But God gives every rational being the opportunity to hear and accept the truth, for God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”¹  These 2 Chapters record how difficult the work will be for the 144,000 as they gather all God’s true people out of Babylon.  The first six verses of Revelation 8 pictures how God’s people prepare for the difficult task before them.  The first 5 Verses give an awesome picture of what God’s sealed people experience as they plead with God to open the way for them to give the message to the entire world in a very short period of time.

Revelation  8 :  1 – 5

“When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about a half hour.  And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets. Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar.  And he was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.  And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.”

The first verse must be understood for it is the framework for understanding how the 144,000 prepare for the task before them.  On a number of occasions we have mentioned the importance of interpreting a verse either literally or symbolic, but not mixing the two.  It is difficult for people to refrain from thinking literally when the word “heaven” is used.  The word “heaven,” in the Hebrew and Greek, literally means sky, elevation, and the abode of God, happiness, power, and eternity.  (See Strong’s Concordance)  “Heaven” in symbols means: the gospel story, also the family of God, His church.  If the verse above is interpreted strictly as being literal, it makes no sense, for “silence in heaven for about a half hour” literally speaking after 1844, means nothing.  In the parables of Jesus, it is very evident that “heaven” means the gospel story, and it also means all of God’s people, His church.  When Jesus began His ministry He said, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”²  The JBP Version say: “The kingdom of heaven has arrived.” The phrase “kingdom of heaven,” in this verse, is describing the work of Jesus in establishing the plan of salvation and in organizing the New Testament Church.  Jesus said to the fishermen He called:  “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”³  In one of His parables Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a big net thrown into the sea collecting all kinds of fish. When it is full, the fishermen haul it ashore and sit down and pick out the good ones for the barrels, but they throw away the bad.”⁴  Again the phrase “kingdom of heaven” is clearly a description of the church and its work.

This silence is reverential awe among the people of God, and it pictures the 144,000.  They have heard the sealing message and are now facing their time of Jacob’s trouble.  Their night of wrestling with God has arrived; a struggle rages in each heart, they know that when victory comes so will the latter rain.  Remember, after His resurrection Christ was with His disciples for forty days preparing them for their work. Just before He left, He said to His followers, “Tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”⁵  Ten days later they received the outpouring of the Spirit.  That was a total of fifty days—from the resur-rection—before they received the former rain.  After the sealing message has been given to the 144,000 they too, will tarry until they are “endued with power from on high.  We know that “a half hour” is a very short period of time, but is it after seven days, as in the days of Noah, or is it fifty days, more or less, as in the days of the apostolic church?  We must wait and see.

God’s sealed people will realize that the work of Christ in the most holy place also extends to the church on earth, for each individual soul temple must be cleansed from all sin.  “Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them.  It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement.  Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost.”⁶  This awesome task before them appears to be an impossibility.  They know that only by the power of God can the work before them be accomplished.  By bowing in silence before God they wait, as the disciples did before Pentecost, for the outpouring of His Spirit. Isaiah tells of this awesome time:  “Keep silence before me, O islands; [churches] and let the people renew their strength! Let them come near; then let them speak; let us come near together for judgment.”⁷

Revelation 8 is speaking of the time when the judgment of the living is being completed.  Every one on earth must now make his or her decision for or against God.  Knowing this, God’s true people earnestly ask for the latter rain before entering into the worldwide task before them.  The book of Job has great value for the people of God during this time of, “great tribulation,” also known as the time of Jacob’s trouble.  Most people do not realize it, but Job has a great deal of symbolic prophecy in it.  For example it has symbolic verses relating to the Second Coming, the state of the dead, and even the final outpouring of the latter rain of the Holy Spirit.  It is pictured prophetically in these words:  “Men listened to me and waited, and kept silence for my counsel.  They waited for me as for the rain, and they opened their mouth wide as for the spring rain.”⁸  The “spring rain” is the latter rain.  And when the mouth is opened with the power of the latter rain of the Holy Spirit the work will soon be finished.

As pointed out, it is for but a very short period of time that God’s last true people experience the time of Jacob’s trouble.  They are sealed, but do not realize it; they are ready for Jesus to come.  As the seventh seal is opened we picture the members of the Laodicean church completely transformed into the image of Christ.  Each and every member has been in deep thought and has surrendered to the Spirit’s control.  Their internal struggle is reflected in their faces.  They spend much time in prayer for they know that they must draw near to God.  They remember, “Prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse.”9 God’s storehouse is unlocked for them.  This time of silent meditation, study, and prayer has been for them like the experience of Jacob when he wrestled with the Lord all night.  In the morning he was strengthened to meet any test; he was now truly “Israel,” an over comer, a soldier for God.  His test, you will remember, was not so difficult after all, especially when he allowed God’s Spirit to control—his brother embraced him and they were reconciled.  Now, these Laodiceans pray for strength and with great faith and reverential awe they find their strength in “the Lion of the tribe of Judah.”¹⁰  Their night of struggle, which no doubt seemed to them like an eternity, is now over. God’s people, who experience “Jacob’s trouble,” will no doubt remember this Scripture, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”¹¹

They had asked for strength and for years they had been praying for the latter rain of the Holy Spirit.  They now claim the promise, “Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the latter rain.  The Lord will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, grass in the field for everyone.”¹²  Now like the apostles of old, their so-called “ten days” were over.  The cloven tongues of fire, as it were, had fallen on them and they now know they are prepared for the work before them.

The “seven angels” and the “seven trumpets” refer to God’s true people, His sealed church, for they have a complete and final message to give to the world.  God does not use literal angels to warn the world, but symbolic angels, remember “angel” means a messenger with a message.  The phrase “who stand before God,” means who are faithful to God and carry out His will.  If one can stand before God, there is no doubt he or she is faithful.  The figure of a trumpet means that this last warning message will be given by them and heard by the world.  Verse 2 above tells us that the 144,000 will give the final message with great power.

The 144,000, who are the small surviving group of the remnant of God’s true people, realize the seriousness of the task before them.  Rev. 8:2 suggests that they approach God with humble hearts and with much prayer.  Remember that any container in the Bible represents a person or a group of people.  The golden censer represents the sealed members of God’s last church on earth.  The gold, of the censer represents their faith, and love.  The smoke caused a pleasant aroma by the burning incense and represents their sincere prayers.  The reason smoke represents the prayers of the saints is because of their heart searching and the struggle they individually endure, like Jacob’s night of anguish, as they plead with God.  Also, the prayers of human beings are not perfect so the Holy Spirit presents our prayers to God in a perfect form and in accordance with our heart’s desire.  The “altar” before the throne is a symbol of sacrifice, worship, commitment, and dedication.  The fact that this angel was “given much incense” reveals that these people are, through the Spirit, in constant communication with God.

Throwing the censer to the earth has the same symbolic meaning as the great mountain cast into the sea, as we shall see in Revelation 8:8.  God’s true people, represented by the censer, take up their work of giving Revelation 18:1-5 to the entire world in a very short period of time.  What else does God’s last message to the inhabitants of earth include?  It is given with a voice like thunder through the power of God’s Spirit and includes all the doctrines of salvation.  This message is especially focusing on the Second Coming of Christ through its reference to the symbol of lightning, and it will prepare a people for that event.  The Lord’s coming is presented with the appeal to be ready, for it is soon to take place.  God’s last message will also be given with such clarity and power that it will shake the inhabitants of the earth.  Everyone will decide between truth and error.  The issues will be clearly presented; there will be no question as to its truth in the minds of those who are led by God’s Spirit.  The “fire from the altar” is a symbol of God’s word presented with the power of the latter rain of the Holy Spirit.

“So the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.”

This is the final verse that tells about the preparation of God’s people for the tremendous task before them.  It tells us that the 144,000 are finally prepared to warn the world that Jesus is soon to come.

Revelation  8 :  7

“The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: the third part of the trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up,” KJV.

This first trumpet is a warning to the people of earth of the consequences of what will happen to those who reject God’s last message.  When this trumpet sounds, there will be given to the inhabitants of the earth a choice between truth and falsehood, between spiritual life and spiritual death.  As we have seen,  “fire” is a symbol of God’s word.  “Is not My word like fire?” says the Lord.”¹³ To those who reject God’s word it is also compared to hail.  Hail can be very destructive so hail is a symbol of destruction.  Green grass is a symbol of people who have some spiritual life left.  But the straight truth is a fiery sword that cuts away such a large portion that it is compared to fire burning up all the green grass.  Trees represent individual human beings.  The verse above foretells what happens to those individuals who reject God’s call.  The phrase “the third part of the trees” is a figure of a person’s spiritual life.  Human beings are physical, mental, and spiritual, and when the third part is burnt-up all that is left is the physical and mental, the spiritual life is dead.  When a person rejects God’s last call he or she dies spiritually.  Blood is a symbol of life.  The loss of blood, in the verse above, means spiritual death.  When a person is dead spiritually he or she is under the complete control of Satan.

THE SECOND TRUMPET

Revelation  8 :  8, 9

“Then the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; and the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died: and the third part of the ships were destroyed.” KJV.

These verses continue the same warning emphasizing the fact that the attention of the whole world will be focused on the people of God.  The “great mountain” is a symbol of God’s true church.  The city of Jerusalem has always represented God’s true people, His church.  “Jerusalem shall be called the City of Truth, the Mountain of the Lord of hosts, The Holy Mountain.”¹⁴  A “city” is always called a “she” and refers to a church good or bad.  The “sea” represents the people of the world. (See Rev 17:15).  When the 144,000 are sealed, their hearts will be burning with the fire of God’s word.  The attention of the whole world be focused on the issues presented by God’s people.  The vast majority of the religious world will reject truth, and spiritual death will be the result.  The “third part,” the spiritual life, will become “blood;” this is a symbol of spiritual death.  The “ships” are symbols of religious groups or churches and when they teach and preach against truth they, too, die spiritually.  These verses picture the rejection of truth by the vast majority of the so-called Christian world.  Is it any wonder that Daniel says “And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation.”¹⁵  With the vast majority of earth’s population under the complete control of Satan, the picture of violence and bloodshed will be unimaginable.  What kind of an experience will God’s people need in order to go through this time of test?  “The ‘time of trouble, such as never was,’ is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess, and which many are too indolent to obtain.  It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us.  The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal.  In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God.” ¹⁶

“And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon a third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of water; And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.” KJV.

The star that fell from heaven has already been identified as Satan.  John has been given a view of the closing work of the great deceiver and John presents the deceiver’s work in these verses.  The devil will be very active in the closing hours of earth’s history.  “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”¹⁷  John, in Revelation 12:12, gives a warning to God’s people to be on guard against Satan during the last days:  “Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time.”  In the verses preceding the sounding of the third trumpet, John pictures the devil coming “as it were a lamp.” The “lamp” is a symbol of God’s word so Satan will use God’s word in such a way that he will deceive many.  Satan will work through false teachers.  Jesus said these false teachers will “show great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”¹⁸  The spiritual death of multitudes is pictured in these verses above. The “third part of the rivers” is symbolizing the popular churches; their members die spiritually by the deceptive teachings of ministers who are used by Satan.  “The third part of the waters became wormwood,” or bitter.  Who made the waters bitter?  The great star who fell from heaven, the one given the name “Wormwood,” he causes “the water of life,” the word of God, to “become bitter.”  When the poison of falsehood is mixed with the water of life, the word of God, it “becomes bitter.”  When an untruth is mixed with truth, even though an honest mistake, it is no longer sweet as honey, but it “becomes bitter.”  Satan himself will come claming to be the Messiah; and he will be so convincing that he will deceive many, in fact all but the very elect.

“Then the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.  And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound.” KJV.

The sounding of the seven trumpets take place during the darkest hours of this world’s history.  The message of the fourth trumpet paints a dark picture.  The sun, as we have seen, is a symbol of Christ and His life’s work for mankind including His teachings.  But remember that Jesus, the Light of the World, said to His followers, “You are the light of the world.”  God’s people are to shine like the sun, but when the majority reject their light, they fade away.  The moon, as we have seen, is a symbol of the indirect light of God’s Word that came through the holy men who wrote as the Holy Spirit moved them.  So as the truths of the Bible are presented it will do its work until the very end when its power too begins to fade away.  The stars represent the works and writings of the true church leaders of the past and present.  As the work of the Holy Spirit is rejected, the light of these three instruments of God—the sun, moon, and stars—will begin to fade more and more.  Rev. 8:12 and 13 teach this point, for the work of the Holy Spirit through all of these avenues will eventually have little effect on the spiritual life of the majority of mankind.  Spiritual death will be rampant.  The three woes are the last three trumpet calls yet to be made.  These last three calls cover three issues or testing truths that will decide the spiritual life or death of the inhabitants of earth.

The urgent message presented by the fourth trumpet symbolically portrays the difficulty in giving the last message to the inhabitants of the earth.  At this time there will be laws forbidding God’s true people the freedom to share their beliefs.  “The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding circumstances.  The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith.  And at that time the superficial, conservative class, whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce the faith and take their stand with its avowed enemies, toward whom their sympathies have long been tending.  These apostates will then manifest the bitterest enmity, doing all in their power to oppress and malign their former brethren and to excite indignation against them.  This day is just before us.”¹⁹

Notes
Chapter – 13

1- 2 Peter 3:9; 2- Mat 4:17; 3-Mat 4:19; 4- Mat 13:47-49 JBP; 5- Lk 24:49; 6- 5T 214; 7-Isa 41:1 KJV; 8- Job 29:21, 23; 9-SC 94; 10- Rev 5:5; 11- Ps 30:5; 12- Zec 10:1; 13- Jer 23:29; 14- Zec 8:3; 15- Dan 12:1; 16- GC 622; 17- 1Peter 5:8; 18- Mat 24:24; 19- 5T 463.

Revelation  9 : 1

Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fall from heaven to the earth.  And to him was given the key of the bottomless pit.

 The fifth angel sounded his trumpet; remember the trumpet or ram’s horn was used primarily to assemble the people of Israel to hear an urgent message from God.  The fifth trumpet is one of the important subjects of the book of Revelation.  This trumpet calls the attention of the whole world to the one who fell from heaven.  This individual is positively identified in a number of texts.  But the words of Jesus give us an unmistakable identification of this once bright shining star.  He said, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.”¹  Jesus should know, for He was present when Lucifer was expelled from Paradise.  Jesus said, “And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.  So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”²  Isaiah 14:12 also mentions the fall:  “How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, you who weakened the nations!”

To really understand this verse we must put together a few symbols and phrases such as, that he “was given the key of the bottomless pit.”  This phrase “bottomless pit” is not a perfect translation.  The Good-speed Translation gives the most accurate rendition of the Greek to English on this phrase; it reads that, Satan, “was given the key to the pit of the abyss.”  The “abyss” is a desolate place, a place without life.

Revelation  9 : 2

“And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace.  And the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit.”

The important word in understanding this subject is the word “pit.”  The word “key” means to open, but the word “pit” is made clear in the following:  “O Lord, You have brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.” And, “What prophet is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your truth?”³  The “pit” is the abode of the dead.  Rev. 9:2 indicates that Satan opened the subject of death and the grave not only to this world, but also to the entire universe viewing this earth.  Notice the effect that this occurrence would have on the sun and the air.  A symbolic understanding of sun and air are necessary for a correct understanding of this verse.  Jesus is called the “Sun of righteousness who shall arise with healing in His wings.”⁴  Jesus is the spiritual Light of the world.  In the Scriptures, the word “air” is translated from the Greek and the Hebrew as “breath.”  “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.”⁵  The word “air” or breath, of God then signifies that the creative purpose of God is even darkened by the false teachings on the subject of death.  It is also necessary to understand the figurative meaning of the word “smoke” in order to clarify the above text.  The symbolic meaning of “smoke” is to cloud or to obscure.  “For I am become like a bottle in the smoke.”⁶  A bottle in smoke is no doubt hard to see.  Dose the subject of death darken or obscure the character of God and His Son?  It surely does!  The first thought expressed by most people when a family member or loved one dies is, “Why did God take our child or loved one?”  Even though it is not God, but sin and Satan that causes death, people still blame God when a loved one dies.  The pain of death, mainly because of Satan’s lies, has really obscured the character of God.

Revelation  9 : 3

“Then out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth.  And to them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.”

Satan has attacked the perfect character of God, and by his cunning deception concerning the subject of death, he has attempted to make God the villain.  The cloud over God’s character is pictured as locusts coming on the earth.  Locusts are symbolized as Satan’s destructive agents.  What do locusts do to the earth?  They destroy the green vegetation.  Locust do not harm human beings physically, but these locust are compared to scorpions and scorpions are known for their hostility to man.

“They were commanded not to harm the grass of the earth, or any green thing, or any tree, but only those men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.”

Notice that the locusts are not permitted to harm the trees, grass, or any green thing.  Green trees and grass are both symbols of our spiritual life.  “All human beings are like grass, and all their glory is like wild flowers.  The grass withers, and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord remains forever.”⁷  God’s people are also compared to trees as we see, for Isaiah calls them “trees of righteousness.”  Jesus said, “A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them,”⁸  The topic of death does not harm the spiritual condition of God’s true people.

Historically, Chapter 9 of Revelation has been thought to be a battle between the Moslems and the Roman Empire, but that is not possible.  In the first place the Scripture says:  “First you must understand this, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of any personal or private or special interpretation.”⁹  Notice also that Revelation 9:4 fixes the time of this issue as being during the period in history when the seal of God and the mark of the beast are issues.  We know that what happens to people when they die will be an issue only during the closing hours of earth’s history—that is, when the seal of God and the mark of the beast are main issues.  In an article entitled, “The Seal of God,” we are told:  “The message containing this warning (concerning the seal of God) is the last to be proclaimed before the revelation of the Son of Man.  The living righteous will receive the seal of God prior to the close of probation.”¹⁰  The subject of death only harms the spiritual life of those “who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.”  No one is sealed until the issue between truth and error on this subject is brought into focus.

Revelation  9 : 5

“And they were not given authority to kill them, but to torment them five months.  And their torment was like the torment of a scorpion when it strikes a man.”

The fact that locusts are symbols of destruction is previously demonstrated in the story of the plague of locust in Egypt:  “For they covered the face of the whole earth, so that the land was darkened; and they ate every herb of the land and all the fruit of the trees. … So there remained nothing green on the trees or on the plants of the field throughout all the land of Egypt.”¹¹  In Verse 5 above we see that the locust could not kill or harm the spiritual condition of any of God’s true people; they could only torment them; really, they could only try their faith.  The pain caused by these locusts is compared to that of a scorpion.  The pain caused by a scorpion is said to be excruciating.  Remember, however, that for a correct understanding of the study of Revelation, we must continue to think in symbolic language.  Only when a section also has literal meaning must we then think in literal terms.  The verse above is not speaking of literal pain, but is primarily referring to mental pain or anguish.  It is true that mental pain can be as bad or even worse than physical pain.  The thing to remember is that those who are harmed by this issue are those who do not have the seal of God.  The confrontation over the subject of death will be a spiritual battle in the minds of many that are deciding between truth and error.  As people consider this subject with family members it can cause mental pain or torture, hatred, rejection, and verbal abuse; this friction can be made almost unbearable, like the sting of a scorpion.  This subject will be one of the main testing truths during the close of earth’s history.  The mention of “five months” of torment is also a symbolic expression.  All time prophecy before 1844, as we have seen, was based on a day for a year, but after 1844 time prophecy is only literal.  Does this mean that the controversy and emotional pain over the false teachings on the subject of death will only last five months?  We cannot rule out this possibility, but there is another meaning to consider.  The word “month” is used in Numbers 11:20, 21 to mean a time of trial or test.  The number five is a symbol of man and the human effort, or man’s mental process, including the use of the five senses.  The expression “five months” means putting people through a period of trial.  Since this is also the fifth trumpet, and it includes the five months as well, it is evident that the “fives” used in this figurative picture is telling us that human beings are to be deeply involved in this issue of the controversy over the subject of death.  God, in fact, allows this difficult ordeal in order to aid His people in the perfection of their characters.  The severity of the test over this one issue is emphasized by the phrase that it is “like the smoke of a great furnace.”  A “furnace” is a symbol of a test such as the three friends of Daniel experienced.  And we can see that the particular phrase, “five months,” is very important for it is mentioned twice.  It at least means a short period of time, a time of test that will aid God’s people in the perfection of their characters.

This text makes sense when it is taken literally, for the trauma and mental pain, could be so severe for some that they could wish they were dead.  This pain is said to be so severe that it is called “torment.”  It is so unbearable that it is likened to the pain of “a scorpion when it strikes a man.”  This text must apply in this manner for it follows the text concerning the testing of God’s people “for five months.”  God sees that it is best for them to go through this testing to perfect their characters, so He does not allow them to die even though, like Elijah, they ask to die.

If this text is speaking symbolically it could only be referring to those who reject the truth on the subject of death.  Remember, too, that symbolic death is spiritual death and when people wish that their consciences would no longer bother them, they are seeking spiritual death.  During the time when the subject of death is clearly presented by God’s true people, those who rebel against it will find themselves in a dilemma.  When these people try to explain the subject of death to their own satisfaction, because they are rejecting the Spirit of God, they will not be able to find peace.  As the text says they desire to know the subject of death, but they cannot understand it for, “death will flee from them.”  By rejecting the guidance of the Holy Spirit they will reach a hopeless state.  It is fatal to resist the Spirit of God.  An understanding of the subject of death will “flee from them” because they do not desire to believe it.

Revelation  9 : 7 – 9

“The shape of the locusts was like horses prepared for battle; and on their heads were crowns of something like gold, and their faces were like the faces of men.  They had hair like women’s hair, and their teeth were like lions’ teeth.  And they had breastplates like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots with many horses running into battle.”

As we analyze these verses it is clear that they present a symbolic picture of a group of professed Christians who believe and teach the lie that Satan has inspired on the subject of death.  They are called locusts, and their “shape was like horses prepared for battle.”  The word “shape” is from a Greek word that means “likeness or compared to.”  These are very religious people who are ready to fight for what they believe.  These so-called believers are “like horses prepared for battle.”  Remember a horse is a figure of spiritual strength, salvation, and spiritual warfare.  Other symbols of their professed spiritual condition are crowns like gold, hair like a woman’s, breastplates like iron, teeth like lions, and faces like the faces of men.  These people are not what they appear to be.  They claim to be God’s people and claim to have salvation (breastplates); they strongly as (iron) vocalize “I am saved.”  Their faces reveal sincerity; they appear to be genuine, but a false spirit controls them.  The gold of faith and love and the claim of victory in Christ (the crown) may seem very convincing, but only God knows the heart.  A woman’s beautiful hair is a symbol of a lovely character, but these people only appear to have a Christ-like character. The last phrase emphasizes the zeal and united effort of these professed Christians as they war against those who stand for the truth on the subject of death.  Wings are symbols of trust and horses and chariots are symbols of salvation.  Psalmist says, “How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings.”¹² And in Habakkuk we read, “You rode on Your hoses your chariots of salvation.”¹³  So, our verse from Revelation is really saying, “The sound of their wings was like” salvation.  They sound so trustworthy and they are so earnest and convincing, but they are battling truth.  Jesus said, “I am the way the truth and the life.”  So, anyone who fights against truth fights against Christ.  And these locusts wage a fierce spiritual warfare against those who believe and teach the truth on this subject, as seen by the phrase “running into battle.”

“They had tails like scorpions, and there were stings in their tails.  And their power was to hurt men five months.  And they had a king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew is Abaddon, but in the Greek he has the name Apollyon.”

The words in these texts positively identify not only the falsity of the issue, but also its leader.  What does it mean by the phrase that they had “stings in their tails?” Isaiah 9:15 answers this question:  “The elder and honorable, he is the head; the prophet who teaches lies, he is the tail.”  Who is the greatest false prophet in the universe?  Revelation 12:4 clearly tells us that it is Satan, for “His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth.”  The devil’s lies caused one third of the stars (angels) of heaven to fall.  But he has far greater success here in this world than he had in the rest of the universe.  Satan is called “Abba-ddon or Apollyon,” both of these words mean destroyer.  He not only introduced death and its painful experience to the universe, but is also the one who inspires men to promote his lies concerning this subject.  He deceives people to the point where they support his lies with all cunning and ability.  During the closing hours of earth’s history there will be two issues, which will be testing truths.  They are the Sabbath and the subject of death.  We shall cover both of these subjects in greater detail in later chapters of this book.

Revelation  9 : 12

“One woe is past.  Behold, still two more woes are coming after these things.”

Woe is trouble or experiencing testing issues, the subject of this study will be a test shortly, but there will be two more following it; let us be ready for the testing time.

The Sixth Trumpet

The Angel from the Euphrates

Revelation  9 : 13 – 15

“And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates. And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men.” KJV.

Remember, the sound of the trumpet means an urgent message.  When we realize that the golden altar is before the throne of God it is evident that this message is very important for it is coming from our Lord Himself.  In order to understand the message we must know its symbolic meaning.  The message is:  “Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.”  In order to understand this message we must know the meaning of “river Euphrates” as well as what the four angels represent and what causes them to be bound.

We have seen that a river means a church; it also represents the country through which it passes.  The River Jordan, remember, represents not only the promised land, but it also represents the church, God’s true children.  The Euphrates represents Babylon and Babylon is a symbol of the mother church and her daughters.  It is true that the last true church is not Babylon, but since Babylon can creep into the church, the church is being “bound,” spiritually speaking, by Babylon’s influence and teachings.

Like Israel of old we are influenced and attracted to the religions around us.  The influences of these groups cause many to wish to be like them.  We must guard against Babylonian teaching and practices coming in among us.  The only way we can regain our former strong spiritual condition and break free from the bonds of Babylon is by a revival and a reformation.  This spiritual revival and reformation includes breaking free from the Babylonian forms of worship and doctrines that have been invading our churches.  The above verses from Revelation nine prophesy a message that will be given through the Spirit of God.

The words that predict this revival are these:  “So the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men.” The phrase “the four angels” refers to the message of the three angels of Revelation 14:6-14 together with the message of Revelation 18:1-4.  This combined message is a message designed by God Himself to bring His people a true revival and reformation.  This message has in it everything we needed to perfect God’s last true church, the 144,000, as well as all that is needed to gather all of God’s true people into His one last true fold.  This revival and reformation will first be given to seal God’s people as we saw when we studied Revelation seven.  Then God’s sealed people will give the final call to the people of this world.  It appears that the length of time this message will be given through the power of the latter rain of the Holy Spirit could be recorded here.  It says: “an hour and a day and a month and a year.”  This is a very short period of time, but it is after 1844 so it must be literal time.  Remember also that the final work will not only be cut short in righteousness, but it will be finished under very trying con-ditions.  This message will be given to gather into God’s last true fold all of God’s true people who are scattered among every religion.  And God no doubt has true children among the more than 3000 religions of the world.  Those who heed the call and join with God’ true people are a part of that great number of the redeemed.

Notice that this message is given “to slay the third part of men.”  You may remember that “the third part of men” is the spiritual part.  The only part of a person that is affected by the message given is the spiritual; it ether comes alive or dies.  Every person who dies spiritually will eventually die literally as well.

“And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them.  And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone” KJV.

When one considers the population of earth today, 200,000,000 is a small number.

Remember Jesus said, “Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”¹⁴  It seems that this number could only be referring to those who respond to the call made by the latter rain of the Holy Spirit.  We remember that horses are symbols of salvation for all of the Lord’s army.  These two hundred million are on the horses and they have “breastplates of fire;” breastplates are symbols of righteousness.  “For He put on righteousness as a breast-plate, and a helmet of salvation upon His head.”¹⁵ One other text puts it this way: “But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.”¹⁶  Remember that “fire” in this instance is the Word of God through the Holy Spirit, for it is only through the Spirit that a human being can attain or have righteousness.  Notice also, that those who rode the horses not only spoke with fire, but with “jacinth, and brimstone” as well.  Jacinth is blue in color and brimstone is yellow or gold.  Blue is a symbol of faithfulness to God and gold a symbol of faith and love and truth.  The 144000 are offering salvation to all those who will respond to the Spirit of God.

Revelation  9 : 18, 19

“By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt.” KJV.

These verses present the attitude of those who reject God’s message.  They do not understand the message for it is like smoke to them, and their teachings on these main subjects are lies.  And those who are destroyed spiritually, as they reject God’s truth, consider God’s people as serpents or of the devil. The words of these verses really show the deceptive power of Satan for he makes the truth appear to be a lie.

Revelation  9 : 20, 21

“But the rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood, which neither can see nor hear nor walk; and they did not repent of their murders or their sexual immorality or their thefts.”

The 144,00 will give the last message of God and it will go to the entire world.  There are two groups of people who reject the message.  They are those who are a part of the religious world and those who do not profess any religion.  We saw in the previous verses that those of the religious world who rejected truth died spiritually.  Here from the book of Revelation the rest of mankind would be the second group mentioned in the text above.  These people were wrapped up with the world, and their gods are silver, gold, and other material things.  Notice that they did not die spiritually.  Since they had no thought or care for spiritual things their spiritual life was dormant and they only lived for self.  These people never professed to accept the plan of salvation.  The text above says of them that they, “neither can see nor hear nor walk.” The following phrase appears seven times in the book of Revelation: “He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”¹⁷  Only those who allow the Spirit of God to speak to them have spiritual ears and spiritual eyesight.  They are the only ones who can walk by allowing the still small voice of the Holy Spirit to guide them.  Spiritually speaking the people in the verses above are already spiritually dead.

Notes
Chapter – 14

1- Luke 10:18; 2- Rev 12:7-9; 3- Ps 30:3, 9; 4- Mal 4:2; 5- Ps 33:6; 6- Ps 119:83 KJ; 7- 1Peter 1:24, 25 TEV; 8- Mat 7:18-20 KJ; 9- 2Peter 1:20 AV; 10- ST 11/01/99 & 1SM p. 66; 11- Ex 10:15; 12- Ps. 36:7; 13- Hab. 3:8; 14- Mat 7:14; 15- Isa 59:17; 16- 1Thes 5:8; 17- Rev 3:13

Revelation  10 : 1

“And I saw still another mighty angel coming down from heaven, clothed with a cloud.  And a rainbow was on his head, his face was like the sun, and his feet like pillars of fire.”

In this chapter John, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, reaches back to the time of the church of Philadelphia, the church of brotherly love.  The book of Revelation is written in a very organized fashion.  Some people who do not really understand this book claim that it is very disorganized, but this is wrong.  Our God is a God of order.  He said, “Everything must be done in a proper and orderly way.”¹  God gave this vision to John at this point in time, because He saw that it was necessary to bring in the story of the great disappointment, and to set the stage for the most important message for this hour, that will prepare a people for the Second Coming.  We will cover this subject when we cover Revelation 14.

This first verse of Revelation ten reintroduces the Star of Revel-ation, Jesus Christ.  In this first verse He is called, “a mighty angel.”  This mighty angel is clearly identified by five points:  Point one, God sent His only Son to this earth from heaven.  He was the co-ruler of the universe, but He voluntarily stepped from the throne to come to our world to save mankind: Point two He was clothed with a cloud.  When He came to this earth He came as a baby, born to Mary.  His divinity was clothed with humanity.  Even before He came to die for the human race, He led His people Israel by a cloud.  “Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink.  For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ.”²  Point three “a rainbow was on His head.”  The “rainbow” is a symbol of all the precious promises of God.  The “head” is a symbol of the mind.  The thoughts and work and life of Jesus were and are continually dedicated to the salvation of the human race. Our Lord is everything to us; He is not only our salvation, He is our eternal Hope. Point four “His face was like the sun.”  He is the light of this world; the One called  “The Sun of Righteousness “³ who would arise with healing in His wings.  He will illuminate the life of each individual who will turn toward Him. Point five “His feet (were) like pillars of fire.”  The “feet” symbolize the path Jesus walked as a human being.  Remember that “fire” is a symbol of the word of God and the Holy Spirit.  Every step that Jesus took was in accordance with His Father’s Word and the Spirit of His Father led him.  Jesus said: “I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.”⁴  To do the Father’s will He said: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”⁵

Revelation  10 : 2

“And he had a little book open in his hand.  And he set his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land.”

Where do we find a closed book that some day would need to be opened?  Daniel was told to, “shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.”⁶  So the little book that was open in the hand of Christ was the book of Daniel.  The “sea” is a symbol of people, multitudes, and nations; His right foot symbolized carrying the message to the multitudes.  His left foot was on the land or earth, which no doubt is a figure of the place where this book would first be opened, the United States.  The message contained in this little book would begin in America and then go to the world.

Revelation  10 : 3, 4

“And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roars. And when he cried out, seven thunders uttered their voices.  Now when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, ‘Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and do not write them.’”

John heard the mighty Angel, “the Lion of the tribe of Judah,” call with “a loud voice,” indicating that the messages He will give must be heard by the entire world.  These worldwide messages are referred to in these verses as “seven thunders.”  After John hears the seven messages, which are so important that they are called “seven thunders,” he is ready to write.  But he is told:  “Seal up those things, which the seven thunders uttered, and do not write them.”  So, John is told, in this vision, that before God’s last message, [the seven thunders,] which he would receive is even recorded; the message he is given in this chapter must first be given.  After the prophecy recorded in this chapter comes to pass John is instructed to say,  “You must prophesy again for many peoples and nations, languages and kings.”7

Revelation  10 : 5, 6

“And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:  But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.”  KJV.

The lifting of the hand to take a solemn oath was common in ancient times.  Here Christ takes an oath “that there should be time no longer.”  The Lord tells us that after this prophecy is fulfilled there would no longer be prophetic time, as “a day for a year.”  “This time, which the angel declares with a solemn oath, is not the end of this world’s history, neither of probationary time, but of prophetic time, which should precede the advent of our Lord. That is, the people will not have another message upon definite time. After this period of time, reaching from 1842 to 1844, there can be no definite tracing of the prophetic time.  The longest reckoning reaches to the autumn of 1844.”⁸  We are also told that:  “There will never again be a message for the people of God that will be based on time.  We are not to know the definite time either for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit or for the coming of Christ.”⁹

The word “days” in verse seven means time.  So, it means at the time the seventh angel begins to sound the mystery of God would soon be finished.  After the sealing of the 144,000 God’s last message to the world will be given with great power.  This message will be completed in a very short period of time, as this verse signifies.

Revelation  10 : 8, 9

“Then the voice which I heard from heaven spoke to me again and said, ‘Go, take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the earth.’  And I went to the angel and said to him, ‘Give me the little book.’ And he said to me, ‘Take and eat it; and it shall make your stomach bitter, but it will be as sweet as honey in your mouth.’”

The picture painted here is highly symbolic.  Eating the little book is digesting its message, and its contents will be really great as sweet as honey.  The “belly” or stomach is a symbol of the heart.  This is made very clear by comparing the New King James of John 7:38 with the Old King James Version.  God gave a message to Ezekiel for the people of Israel.  God said to him:  “Son of man, feed your belly, and fill your stomach with this scroll that I give you.”  So I ate it, and it was in my mouth like honey in sweetness.  And he said unto me:  “Son of man, go, to the house of Israel and speak with My words to them.”¹⁰  Before the sealing message is given and before the declaration “that there should be time no longer,” a thrilling message was to be given, which would end as a bitter disappointment.

Revelation  10 : 10, 11

“And I took the little book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth. But when I had eaten it, my stomach became bitter.  And he said to me, ‘You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, tongues, and kings.’”

John here acts the part of those who gave this startling advent message especially during the years 1840-1844.  The message then proclaimed was the greatest revival that ever shook the people of America.  When the true Christians of that time first heard the message of the soon coming of Christ it was to them “sweet as honey.”  “How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!“¹¹  But when the predicted time passed for Christ’s return it was for them a very bitter experience.  It was bitter because they were mistaken as to what would take place on October 22, 1844.

Christ’s words in verse eleven were very comforting to the true believers after the time passed and the Lord did not come.  The Old King James is very accurate, Jesus said:  “Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings.”  Out of that great disappointment came God’s last true church, which now preaches God’s last message in nearly every nation on earth today.  Jesus soon will come!

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

He gives me all my daily needs,

And by still waters gently leads.

He gives repose in meadows green;

My soul’s refreshed; He’s made me clean.

My Shepherd leads, for His name’s sake.

And so I’m safe each step I take.

He guides me through the darkest night,

Then leads me to a path of light.

I can face death without a fear,

Because I know my Shepherds near.

From evil He has set me free;

His rod and staff they comfort me.

He bountif’ly a table spread,

The envy of all those I dread.

The oil upon my head I feel,

It tells me that His love is real.

My cup is full; it overflows,

And spreads its joy where’er it goes.

His love and kindness I have found,

Are always there when He’s around.

My Shepherd says, with open door,

Come, dwell with Me forevermore.

By D. O. Van Buren

Notes

Chapter – 15

1- 1Cor 14:40 TEV; 2- 1Cor 10:1-4; 3- Mal 4:2; 4- John 8:28, 29 NIV; 5- Ps 119:105; 6- Dan 12:4; 7:Rev 10:11 New American Bible; 8- 7BC 971; 9- 1SM 188; 10- Eze 3:3, 4; 11- Ps 119:103.

We have thrilled as we have seen the Unrolling of the Scroll of Revelation. Its thrilling message is directed primarily to God’s end-time people. This message, as we know, is to prepare the church for the Second Coming of Christ.  Of all the chapters in the book of Revelation the end-time meaning of this one is the least understood and the most difficult for people to grasp.  One reason is because it has more than one interpretation.  The present interpretation, which has been known for years, may not be the main one.  As we have already discovered Revelation was written primarily in symbolic language.  We have also discovered that the books of Daniel and Revelation are said to be one book. And as such, Daniel was very clear that it would be opened primarily to the understanding of God’s people after 1798.  We believe that end-time prophecy began unfolding with William Miller.  This being true, all of the last-day prophecies of this book would begin fulfilling from about 1844.  This would mean that the fulfillment, as presented in the Great Controversy, applying to the French Revolution, might not be the main application for it dates back to the sixteenth century. This application is correct even though it may not be the primary one.

Revelation  11 : 1

“Then I was given a reed like a measuring rod.  And the angel stood, saying, ‘rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there.’”

This verse is not used in the Great Controversy and not used in connection with the French Revolution.  Ellen White does have a very interesting end-time interpretation of this verse.  She sets its fulfillment just before the close of probation, notice: “The grand judgment is taking place, and has been going on for some time. Now the Lord says, ‘Measure the temple and the worshipers thereof.’ Remember when you are walking the streets about your business, God is measuring you; when you are attending your household duties, when you engage in conversation, God is measuring you. Remember that your words and actions are being daguerreotyped [photographed] in the books of heaven, as the face is reproduced by the artist on the polished plate…

“Here is the work going on, measuring the temple and its worship-ers to see who will stand in the last day. Those who stand fast shall have an abundant entrance into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. When we are doing our work remember there is One that is watching the spirit in which we are doing it. Shall we not bring the Saviour into our everyday lives, into our secular work and domestic duties? Then in the name of God we want to leave behind everything that is not necessary, all gossiping or unprofitable visiting, and present ourselves as servants of the living God.”¹

We know that the measuring and sealing of God’s people takes place just before Jesus comes.  It is one of the last acts in the drama. In the Bible Commentary (7BC), the discovery of the Ark of the Covenant is tied with Ellen White’s interpretation of Revelation 11:1.  It is evident that the ark will be found just before the close of probation.

Tables of Stone a Convincing Testimony—“When God’s temple in heaven is opened, what a triumphant time that will be for all who have been faithful and true! In the temple will be seen the ark of the testament in which were placed the two tables of stone, on which are written God’s law. These tables of stone will be brought forth from their hiding place, and on them will be seen the Ten Commandments engraved by the finger of God. These tables of stone now lying in the ark of the testament will be a convincing testimony to the truth and binding claims of God’s law.”²

A little research on the Ark of the Covenant reveals some interesting facts.  The second book of the Maccabees is a historic book—not part of the Bible, but it does give us an account of what happened to the sanctuary and especially to the ark.  Jeremiah took it all up Mt. Nebo hid it in a cave and closed up the entrance, notice the account: Jeremiah “the prophet, following a divine revelation, ordered that the tent and the ark should accompany him and how he went off to the mountain which Moses climbed to see God’s inheritance.  When Jeremiah arrived there, he found a room in a cave in which he put the tent, the ark, and the altar of incense, then he blocked up the entrance.  Some of those who followed him came up intending to mark the path, but they could not find it.  When Jeremiah heard of this, he reproved them: ‘The place is to remain unknown until God gathers his people together again and shows them mercy.’”³  What does this statement by Jeremiah mean? When will God’s people be gather-ed together? This gathering takes place when the wheat and tares are being separated.  We have found that this takes place during the sealing of God’s true people—see Revelation 7.  It seems very clear that Revelation 11:1 is to be fulfilled in the last remnant of time.

There is no doubt that God has led, through the Spirit of Prophecy, to give this interpretation of Revelation 11.  It is a very reasonable appli-cation.  In this prophecy she calls it a “war against the Bible.”  She also says: “For centuries, truth and error struggled for the mastery. At last the evil triumphed, and the truth of Heaven was thrust out. ‘This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light.’”⁴

Ellen White uses about ten verses of Revelation 11.  Her remarks after verse 11 tell us that this fulfillment is before 1844.  Remember there is no prophetic day representing a year after that time.  Notice what she says about this time period: “The periods here mentioned—‘forty and two months,’ and ‘a thousand two hundred and threescore days’—are the same, alike representing the time in which the church of Christ was to suffer oppression from Rome. The 1260 years of papal supremacy began in A.D. 538, and would therefore terminate in 1798.  At that time a French army entered Rome and made the pope a prisoner, and he died in exile. Though a new pope was soon afterward elected, the papal hierarchy has never since been able to wield the power which it before possessed.”⁵

The root cause of the French Revolution was the repression of the Scriptures by “the man of sin.”  “It was popery that had begun the work which atheism was completing. The policy of Rome had wrought out those conditions, social, political, and religious, that were hurrying France on to ruin. Writers, in referring to the horrors of the Revolution, say that these excesses are to be charged upon the throne and the church.  In strict justice they are to be charged upon the church.  Popery had poisoned the minds of kings against the Reformation, as an enemy to the crown, an element of discord that would be fatal to the peace and harmony of the nation. It was the genius of Rome that by this means inspired the direst cruelty and the most galling oppression which proceeded from the throne.”⁶

This Revolution by France was a war against God and His word and is one of the darkest periods in human history.  The results of this rebellion were horrendous.  Pen cannot begin to portray just how low human beings can go when the spirit of Satan controls them. This so called “Reign of Terror” lasted for centuries.

“No error accepted by the Christian world strikes more boldly against the authority of Heaven, none is more directly opposed to the dictates of reason, none is more pernicious in its results, than the modern doctrine, so rapidly gaining ground, that God’s law is no longer binding upon men. Every nation has its laws, which command respect and obedience; no government could exist without them; and can it be conceived that the Creator of the heavens and the earth has no law to govern the beings He has made? Suppose that prominent ministers were publicly to teach that the statutes which govern their land and protect the rights of its citizens were not obligatory—that they restricted the liberties of the people, and therefore ought not to be obeyed; how long would such men be tolerated in the pulpit? But is it a graver offense to disregard the laws of states and nations than to trample upon those divine precepts which are the foundation of all government?

“It would be far more consistent for nations to abolish their statutes, and permit the people to do as they please, than for the Ruler of the universe to annul His law, and leave the world without a standard to condemn the guilty or justify the obedient. Would we know the result of making void the law of God? The experiment has been tried. Terrible were the scenes enacted in France when atheism became the controlling power. It was then demonstrated to the world that to throw off the restraints which God has imposed is to accept the rule of the cruelest of tyrants. When the standard of righteousness is set aside, the way is open for the prince of evil to establish his power in the earth.”⁷

Revelation  11 : 2 – 11

“But leave out the court which is outside the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the Gentiles. And they will tread the holy city underfoot for forty-two months. And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth.  And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies.  And if anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this manner. These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire. Now when they finished their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.  And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three and a half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves.  And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth. Now after three and a half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them.”

We shall now look at a word picture of this period, in France from the Great Controversy, in order to get an idea to what lengths people will go when they turn their backs on God and make void His law.

“Concerning the two witnesses the prophet declares further: ‘These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.’ ‘Thy word,’ said the psalmist, ‘is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.’ Revelation 11:4; Psalm 119:105. The two witnesses represent the Scriptures of the Old and the New Testament. Both are important testimonies to the origin and perpetuity of the law of God. Both are witnesses also to the plan of salvation.”⁸

“‘The great city’ in whose streets the witnesses are slain, and where their dead bodies lie, is ‘spiritually’ Egypt. Of all nations presented in Bible history, Egypt most boldly denied the existence of the living God and resisted His commands. No monarch ever ventured upon more open and highhanded rebellion against the authority of Heaven than did the king of Egypt. When the message was brought him by Moses, in the name of the Lord, Pharaoh proudly answered: ‘Who is Jehovah, that I should hear-ken unto His voice to let Israel go? I know not Jehovah, and moreover I will not let Israel go.’ Exodus 5:2, A.R.V. This is atheism, and the nation represented by Egypt would give voice to a similar denial of the claims of the living God and would manifest a like spirit of unbelief and defiance. ‘The great city’ is also compared, ‘spiritually,’ to Sodom. The corruption of Sodom in breaking the law of God was especially manifested in licentiousness. And this sin was also to be a preeminent characteristic of the nation that should fulfill the specifications of this scripture.

“According to the words of the prophet, then, a little before the year 1798 some power of satanic origin and character would rise to make war upon the Bible. And in the land where the testimony of God’s two witnesses should thus be silenced, there would be manifest the atheism of the Pharaoh and the licentiousness of Sodom.

“This prophecy has received a most exact and striking fulfillment in the history of France. During the Revolution, in 1793, ‘the world for the first time heard an assembly of men, born and educated in civilization, and assuming the right to govern one of the finest of the European nations, uplift their united voice to deny the most solemn truth which man’s soul receives, and renounce unanimously the belief and worship of a Deity.” Sir Walter Scott, Life of Napoleon, vol. 1, ch.17. ‘France is the only nation in the world concerning which the authentic record survives, that as a nation she lifted her hand in open rebellion against the Author of the universe. Plenty of blasphemers, plenty of infidels, there have been, and still continue to be, in England, Germany, Spain, and elsewhere; but France stands apart in the world’s history as the single state which, by the decree of her Legislative Assembly, pronounced that there was no God, and of which the entire population of the capital, and a vast majority elsewhere, women as well as men, danced and sang with joy in accepting the announcement—Blackwood’s Magazine, November, 1870.”⁹

We continue on by recording the history of a portion of the terrible results that the nation of France experienced during those dark days.

“The ‘Church in the Desert,’ the few descendants of the ancient Christians that still lingered in France in the eighteenth century, hiding away in the mountains of the south, still cherished the faith of their fathers. As they ventured to meet by night on mountainside or lonely moor, they were chased by dragoons and dragged away to lifelong slavery in the galleys. The purest, the most refined, and the most intelligent of the French were chained, in horrible torture, amidst robbers and assassins. (See Wylie, b. 22, ch. 6.) Others, more mercifully dealt with, were shot down in cold blood, as, unarmed and helpless, they fell upon their knees in prayer. Hundreds of aged men, defenseless women, and innocent children were left dead upon the earth at their place of meeting. In traversing the mountainside or the forest, where they had been accustomed to assemble, it was not unusual to find ‘at every four paces, dead bodies dotting the sward, and corpses hanging suspended from the trees.’ Their country, laid waste with the sword, the ax, the fagot, ‘was converted into one vast, gloomy wilderness.’ ‘These atrocities were enacted . . . in no dark age, but in the brilliant era of Louis XIV. Science was then cultivated, letters flourished, the divines of the court and of the capital were learned and eloquent men, and greatly affected the graces of meekness and charity.’

“But blackest in the black catalogue of crime, most horrible among the fiendish deeds of all the dreadful centuries, was the St. Bartholomew Massacre. The world still recalls with shuddering horror the scenes of that most cowardly and cruel onslaught. The king of France, urged on by Romish priests and prelates, lent his sanction to the dreadful work. A bell, tolling at dead of night, was a signal for the slaughter. Protestants by thousands, sleeping quietly in their homes, trusting to the plighted honor of their king, were dragged forth without a warning and murdered in cold blood.

“As Christ was the invisible leader of His people from Egyptian bondage, so was Satan the unseen leader of his subjects in this horrible work of multiplying martyrs. For seven days the massacre was continued in Paris, the first three with inconceivable fury. And it was not confined to the city itself, but by special order of the king was extended to all the provinces and towns where Protestants were found. Neither age nor sex was respected. Neither the innocent babe nor the man of gray hairs was spared. Noble and peasant, old and young, mother and child, were cut down together. Throughout France the butchery continued for two months. Seventy thousand of the very flower of the nation perished.

“When the news of the massacre reached Rome, the exultation among the clergy knew no bounds. The cardinal of Lorraine rewarded the messenger with a thousand crowns; the cannon of St. Angelo thundered forth a joyous salute; and bells rang out from every steeple; bonfires turned night into day; and Gregory XIII, attended by the cardinals and other ecclesiastical dignitaries, went in long procession to the church of St. Louis, where the cardinal of Lorraine chanted a Te Deum. . . A medal was struck to commemorate the massacre, and in the Vatican may still be seen three frescoes of Vasari, describing the attack upon the admiral, the king in council plotting the massacre, and the massacre itself. Gregory sent Charles the Golden Rose; and four months after the massacre, . . . he listened complacently to the sermon of a French priest, . . . who spoke of ‘that day so full of happiness and joy, when the most holy father received the news, and went in solemn state to render thanks to God and St. Louis.’”¹⁰

The only reasonable explanation as to how human beings could be-come so bloodthirsty and even enjoy it is by devil possession. Continuing on in the Great Controversy we find that all of this is clearly prophesied.  When one reads the whole story it is almost inconceivable that civilized human beings could become like wild beasts.  Yet, history records it; and we have only seen the tip of the iceberg.

‘“The beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.’ The atheistical power that ruled in France during the Revolution and the Reign of Terror, did wage such a war against God and His holy word as the world had never witnessed. The worship of the Deity was abolished by the National Assembly. Bibles were collected and publicly burned with every possible manifestation of scorn. The law of God was trampled underfoot. The institutions of the Bible were abolished. The weekly rest day was set aside, and in its stead every tenth day was devoted to reveling and blasphemy. Baptism and the Communion were prohibited. And announcements posted conspicuously over the burial places declared death to be an eternal sleep.

“The fear of God was said to be so far from the beginning of wisdom that it was the beginning of folly. All religious worship was prohibited, except that of liberty and the country. The ‘constitutional bishop of Paris was brought forward to play the principal part in the most impudent and scandalous farce ever acted in the face of a national representation. . . . He was brought forward in full procession, to declare to the Convention that the religion which he had taught so many years was, in every respect, a piece of priestcraft, which had no foundation either in history or sacred truth.  He disowned, in solemn and explicit terms, the existence of the Deity to whose worship he had been consecrated, and devoted himself in future to the homage of liberty, equality, virtue, and morality. He then laid on the table his episcopal decorations, and received a fraternal embrace from the president of the Convention. Several apostate priests followed the example of this prelate.’

“And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.’ Infidel France had silenced the reproving voice of God’s two witnesses. The word of truth lay dead in her streets, and those who hated the restrictions and requirements of God’s law were jubilant.  Men publicly defied the King of heaven. Like the sinners of old, they cried: ‘How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the Most High?’ Psalm 73:11.

“With blasphemous boldness almost beyond belief, one of the priests of the new order said: ‘God, if You exist, avenge Your injured name. I bid You defiance! You remain silent; You dare not launch Your thunders. Who after this will believe in Your existence?’—Lacretelle, History, vol. 11, p. 309; in Sir Archibald Alison, History of Europe, vol. 1, ch. 10. What an echo is this of the Pharaoh’s demand: ‘Who is Jehovah, that I should obey His voice?’ ‘I know not Jehovah!’

‘“The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.’ Psalm 14:1. And the Lord declares concerning the perverters of the truth: ‘Their folly shall be manifest unto all.’ 2 Timothy 3:9. After France had renounced the worship of the living God, ‘the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity,’ it was only a little time till she descended to degrading idolatry, by the worship of the Goddess of Reason, in the person of a profligate woman. And this in the representative assembly of the nation, and by its highest civil and legislative authorities! Says the historian: ‘One of the ceremonies of this insane time stands unrivaled for absurdity combined with impiety. The doors of the Convention were thrown open to a band of musicians, preceded by whom, the members of the municipal body entered in solemn procession, singing a hymn in praise of liberty, and escorting, as the object of their future worship, a veiled female, whom they termed the Goddess of Reason. Being brought within the bar, she was unveiled with great form, and placed on the right of the president, when she was generally recognized as a dancing girl of the opera. . . . To this person, as the fittest representative of that reason whom they worshiped, the National Convention of France rendered public homage.

‘“This impious and ridiculous mummery had a certain fashion; and the installation of the Goddess of Reason was renewed and imitated throughout the nation, in such places where the inhabitants desired to show themselves equal to all the heights of the Revolution.’—Scott, vol. 1, ch. 17.

“Said the orator who introduced the worship of Reason: ‘Legis-lators! Fanaticism has given way to reason. Its bleared eyes could not endure the brilliancy of the light. This day an immense concourse has assembled beneath those gothic vaults, which, for the first time, re-echoed the truth. There the French have celebrated the only true worship,—that of Liberty, that of Reason. There we have formed wishes for the prosperity of the arms of the Republic. There we have abandoned inanimate idols for Reason, for that animated image, the masterpiece of nature.’—M.A. Thiers, History of the French Revolution, vol. 2, pp. 370, 371.

“When the goddess was brought into the Convention, the orator took her by the hand, and turning to the assembly said: ‘Mortals, cease to tremble before the powerless thunders of a God whom your fears have created. Henceforth acknowledge no divinity but Reason. I offer you its noblest and purest image; if you must have idols, sacrifice only to such as this. . . . Fall before the august Senate of Freedom, oh! Veil of Reason!’

‘“The goddess, after being embraced by the president, was mount-ed on a magnificent car, and conducted, amid an immense crowd, to the cathedral of Notre Dame, to take the place of the Deity. There she was elevated on the high altar, and received the adoration of all present.’— Alison, vol. 1, ch. 10.

“This was followed, not long afterward, by the public burning of the Bible. On one occasion ‘the Popular Society of the Museum’ entered the hall of the municipality, exclaiming, ‘Vive la Raison!’ and carrying on the top of a pole the half-burned remains of several books, among others breviaries, missals, and the Old and New Testaments, which ‘expiated in a great fire,’ said the president, ‘all the fooleries which they have made the human race commit.’—Journal of Paris, 1793, No 318. Quoted in Buchez-Roux, Collection of Parliamentary History, vol. 30, pp. 200, 201.

“The spirit of liberty went with the Bible. Wherever the gospel was received, the minds of the people were awakened. They began to cast off the shackles that had held them bondslaves of ignorance, vice, and superstition. They began to think and act as men. Monarchs saw it and trembled for their despotism.

“Rome was not slow to inflame their jealous fears. Said the pope to the regent of France in 1525: ‘This mania [Protestantism] will not only confound and destroy religion, but all principalities, nobility, laws, orders, and ranks besides.’—G. de Felice, History of the Protestants of France, b. 1, ch. 2, par. 8. A few years later a papal nuncio warned the king: ‘Sire, be not deceived. The Protestants will upset all civil as well as religious order. . . . The throne is in as much danger as the altar. . . . The introduction of a new religion must necessarily introduce a new government.’—D’Aubigne, History of the Reformation in Europe in the Time of Calvin, b. 2, ch. 36. And theologians appealed to the prejudices of the people by declaring that the Protestant doctrine ‘entices men away to novelties and folly; it robs the king of the devoted affection of his subjects, and devastates both church and state.’ Thus Rome succeeded in arraying France against the Reformation. ‘It was to uphold the throne, preserve the nobles, and maintain the laws, that the sword of persecution was first unsheathed in France.’—Wylie, b. 13, ch. 4.

“Little did the rulers of the land foresee the results of that fateful policy. The teaching of the Bible would have implanted in the minds and hearts of the people those principles of justice, temperance, truth, equity, and benevolence which are the very cornerstone of a nation’s prosperity. ‘Righteousness exalteth a nation.’ Thereby ‘the throne is established.”¹¹

We have been told that, “The inhumanity of man toward man is our greatest sin.”¹²  This truth is very evident as we review our world’s sinful history.  And the shameful record of France’s darkest hours reemphasizes this truth.  The really painful part, when considering this terrible story, is that, the human race does not learn from their past mistakes.  For as horrible as parts of human history have been, the worst is still to come.  “There shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation.”¹³

We have looked at a very thrilling fulfillment of this application of Revelation 11 and now we will consider a small part of the end-time prophecy of this chapter.  We know that many prophecies in the Bible had an application for the time they were written as well as a later fulfillment. There are many prophecies that have double applications.   The prophecy of Elijah in Malachi is a prime example.  Also the prophecy of Revelation regarding the falling of the stars is another.  “The stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind.”¹⁴ “This prophecy received a striking and impressive [literal] fulfillment in the great meteoric shower of November 13, 1833.”¹⁵  There is also a symbolic fulfillment of the falling of the stars as we have seen in Revelation the sixth chapter, and there are others. We will cover a part of another possible fulfillment of this chapter, Revelation 11.

We have studied the sealing of God’s true people in Revelation 7. We know that it will be the power of the Spirit of God, through the Elijah message, that will not only seal God’s people, but prepare them for the Second Coming of Christ.  This message, in all its magnificent detail, is covered in Revelation 11.  There are aspects of this study that the majority of our people are not ready for.  What Jesus said to His disciples still has an application today, especially for those who are only surface readers.  “Oh, there is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t understand it now.”¹⁶ But we shall cover enough to see the picture of this very powerful subject.

As we have seen the Elijah message will separate the true from the false and will be a purifying message.  Those who give the message will not be soft with the Spirit of Prophecy.  You may remember that this gift was given primarily for character development and only those with good characters will be ready for Jesus to come.  In fact a number of urgent messages are found to warn us of this fact, such as: “The plain, straight testimony must live in the church, or the curse of God will rest upon His people as surely as it did upon ancient Israel because of their sins.”¹⁷

The primary work of the Elijah message will be the sealing of God’s people. “But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”¹⁸ This revival will be greater than at the time of Elijah; it is predicted in the following words.  “Before the final visitation of God’s judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times.”¹⁹  What message is it that separates the wheat from the tares?  “I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this is what will cause a shaking among God’s people.

“I saw that the testimony of the True Witness has not been half heeded. The solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the church hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely disregarded. This testimony must work deep repentance; all who truly receive it will obey it and be purified.”²⁰  Remember that the Spirit of Prophecy was written in exactly the same way as the Bible.  The closer we come to the end the more meaning, force, and power the message has.

We find Daniel verified that this sealing message would be given for three and a half literal years—to purify God’s church.  It is very clear that the events of Daniel 12 are after 1844, so, no longer does a day represent a year.  Notice verses 9 and 10: He said, “Go your way, Daniel, for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.  Many shall be purified, made white, and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand.”  In order for the 144,000 to be sealed, according to Revelation 7, they must “be purified, made white, and refined.”

“But leave out the court which is outside the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the Gentiles. And they will tread the holy city underfoot for forty-two months.”

After the message does its work and the 144,000 are sealed then they will, each become a type of Elijah and take the message to the rest of the world to gather all God’s true people into His one last true fold.  The phrase “leave out the court which is outside the temple,” has reference to those who are outside the true fold or “temple.”  This group will be “measured” by the message given by those who have been sealed, which are the 144,000. The period of “forty-two months” equals the three and a half years that the message will be given to the people of God’s true church.  The second three and a half years will be cut short in righteous-ness.  The phrase “they will tread the holy city under-foot” means those who oppose the message will attempt to “walk all over those” who receive it.  The last message of God, the three angel’s message of Revelation fourteen, and the other message of Revelation eighteen will be given in a very short time and under very trying conditions.

Revelation  11 : 13, 14

“In the same hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. In the earthquake seven thousand men were killed, and the rest were afraid and gave glory to the God of heaven.  The second woe is past.  Behold, the third woe is coming quickly.”

When the 144,000 are sealed; they will take the message to the whole world and this will cause a great spiritual shaking among the religious world.  There will only be two groups on earth when Jesus comes, the saved and the lost.  Remember that “city” is a church, good or bad, and in this case it is a false church.  The number ten or “tenth” means all of them.  If all the members of God’s last true church are sealed and sent out to gather all the Lord’s true people who are still left in Babylon into the true fold, then the fall of Babylon will be complete.  The “seven thousand” who are killed is a symbolic number meaning all who reject the truth, as presented through God’s Spirit, will die spiritually.  Remember that “seven” denotes completeness.  This is a picture of the Spirit of God separating the true from the false.  The truth has been clearly presented and those who are deceived will remain so because they were willing to be deceived.  The rest, those who give glory to God, are those who have accepted God’s last message.  They have also accepted the Holy Spirit as the controlling power or influence in their lives.  Their characters have been perfected, and they have received the latter rain of the Spirit. They are not only doing their part in giving the final message but they are ready for Jesus to come.

The Seventh Trumpet

The Kingdom Proclaimed

Revelation  11 : 15 -19

“Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, ‘The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!’ And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshipped God, saying: ‘We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned. The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints,  And those who fear Your name, small and great, And should destroy those who destroy the earth.’  Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.”

Remember that seven means completeness; these verses are picturing a completed work even though the next chapter goes back to picture the last true church coming on the scene.  This is a bird’s-eye view, so to speak, of that finished work.  When the last true church comes on the scene, in God’s sight, things are about to terminate.

The “loud voices in heaven,” as we have seen, are messages for the whole world to hear.  The message given in these verses are given to inspire those who are members of the last church with the thought that we are giving God’s last warning message; things will soon end.  Remember that when the latter rain falls upon the true people of God they each become a type of “Elijah.”  Christ, as He lived 2,000 years ago in Judea, must be made known in every community on earth.  All God’s true people will be gathered into the last true fold. When probation closes we can think about this beautiful thought, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”

Notice what the twenty-four elders do when this happens.  They worship and give thanks to the One who made it all possible, the One who will come and take His children home.  The judgment is finished and the earth is to be destroyed and purified by fire. Verse nineteen tells of the final destruction of the wicked on this earth.  “And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.”  If we value the gift of life we will allow Jesus to become King of our lives and be ready for His Second Coming.

According to Ellen White God gave William Miller a dream, which is a prophecy of God’s last day remnant church.  Consider this dream in connection with Revelation 11.  She included Miller’s dream in her book Early Writings.  Many years ago Humbolt Academy, which was located in Ureca, California, planed a school program.  As a part of the program they selected an eleven-year-old girl from the grade school to read William Miller’s dream.  As a result of reading that dream it left such an impression on her that she never forgot it.  This dream should make an even greater impression on us, for we are living in the time of its complete fulfillment.  Read it carefully.

William Miller’s Dream

“I dreamed that God, by an unseen hand, sent me a curiously wrought casket about ten inches long by six square, made of ebony and pearls curiously inlaid.  To the casket there was a key attached.  I immed-iately took the key and opened the casket, when, to my wonder and surprise, I found it filled with all sorts and sizes of jewels, diamonds, precious stones, and gold and silver coin of every dimension and value, beautifully arranged in their several places in the casket; and thus arranged they reflected a light and glory equaled only to the sun.

“I thought it was not my duty to enjoy this wonderful sight alone, although my heart was overjoyed at the brilliancy, beauty, and value of its contents. I therefore placed it on a center table in my room and gave out word that all who had a desire might come and see the most glorious and brilliant sight ever seen by man in this life.

“The people began to come in, at first few in number, but increasing to a crowd. When they first looked into the casket, they would wonder and shout for joy. But when the spectators increased, everyone would begin to trouble the jewels, taking them out of the casket and scattering them on the table.

“I began to think that the owner would require the casket and the jewels again at my hand; and if I suffered [allowed] them to be scattered, I could never place them in their places in the casket again as before; and felt I should never be able to meet the accountability, for it would be immense. I then began to plead with the people not to handle them, nor to take them out of the casket; but the more I pleaded, the more they scattered; and now they seemed to scatter them all over the room, on the floor and on every piece of furniture in the room.

“I then saw that among the genuine jewels and coin they had scattered an innumerable quantity of spurious jewels and counterfeit coin. I was highly incensed at their base conduct and ingratitude, and reproved and reproached them for it; but the more I reproved, the more they scattered the spurious jewels and false coin among the genuine.

“I then became vexed in my physical soul and began to use physical force to push them out of the room; but while I was pushing out one, three more would enter and bring in dirt and shavings and sand and all manner of rubbish, until they covered every one of the true jewels, diamonds, and coins, which were all excluded from sight. They also tore in pieces my casket and scattered it among the rubbish. I thought no man regarded my sorrow or my anger. I became wholly discouraged and disheartened, and sat down and wept.

“While I was thus weeping and mourning for my great loss and accountability, I remembered God, and earnestly prayed that He would send me help.

“Immediately the door opened, and a man entered the room, when the people all left it; and he, having a dirt brush in his hand, opened the windows, and began to brush the dirt and rubbish from the room.

“I cried to him to forbear, for there were some precious jewels scattered among the rubbish.

“He told me to ‘fear not,’ for he would ‘take care of them.’

“Then, while he brushed the dirt and rubbish, false jewels and counterfeit coin, all rose and went out of the window like a cloud, and the wind carried them away. In the bustle I closed my eyes for a moment; when I opened them, the rubbish was all gone. The precious jewels, the diamonds, the gold and silver coins, lay scattered in profusion all over the room.

“He then placed on the table a casket, much larger and more beautiful than the former, and gathered up the jewels, the diamonds, the coins, by the handful, and cast them into the casket, till not one was left, although some of the diamonds were not bigger than the point of a pin.

“He then called upon me to ‘come and see.’

“I looked into the casket, but my eyes were dazzled with the sight. They shone with ten times their former glory. I thought they had been scoured in the sand by the feet of those wicked persons who had scattered and trod them in the dust. They were arranged in beautiful order in the casket, every one in its place, without any visible pains of the man who cast them in. I shouted with very joy, and that shout awoke me. “²¹

When we consider William Miller’s dream together with Revelation 11 and the prophecy of the Elijah message, as pictured above, we see that it could have great importance.   The “man with the dirt brush” could be that message.

Notes

Chapter – 16

“And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.” KJV.

This beautiful woman is a symbol of God’s New Testament church from its inception when Jesus established the apostolic church and closing with the Laodicean, the last church.  This description does not include the tares, the false members.  Like many of John’s visions he saw this lovely lady high above the earth shinning with the light of the sun.  In fact, she was clothed with the righteousness of her Savior, for the sun, as we have seen, is a symbol of the Messiah.  Jesus as the “Sun” is spiritually the direct light of the world, but the “moon” is the indirect light of this earth.  One symbolic meaning of “moon,” is the reflected light of the Scriptures that came through the writings of holy men.  This woman is standing secure on the word of God.  On her head is a crown of twelve stars.  The stars represent the church, and its teachings, for the head is a symbol of the mind of God’s people, for they know the One who is “the way, the truth, and the life.”¹  The twelve stars also stand for the twelve doctrines of salvation taught throughout the Scriptures by the true people of God.  John counted the twelve stars in the crown, which no doubt shone like twelve precious stones.  The twelve gates of pearl represent these twelve doctrines upon which the church is based and there are only twelve basic doctrines accepted and believed by the twelve patriarchs as well as the twelve apostles.  We also find that there are twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem and there were twelve stones in the breastplate of Aaron.  Each of these stones bore the name of one of the tribes of Israel, for each of these men accepted the truth upon which the kingdom of God is built.  The twelve loaves of bread in the holy place of the sanctuary represent the One who would bring the bread of life to all mankind; He is the Chief cornerstone as well.  Remember the event on Mount Carmel when Elijah rebuilt the altar that was broken down?  He took twelve stones, and that story tells us, that those stones represented the twelve sons of Jacob, “to whom the word of the LORD had come.”²  Why were these men chosen?  The twelve sons of Jacob were chosen because the truth of God was cherished in their hearts.

Revelation  12 : 2

“Then being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth.”

This verse teaches that symbolically the church is based on the birth and life of Christ.  And it teaches that Mary, the mother of Jesus, like every woman in prophecy, is a symbol of the church, for it was through her that the Messiah was born and the New Testament Church began.  This verse also pictures symbolically the struggle of the early believers.  From the moment the work of Christ was finished the early church greatly suffered physical and mental pain, yet their conflict was a blessing to them in more ways than one.

Revelation  12 : 3, 4

“And another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads.  His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven, and threw them to the earth.  And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to be give birth, to devour her child as soon as it was born.”

These verses symbolically reveal the political power through which Satan would work in an attempt to destroy the Son of God.  Satan intended, through Herod, to kill Jesus as soon as He was born.  Remem-ber, Joseph and Mary had to flee into Egypt in order to keep it from happening.  It was a painful experience for them to flee their homeland to save Jesus.  The symbolic picture is more important than the literal one for it reveals how Satan attempted to annihilate the church.  The words, “his tail (lies)³ drew a third of the stars of heaven, and threw them to the earth, is a fact that is here verified by John.  It also teaches that Satan would continue his lies in his fight against Christ.  The great controversy, which began in heaven, was now actively proceeding on earth.  The dragon is still fighting the church and he will do so until Jesus comes.  Satan also attempted, with the aid of Rome and the Jews, who had rejected Christ, too literally destroy the church.

Revelation  12 : 5, 6

“And she bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron.  And her child was caught up to God and to his throne.  Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.”

So Mary, a symbol of the church, bore the promised Messiah who would “rule all nations with a rod of iron.”  This statement presents the fact that the spiritual strength of Jesus would cause Him to walk, as the example for everyone, in the Law of His Father.  Jesus came, not only to suffer and die for mankind, but He also came to show us how to live.  The “rod of iron” is not only the Ten Commandments, but it is also the complete will and word of God.  John records that after Jesus finished His work on earth He returned to His Father.

Then John prophesied that the persecution of the church would come through the power of Rome, as he foretold in verse three, which of course would be instigated by the “great fiery red dragon.”  God would care for His people and “feed (them physically and spiritually) a thousand two hundred and sixty days.”  Before 1844, prophetic time was a day for a year in accordance with Numbers 14: 34.  You may remember that the children of Israel did not go into the Promised Land when they came to Kadeshbarnea.  Because of unbelief they chose one man from each tribe to spy out the land.  After forty days the ten said “there is no way we can conquer that land,” but two men, Caleb and Joshua said that under God we are well able to take the land.  The story related by the ten so stirred the people that they were ready to kill Joshua and Caleb, but God intervened.  God told Moses to tell the people: “As surely as I live, declares the LORD, I will do to you the very things I heard you say: In the desert your bodies will fall—every one of you twenty years old or more … who has grumbled against me.  Not one of you will enter the land I swore … to make your home, except Caleb and Joshua.”⁴  The children of Israel would spend one year in the wilderness for each day they spied out the land, forty years.  John, here in Revelation 12:6, foretold that that persecuting power would continue to harass the church for twelve hundred and sixty years; it did from 538 A. D. to 1798.

Revelation  12 : 7 – 10

“And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.  So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth and his angels were cast out with him.  Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.”

John here symbolically reviews the fall of Lucifer; then he says that as a result of that fall the plan of salvation, through the power of Christ, has come to earth. We are very much a part of that great contro-versy between Christ and Satan.  The people who have been attacked, and are being attacked in a most vicious manner, by “the accuser of our brethren,” are the true people of God.  We must be on guard that Satan will not use us in his work of accusing others.  “Men are to beware how they, in their human blindness, judge and condemn their fellow men.”⁵  That war that broke out in heaven will especially be focused on God’s last true church.  The fact that Christ has won the victory for us means, that we have nothing to fear; and that we not only have salvation through Him, but spiritual strength and the kingdom of God is ours through Him.

Revelation  12 : 11

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”

In this verse John is still mainly talking about the true people of God in the Dark Ages.  It was very difficult for them to practice their religion, for they were hunted down like animals and many of them lost their lives.  And as the text says “they overcame him [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb” and they were not afraid of death.  Because the book of Revelation is directed primarily to the time of the end, John is also here referring to those who go through the time of test near the end of this world’s history.

Revelation  12 : 12

Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time.”

In this verse John tells us that the whole universe is involved in the great controversy-taking place on earth.  Since his book is primarily directed to the time of the end, that is after 1844, he can say rejoice!  For the work of Satan will last only a little longer.  The reference to “the sea” is a reference to multitudes and nations and to the time in the near future when a great time of trouble will come upon the whole world.  At that time the destructive powers of Satan will be very evident.

Revelation  12 : 13

“Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child.”

Satan can no longer attacked Christ personally, but he can and does direct his wrath against those for whom Christ died.  Satan inspires all persecution, anger, violence, and hate.  He knows that the vast majority is already his so he spends most of his time and effort concentrating on the members of God’s church.  And since the devil knows that the end is fast approaching he redoubles his effort.  We are warned to constantly be on guard against him.

Revelation  12 : 14

“But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.”

Wings are symbols of trust, care, and protection.  “He shall cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.”⁶  The eagle is a symbol of speed and in this verse it is picturing how God’s people “might fly into the wilderness to her place.”  This verse tells of God’s care of His people during the Dark Ages for 1260 years.  Following that period they might “fly” “to a place prepared for her.”7  We know that thousands fled Europe because of religious persecution.  The place prepared for her is no doubt speaking of the United States of America.  This also has a double application, for God’s people who are alive when Jesus comes, will have that same protection.

Revelation  12 : 15, 16

 “So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.  But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth”

Notice that this flood of water came out of the serpent’s mouth.  Since water has a number of symbolic meanings one must be selected that would fit the situation.

Since Satan knows the Scriptures and uses them in such a way as to deceive, it is clear that this is the meaning of this verse.  Water, here, is a symbol of God’s word.⁸  It is clear that the twisting of Scripture is the greatest tool in Satan’s arsenal.  Many have been “carried away by the flood,” that is by the false doctrine inspired by Satan.  The church then in power caused the church in the wilderness to be severally persecuted.  How did the earth help the church cope with the attacks of Satan?  The freedom of religion found in the United States was a great blessing for many of God’s true people during that time of persecution instigated by the Church of Rome.

Revelation  12 : 17

“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” KJV.

This verse pictures the last remnant church coming on the scene and clearly identifies her.  Notice also that the last verse pictured many coming to the land of freedom to practice their religion.  So the setting of this verse is in that part of the world where the last church of God had its beginning.

The interpretation of the verse above is as follows:  The “dragon” we know is Satan, “wroth” is an old English word meaning angry and the meaning of “remnant” is “the last surviving group.”⁹  Now that we know the meaning of the symbols we know what this verse means.  It would read:  The devil is angry at the church and goes to make war with its last surviving group.  They are identified as those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.  (See Rev. 19:10)

WHICH POWER?

Some Men had a Vision

Of nuclear fission.

In just a few hours,

Releasing such powers,

The cities could tumble

And earth start to crumble.

Men dread such a power

In this crucial hour.

Some men had a vision,

God’s nuclear fission.

In just a few hours,

By latter rain powers,

Old Satan could tumble.

From hearts sin would crumble.

Now, this is the power

We need for this hour.

By, D. O. Van Buren

Notes

Chapter – 17

“Then I stood on the sand of the sea.  And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.”  Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion.  And the dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.”

John is standing where symbolically he can see multitudes and nations; he is standing before the sea.  Daniel who lived six hundred years before John saw beasts coming up out of the sea.  Daniel describes the four beasts he sees coming up as the worldwide political powers of Babylon, Media Persia, Greece and Rome.  Now John sees a beast coming up out of the sea.  This beast had “seven heads and ten horns.”  But as we have seen “seven” is God’s number and means perfection and complete-ness.  But when the number “seven” is used in figurative prophecy and it is not talking about truth, it is a symbol of false religion, for “seven” always speaks of the spiritual realm whether true or false.  The number ten is a symbol of mankind usually referring to the political aspect of man.  Ten also usually means the whole group, all of them. The beast John sees is a religio-political power.  The ten horns with the ten crowns symbolize the fact that this power unites its political authorities with its spiritual endeavor.  The “blasphemous name” symbolizes the fact that it is truly a false religious power.  This religio-political power is said to be like a leopard with the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion.  A leopard is a symbol of unchanging.¹  It is also a symbol of one who sneaks up on its prey.  The feet of a bear are known to be weapons of violence.  The mouth of a lion is a symbol of destruction.  “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”²  Where did this religious power, that is also a political power, get its authority and power?  It received, according to our text, its” power, his throne, and great authority,” from the “dragon,” Satan.  The devil worked through the political power and authority of Rome.

Revelation  13 : 3

“I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed.  And all the world marveled and followed the beast.”

The Spirit of God gave to John a detailed description of this power in order to make it very easy for those who cared to know, to identify it.  This religio-political power would have many heads, but one of them would be “mortally wounded.”  This fatal wound was inflicted on the Papcy by the capture of Pope Pius VI.  The French General Berthier took the Pope prisoner on Feb. 20, 1798.  This capture of the Pope temporarily ended the church’s supremacy.  The Pope died in exile.  But notice that our text says that “his deadly wound [would be] healed.”  On Feb. 11, 1929, the signing of the Lateran Treaty by Benito Mussolini and Peitro Cardinal Gasparri, restored the temporal powers to the Papacy.  Catholic-ism has been regaining its power through the years.

The text also says that, “all the world marveled and followed the beast.”  Today the Pope is accepted with open arms worldwide.  People flock to see and hear the Pope by the millions.  But the deception, not condemning the present Pope individually, for only God knows the heart, but by the false teaching of the Church of Rome is very evident when compared to the word of God.  The Papal system desires, for its own benefit, to draw all into its fold and to satisfy the desires of all people.  “The papacy is well adapted to meet the wants of all these. It is prepared for two classes of mankind, embracing nearly the whole world—those who would be saved by their merits, and those who would be saved in their sins. Here is the secret of its power.”³

Revelation  13 : 4

“So they worshipped the dragon who gave power to the beast; and they worshipped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?’”

When teachings contrary to the Bible are presented, and one does not carefully and prayerfully check them out, but accepts those false teachings, he or she is accepting Satan’s lies, for he is the master deceiver.  By accepting Satan’s lies regarding the true worship of God one is actually worshiping Satan in place of God.  This would especially be true in regards to substituting a false day of worship in place of the memorial, which God has set up and commanded us to remember.  Many will accept the false worship mainly because it will be the easy road, and they have not allowed the Spirit of God to plant in their hearts the love of the truth.  We are told that many will be deceived and lost, “because they did not receive the love of the truth.” ⁴

Revelation  13 : 5 – 7

“And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue forty-two months.  Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, and His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. And it was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.”

This power was introduced in Revelation twelve, the chapter introducing the last true church, because it will bring about the main issues causing the testing of God’s true people.  The verse above repeats the fact that the Papacy would “continue forty-two months” or 1260 years before it’s deadly wound is inflicted.  This repetition is mainly for identification purposes.  John then continues to tell what this power would do during this period.  During those 1260 years the church had great power over leaders and people alike.  “In the year 1204, Pope Innocent III extracted from Peter II, king of Arragon, the following extraordinary oath:  “I, Peter, king of Arragonians, profess and promise to be ever faithful and obedient to my lord, Pope Innocent, to his Catholic successors, and the Roman Church, and faithfully to preserve my kingdom in his obedience, defending the Catholic faith, and persecuting heretical pravity.”⁵  Another example of the Popes authority during the Dark Ages is recorded in the Great Controversy in these words.  “A striking illustration of the tyrannical character of this advocate of infallibility was given in his treatment of the German king, Henry IV. For presuming to disregard the pope’s authority, this monarch was declared to be excommunicated and dethroned. In order to make his peace with Rome, Henry crossed the Alps in midwinter that he might humble himself before the pope.  Upon reaching the castle whither Gregory had withdrawn, he was conducted, without his guards, into an outer court, and there, in the severe cold of winter, with uncovered head and naked feet and in a miserable dress, he awaited the pope’s permission to come into his presence. Not until he had continued three days fasting and making confession did the pontiff condescend to grant him pardon. Even then it was only upon condition that the emperor should await the sanction of the pope before resuming the insignia or exercising the power of royalty.  And Gregory, elated with his triumph, boasted that it was his duty “to pull down the pride of kings.^”6

Blasphemy is said to be: “The act of insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God.  1: the act of claiming the attributes of deity 2: irreverence toward something considered sacred or inviolable.”⁷  The fact that Popes are said to stand in the place of God on earth is blasphemy.  “We hold upon earth the place of God Almighty” (Pope Leo XIII, an Encyclical letter, June 20, 1894).  The following also proves the church guilty of the sin of blasphemy.  “It is the Church of Rome which, thinking to prove itself not only equal to God, but above God, has changed the rest-day of Jehovah, placing the first day of the week where the seventh should be.  And the Protestant world has taken this child of the Papacy to be regarded as sacred.  This is called in the Word of God “her fornication.” Thus the people of the world, in giving their sanction to a false Sabbath and trampling under their feet the Sabbath of the Lord, “have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.”  Wherever the papal Sabbath is honored in preference to the Sabbath of the Lord, there is the man of sin exalted above the Creator of the heavens and the earth.”⁸  Daniel was shown in vision that a power would attempt to change God’s Law.  “He will speak against the Most High and oppress his saints and try to change the set times and the laws.”⁹  The proof of all this is in their own publications:  “The Church changed the observance of the Sabbath to Sunday by right of divine, infallible authority given her by her founder, Jesus Christ.  The Protestant claiming the Bible to be the only guide of faith, has no warrant for observing Sunday.  In this matter the Seventh-day Adventist is the only consistent Protestant.”¹⁰

It is said that the Papacy would “make war with the saints.”  History reveals that millions of dedicated Christians were put to death just because they disagreed with the Church of Rome.

By way of review, ten points of identification that all point to the Church of Rome as the beast power are:

1. It came up out of the sea. Dan 7:3-8;
2. It was like the red dragon. Rev 12:3;
3. The dragon gave it its seat and great authority. Rev 13:2;
4. It is a religio-political power. Rev 12:3; 13:1; 17:7;
5. The world wanders after this power. Rev 13:3;
6. This power speaks blasphemy. Rev 13:6;
7. It would be in power for 1260 years. Rev 12:6; 13:5;
8. It would be wounded to death and the wound would be healed.

Rev. 13:3, 12;

9. It would make war with the saints. Dan 7:21; Rev 13:7;
10. A strong world power would give it aid to enforce its mark.

Rev 13:11-17.

Revelation  13 : 8, 9

“And all who dwell on the earth shall worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. If anyone has an ear, let him hear.

These texts apply to the time in which we now live.  John leaves behind the days of the Dark Ages and brings us up to date.  The entire world will soon not only “wander after the beast” they will accept its substitute worship.  Only those who have their names “written in the Book of Life” will be able to reject the demands of this power.  Through the Spirit’s power John adds, “If anyone has an ear, let him hear.”  This sentence is saying that those who are in tune spiritually will be able to understand not only the identity of the beast, but the issues involved as well.  Notice also that the Lord Jesus is called the “Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” He is the Savior of all mankind. “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”¹¹  All who lived before the cross looked forward to that event and since that time we look back to the cross.

Revelation  13 : 10

“He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.”

This verse teaches that anyone who leads another to become a captive of Satan will also be his captive.  It also teaches that anyone who uses the Bible, the sword of the Lord to cause spiritual death, will himself die spiritually and it could be fatal.  The last sentence is a call by the Spirit of God to be faithful and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you as you diligently search for the hidden gems of truth found in God’s word.  The Holy Spirit will only influence those who are willing to listen to that “still small voice”¹² and follow all the truth revealed to them.

Revelation  13 : 11, 12

“Then saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and he spoke like a dragon.  And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”

The first beast of Revelation 13 came up out of the sea; this beast comes up out of the earth.  Since the “sea” represents people, multitudes, and nations, this beast appears in an area sparsely inhabited.  This beast is also to come on the scene about the time the first beast receives its deadly wound in A. D. 1798.  The United States of America was the only nation coming up in a sparsely populated area in the late seventeen hundreds.  John Wesley was a very good Bible student, and in 1754 he wrote concerning Revelation 13:11 where John the Revelator said, “I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth.” “He is not yet come, though he cannot be far off.  For he is to appear at the end of the forty-two months of the first beast.”¹³  The United States was first recognized as an upcoming world power in around 1798.  The National Constitution of the United States was adopted in 1789, nine years before the wounding of the first beast.  And in 1791 the Bill of Rights was enacted.

This second beast “had two horns like a lamb.”  Notice that the “horns” were like a lamb.  Horns are symbols of power, authority, and rule.  When the United States came on the scene it was founded on a government of Republicanism and Protestantism.  It was to be “one nation under God.”  Our great country came in like a lamb and was founded on the Christian principles of the Lamb of God.  People flocked to our shores by the millions in order to find religious freedom.  But notice it will eventually speak “like a dragon.”  He does exactly what the prophecy predicts; he aids and supports the first beast “whose deadly wound was healed.” And he does it with all the power of the first beast.  What other nation today could cause the entire world to wonder after and cater too the first beast?

Revelation  13 : 13, 14

“He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.  And deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and did live.”

As we have seen in the study of Revelation so far, every now and then there is a text that can have both a literal and a symbolic interpre-tation.  This text is one of those verses.  The United States did cause fire to come from the sky [heaven] at the bombing of the two cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.  Those events were called “balls of fire.”  But the symbolic meaning of this text is more important.  Remember that at Pentecost, fire from heaven, sent by Jesus, was the former rain of the Holy Spirit and did wonders for the early church.  In the text above, our nation will cause “fire [to] come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.”  Looking at the prophecy it is plain to see that this fire is a fire that deceives.  A great false revival is prophesied in this verse. It will come before the genuine.  “I saw false reformations every where. The churches were elated, and considered that God was marvelously working for them, when it was another spirit.  It will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before.”¹⁴  Ever since September 11, 2001 or, as it has been called—“911,” there seems to be a turning to God.  We see what may be a great revival in America.  Will it bring together the religious world as prophecy has foretold? We will wait and see.  Calling on the Church of Rome for solutions to the world’s problems and for spiritual guidance is not presented in great detail in prophecy, but it will happen.

Revelation  13 : 15, 16

“He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.  And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand, or on their foreheads.”

These verses tell us the time will soon come when our country will, in its legislative halls, enact laws to enforce the image and mark of the beast.  And not long after coming to pass these laws will be enforced by a death penalty.  There are three ways to receive the mark of the beast, in the name, in the mind, (or “on the forehead”) and in the hand.  The first one is by being a member of the beast’s organization.  The second one is by accepting false Protestantism.  Accepting it as being true even though it is false.  And the third one is in the hand, which is by compliance, (to go along with it.)

It is very evident that this situation is in the process of being formed now.  The following statement is one that is now taking place and is setting the stage for the final act in the drama.  “When the Protestant churches shall unite with the secular power to sustain a false religion, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution: when the state shall use its power to enforce the decrees and sustain the institutions of the church,—then will Protestant America have formed an image to the Papacy, and there will be a national apostasy which will end only in national ruin.”¹⁵

Revelation  13 : 17

Revelation 13:17

“And that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.”

This verse is also one that has been interpreted only literally, but this text should be looked at symbolically for it is far more important for God’s people when left in its symbolic setting.  Human beings are so greedy today that a boycott would mean very little, for if you can’t buy it at the front of the store you can buy it at the back.  If one has money he can get about anything he desires.  What is buying and selling, spiritually speaking?  Sharing your faith and what you believe with others is selling.  When one is receiving truth he or she is buying.  “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”¹⁶  It is very clear here that if we come to the water of life, the word of God, we can “buy wine and milk.”  Paul said that we should not continue living on “milk,” but should graduate to solid food.  There are two kinds of spiritual “wine” in the Bible.  The “wine of Babylon”¹⁷ is the wine that causes spiritual intoxication and loss of spiritual life.  The pure wine of God is all the doctrines pertaining to salvation.  Most texts in Scripture concerning wine are considering the spiritual aspect and not the literal. Jesus said to the last church, “I counsel thee to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garment, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” Rev. 3:18.  Forbidding people to buy and sell symbolically is done by making laws—laws that prohibit members of certain groups, perhaps because they are branded as a cult, from teaching or presenting their beliefs to others.

Revelation  13 : 18

“Here is wisdom.  Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666.”

In the Catholic Bible, the Douay Version of Revelation 13:18 under the notes at the bottom of the page it states that: “The numeral letters of his name shall make up this number.”  This is interesting, but some believe it is questionable.

V –    5      “The letters inscribed in the Pope’s miter, VICARIUS

I  –     1

C  – 100       FILII DEI, which is Latin for ‘VICAR OF THE SON

A  –     0

R  –     0      OF GOD.’  Catholics hold that the Church, which is a

I   –     1

U  –    5       visible society, must have a visible head. Christ, before

S  –     0

His ascension into heaven, appointed St. Peter to act as

F  –     0

I   –     1      His representative … Hence to the Bishop of Rome, as

L  –   50

I   –     1      head of the Church, was given the title,  VICAR  OF

I   –     1

CHRIST.’” (Our Sunday Visitor; April 18, 1915).

D – 500

E  –    0

I  –     1

____________

666

Notes

Chapter – 18

“Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on the Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written on their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of loud thunder.  And I heard the sound of harpists playing their harps.”

The first five verses of this chapter picture those who have accepted the message presented here as God’s last message to the inhabitants of earth.  They are seen standing before the throne of God in heaven.  A large number of this group, the 144,000, has been sealed for their Father’s name is in their foreheads.  God’s name is a symbol of His character, and the best description of God’s name is love, for God is love. This group is motivated and sustained by His love.

Revelation  14 : 3

“And they sang as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could learn that song except the hundred and forty-four thousand, who were redeemed from the earth.”

There are only a few people today with beautiful voices, but everyone will have a lovely voice in Paradise.  The song before the throne is a song of experience and only those who live through the time of test, when the character of each one is perfected, shall be able to relate their experience from the heart in song.  This song is also called the Song of the Redeemed.

“These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins.  These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever he goes.  These were redeemed from among men, being first fruits to God and to the Lamb.  And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.”

The book of Revelation pictures two women (churches), one pure and the other so corrupt that she is called a harlot.  However, the 144,000 are called virgins because they have a pure faith.  They have allowed the Holy Spirit to lead them into all truth.  Notice the promise they claimed:  “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for he will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come 1.”  This verse is speaking primarily of the time of the latter rain of the Holy Spirit.  During this time all error will be eliminated and the true people of God will have a pure faith.  This group will also be very close to Jesus, for He is their Shepherd.  The first fruits are what we would call the cream of the crop.  The perfection of their characters is emphasized by the last sentence of Verse 5.  “In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.”  How did they reach this point?  They have gone through the time of Jacob’s trouble, a time of severe testing.  Their constant prayer has been, “O Lord please show me the defects in my character.”  What a privilege it will be to be among this group.

The messages contained in this chapter are the most important found in the Bible for this hour of earth’s history.  The messages of these angels began to be presented at the end of the 2,300 day-year prophecy of Daniel. Daniel called this period the time of the end; it is not the end of time, but a short period of time when the Spirit of God would be preparing a people for the Second Coming of Christ.  God Himself designed this message specifically for this time in history.  This message is recorded to gather all His true people into His one last true fold.

Jesus foretold that the time would come when there would be only one flock, one true church.  Has there ever been a time in the history of the world when there was only one true fold?  Only one time, and that was when the door of the ark of Noah closed.  God has always had a true church on earth, but only during the time of Noah were all God’s true people in one fold.  This is brought out in the statement: “As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. 2”

Even during the time of Christ He said to His disciples,  “And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.3”  Jesus here predicts that the time would come when all His true people will be gathered into His one last true church.  The message of Revelation 14 was designed by God to do this very thing.  There are over 1,500 different denominations or church groups all claiming to be the right one.  This message is given to positively identify God’s last true church.

In law we have two standards for determining which way a case should be decided.  The first is used in every civil case and it is “by a preponderance of the evidence.”  In other words the decision is made for the side that holds the most evidence in its favor.  In a criminal case there is another standard and that is “beyond a reasonable doubt.”  This standard is a much greater standard than just the weight of the evidence.  In a criminal case it must be shown that the one charged is guilty unless there is doubt for which a reason can be given.  But God in this chapter gives us the identifying marks of His true church beyond a shadow of a doubt.

There are twelve and only twelve doctrines listed in Revelation 14:6-14.  In fact, there are only twelve main doctrines in the Bible.  But you may say, as a church we have a list of twenty-seven doctrines.  There is a reason for this, for some of the doctrines of the Bible are divided into sections.  For example the first doctrine listed in Revelation 14 is the Everlasting Gospel.  Baptism is a vital part of the Everlasting Gospel, but we have it listed separately. The Millennium is an important doctrine, in fact it is one of the twenty-seven, but it is not one of the twelve main pillars of truth.  There are many more, but this will suffice.

“Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth – to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people – saying with a loud voice,  “Fear God and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment is come; and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea, and the springs of waters.”

Point Number One:

“The Everlasting Gospel”

This is the first angel’s message and it has six teachings or doctrines, which are presented to identify God’s true fold.  Number one is found in the phrase: “having the everlasting gospel to preach.”  The people comprising God’s final true fold will teach and preach “the everlasting gospel.”  The word “gospel” comes from a Greek word, which means “to announce” or “declare good news” The gospel or good news recorded in the New Testament is the good news of salvation from sin.  Revelation 14:6 calls it the “everlasting gospel.”  It is not a different gospel nor a new gospel, but the same good news of salvation given to Adam and Eve after they had sinned.  Every person redeemed from this earth is saved in exactly the same way.  Everyone who lived before the cross looked forward to the promised Messiah.  All who have lived since the cross look back to that event.  Christ is the Messiah for all people, whether they have lived before or after the cross.  The Bible says salvation comes only through Christ:  “And there is salvation in and through no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by and in which we must be saved. ⁴” 

The Hebrew people did not earn their way to heaven by keeping the law as many groups teach today.  They teach that in Old Testament times, salvation came by good works.  “Obey the Law and be saved,” they say.  This is wrong! The Scriptures give us a different picture:  “God is love. ⁵”  And love is the motivating power in the plan of salvation.  True obedience is based on love.  God did not require the people in Old Testament times to keep the law to be saved and then in New Testament times give them salvation through Christ. “Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons. ⁶”  Since this is true, to say it another way, God would not make the people who lived before the cross earn their way to heaven and then be so unfair as to present salvation as a gift only to all those who lived after the cross.  The gospel is the good news of salvation from sin. This gospel is a vibrant living force, which can change the life.  That power to change comes from God, and Christ has always been man’s only Savior.

When God’s people are drawn together and begin to teach every point listed in Revelation 14, they will also teach the truth regarding the plan of salvation. There are false teachings concerning this subject. The gospel is so important that every person must make sure he knows the truth concerning it.

Point Number Two:

“To preach to those who dwell on the earth”

The command of Jesus is to:  “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world.” Amen. Matthew 29:19 KJV.  The true people of God—His true fold—will not only teach all the important doctrines pertaining to salvation, but they will teach them in the entire world.  They “preach unto them that dwell on the earth and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” God’s true fold will be found worldwide.  God’s true people will teach in all the earth; they do not just make the claim; they really do it.

The twelve doctrines that God has placed in this message positively identify His true fold.  This second point eliminates all but two of the better than 1500 different Christian groups, for there are only two who send missionaries into nearly every country of the word and they are the Seventh-day Adventists and the Catholics.

But God’s work includes more than teaching and preaching.  It is a great missionary outreach including all types of religious and benevolent programs.  Remember that Jesus spent more time healing than preaching. God’s work today must certainly include medical work. God’s program will be conducted all over the globe.  It is to go “to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people.”

Point Number Three

“Give glory to Him”

This third point is found in the phrase “give glory to Him.”  The word “glory” mainly means character.  Glory comes to man through the development of a beautiful character.  The Lord is willing to aid human beings with the great work of character development and to supply them with the spiritual power needed for success.

When Moses went up into Mount Sinai to meet with God, he asked the Lord:  “Please, show me Your glory.” Exodus 33:18.  The record reflects that God revealed to Moses His glory, or character. Verse 19 records that the Lord said to Moses:  “I will make all My goodness pass before you.”  “Goodness” is defined as “the moral quality of one’s character.” As the Lord passed by, Moses saw the perfect character of God.  There are seven points listed in Exodus 34: 6, and 7. The perfect character of God includes Mercy, Grace, Patience, Loving-Kindness, Truth, Forgiveness, and Justice.  Justice is found in the phrase: “by no means clear the guilty.” Man gives glory to God by surrendering his life to the control of God’s Spirit—“Christ in you, the hope of glory.⁷”

The Holy Spirit can develop in the submissive individual a character compared to pure gold. Man must choose to surrender the will totally to God. God does not force obedience.  The surrender of the will is a large part of the work God has given man to do for his salvation.  One verse expresses this very dramatically:  “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.⁸”   The only work we can do is to surrender the will to the control of God’s Spirit.  This takes an effort on our part.  We must pray and hide God’s Word in our hearts that we will not sin against Him.

A further example of the importance of the will in character development is seen in these two texts:  “Do you not know that your body is the temple—the very sanctuary—of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a gift] from God?  You are not your own, You were bought for a price—purchased with a preciousness and paid for, made His own. So then, honor God and bring glory to Him in your body.⁹” And, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.¹⁰”

It is very evident that proper care for the body is extremely important to proper character development.  We honor God, or give glory to Him, by healthful living; in fact, we can see that we are admonished to do so.  Also, a healthy body makes for a strong penetrating mind, able to comprehend divine truth.  “Give glory to Him” is a request from God that each true Christian will determine to obey.  It requires a balance of the physical, mental, and spiritual powers to aid in the development of a beautiful character.  The development of a lovely character comes by allowing God to control the life.  The transformation of a life from ugly and evil to kind and beautiful reveals God’s power and brings glory to Him. In reality the phrase “give glory to Him” means that the character of God is revealed through man.

Point Number Four

“The hour of His judgment has come”

God’s true people will believe and teach that “the hour of God’s judgment has come.” This point is found in Verse 7 of Revelation 14: THE HOUR OF HIS JUDGMENT HAS COME.”  The Amplified Version puts it this way: The hour of His judgment has arrived.”

The Apostle Paul in his day taught that the judgment was still in the future.  During the closing hours of earth’s history, the people who belong to God’s true fold will come to know and understand that God’s judgment hour has begun.  They will be teaching that the solemn hour has arrived.  An in-depth study of the judgment is necessary in order to understand the urgency of this particular message and we shall cover this subject in a later chapter.

These subjects point to the Seventh-day Adventist Church as the only true church of God; it is the only denomination teaching this subject.  As clear as this subject is in the Bible why should this be true?  God has reserved this subject for His true church, for the last of the seven churches of Revelation is called the Laodicean Church and the word Laodicean means “a judging of the people.”  Most denominations teach that all will eventually face the judgment bar of God.  The only church that teaches that we are now living in the judgment hour is the only one that fulfills this prophecy.  It is evident that God only allows one church, the last true church, to teach this doctrine.

Point Number Five

Creation

God’s true followers will teach that God created the world and everything in it.  The last part of Verse 7 of Revelation 14 makes this point:  “And worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.¹¹”

Although evolution is only a hypothesis, it is taught as a fact.  The teaching that the entire universe, including this world with all life, came about by accident is the teaching and belief of many people.  The Bible teaches that God created the heaven and the earth.  This truth should be believed and taught by all Christians.  Some Christian groups attempt to combine the teaching of creation and evolution, but these two subjects are not compatible with the truths of the Bible.  Although many questions still remain unanswered, in time God will make them clear to His people.  The true Christian will take God at His word.  God’s true people will believe and teach creation.  They may not be able to explain it, but they believe God.  It takes as much faith, if not more, to believe in the theory of evolution than it does to believe the biblical account of creation.

Point Number Six

“Worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea”

These words come right out of the fourth commandment.  God’s people will honor Him by remembering that which He tells them to remember His holy day:  “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.  Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God.  In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates.  For in six days the LORD made the heavens and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.¹²”  Revelation 14:7 calls man’s attention back to the fourth commandment.  It even uses some of the very same language used in the commandment.  It tells man to remember to worship the true God.  Notice the similar language of Revelation and that of the fourth commandment.  The LORD “made the heavens and earth, the sea,”  This sixth point calls mankind to worship the true God; the God identified in the fourth commandment.  The only true God is the Creator God.

The account of creation is found in Genesis 1 and 2.  After creating the world and everything in it, including man, the Lord told man to remember the memorial of His creation, His holy day.

Point Number Seven

The Fall of Babylon

The seventh point is found in the eighth verse of the fourteenth chapter of Revelation.  “And another angel followed, saying, `Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.’”  A part of God’s last message is to call men and women out of Babylon by pointing out the fact that Babylon is fallen.  It is important to find out what Babylon represents symbolically, and what is meant by her fall.  In Bible prophecy, a woman is a symbol of a church, good or bad.  A city is also a symbol of a church, good or bad. Usually a city is also called a “she.” Jerusalem and Zion both represent God’s true people, His church. Many texts verify this symbolism: Thus says the LORD: “I will return to Zion, And dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. Jerusalem shall be called a CITY OF TRUTH, The Mountain of the LORD of hosts, The Holy Mountain.¹³” Awake, awake, put on your strength, O Zion; put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city.¹⁴”

These verses speak about God’s people, His church.  Notice they refer to His people as “Zion,” “Jerusalem,” “city of truth,” and “Holy Mountain.” All these terms are symbolic representations of God’s people. The presentation of God’s people being clothed with a beautiful garment, has had an application throughout the centuries, but its complete and final fulfillment is to take place in the closing days of this world’s history just before Jesus comes.  When God’s true people put on the beautiful robe of Christ’s righteousness, they then will be prepared to give God’s last message to the world.  This last message will successfully call God’s true people out of Babylon.  Those who respond will join God’s true fold.  Then the last part of this verse will see its fulfillment.  Those who come out of the world and out of apostate religions will be the pure ones, the purified people. As the verse says:  “The uncircumcised and defiled will not enter you again. ¹⁵”

God’s people, His “City of Truth,” will all be symbolically pure, circumcised.  Circumcision was a symbol of total surrender.  It was also a symbol of salvation:  Circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not of the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.¹⁶”  “And it shall come to pass that whosoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.  For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD has said, among the remnant whom the LORD calls.¹⁷”  Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God will shine forth.¹⁸”  Also: “And say to Zion, “YOU ARE MY PEOPLE.¹⁹”  And, I have likened the daughter of Zion To a lovely and delicate woman.^20”

Also in the New Testament a woman is the symbol of God’s true people, His fold, His last true church.  On the other hand, in the book of Revelation an impure woman represents an impure church.

Point Number Eight

The Mark of the Beast

God’s true people will teach the truth about “the mark of the beast.”  They will reveal who the beast is and identify its mark.  A beast represents a nation or a religious power.  At times it is also symbolic of a religiopolitical power:  “Those great beasts, which are four, are four kings (kingdoms in some versions) which arise out of the earth.²¹”  All through history nations have used beasts to symbolize their countries. This practice is still used today.  A lion stands for Great Britain. A buffalo or eagle stands for the United States.  The bear is a symbol used by Russia.

Most symbols have a negative application, as well as a positive one.  For instance, a beast may be a destructive force or power:  I will meet them like a bear deprived of her cubs; I will tear open their rib cage, And there I will devour them like a lion.  The wild beast shall tear them.²²”

The devil is referred to as a “lion,” a beast of prey.²³  He is the power against the truth of God.  A beast, then, can be a civil or a religious power.  There are a number of beasts introduced in the book of Revelation.  Most of them symbolize a religious power, good or bad.  For instance, the beast of Revelation 13 forces people to worship.  Most of the beasts of Revelation are of the type pictured in this verse.  Their leader is the one who is called the “destroyer,” Satan.  These beasts attempt to destroy God’s truth and His people.

On the other hand, a beast may represent a power for good.  Jesus is called “the Lion of the tribe of Judah.24^”  This verse has reference to Christ as the church’s complete spiritual strength and power.

The fourteenth chapter of Revelation is a prophecy pertaining to spiritual values and issues. The beast that is mentioned in this chapter is a religio-political power.  It is a power looked to as the world’s leading authority in religious matters. It claims to be Christian, but when its spirit and teachings are examined in the light of God’s Word, it is found to be anti-Christ.  It is the power which shall bind together all of Babylon, all false systems of worship.  The true people of God will not hesitate to identify the beast and his image.  They will disclose what it means to receive the mark in the forehead or in the hand.

Point Number Nine

To obey the Ten Commandments

God’s people will teach all of His commandments and put them into practice in their lives:  Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God.²⁵”  They will understand and know the importance of the phrase, “keep the commandments.”

The word “saint” is translated from the Greek word “haglos,” which means “pure, sacred, holy or consecrated.” So, the fourteenth chapter of Revelation refers to God’s true people, His consecrated ones.  They will, by God’s power, keep the commandments.  The Bible says men are saved by grace: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.²⁶” The subjects of law and grace are extremely important to salvation.  How we understand these subjects has a great deal to do with our concept of the gospel.

One must know the various ways “law” is used in the Bible.  The law, the law of Moses, the Law of the Lord, the Book of the Law, and the book of Moses are all regarded as a single literary work.  The Hebrew word “Torah” is a designation of any of the above terms concerning the Law.  When the word “law” is used, it is usually translated from the Hebrew word “Torah,” or the Greek word “Nomos” in the New Testament.  Both words mean the same.  Torah comes from the root Hebrew word “yarah,” meaning to point out, show, direct, or teach.  “Torah,” therefore, denotes direction, instruction, law, or teaching.  In a general sense, the term “law” refers to all of God’s revealed will.  There are a few places in the New Testament that the word “law” means the entire Old Testament.  The first five books of the Bible are called “the law” and are known as the “Pentateuch,” meaning five-volume, from the word “penta” meaning five. (Remember that the number “five” means humanity, for man’s benefit.  So the law is for man’s guidance and benefit.)  The term “law” has been used by Christian writers from the second century on when referring to the Mosaic code in the Pentateuch.  At times “law” refers to regulations governing the sacrificial system.  This is a division of the “Law of Moses.” Other divisions of that code are the health laws, as well as the civil and criminal laws, which governed Israel.  The word “law” also has reference to the Moral Law or Decalogue summarized in the Ten Commandments.

It is true that there is no law that can save a sinner.  Neither can a person be justified or made righteous by a law.  The purpose of the law is to reveal sin.  Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight, for BY THE LAW IS THE KNOWLEDGE OF SIN.²⁷”

Revelation 14:12 reveals that God’s true people will teach, preach, and keep the commandments.  This is not a contradiction.  A person’s grit or determination does not produce obedience to God’s Law.  It takes a power, which comes from God and brings the love of God into the heart to keep God’s law.  All true love comes from God. “God is love.²⁸” Genuine love will always produce obedience.  Love is evidenced by obedience.  Jesus said,  “If you love Me, keep my commandments.²⁹”  Here God defines love as obedience:  “For our love for God means that we obey his commands. And his commands are not too hard for us.³⁰”  The commandments are not too hard for one whose life is controlled by God’s love.  The Ten Commandments are the only part of divine revelation given directly by God Himself.  The Scriptures reveal that the Law was “written with the finger of God.³¹”  Obedience to all God’s commands is not only evidence of love, but has always been the distinguishing mark which has separated the followers of the true God from all those engaging in false worship.

Point Number Ten

The Spirit of Prophecy

Point number ten is found in Revelation 14:12. The whole verse reads as follows:  Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”  Point ten is found in the last phrase of this verse.  It reads: “and the faith of Jesus.”  Jesus is often referred to as the “Lord Jesus Christ.” The name “Jesus” is His human name.  The name means a “savior,” a human savior.  The word “Christ” is the same as the Hebrew word “Messiah.”  It is the name indicating the divinity of our Lord.  The name Messiah, too, means “savior, the anointed one to save.”  Only the Son of God could save man.  To save man He stepped from the throne of the universe and took upon Himself the form of humanity.  The record reveals that as a human He lived a perfect life and He lived that life entirely by faith.  We must understand the basis of His faith.

We are told that faith is a gift from God.  Human beings may have the “faith of Jesus:”  But the Scripture says that the whole world is under the power of sin, and so the gift that is promised based on faith in Jesus Christ is given to those who believe.³²  And we read:  “Now the just shall live by faith.³³”  Man is offered the same kind of faith Jesus had.  What kind of faith did He have?  How did He acquire it?  “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.³⁴”

Jesus was born into the human race.  He was the Son of God, but He also became the Son of Man.  He received faith in the same way every other child of God receives faith.  Faith comes from the Word of God.  Bible prophecy is the primary source for acquiring faith:  “We also have the prophetic word made more sure, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.³⁵”  Jesus studied and learned the Scriptures, especially the prophecies, from the time that He was a child, and when He was twelve years old, Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to take part in the special services in the temple.  And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast.³⁶”  Thinking Jesus was with some of the relatives, his parents left him behind.  When He was missed, Mary and Joseph went back to Jerusalem to look for Him and found Him in the Temple.  “Now so it was that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.   And all who heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.³⁷”

Everyone who heard Jesus was amazed at His powerful teaching, for we are told: “No man ever spoke like this man!”³⁸

When the Bible speaks of “the faith of Jesus,” it is referring to the great faith He developed studying the Old Testament scrolls.  Remember He became one of us, He was born into the human family.  He had to learn from the Old Testament His mission and He learned it well.  For on the road to Emmaus with two believers we are told:  “And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.”³⁹  God’s people in the last days are to have the same faith Jesus had.  The phrase “testimony of Jesus” is synonymous with “the faith of Jesus.”  For Jesus developed His “faith” as He studied the Old Testament, the “testimony.”  The inspired Word of God is “the testimony.”  The word “testimony” comes from a Greek word, which means “evidence.”  The book of Hebrews uses the word “evidence” in describing faith.  “Now faith is the evidence of things not seen.⁴⁰”  And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST.⁴¹”  This verse refers to God’s true people just before Jesus comes.  The word “dragon” is another word for the Devil: “And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil.”⁴²  The word “wroth” is an old English word which means “angry.”  Remember the word “woman” is symbolic of the church.  The word “remnant” means “last.”  If a person buys a “remnant” piece of cloth or carpet he gets the last of the bolt or ream.  With the symbolism understood, the verse reads:  “The Devil was angry with the church and went to make war with the last of them, the ones who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.”  The true people of God will not only keep the commandments of God, but they will also “have the testimony of Jesus” or “the faith of Jesus.”  The meaning of testimony of Jesus is found in Revelation 19:10, “the testimony of Jesus is THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY.” The word “SPIRIT” here means “from God” or “God breathed.”  All true prophecy comes from God through man: “For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.⁴³”

It is evident that God’s last true church will have the “faith of Jesus” or the “testimony of Jesus,” which is the “spirit of prophecy.”  The spirit of prophecy is one of the gifts from God to man.  Many texts refer to the gift of prophecy.  “Now concerning the spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another PROPHECY.⁴⁴” Another is, Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith.⁴⁵”

In the love chapter (1 Corinthians 13) Paul speaks of the gift of prophecy:  Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.⁴⁶”  This is a very important prophecy, for it says that the testimony of Jesus is confirmed in them; those who are waiting for Jesus to come, will “come behind in no gift.”  Remember two things: First, the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Revelation 19:10.

Second, prophecy is one of the spiritual gifts.  Only four or five groups who call themselves Christian claim to have the gift of prophecy.  We will cover this subject in more detail in a later chapter.

Point Number Eleven

What happens at death?

“Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me,  “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’”  “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them. ⁴⁷”

God’s true people will teach the truth concerning death.  Are the dead really dead, or is death life in another form?  In the Bible record we find that death came to this world as a result of sin. God created this earth with all its beauty; then He created man and gave him this world as his abode.  God Himself prepared a special place, a beautiful garden home, on this earth for Adam and Eve.  This home was called the “Garden of Eden.” Adam and Eve were no doubt told about the fall of Lucifer.  They were also told that he would attempt to try to cause them to disobey their Creator.  The choice was up to them; they were free moral agents.  The only place on earth where Satan had access to them was at the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God warned Adam and Eve of the danger surrounding this tree.  God asked them not to eat of this tree, for it was a test of their obedience.  “But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.⁴⁸”

At the tree Satan conversed with Eve through the serpent.  Satan asked Eve:  Did God really say, “You must not eat from any tree in the garden”? The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, `you must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.⁴⁹’”  Then Satan’s lie is recorded:  And the serpent said to the woman, “You shall not surely die.⁵⁰”

Satan is still repeating this falsehood.  He even uses ministers of the gospel to teach this most pernicious lie.  Many teach that all men live forever, either in heaven or hell; no one really ever dies.  But the Bible teaches two deaths: the first death comes as the result of sin. This first death is called a “sleep” in Scripture. Jesus said:  Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.⁵¹”

The second death comes to all that reject the gift of eternal life offered by God.  “And the day which is coming shall burn them up, says the LORD of hosts, That will leave them neither root nor branch.⁵²”  The second death is referred to in the Bible as “eternal death:” For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.⁵³”  If man really never dies, then he has eternal life from the moment he is born.  Most people have closed minds on this subject.  In order to understand truth, one must keep an open mind.  We must never be afraid to learn truth, for truth comes from God.

“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.⁵⁴”  The Scriptures plainly teach that man is mortal, subject to death.  They also teach that immortality is a gift from God given to all that accept salvation.  God “alone has immortality.⁵⁵”

The record in the book of Genesis tells us that God formed man from the elements of the earth. After the Lord fashioned Adam He gave him life:  “And the LORD GOD formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.⁵⁶”

The combination of the created body and the breath of life made Adam a living soul (being).  Adam had no knowledge before he received the breath of life from God.  When the breath of life leaves a person, he is just like Adam was before God breathed life into him; he is a dead soul: “Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, And the spirit will return to God who gave it.⁵⁷”  In the Today’s English Version of the Bible this truth is stated even more clearly.  Our bodies will return to the dust of the earth, and the breath of life will go back to God, who gave it to us.  There is no question as to what happens to a person when he dies.  A “living soul” takes the combination of the body with its mind and the breath of life, or spark of life, from God.

It is very important that this subject is well understood.  This is the subject Satan uses to work his most powerful deception.  God’s true people will understand and teach the truth on this subject.

Point Number Twelve

The Second Coming

”And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and on the cloud One sat like the Son of Man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle.⁵⁸”

The symbolic language of this verse is evident.  Even though it is in symbolic language, most Christians know that this verse pictures the Second Coming of the Christ. God’s true people will teach the truth concerning this subject.  Revelation 14:14 has some interesting symbols to consider. “White” means “pure” or “free from sin.”  The main meaning of “cloud” is the “humanity of our Lord.”  Christ covered His divinity with humanity:  He spread a cloud for a covering, And fire to give light in the night.⁵⁹” And: You have covered Yourself with a cloud.⁶⁰”  Jesus was human and divine, and He was clothed with humanity.  Other texts tell us that the Lord is clothed with a cloud. Revelation 14:14 says that He sat upon the cloud.  A double use of a symbol is not uncommon.  Remember the Lord Jesus was given to the human race for all eternity.  His divinity no longer covers His humanity, but both are combined.  He now sits or reigns because of His victory as a human.  Because of His humanity, He is now our Elder Brother.  He is the King of Kings who sits upon the throne forever.  The verse says “one like the Son of man;” in other words, John is saying, “it looks like Jesus.”  The Phillips version says, “someone sitting upon the cloud with the appearance of a man.”  It is the same Jesus that John walked with here on earth.  The golden crown indicates that because of His love, He offers us life: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.⁶¹”

The crown is a symbol of eternal life: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you a crown of life.⁶²”  The sickle is a symbol of the harvest: Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe.⁶³

The harvest is the end of the world.  The book of Revelation reveals that Jesus is coming soon to reap the harvest of this world.

Notes

Chapter – 19

• Jo 15:13; 2- Mat 24:37 NIV; 3- Jo 10:16; 4- Acts 4:12 AV; 5- 1Jo 4:16;; 6- Acts 10:34 KJV; 7- Col 1:27; 8- Phil 2:12; 9- 1Cor 6:19, 20 AV; 10- 1Cor 10:31; 11- Rev 14:7; 12- Ex 20:8-11; 13- Zec 8:3; 14- Isa 52:1 AV; 15- Isa 52:1 NIV; 16- Rom 2:27; 17- Joel 2:32; 18- Ps 50:2; 19- Isa 51:16; 20- Jer 6:2; 21- Dan 7:17; 22- Hosea 13:8; 23- 1Peter 5:8; 24- Rev 5:5; 25- Rev 14:12; 26- Eph 2:8; 27- Rom 3:20; 28- 1Jo 4:8; 29- Jo 14:15; 30- 1Jo 5:3 TEV; 31- Ex 31:18; 32- Gal 3:22 TEV; 33- Heb 10:38; 34- Rom 10:17; 35- 2Peter 1:19; 36- Lk 2;42; 37- Lk 2:46, 47; 38- Jo 7:46; 39- Lk 24:27; 40- Heb 11:1; 41- Rev 12:17 KJV; 42- Rev 20:2; 43- 2Peter 1:21; 44- 1Cor 12:1, 8, 10; 45- Rom 12:6; 46- 1Cor 1:6,7,KJV; 47- Rev 14:13; 48- Gen 2:17; 49- Gen 3:1, 2, NIV; 50-Gen 3:4; 51- Jo 11:11; 52- Rom 6:23; 53- Mal 4:1; 54- 1Tim 1:17; 55- 1Tim 6:16; 56- Gen 2:7; 57- Eccl 12:7; 58- Rev 14:14; 59- Ps 105:39; 60- Lam 3:44; 61- Jo 3:16; 62- Rev 2:10; 63- Joel 3:13.

“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.”

Every intelligent person knows something is radically wrong with this world, with the human race.  The earth is filled with diseased bodies, feeble minds, and corruption of every imaginable type. The basic culprit for all man’s misery is sin. Science offers no remedy.  Medicine, politics, education, and all the combined specialized wisdom of men are powerless. Disaster stares men in the face. Many believe that without aid from outside this planet, all mankind is doomed. Learned men freely admit that the clock of time is just minutes to midnight.

However, men need not be pessimistic, for help has been found. Assistance comes from another world.  The ultimate solution to every problem facing human beings is available now!  God is the answer!

HOW DID SIN ORIGINATE?

Every person is acquainted with both good and evil. We know sin is here and that it is an enemy of mankind.  Where did it come from?  The only explanation for the origin of evil is found in the Bible:  “Whoever commits sin is a child of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning.”¹

Before sin Satan was called Lucifer.  The name means “brightness of morning” or “Morning-star.”  God had created Lucifer as a perfect and beautiful angel:  “You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, till iniquity was found in you.”²

All intelligent beings created by God were given the power of choice.  Lucifer chose to rebel against God and His government.  Man has not been told the details of Lucifer’s rebellion and fall, but we do know that pride was the cause of his downfall.

Ever since Lucifer made a devil of himself, he has been an enemy of truth.  His efforts have been concentrated against those who respond to the Holy Spirit of God. Those who reject the Spirit of God become children of the devil:  “You are of your father the Devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him.  When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”³

After Lucifer’s fall he brought sin into this world.  Adam and Eve had been given dominion over this world and all life upon it.4  When Adam sinned, he was no longer the prince of this earth.  He sold out to Satan.  The devil became not only the prince, but also “the god of this world.”⁵  At the cross Jesus became the second Adam.  He bought back the dominion of this world by the sacrifice of Himself.  The prophet Micah, speaking of Christ, says: “The former dominion will be restored to you.”⁶  This verse further says that Jesus will be the King of His people, His church.

The plan of salvation was not an afterthought.⁷  God formulated it before this world was created, long before sin entered the universe.  It is called “the mystery which was kept secret since the world began.”⁸  God made provision to meet sin even though the price would cost heaven its Commander.  The thought of the death of the Prince of heaven filled the universe with sadness.  The prophet Isaiah foretold this fact: “O Lord, be gracious to us; we have waited for You. Be the arm of Your servants–their strength and defense–every morning, our salvation in the time of trouble. At the noise of the tumult the people flee; at the lifting up of Yourself nations are scattered.  Behold, their valiant ones cry without; the ambassadors of peace weep bitterly.”⁹

The sacrifice of Christ was a painful experience for God, for “God is love.”¹⁰. We could believe that an angel would offer his life to save man.  But an angel could not take man’s place.  An angel or a human being could only die for one person.  Only the Creator could die for all.  The one who gave life to all would be the only one who could die for all.  Only His life was equal to all.  Only one equal with God could atone for transgress-ion. Christ would take the guilt of sin and shame upon Himself.  God devised this plan because of His great love:  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”¹¹

A very fine artist was engaged to paint a large picture of the crucifixion of Christ. The painting was to convey the transforming power of the gospel.  One day while in the market place the artist happened upon a gypsy girl who, he thought, would make an excellent model for another picture he was painting.  Arrangements were made for her to come to his studio; she arrived at the appointed time.  As she gazed around the room she was fascinated with his beautiful work.  Then she noticed the unfin-ished painting of the crucifixion.  “Who is that?” she asked as she pointed to the portrait.

The artist casually answered, “The Christ.”

“What are they doing to Him?”

“He is being crucified, nailed to a cross,” the artist exclaimed.

“Who are all those men around him with the mean faces?” The artist told her to be quiet for he was becoming irritated with all her questions. But she continued to bombard him with questions. “Why did they crucify him? Was he a very bad man?”

“No. He was very good.”

“If He was good, why did they do this to Him?”

“Sit down, my child, and listen. I will tell you the story.” He told her the story with very little feeling.

The girl’s eyes filled with tears.  “You must love Him very much since He has done so much for you,” she said. The man’s face flushed, and after the young girl left, her words kept ringing in his ears.  Finally, when he could stand it no more, he left his studio to buy a copy of the Bible. He came back and began to read the glorious story of God’s great love.  The details of the life and death of Jesus filled his mind and then his heart. “The girl was right, He did it for me!” he whispered. He then fell to his knees in prayer, and that very moment accepted Christ as his personal Savior.

The goal of the plan of salvation is to end sin and to restore man to the princely rank God intended for him.  This earth and everything in it were made to serve man and to belong to him. God designed man’s special home, a beautiful garden, and a paradise without sin or death.  Adam and Eve and their descendants were to live in complete happiness in a perfect environment.  They were to be a part of the family of God and live forever in joy and peace.

Adam and Eve had sinned, for they had broken God’s Law – “Sin is a breaking of the law.”¹²   Because God’s Law, the foundation of His government, had been broken, the penalty for breaking that Law was death! “The wages of sin is death.”¹³  God’s Law could not be set aside. It is a Law of love, a reflection of God’s character, and since God’s char-acter does not change, His Law cannot change.  God said:  “I the Lord do not change.”¹⁴ God also tells man:  “I will not change what went forth from My lips.”¹⁵

If the Law could have been changed or abrogated, Christ would not have needed to die.  God’s government is based on love.  God will not change His Law, for it reflects His love; it is a transcript of His character.

God had told Adam and Eve not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.  It was a test of their loyalty and their obedience to God’s word.  God said, “in the day you eat of it you shall surely die.”  (Genesis 2:17). Like every human being Adam and Eve were physical, mental, and spiritual and as soon as they sinned they died spiritually.  They did not die that day physically and mentally because God gave them the promise that the Messiah would come and die for them, in their stead.  The plan of salvation that was formulated ages before was enacted the day Adam sinned. Our first parents were told that their Creator would be offered in their place.  Adam was no doubt instructed with regard to the entire plan of salvation, to its enactment, and to its operation.  Surely he was told how to conduct devotional services, including the building of an altar and the sacrificing of a lamb.  The sacrificial lamb pointed forward to the Messiah, the Savior, who would come. Thus, to offer a lamb was man’s act con-firming his belief in the promise that Christ would come and die for his sins.  Christ was “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”¹⁶

A very impressive story is found in the twenty-second chapter of Genesis.  God instructed Abraham to offer his only promised son, Isaac, as an offering upon an altar.  This was an experience Abraham would never forget.  On the way up the Mount, Isaac asked his father, “Where is the lamb for the sacrifice?”  Abraham answered,  “My son, God will provide Himself the lamb for the burnt-offering.”¹⁷

When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it.  He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood.  Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son.  But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!”

“Here I am,” he replied.

“Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him.  Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.”  Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns.  He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son.¹⁸

Abraham met the test.  The prophetic words he had spoken to Isaac came to pass.  The words Abraham had spoken to his son now had greater meaning to him.  Abraham saw and understood God’s love that day in providing “Himself the Lamb.”  God has given us this record to help us have a better understanding of what God went through when Jesus died on the cross.

This test took tremendous faith and trust on the part of Abraham.  Isaac, too, not only needed great confidence in his father Abraham, but also in God.  Isaac, a strong young man, allowed his father to bind him.  After Abraham had placed Isaac upon the altar, he took a knife to cut his son’s throat, for that was the way a lamb was killed.  Regardless of how it was done, it was not only difficult; it was also a most bitter experience for the elderly patriarch.  That day was the most awesome of Abraham’s life.  The child of his old age was more precious than life to this father.

This story is also recorded to aid us in understanding what we speak of as “faith and works.”  Many fail to understand the relationship between faith and works.  One popular erroneous teaching is only believe in Christ and you are safe.  But genuine faith is demonstrated by obed-ience.  Abraham’s faith was revealed by his works, his obedience to God’s explicit command.  His works did not save him, but they did reveal that he had accepted salvation.

Every intelligent being was created with the freedom to choose obedience or disobedience.  This fact likewise reveals God’s great love.  In His foreknowledge God knew that sin would eventually enter the universe.  Satan accused God before the intelligent beings of the universe, claiming that God was unfair because His Law restricted their freedom and liberty.

God’s plan to save man, when enacted, would reveal God’s character, His love.  The plan would also reveal to the entire universe that Satan’s claims were false, and that there was no justification to his charge that God is unjust.

When Jesus came to this world He lived a sinless life as a human.  He came to be a servant to man.  When the sinless Son of God became the Son of Man, He bore man’s sins and exonerated God’s name before the universe.

Even though the plan of salvation is plainly revealed in the Scriptures, many errors, such as the ones pointed out by this book, are being taught.  But God’s true people will understand, for the Lord will guide them by His Spirit.

The basic essential prerequisites necessary to save mankind are: the incarnation of Christ, His exemplary life, His substitutional death, His resurrection, His ascension, His mediatorial work on man’s behalf, and His Second Coming.  After His ascension Jesus left man with the complete ministry of the Holy Spirit so that every individual who responds to the influence of the Spirit will be led to the foot of the cross.

Peter portrays Christ’s substitutional death in these words: “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.”¹⁹

The plan of salvation is made possible only through the blood of Christ. Salvation is not only a gift, but it is a gift that has been available to all people whether they lived before or after the cross.  The bleeding lamb of the Old Testament, offered on the altar, was the promise that the Messiah would come.  The cross was the dramatic conclusion of the sacrificial system.  The Messiah’s coming to this earth to save mankind revealed the great love of God for humanity.

If man would only take time for reflection, time to contemplate God’s love man’s heart would feel the drawing power of that love.  Man cannot make himself worthy to come to God; he must come as he is.  He must come without delay when the Spirit calls.  Man’s active response to divine love is the first step towards salvation.  A genuine spiritual desire felt by an individual is a call from God to accept this gift of love.

During the civil war in Spain one of the young fighter pilots was shot down.  He was able to bail out safely, but he was captured and put in the guardhouse.  He was tried for treason and sentenced to die before a firing squad.

The young man’s father heard of his son’s capture and pending death penalty.  The father made his way to the city where his boy was in prison awaiting execution.  The loving father made appeal after appeal before various government officials, but to no avail.

The kind man had visited the son daily.  As a result of the frequent visits the father and the captain of the prison had become friends.  Time and time again the man pled with the captain to allow him to take his son’s place.  Again and again the captain had turned him down.  Just a day before the execution was to take place the desperate father made his last and strongest plea.  With tears he gave the captain all the reasons why he should allow him to take his son’s place. He said,  “I am an old man; my son is young, and his whole life is before him.  He has a wife and a newborn son.  We have exactly the same name, so no one need know.”  The captain agreed to the exchange. He would allow the father to die in the place of his son.

The captain and the man had agreed not to tell the son about the plan.  That night the captain let the young man go with the words: “You are free; you are no longer charged with a crime. Go home to your family, and go tonight!”  However, you can imagine how the young man felt when he found out that his father had died in his place before a firing squad the next morning.  “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”²⁰

Most of us faintly understand a love like this.  This same personal love is found in the Man Christ Jesus. He is One who is “closer than a brother.”²¹  He would have died if only one had accepted His sacrifice.

Before Jesus died on the cross, the sinner who was drawn to God would bring a lamb and enter the court of the sanctuary.  The priest was to tell him that the lamb represented the Messiah who would come and die in his, the sinner’s place.  The person would then confess his sins over the head of the lamb, and the priest would hand him a knife with which the repentant sinner would cut the throat of the submissive lamb.  A deep and lasting impression must have surely been made upon the mind of the violator.  The whole system was to make sin repulsive to the people.  The record contained in the Old Testament, with all its gory details, has been preserved so that man today can picture the results of sin.

Since Jesus, the Lamb of God, has come, man is told that we are to “come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”²²

Man now is to confess his sins directly to God. Yet, we should understand both from the Old and the New Testaments, what sin cost God and what it cost man.  We must remember that Christ has always been, and still is, the center of salvation.

A measure of faith is necessary for salvation.  Faith comes to us as we study God’s word: “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”²³  Jesus praying to the Father, said:  “Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth.”²⁴ 

A study of the Scriptures leads us to truth, and truth builds faith.  Jesus said it also sanctifies the life.  When truth is received into the heart, it transforms the character.  We need a belief strong enough to shape our character, and a good character is the only thing, we can take with us from this world.  To have a character like that of the Master should be our goal.  Such a transformation is possible.  The key to achieving it is found in the Scriptures through the Holy Spirit.  We must look to Jesus, for He is our Example.  As we look to Him in faith, we shall be changed, for, “by beholding we become changed.”²⁵

The Greek word “pisteuo,” usually translated “believe,” has a much broader meaning in the Greek than it has in English.  It includes faith, trust, and confidence.  So, whether a person is literate or illiterate, faith comes from God’s word.  We hear it if we read and study it ourselves, or if we hear it read and discussed by others.  Belief involves more than intellectual recognition.  Belief that leads to salvation calls for involvement.  All saving truth is found in the Bible. Truth and faith continue to grow and develop as we obey God’s word. This process brings sanctification.  “To sanctify” is to become more and more like the divine pattern, more and more like Jesus.  Sanctification is the work of a lifetime.  A true Christian will continue to increase in faith.  He will grow and develop by the power of God as he continues to study, pray, and share his faith.  The Holy Spirit helps and guides in Bible study, prayer, and while sharing our faith.  With His help we will press toward the mark, which the apostle Paul points to as perfection:

There is an outstanding parable of Jesus, concerning the plan of salvation, found in the book of Matthew.  “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”²⁶

Because Mary, Queen of Scots’ life was in danger, she fled England on May 16, 1568.  She took with her a beautiful and valuable string of black pearls, which had been given to her by a very dear friend.

Just a few years later Mary was beheaded. In an attempt to acquire the pearls, Queen Elizabeth I, of England, sent her private agents to find the necklace.  Scotland Yard, officials of the British Museum, and private investigators by the hundreds, attempted without success to locate it, but the whereabouts of those pearls remained a mystery for 350 years.

Lucy and Lavina, two young women from New Haven, Connecticut, USA, spent their vacation one year visiting England.  They decided to go to a little town by the same name as their hometown, New haven, England. While there they happened into a dusty second-hand store owned by Martin Lazenby.

“We would like to buy something as a gift for a friend in America. Do you have something small and cheap?”  Asked Lavina.

After a little time, walking around the cluttered store, Martin noticed a dirty string of beads hanging from a nail on the wall.  He took them down and smiling he handed them to one of the ladies and said, “They’re not much, but they’re small, and I can let you have them for a shilling.”

Lucy looked at them and thought they might have possibilities if cleaned and restored, so she bought them.  The next day while in London she took them to a jeweler who said he would have them ready the next morning.

Arriving back at the jewelers the next day the women were invited into the manager’s office.  There an officer of the British Museum who met them and told them the story of the lost necklace.  “We have found the missing pearls, and I am authorized to give you $25,000.00 for them,” he said.  That was a lot of money fifty years ago.

Just imagine how Mr. Martin Lazenby felt when the news reached him. For many years those dirty beads had been hanging on the wall of his junk shop. He had no idea that he possessed a very valuable treasure.

Millions are making the same mistake today.  They have some-thing within reach that is worth more than all the wealth of this world.  Every person who has a Bible has pearls of great value at his fingertips.  There are many pearls of truth contained in Scripture.  All of the beautiful truths pertaining to salvation are costly and precious pearls.  Jesus, the gift of heaven, is called “the Pearl of great price.”²⁷  He was offered to save you; you may by faith accept Him today.

Notes

Chapter – 20

1- 1Jo 3:8 GT; 2- Eze 28:15; 3- Jo 8:44; 4- Gen 1:26, 27; 5- 2Cor 4:4; 6- Micah 4:8 NIV; 7- Eph 1:4; 8- Rom 16:25; 9- Isa 33:2, 3, 7 AV; 10- 1Jo 4:8; 11- Jo 3:16; 12- 1Jo 3:4 TEV; 13- Rom 6:23; 14- Mal 3:6 NIV; 15- Ps 89:34 NIV; 16- Rev 13:8; 17- Gen 22:8 BV; 18- Gen 22:9-13 NIV; 19- 1Peter 3:18 NIV; 20- Jo 15:13; 21- Prov 18:24; 22- Heb 4:16; 23- Rom 10:17; 24- Jo 17:17; 25- 2Cor 3:18 RSV; 26- Mat 13:45, 46; 27- Mat 13:46.

“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.”

Sacred history records many urgent messages for mankind. Each discourse had an application for the day in which it was given, but most of them also have an application for today and apply with even greater force than when originally presented.  Moreover, some of the messages were especially recorded for Christians living today. Just before the Second Coming of Christ, God sends a solemn warning—the last message of mercy to earth’s millions.  Revelation fourteen contains a synopsis of that message.  The entire human race will hear God’s last appeal. It will go “to every nation, tribe, language and people.”¹  “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all nations, and then the end will come.” ²

Evidence reveals only two Christian groups whose teachings can be heard in every nation today.  The American Bible society, a Protestant organization, reveals (in a pamphlet called “Partners,” printed in 1980) a group with missionaries in almost every country and island on earth.  This group is the Seventh-day Adventists.  The Catholics are also worldwide.

Let us take a close look at what is involved in Christian ministry and the task to cover the earth with God’s last message.  The following verses are both messianic prophecy and also prophetic of God’s people, who will be filled with the Holy Spirit, as they give God’s last call:  “I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness, And will hold Your hand; I will keep You and give You as a covenant to the people, As a light to the Gentiles, To open blind eyes, To bring out prisoners from the prison, Those who sit in darkness from the prison house.”³

God promises to walk with the righteous and give them a covenant of love as they share their faith with others.  The amount of righteousness each individual reflects is in proportion to the amount of the love of God that fills the heart.

Symbolically, “Gentiles” are those who do not know Christ and His plan of redemption, but God sends His witnesses to them.  The spiritually blind will rejoice as they see the light from God’s word.  Not only do they receive spiritual sight, but they are also freed from the chains, which have bound them to the prison house of sin.  The work pictured in the text above is the task given to all God’s faithful servants. Just as the Lord spoke to Paul, He speaks to each one:  “I am Jesus, whom you persecute.  But get up and stand on your feet.  I have appeared to you to appoint you as my servant.  You are to tell others what you have seen of Me today and what I will show you in the future.  I will rescue you from the people of Israel and from the Gentiles to whom I will send you.  You are to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to the light and from the power of Satan to God, so that through their faith in me they will have their sins forgiven and receive their place among God’s chosen people.”⁴

It is doubtful that God will strike us with blindness as He did Paul. But this experience was a blessing to Paul, for it was the light of heaven, which blinded him, and when he was made blind, he saw.  Ever after he was a radiant light. The more light he received, the more light he reflected to others.  This point can be emphasized by paraphrasing Paul’s words recorded in 2 Corinthians 4:6.  “God has kindled a flame in my heart to make me a beacon light to the world.” Isaiah presents a further description of those who do the work of God: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, Who proclaims peace, Who brings glad tidings of good things,  Who proclaims  salvation, Who says to Zion,  “Your God reigns!”⁵

Many years ago in West Africa the Christian churches had some very interesting rules.  One rule was that a person could not become a full member of the church until he had introduced another to Jesus.  It was his responsibility to bring to someone else the same hope and joy that he had experienced. Each one was to give evidence of his faith by showing his concern for the spiritual welfare of friends and loved ones.

Dr. Phillips Elliott went to Africa on a tour of duty in the mission field. He told of going to a village with a drummer who called the people to church on a hollowed-out section of a tree.  The words the drummer sent throughout the countryside, were these:  “Stop what you are doing, and come at once to hear the word of God.”  The people came. And each in turn gave the message he had received to others.

God’s people, who believe that the present time is closing time for this earth’s history, realize the urgency of giving the good news now!  The message must fly as pictured in Revelation 14:6: “I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven.”  All God’s true followers will preach the word, if not literally, then, by the example of a godly life.  Every true Christian will bear fruit.

A true story comes to mind of a dedicated Christian woman, Evelyn Jones, who was an invalid. It happened many years ago when milk was delivered to the door in glass bottles.  The empty ones were picked up on the next delivery.  Ms. Jones loved God and had a great burden to share her faith with others.  The question, which constantly occupied her mind was, “How can I?”  She couldn’t go out of the house, even to church. No one but family came to see her.  However, she acted on an idea.  Each day she put a tract that discussed a spiritual subject in the empty milk bottle.  The milkman read each one.  As a result, the young man gave his heart to God.  He went to seminary and became a minister.  God blessed him, and many people responded to the Spirit’s call as a result of his faithful labor.  Before she died faithful Ms. Jones experienced the joy of seeing her former milkman become the conference president of her church organi-zation in the state.

Regardless of how few or how many talents one has, he can do something, for God gives every person his work.⁶  The apostle Paul’s counsel to Timothy applies to all: “Do your best to win full approval in God’s sight, as a worker who is not ashamed of his work, one who correctly teaches the message of God’s truth.”⁷

All who truly love God will share their faith with others.  The truth will burn in their hearts.  They can’t keep it to themselves; they must tell others about their Lord. Led by the Holy Spirit, they will learn not to argue religion, but to share their views with love and kindness.  This type of witnessing is set forth in Scripture:  “A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth.”⁸

A converted maid who was lovingly called, “Aunt Sophie,” used to say that she was called to scrub and preach.  Wherever she went she would tell others about Jesus, her Savior.  She would be seen talking to people in stores and even on the street.  Someone made fun of her by saying that she was seen talking about Christ to a wooden Indian in front of a cigar store. (Years ago they were symbols of what the Indian gave us for taking his land.)  When Sophie heard about this she replied, “Maybe I did.  My eyesight is not so good anymore.  But talking about Christ to a wooden Indian is not half as bad as being a wooden Christian and never talking to anybody about the Lord.”

Today, God’s earnest desire is that the nations among which His people dwell will be drawn to Him. As God’s love, which is His character, is seen in His people, it will draw men into His fold: “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.”⁹  This verse not only foretold the cross, but prophesied the effect that the story of the cross would have on mankind.

A beautiful prophetic promise that was given to the Hebrew people was to be interpreted both literally and spiritually.  This prophecy was to be fulfilled if they totally followed God, but it did not come to pass because of their apostasy.  Nevertheless, this prophecy will be fulfilled symbolically by God’s last true people.  “Then all the nations of earth will see that you are called by the LORD’S name, that you are His people, and they will stand in awe of you. The LORD will grant you an abundance of good things, in the fruit of your body, in the increase of your cattle, and in the produce of your soil, in the land which He has sworn to give you.  The LORD will open for you His rich treasury,  the heavens to give rain  upon your soil in its season,  blessings to rest on all your  enterprises.  You shall lend to many nations while you yourselves borrow from none. The LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be moving ever higher up and never lower down when you obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am enjoining upon you this day, carefully performing them, never turning to the right or to the left, and never following after other gods to worship them.”¹⁰

This prophecy is to be completely fulfilled in this hour of history.  A brief interpretation of the symbolic meaning is as follows:

During the last remnant of time the world’s attention will be focused upon the true people of God.  The world stands in awe of them; many are actually afraid of them because they know they are God’s people.  God promises His children “an abundance of good things,” spirit-ually speaking.  The constant evidence of God’s protection and love and the spiritual blessing received bring them great joy.  The reference to the “fruit of the body” is the promise of families being drawn together in Christ.¹¹  The material blessing in the land of promise refers to life in heaven, the “heavenly Canaan.”  Their dreams of heaven and the city of God continually inspire them.  By their faith in God they know it is all true.  The “rich treasury” is the spiritual gift, the ability to understand the Scriptures.  They will be “led into all truth.”  The “rain in season” is the great final outpouring of the Holy Spirit.  It is the double portion of the Spirit promised to those who stand in the final time of test.  To “lend and not borrow” refers to carrying the gospel message to the world with great power.  That they will be “the head and not the tail” has reference to their superiority in every avenue of life.  Through the power of God, they will develop characters like the character of Jesus.  They neither “turn to the right or the left.”  They are neither too lenient nor too conservative.  They stay in the center of the road.

Isaiah’s prophetic words concerning the influence of God’s people are very impressive: “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”¹²  Note, their message reaches all nations:  “Behold, these shall come from afar; and, lo, these from the north and from the west; and these from the land of Sinim (China).”¹³ Isaiah’s vision here is the gathering of the faithful.

The prophet Isaiah also records that God makes a strong appeal to His sons and daughters throughout the world to witness for Him. The Lord calls them to bring His people into the safe shelter: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘give them up!’ and to the south, ‘do not hold them back.’ Bring my sons from afar, and my daughters from the ends of the earth—everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.”¹⁴

“You are my witnesses, says the LORD, and My servant whom I have chosen, in order that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He.  I ,even I, am the LORD, and beside Me there in no savior … you are My witnesses, says the LORD.”¹⁵

Isaiah’s prophecies describe the close of this world’s history:  “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.”¹⁶

Every ray of light brings with it the duty to witness of that light.  This is the law of sanctification; you are the light of the world.  A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden, and Christian living cannot be hidden.  To neglect this duty is to put in jeopardy our contact with heaven: “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”¹⁷

Those who will not work for Christ will be cut off:  “I am the real vine, and my Father is the gardener.  He breaks off every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and He prunes every branch that does bear fruit, so that it will be clean and bear more fruit.”¹⁸

A great change took place in the lives of the apostles before they set the world on fire with their teaching.  Before they came together in Jerusalem to receive power from God, they were jealous of each other and constantly bickering.  By prayer, unity, and surrender of their wills, the Holy Spirit came upon them.  God’s followers must experience this same change today: “Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” ¹⁹

“Now when the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit.”²⁰

Anyone with the charisma of a pleasing personality can add mem-bers to an organization or church.  But to have “the Lord add to the church daily those who were being saved”²¹ is another story.  Note how the Holy Spirit brought people into the fold by the thousands.  Remember, it was during a time of great prejudice, opposition, and persecution that God’s truth spread like wildfire.  One sermon by Peter added to the church 3000 souls.  Pray for the Holy Spirit to work today.

The greater the persecution, the faster the truth will spread.  When people face a test, decisions are made.  During a time of great trouble and persecution, foretold in Scripture, God may use the mass media and the courts to spread His truth like a whirlwind.

Notice the success of the apostles through the power of the Holy Spirit: “However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.” ²²

“And the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.”²³

He who continually goes forth weeping,

Bearing seed for sowing,

Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing,

Bringing his sheaves with him.24

The Scriptures reveal that the happiest people in the kingdom of God are those who have been effective in bringing others into the fold of Christ:  “For what is our hope or happiness or our victor’s wreath of exultant triumph when we stand in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming? Are not you?  For you are indeed our glory and our joy!”²⁵

“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.”²⁶

God’s people are to follow the example of Jesus.  The very heart of the Lord’s ministry was personal contact with individuals as He presented to them truth.  There are many examples of His one-to-one teaching.  Likewise, His group ministry through evangelism was very productive.  Jesus trained, organized, and sent out the twelve:  Then Jesus said to them again, “peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”²⁷

After His resurrection, but before His ascension, He called the apostles to Him and gave them the great commission:  “Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying,  ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.’”²⁸

Christ’s followers are not only to be witnesses, they are to be loving witnesses.  Abraham Lincoln said, “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.”  To rightly represent Christ, we must be like Christ.  The Scripture says: He “went about doing good.”²⁹

Notes

Chapter – 21

1- Rev 14:6; 2- Mat 24:14; 3- Isa 42:6, 7; 4- Acts 26;15-18 TEV; 5- Isa 52:7; 6- Mk 13:34; 7- 2Tim 2:15 TEV; 8- 2Tim 2:24,25; 9- Jo 12:32; 10- Deut 28:10-14 BV; 11- Rom 7:4 AV; 12- Isa 49:6 NIV; 13- Isa 49:12 AV; 14- Isa 43:5-7 NIV; 15- Isa 43:10-12 BV; 16- Isa 60:1-3 NIV; 17- Mat 5:15,16; 18- Jo 15:1, 2 TEV; 19- Lk 24:49; 20- Acts 2:1, 4; 21- Acts 2:47; 22- Acts 4:4; 23- Acts 6:7; 24- Ps 126:6; 25- 1Thes 2:19, 20 AV; 26- Dan 12:3 NIV; 27- Jo 20:21; 28- Mat 28:18-20; 29- Acts 10:38.

“Saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God, and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea, and springs of water.’”

An English nobleman, Sir Philip Sidney, was fighting against Spain in the Netherlands when he was seriously wounded. He was in great pain and suffering from thirst while lying on the battlefield. A canteen of water was brought to him with only enough for one person. There was another soldier near by who lay dying. “Give it to him,” he said. “He needs it worse than I do.”

This kind man reminds us of Jesus whose thoughts and concerns were for others, even while hanging on the cross, in great pain.  The Lord gave great peace and assurance to the man beside Him when He said, “You will be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).  Even while He was dying, Jesus’ thoughts were for others.  One of His last acts was for His mother’s welfare.  His mother and John were standing near the cross.  He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” And then Jesus said to John, “Behold your mother!”  The record says, “From that hour that disciple took her to his own home.”¹  To think of His mother’s needs, while Jesus was dying in great pain, reveals a heart full of love.  The Holy Spirit offers each child of God the magnificent gift of love.  To love as Jesus loved should be our desire.

Some say that those who teach religion today teach only half the gospel.  They say that when Jesus Christ came to this earth, lived a perfect life as a human being, suffered and died a substitutional death for man, and then offered man the free gift of eternal life, that this is only half the story.  The other half is to make Jesus the Master of our life.  How is this accomplished?  It is accomplished by character development.  God is willing to give man the power, through the Holy Spirit, to develop char-acters like that of his Lord.

The great evangelist, Dwight L. Moody of the nineteenth century, was talking to a Scotsman who, after a wonderful conversion, had slipped back into sin.  “What is my trouble?  Is there no help for me?” he asked the man of God.

Mr. Moody replied, “My friend, the trouble with you is that you have only half the gospel. That Christ died to save you from sin’s penalty is only half the gospel.  The other half is that He has all the power of heaven and earth to give you the victory over sin’s controlling influence.”  We must allow the Spirit of Christ to control our lives.

This is exactly what God’s word tells us:  “But we Christians have no veil over our faces; we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord.  And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him.”²  Notice that this verse says that the true Christian reflects the character (glory) of the Lord through the work of the Holy Spirit in his life.

It has already been discovered that the word “glory” in the Bible usually means or pertains to “character.”  Remember that Moses, when he was with God on Mount Sinai, had asked God to reveal to him His glory.  Moses saw God’s character.³  Although the word “character” is not found in the King James Version of the Bible, the word “glory,” in all its forms, is found over five hundred times.  When you see the word “glory,” think “character”, for that’s what it usually means.  The remaining times it means “splendor.”

The subject of character development is one of the most important subjects taught in Scripture.  Yet it is one of the least understood by Christians today.  One text tells each person to “work out your own sal-vation with fear and trembling.”⁴  It seems that everyone knows that salvation is a free gift; it cannot be earned!  But according to the above text there is a work for man to do.  This work has to do with character development.  It is the greatest work, which God has given us to do.  Accordingly, it should be done with great determination and patience.  But you say, what is this work, if salvation is free?  It is the surrender of the will.  It is opening the heart to the Holy Spirit’s power and control.  It is the surrender of self.  There is no greater battle for man to fight than the battle with self.  But God says man can win this battle: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”⁵  Even the determination to control the will is accomplished by man through the power of God: “For it is God who is at work within you, giving you the will and the power to achieve His purpose.”⁶  Another version of this same text is as follows:  “Because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey His own purpose.”

Jesus puts the idea that the surrender of the will through the power of God is the secret to victory in character development.  Notice the imperative language, “Then He said to them all, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.’”7

The teaching is very clear that becoming a true Christian is to surrender the will to God.  The will is the governing power in man’s nature. The right use of the will is to stand firm for principle; it is to walk as Jesus would walk.  When man gives the Lord his will, the Lord gives man His enabling power.  God lets man choose to be victorious.  When man surrenders his will and accepts God’s enabling power, man has found the key to true Christian living.

God chose to make salvation possible for every person. Jesus Himself said that He would make all the power of heaven available to His people in their struggle for victory over sin:  “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”8

Man must choose to serve God; God will not force us to serve Him and to commit our lives to Him.  Man has two natures, both of which are set out in Paul’s book to the Romans: “To be controlled by human nature results in death; but to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace.”⁹

It is very evident that the will is naturally committed to our own control.  The question is why is the human will so dedicated to selfish desire?  The whole picture is clearly presented in some of the more modern versions of the Bible: “People who are controlled by the physical think of what is physical, and people who are controlled by the spiritual think of what is spiritual.  For to be physically minded means death, but to be spiritually minded means life and peace. For to be physically minded means hostility to God, for it refuses to obey God’s Law, indeed it cannot obey it.  Those who are physical cannot please God.  But you are not physical but spiritual, if God’s Spirit has really taken possession of you; for unless a man has Christ’s spirit, he does not belong to Christ.”¹⁰

God placed within each human being the ability to choose for himself which nature he will allow to rule his life.  Two texts, one from the Old Testament, and one from the New, emphasize that human beings are given this prerogative:  “But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amor-ites, in whose land you are now living, but as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”¹¹  In the New Testament Christ is pictured as knocking at the door of man’s heart:  “Here I stand knocking at the door. If anyone listens to My voice and opens the door, I will be his guest and dine with him, and he with Me.¹²” Revelation 3:20, GT.

After listening to the voice of God and making the choice to serve Him, what is the next step in developing a character like that of Jesus?  The next step is to search the Scriptures to find the truth as it is in Jesus.  It is to follow those teachings and to let the beauty of Jesus be seen in us:  “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”¹³

The fact that Jesus is our mentor and example is clearly given in Scriptures.  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.”¹⁴  “So the Word of God became a human being and lived among us. We saw His glory (the glory like that of the Father’s only Son), full of grace and truth.”¹⁵

The dictionary says character is: “moral excellence and firmness.” It is “a person’s usual qualities or traits.”  But even better, what is char-acter?  The servant of God gives the best definition I have seen.  “If the thoughts are wrong the feelings will be wrong.  The thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character.”¹⁶  When we fix our eyes on Jesus and turn our thoughts to spiritual things we can be transformed, for by beholding we become changed.  As men and women study the Scriptures and see the beauty of truth and the lovely character of Jesus, the  Holy Spirit instills within them a desire to be like Him: “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me.”¹⁷  No matter how beautiful a person appears, or how radiant the personality, or how lovely the character may seem, he or she still needs God’s transforming power, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”¹⁸

It is evident that character is a combination of man’s desires and thoughts.  Man was created with a character like God’s.  However, not only have all sinned, but all have come short of developing a character like God’s.  Only God can transform a character, which has become defective because of sin.  We are told that: “Character building is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings; and never before was its diligent study as important as now.”¹⁹ Why now? It is because we are living in the judgment hour.

A clear path has been prepared and marked out for man to follow. Jesus, the Son of Man, has traveled this path.  He left us a record of His life so men and women can follow in His steps:  “It was to this that God called you, for Christ Himself suffered for you and left you an example, so that you would follow in his steps.  He committed no sin, and no one ever heard a lie come from His lips.”²⁰

The way to be changed is not only to see what kind of life Jesus lived, but also to receive the same power He had in order to live as He lived. This is clearly taught in the following words:  “To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” ²¹

If Jesus lives in us by the power of His Holy Spirit, there is no room for sin.  The attitude of the mind controls a person’s life: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” ²²   How did Jesus control His thoughts?  He controlled the mind through His study and knowledge of the Holy Scriptures and by the power of the Holy Spirit.  When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness He used as His defense the word of God: but He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” ²³ 

The same Word of God and the same Holy Spirit are available to every human being today: “Your word have I hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.” ²⁴

The word of God, called, “the water of life,” has a cleansing effect upon the mind; it can wash away all sin. This cleansing power is pointed out in these words:  “Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her, that He might consecrate her, having cleansed her by the washing of water by the word.”²⁵

Not only is man continually being cleansed as he studies the word, but he is sanctified (made holy) by obeying the truth: “Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth.”²⁶  It has often been said that sancti-fication is the work of a lifetime. Each one should continue to aim to be like Jesus.  Every true Christian will constantly attempt to improve his relationship with God.  And we do not have to do it alone.  Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit to help us.

There are many instructions found in the Bible which some consider as unimportant.  But any instructions that God has given are important.  Anything God asks us to do is for our best and is very impor-tant.  “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.”²⁷

The counsel to care for our bodies is very important.  God gave us wonderful bodies, but many do not take good care of them.  The Bible has a great deal to say about health and the care of the body.

Some teach that the laws of health found in the Old Testament have been done away with.  This, of course, is not true. God says He does not change.  Therefore, He has never changed any of His laws or anything He has ever said.  Not even the laws pertaining to the sacrificial system were changed.  They just terminated at the death of Christ upon the cross.  Because the ceremonial laws pointed forward to the Lord’s death, when He died, they could no longer point forward to that event.  In fact, one text says that the laws of ordinances (laws pertaining to the sacrificial system) were nailed to His cross, taking them out of the way.²⁸  All the rest of God’s Laws are still binding and beneficial to man.

Remember God does not change; and He means what He says!  Anything that God has called unclean (unhealthy) is still unclean today. If anything was harmful to man three thousand years ago, it is probably more harmful today.  The Bible says, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”²⁹ When man eats and drinks to God’s glory, his life is thereby improved physically, mentally, and spiritually, to the point where he begins to reflect God’s character.  The above text forbids doing anything, which may be injurious, or using anything harmful.  It forbids overeating, overworking, and the use of alcohol or drugs.  The first sin involved appetite.  Even today more people fail on this point than on any other.  “The controlling power of appetite will prove the ruin of thousands, when, if they had conquered on this point, they would have had moral power to gain the victory over every other temptation of Satan.  But those who are slaves to appetite will fail in perfecting Christian character.”³⁰  It is very clear to see that victory over appetite is the key to a victorious life.  Each victorious step makes the next step easier.  The test Adam and Eve faced was on appetite, so man today faces the same test.

God wants each one to remain healthy. Notice these inspired words:  “My dear friend, I pray that everything may go well with you and that you may be in good health—as I know you are well in spirit.”³¹  God wants everyone to be prosperous and to live a long life, a life that will be exemplary of Christian living.

If men and women are foolish or very sinful they can die long before they live full lives.  “Do not abound in wickedness, nor play the fool.  Why should you die before your time?”³²

God has given many promises to His people.  Every promise is for those who receive the power of God in their lives, for those who walk like Jesus walked.  True religion will affect a complete balance of the physical, mental, and spiritual powers. But it is true that the blessings of God are needed more in the spiritual realm than in the physical and mental. Re-member the very day  Adam and Eve sinned, they died spiritually, yet they continued to live.  When they sinned they lost their garment of light; they became naked.  Nakedness is still a symbol of sin.  The promise to restore their spiritual life came with the revelation of the plan of salvation.  But it is true that this plan will benefit the whole being.  Even though the development of a beautiful character is a mental choice it is primarily in the spiritual realm.

Notice God’s promise to His last church or people. (Remember, His people have always been called “Jerusalem.”)  “Behold, [in the future restored Jerusalem] I will lay upon it health and healing, and I will cure them and will reveal to them the abundance of peace prosperity, security, stability and truth.”³³

Defects of character are brought about by sins, which are both hereditary and cultivated.  These defects are strengthened and/or instilled in a person from childhood by his training and/or environment.  But regardless of how the defects came, God says He will give man the power to change.  The Bible is filled with stories of men and women who gained the victory over horrible sins.  But remember, we cannot do it by our own determination:  “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard his spots? Then also can you do good who are accustomed and taught, even trained, to do evil.”³⁴

Victory comes to a person only by the power of the gospel of Christ: “for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.”³⁵  If, for example, an individual has a violent temper, he most likely acquired it from his home environment and training.  His father and grandfather may have had one too.  This combination may even make it more ungovernable.  All of the screaming and violence that may accom-pany it can make it almost unbearable for family and friends.  Yet a person with a violent temper may, through the power of God, become as calm and peaceful as a lamb.  Even the beloved apostle John and his brother James were called “sons of thunder,” but they changed completely.  Jesus prom-ises to give peace to those who come to Him. For some, victory may be immediately experienced, but others may struggle for a time.  However, the promise of victory is certain to all that truly believe: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”³⁶

Margie Smith had been a practicing Christian for years, but neither her husband nor her son Bob, had accepted the Lord.  Every year her church held an old fashioned camp meeting not far from their home.  Each year she would attempt to get both her husband and her son to attend with her.  This particular year was no different; she again approached them to come with her, but to no avail. After presenting the invitation to them she started down the hall toward the kitchen, but about halfway she remem-bered something else she wished to say.  She turned around and started back.  Just as she neared the living room she overheard Bob say, “I don’t know why Mother goes to camp meeting every year; it doesn’t seem to do her much good. She comes back just as irritable as when she left.”

This year she had something to take to camp meeting with her.  Bob’s words kept ringing in her ears.

Not long after returning from camp meeting it was time for springhouse cleaning. Both father and son helped her as usual.  They were cleaning in the living room while mother was working in the kitchen.  While dusting the nick-nack shelf, Father accidentally knocked a very valuable vase over, and it came crashing to the floor.  It was Margie’s favorite vase.  Bob said, “You better hide, Dad, here comes Mom!”  When she saw what had happened she just turned around, went into the kitchen, got the broom and dustpan, and came back and cleaned it up without a word.  Bob looked at the father and said, “Camp-meeting must have done Mother a lot of good this year.”

I suggest that one of the main reasons why a time of test and trouble may come upon God’s people, just before Jesus comes, is to aid in character development.  During a time of great test and trial people not only examine them-selves more closely, but also rely more on God for strength.  The seventh chapter of Revelation records the experience of those who receive the seal of God and who will be taken from this earth without seeing death.  The verse points out the purity of character attained by these individuals:  “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”³⁷

This same idea that trials and trouble develop character is also expressed in the following texts:  “Discipline is never pleasant at the time; it is painful; but to those who are trained by it, it afterward yields the peace of character.”³⁸

“It is through Him that, by reason of our faith, we have obtained admission to that place in God’s favor in which we now stand.  So let us exult in our hope of attaining God’s glorious ideal.  And not only that, but let us also exult in our troubles; for we know that trouble develops endurance, and endurance strength of character, and strength of char-acter hope, and that hope never disappoints.  For the love of God has filled our hearts through the Holy Spirit which was given us.”³⁹

Remember that it was the fires of persecution, which spread the gospel to the entire world during the first generation after Christ’s ascen-sion.  Persecution may also help spread the gospel during this last gen-eration.  It may also help transform God’s people to the point where we see our need and allow the love of Jesus to change our lives.  The world needs to see Jesus in His people.

When the biographies of the great men and women are read, it is evident that even the most famous have defects in their characters. We do not find a single perfect example to follow in the world’s Hall of Fame.  There is only one in whom we “find no fault” and that is—Jesus.  To develop a character that will stand the test, each must give God his all.  We must surrender the physical, mental, and spiritual powers to the Spirit’s control.  It is the surrender of the will, together with the power of the Holy Spirit, which develops characters in us so we will be fit for the kingdom of God.

THE HAND THAT WROTE

UPON THE WALL

In ancient times God spoke to men.

He speaks today as He did then.

The message to those men of old,

Should be to us like bricks of gold.

One message that we all should find,

A king of Babylon left behind.

One night while all were having fun,

And laughter came from everyone,

The party stopped quite suddenly;

The king was terrified to see

A finger that pronounced his doom

There in the palace dining room.

Now once again we hear the call;

“A hand is writing on the wall!”

Just like that king we quake with fear;

We realize the end is near;

But we may have a better end.

The hand we see can be our friend.

For that same hand now makes the call,

The hand that wrote upon the wall.

By D. O. Van Buren

Notes

Chapter – 21

Jo 19:26, 27; 2- 2Cor 3:18 LB; 3- Ex 34:6, 7; 4- Phil 2:12; 5- Phil 4:13; 6- Phil 2:13 JBP & TEV; 7- Lk 9:23; 8- 2Peter 1:3 NIV; 9- Rom 8:6 TEV; 10- Rom 8:5-9 GT; 11- Josh 24:15 NIV; 12- Rev 3:20 GT; 13- Jo 14:6; 14- Jo 1:1, 2, 4; 15- Jo 1:14JBP; 16- MYP 92; 17- Jo 12:32 KJV; 18- Rom 3:23; 19- Ed 225;  20- 1PETER 2:21, 22 TEV; 21- Col 1:27 NIV; 22- Phil 2:5; 23- Mat 4:4; 24- Ps 119:11; 25- Eph 5:25, 26 RSV; 26- Jo 17:17; 27- Jo 14:23; 28- Col 2:14; 29- 1Cor 10:31; 30- CD 59; 31- 3Jo 2 TEV; 32- Eccl 7:17 BV; 33- Jer 33:6 AV; 34- Jer 13:23 AV; 35- Rom 1:16; 36- Phil 4:13; 37 Rev 7:14; 38- Heb 12:11 GT; 39- Rom 5:2-5.

“Saying with a loud voice, Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven, and earth, the sea, and springs of water.”

A man and his wife made an appointment with me to talk about representing them in a criminal matter.  Both of them had been indicted by the grand jury on a serious criminal charge.  After hearing their story, I told them that because of a possible conflict I could only represent one of them. I agreed to represent the man, whom I shall call Donald Murray.

After numerous negotiations with the district attorney, it was evident that the case would go to trial.  Twenty years in prison was the best offer made by the State.  I felt that Mr. Murray was innocent, but I thought that his wife was possibly guilty. In this case, I believed that the jury would find them both innocent or both guilty.  If guilty, I thought that they would most likely both go to prison.

The evidence revealed that one was no doubt guilty, but not necessarily both of them.  Neither husband nor wife would testify against the other.  Consequently, the total truth would not be revealed.  The day finally arrived for the trial.  It took the entire day to select a jury and the trial lasted a week.

I could see the terror in my client’s eyes as he listened to the opening statement of the prosecution.  It seemed I could actually feel the conflicting emotions of hope and despair that raced through his mind as he listened to the testimony of each witness as the case proceeded.  At last the time came for the closing appeals.

In the trial of a criminal case, on final argument the prosecuting attorney opens.  Next the defense attorney gives his closing argument, and finally, the prosecution has the last word.  A “not guilty” verdict ends the trial, but if the individual on trial is found guilty, the punishment phase follows.  The defendant chooses to have either the judge or the jury decide the amount of punishment, if convicted.

After the final argument of the prosecution, I presented the argu-ment for the defense.  The jury then retired for deliberation.  They were out for about six hours.  When the jury returned, the foreman stood to inform the court that they had reached a verdict by unanimous decision.

The last breathless moment of the trial had arrived. Mr. Murray’s mind was no doubt flooded with a thousand thoughts during this brief time of suspense.  I know that his paramount question was:  “Will they find me guilty or not guilty?”  Can you imagine what an agonizing ordeal it was for him as the judge began to read the verdict?  No one can fully understand the feeling of terror he experienced as he heard the awful words, “We, the members of the jury, find the defendant guilty as charged!”

Another day of testimony was presented to the jury, on the punishment phase of the trial.  As the jury filed into the courtroom after their deliberations, I stood with the trembling man before the judge to hear his sentence.  It is indeed an awesome experience to stand with a condemned man for sentencing.  It is even more traumatic when you feel there is a strong possibility that he may be innocent, but that to protect his wife he is found guilty.  The words of the judge, as he pronounced a sentence of ten years in prison, caused an awful feeling in my stomach.  If it had such an effect on me, just imagine how it must have affected this young man.

The Bible records a Roman governor’s reaction as he and his wife listened to Paul’s description of an even greater tribunal as it pronounces judgment affecting every human being who has ever lived or will ever live.  “As he (Paul) reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and judgment to come, Felix was terrified. “Go away for now,” he replied, and when I have a more convenient time, I’ll call for you again.”¹

Notice that the text says “the judgment to come.”  Felix was terrified when he heard of a future judgment; in fact the record, says, “He trembled.”  We will see that we live in a far more solemn hour than Felix did, for Scripture teaches that Heaven’s Court is now in session.  We are living in the time of judgment now!  Christ is officiating in the work of judgment this very day.  “Revere God and ascribe to Him glory, for the hour of His judgment has arrived.”²

Every single person on earth is subject to arraignment before the Supreme Court of the universe for “all have sinned.”³  Every person faces the death penalty because of his sins.  “The wages of sin is death.”⁴  Every person will come before the Righteous Judge.  “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.”⁵  An individual will either be condemned, or his sins will be blotted out.  The story of the judgment scene is not recorded to frighten us, but to warn us.  It is forcefully presented so that each one may get a true picture of God’s justice, mercy, and love.  The decisions made before the Bar of God will decide our eternal destiny.  God did not intend that this important work be kept secret.  He foretold that the message proclaiming the arrival of the judg-ment hour would be heard by “every nation, tribe, tongue, and people.”⁶

No matter how thorough an investigation may be, or how well a case is presented in an earthly court, every detail is never exposed.  On the other hand, God’s judgment will be complete; nothing will be kept secret:  “For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether it is good or whether it is evil.”⁷

The gift of life is a God-given privilege. The question is what will we do with this gift?  Will we, under the power of God, develop characters fit for God’s kingdom?  We each must make that decision for ourselves. This world is a proving ground.  Each individual will choose life or death.  The choice we make is for eternity.  No one will escape either this choice or God’s judgment.  Why do we appear before the Judgment seat of Christ?  “We will each receive what we deserve, according to everything we have done, good or bad.”⁸  The judgment determines eternal life or eternal death.

Jesus foretold in parable the judgment day.  The record states: “Jesus spoke to them again in figures, and said,  ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like a king, who gave a wedding banquet for his son.’”⁹  In this symbolic presentation Jesus said the King sent His Son, but those to whom He was sent killed Him.  “Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy.’ Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.”¹⁰  Jesus then foretold that before the wedding, the Second Coming, the King would come to view the guests, those who have accepted His invitation, to see if they were prepared for the wedding.  “But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment. So he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, ‘cast him into outer darkness; For many are called, but few are chosen.’”¹¹ Each one who passes in review before God in the judgment must have on the wedding garment, the righteousness of Christ, and it is a free gift. Anyone who does not have Christ and His righteousness will be “cast into outer darkness,” meaning that he will be judged without Christ and that he will be lost.

A soap manufacturer who was an unbeliever was walking down a city street with a friend who was a pastor.

During their walk the soap manufacturer said, “The gospel you preach doesn’t seem to have done much good. There is still much sin and there are still many sinners in the world.”

They continued on their walk together for a time until they passed a number of dirty children playing in the mud.

“It appears that soap hasn’t done much good in the world,” said the pastor. “There is still a lot of dirt and there are still many dirty people.”

The man was quick to defend his product.

“The soap is all right but it must be used.”

“Exactly,” said the pastor.  “It’s the same with the gospel, it must be applied to the life.”

God wants to give us the power to apply the gospel to the life. He offers us the righteousness of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to walk in His steps and be ready for His judgment.

In order to understand “God’s righteous judgment” one must care-fully consider the judgment scene as recorded in the Bible.  A detailed study of the 2300 day/year prophesy of Daniel 8 and 9 will aid in under-standing that “the judgment hour has arrived.”  God has clearly presented to man all the essential doctrines of salvation.  Many of them are in a beautiful setting of types and symbols, woven throughout the Holy Scriptures.  In the Old Testament sanctuary service Christ and the entire plan of salvation is figuratively presented. The Psalmist records that he could not understand: ”Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood.”¹²  David also writes that he wished to find God:  “So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory.”¹³  Psalm 77:13 plainly state “Your way, O God, is in the sanctuary.” Jesus says: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”¹⁴  A complete picture of Christ, the WAY to salvation, is found in the sanctuary.

The Day of Atonement is found in the Old Testament.  It is called Yom Kippur; it is a solemn Day of Judgment and even today it is still celebrated by devout Jews.  On the Day of Atonement all the sin of the preceding year were disposed of by a ceremonial cleansing of the sanctuary.¹⁵  This day was to the Jews a day of judgment. The literal Day of Atonement was a symbolic representation of the work of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary.¹⁶  The high priest of the Old Testament was a type of Christ and His work in connection with the great judgment day, the day in which we now live.

In Old Testament times when an individual sinned, he was instruc-ted to come into the outer court of the tabernacle and bring with him his sin offering, usually a lamb.  Then he was to confess his sins silently over the head of his lamb transferring his sin to the lamb.  A knife was given him with instructions to cut the animal’s throat.  This gory bloody mess, and sometimes it was a pet lamb, was primarily designed to make sin repulsive.  The priest was supposed to explain the entire symbolic service to the repentant sinner; but unfortunately, the priests neglected this duty until eventually the service became just a form.  This slain lamb pointed forward to the Messiah who was to come to bear man’s sins and to die as a substitute in man’s place.  John the Baptist introduced Jesus by saying,

           “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”¹⁷ 

           “But because of our sins He was wounded, beaten because of the evil we did.

We are healed by the punishment He suffered, made whole by the blows He received.

All of us were like sheep that were lost, each of us going his own way.

But the Lord made the punishment fall on Him, the punishment all of us deserved.

He was treated harshly, but endured it humbly; He never said a word.

Like a lamb about to be slaughtered, like a sheep about to be sheared,  He never said a word.

He was arrested and sentenced and led off to die, and no one cared about His fate.

He was put to death for the sins of our people.

He was placed in a grave with evil men, He was buried with the rich, even though he had never committed a crime or ever told a lie.”¹⁸

While reading the account of the trial and crucifixion of Christ we only vaguely see just how much He suffered.  He suffered more than any other human being who ever walked this earth.  If an artist were to portray His true condition as He hung upon the cross it would be so gruesome it would be difficult to look upon.  One text gives us a faint picture of that terrible scene:  “Many people were shocked when they saw him; he was so disfigured that he hardly looked human.”¹⁹

As you read the New Testament story in the gospels of the cruel way that Christ was treated, you cannot help but realize that the prophecy of Isaiah was totally fulfilled. Jesus was truly “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”²⁰  You will find the account of His sufferings and death for our sins in Matthew 26,27; Mark 14,15; Luke 22,23; John 18,19.

After the lamb was slain, the priest took some of the blood into the sanctuary and sprinkled it on the veil.  Behind this veil was the Most Holy Place containing the Ark of the Covenant. This ark was a symbol of God’s presence, as well as a figure of His throne, and His government.  The ark contained two tables of stone, on which God Himself had written the Ten Commandments.  These Commandments are called “the Royal Law.”²¹ This Law is the foundation of God’s government.  Just as all civilized governments are based on law, so God’s government is based on His Moral Law.

The sprinkling of blood symbolically transferred a man’s sins to the sanctuary. This service was conducted daily throughout the year.  One day a year the high priest was required to engage in a very special work.  He was to figuratively cleanse the sanctuary of all the accumulated sins.  This day was called the Day of Atonement.  Every task, and every detail of his work were highly symbolic:  “In this way he will perform the ritual to purify the Most Holy Place from the uncleanness of the people of Israel and from all their sins.”²²

During this service the people whispered, “The Day of Judgment has come.”  Among the Jews it is still called “Yom Kippur,” meaning the Day of Atonement, or the Day of Judgment.  If any Israelite failed to transfer his sins to the sanctuary before this day, he was cut off from the children of Israel.  Even in figure, this was a very solemn serious day.  How much more solemn and serious is the true Day of Judgment, the day in which we now live!

The revelation that we now live in the Day of Judgment began by a study of the book of Daniel.  Men filled with the Holy Spirit were led to study Daniel’s book.  In accordance with prophecy, the sealed book was opened.  The attention of the religious world was drawn to the subject of the sanctuary.  In the early nineteenth century there came a great religious awakening.  By thousands of voices, men of many different persuasions gave the message, “Prepare to meet your God.”  Or as the TEV puts it: “get ready to face my judgment.”  This revival was heard all over the earth.  Its main thrust was that the judgment hour had come.  The pro-phecies of Daniel were linked together.  Calculations of Daniel’s time prophesies brought men’s minds to 1843-1844 as the time for the judgment to begin:  “And he said to me, ‘For two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.’”²³

Using the Biblical method of defining a day in prophecy (Ezekiel 4:6 says, “a day for a year”), we interpret this period to be 2300 years.  This particular time prophecy is covered in detail in the eighth and ninth chapters of Daniel. This period was to begin with “the command to restore and to build Jerusalem.”²⁴  This command was given by King Artaxerxes late in the year 457 B. C.  Adding 2300 years to 457 BC would bring us to the year 1843-44.  Christ would begin His work of cleansing the sanctuary at the appointed time.  The earthly sanctuary was only a type of the one in heaven, “the true tabernacle which the Lord pitched and not man.”²⁵  Christ would perform His final work for man’s salvation in heaven:  “These men (priests) are serving what is only a pattern or reproduction of things that exist in Heaven.” ²⁶

The sanctuary and its services were so important to the plan of salvation that sixteen chapters of the Bible are used to explain its function.  Moses received details as to how it was to be constructed and what materials were to be used.  The entire book of Leviticus is dedicated to explaining the services of the sanctuary.  The Old Testament sanctuary was a symbolic dramatization of messianic prophecy.  In fact, the sanctu-ary was a visual representation of the entire plan of salvation.  It included the atonement, confession, forgiveness, justification, sanctification, judg-ment, and glorification—it’s all there.  Much of the New Testament is a drama in which type meets anti-type.

The Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary defines “type” as “an image, or model; a person or thing (as in the Old Testament) believed to foreshadow another (as in the New Testament);” and “anti-type” means “of the same kind but situated opposite.”

The atonement by blood was the center of the sanctuary service.  The Levitical services, with all its types and symbols, were a shadow of the cross.  The high priest’s work is also prophetic of the Savior’s work as our High Priest in the Heavenly Sanctuary.

The beloved Daniel in an amazing prophecy revealed that God had shown him the time for the first appearance of Christ, as well as the date that the judgment was to begin: “And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.”²⁷

The 2300 days were literal years.  The prophet Ezekiel gives us the key to unlock all prophetic time.  Ezekiel was told to perform a symbolic act for forty days, with each day representing a year.  “I have appointed thee each day for a year.”²⁸  Some of the translators seem to recognize this fact, as seen in the Goodspeed version of Daniel 9:24: “Seventy WEEKS OF YEARS are destined for your people.”

Daniel’s amazing 2300 day-year prophecy is the longest-time prophecy in the Bible.  The prophecy foretells the date of the restoration of the city of Jerusalem, which was lying in ruins in Daniel’s day.  The exact time that the Messiah was to be anointed (baptized) and begin His work, as well as the time of His death, were predicted.  The length of time before the gospel would be taken to the Gentiles, after the Lord’s death, was also foretold.  The beginning of the work of judgment by Jesus, our Great High Priest, begins at the end of this great prophecy.

Daniel reveals the beginning of this time period in these words.  “Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the com-mand to restore and build Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince, there shall be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublesome times.”²⁹

The Persian monarchs issued three decrees to restore the Jews in their homeland. All three are mentioned in the book of Ezra: * (footnote)

This 2300 day-year prophecy is divided into five parts:

(1) The seven weeks, or 49 literal years.  During this time Jerusalem was to be rebuilt, and the city was rebuilt in 408 B. C.

(2) Sixty-two weeks, or 434 more years. This would indicate a period of 434 more years to extend from 457 BC to the Messiah, the Prince, thus making a total of 483 years.

(3) One week, seven years more, adds up to a total of 490 years.

49

434

   7

490 years

This period is also called “seventy weeks.”  Daniel was told that this time would be allotted to the Jewish nation.  This time period would end in 34 A. D.

(4) In the middle of this last week the sacrificial system would come to an end. And it did, by the death of Christ upon the cross.

(5) The remaining time of the 2300 years would be 1810 years. By adding 34 AD to 1810 we find the date of the beginning of the judgment.  Thus, according to the revelation given to Daniel the prophet, the judgment would begin in 1844.

The seventy weeks, or 490 years, of the 2300 allotted to the Jews are set out in the following text: “Seventy weeks are determined for your people and for your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sins, to make reconciliation for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy, and to anoint the Most Holy.”³⁰

“Seventy weeks are determined.”  The word “determined” comes from a Hebrew word meaning, “to cut off,” “to shorten,” or “to take from.”  The seventy weeks of this verse are cut off from the 2300 day-year period of the preceding chapter of Daniel and are assigned particularly to the Jews.  This period of time is said, “to finish the transgression.”  By rejecting and crucifying the Messiah, the Jews’ cup of iniquity was full, and they would no longer be God’s chosen people.  It would be necessary for them to accept the Messiah individually just like everyone else. (See, Matthew 21:38-43; 23:32-38; 27:25).

Abraham had been chosen by God to be the father of a great nation.  God’s promise continued on in Abraham’s family, and his descendants became known as the Hebrew people. Because of apostasy all were excluded except the tribe of Judah and one-half of the tribe of Benjamin.  They have been known since the days of Christ as “Jews.”

__________________

*The record of the three decrees of the Persian monarchs: And they built, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the command of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. Cyrus’s decree pertained to the Temple only.  Darius’s decree ordered that the work already begun be continued.  The decree of Artaxerxes not only restored the government of the Jews, but it also gave authority and full power to Ezra to complete the work.  This decree given in the fall of 457 BC is the one, which the beginning of the great time prophecy.

God gave the reason for choosing Abraham and his family by saying:  “For I know him well, and that he will command his children and his household after him, to keep the ways of the LORD, to do justice and righteousness; for the LORD shall fulfill for Abraham the thing that he has spoken concerning him.”³¹

Through Abraham and his posterity “all the families of the earth would be blessed.”  The Messiah would come through this chosen people.

The phrase “to make an end of sins,” ³² has reference to Christ, and is best explained in the book of Hebrews: “Now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”³³  The end of sin will come through Christ. We now live in the time of the end spoken of in this verse. Not only does Christ appear in the presence of God to plead our case in the judgment, but also He wishes to bring an end to sin in our lives and seal us with everlasting righteousness.

To seal up or bring an end to the vision and prophecy regarding his people Daniel said would take 490 years.

The angel Gabriel told Daniel that the Messiah would begin His work one-week short of the seventy, cut off as a time of probation for the Jews.  “Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the command to restore and build Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince, there shall be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublesome times.”³⁴

The sixty-nine weeks or 483 years would reach “unto the Messiah the Prince.” The Holy Spirit anointed Jesus 483 years after the decree of Artaxerxes, at the time John baptized Him in the river Jordan:  “Jesus also was baptized; and while He prayed, the heaven was opened. And the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, ‘You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased.’”³⁵

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor.”³⁶

The 483 years from the decree of Artaxerxes in 457 BC reached to 27 AD, the date Jesus began His ministry.

“God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power.”³⁷

Jesus was anointed and began His work the exact year Daniel predicted.  Jesus Himself emphasized this fact.  At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus proclaimed:

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”³⁸

The only time prophecy Jesus could have been referring to is Daniel’s sixty-nine weeks.  Jesus began His ministry, preaching, teaching, and healing, right on time.  Of the seventy weeks, or 490 years allotted to the Jews, only one week, or seven years, remained after Christ began His work.  Of this time Daniel said: “He shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.”³⁹

Jesus’ personal ministry lasted three and one-half years. Through His apostles the work among the Jews continued for another three and one-half years.  Daniel said that in the middle of the week “the sacrifice and oblation shall cease.”⁴⁰  In other words, the sacrificial system would come to an end.  Jesus began His work in the fall of 27 AD He died on the cross in the spring of 31 AD.  His ministry was just three and one-half years long.  He died “in the middle of the week.”

For three and one-half years after the death of Christ the believers continued to work among the Jews.  In 34 AD Stephen was stoned.  From that point on, the work among the Jews was only on an individual basis.  The gospel was then carried to the Gentiles.  In the autumn of AD 34, the 490 years allotted to the Jews came to an end. They were no longer God’s chosen nation.  Daniel’s prophecy said the judgment would begin in the 2300th year. Adding 1810 to 34 AD reveals the date the judgment would begin, 1844.

2300 day/year diagram – (See) The Prophecy Highway p. 252.

To have a correct picture of the judgment we must understand that the sin problem is not an issue involving this earth alone.  Sin began with Lucifer in heaven and involves the entire universe.  Paul points this out when he speaks of the work of the Lord’s apostles, he says: “In a spiritual sense we’re God’s captives, on display to the world and the universe.”⁴¹ God went on trial when sin came into the cosmos.  His character was in question. His Law, the foundation of His government, was challenged. When this sad event happened, God enacted a plan, which had been formulated long ages before.  God saw that a lengthy period of time must be allocated for sin to run its course.  During this period the fallen and unfallen beings of the universe would witness what sin cost God, as well as what its effect would be upon humanity.  Sin would become so repul-sive to all God’s faithful creatures that it would never arise again.

The fact that the plan of salvation involves the whole universe is clearly presented in Patriarchs and Prophets p. 68, 69.  “The plan of redemption had a yet broader and deeper purpose than the salvation of man.  It was not for this alone that Christ came to the earth; it was not merely that the inhabitants of this little world might regard the law of God as it should be regarded; but it was to vindicate the character of God before the universe.  To this result of His great sacrifice—its influence upon the intelligences of other worlds, as well as upon man—the Saviour looked forward when just before His crucifixion He said: ‘Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all unto Me.’ John 12:31, 32. The act of Christ in dying for the salvation of man would not only make heaven accessible to men, but before all the universe it would justify God and His Son in their dealing with the rebellion of Satan.  It would establish the perpetuity of the law of God and would reveal the nature and the results of sin.”

The great judgment scene recorded by the prophet Daniel is one of the final acts in the universal drama involving the case against God.  All of the evidence will have been presented.  The testimony of the great host of unseen angels will have been given.  They have recorded every thought, word, and action of every individual who will have ever lived on earth.

Daniel not only foretold when the judgment would begin, he also gave us a description of the judgment scene.

“I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool.  His throne was a fiery flame, its wheels a burning fire; a fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him.  A thousand thousands ministered to Him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him.  The court was seated, and the books were opened.”⁴²

The Court of the Universe pictured here in the book of Daniel and in the book of Revelation has all the elements of a thorough judicial proceeding.  This Court is described in terms that we can understand.  The Judge, the King of Kings, and the Defense Attorney, the Son of Man, are both present.  There are twenty-four elders seated around the throne. There seem to be enough men to seat two juries.  It would be interesting to know if twelve are seated to preside over cases before the cross and twelve for those after the cross.  We know that God chose twelve patriarchs in Old Testament times and the twelve apostles in New Testament times. (Someday He will make it plain.)  In vision John the revelator saw the judgment scene: “There stood a throne in Heaven, and on the throne One seated. And around the throne were twenty-four Councilors sitting, clothed in white robes; and on their heads they had crowns of gold.”⁴³

A close examination of this judgment scene will reveal some very interesting facts.  First, this court scene is set up in heaven, for God established His throne in heaven.  “The LORD’S throne is in heaven.”⁴⁴  Next, let us ask who is the judge? With a hurried glance, one might say “God the Father;” but what does the Scripture reveal?  “He (God) has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.” ⁴⁵  “And to us He (Christ) gave orders to preach to the people and to bear solemn testimony that He is the God-appointed Judge of the living and of the dead.”⁴⁶  But someone says there are texts, which appear to indicate that God the Father is the Judge.  Not one text says that; but many texts say Jesus is the Judge.  You might ask what about this text? “I was watching in the night visions, And behold, One like the Son of Man, Coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, And they brought Him near before Him.”⁴⁷  This seems to be, together with verse fourteen, the ending of the judgment scene. Jesus Christ is the One who pleads for us and the One who judges us.  The Scriptures teach that Jesus is everything to us.  Since He is everything to us He can be both our Advocate (attorney) and our Judge: “We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”⁴⁸  Remember, Jesus is both human and divine. He is our Advocate as the Son of Man, or in His humanity; and He is our Judge in His divinity, as the Ancient of Days.  Remember that Christ and His Father are one in Spirit.

Notice that the judgment takes place just before God’s people inherit the kingdom:  “The Ancient of Days came, and a judgment was made in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for the saints to possess the kingdom.”⁴⁹  Notice also that God’s people possess the kingdom after the judgment.

The description of the Lord in Daniel 7:9 and in Revelation 1:13, 14 are nearly the same; both are symbolic descriptions of Jesus Christ.

As human beings we attempt to bring the Godhead down to our level and put human limits on God.

The picture presented of heaven’s Court includes an innumerable number of witnesses, the angels.  “Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.”⁵⁰

Every person who claims to have accepted Christ will stand before this Court:  “For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?”⁵¹  “For we must all stand before Christ to be judged and have our lives laid bare—before him.  Each of us will receive whatever he deserves for the good or bad things he has done in his earthly body.”⁵²  Most people believe that every person will stand personally before the bar of God.  God has a better way!  The record of each life goes beforehand to God.  During the judgment the Court examines each case; and each person’s record speaks for itself. Therefore, we do not need to be personally present; our record stands for itself, we stand in our true characters.

An angel is assigned to each individual for life, and he records everything said and done: “Beware of feeling scornful of one single little child, for I tell you that in heaven their angels have continual access to my Father in heaven.”⁵³

“Do not allow your mouth to cause you to sin, and do not say before His messenger that it is a mistake.”⁵⁴

In the courts of the land there are probably more cases handled just between the attorneys and judges, than there are with the client present.  In civil cases, “agreed judgment,” and “summary judgment” are two very common methods for the disposition of cases.  In many cases there is no necessity of a personal appearance by the client.  In the case involving a summary judgment, all the facts are in favor of one side and are so ruled.  The judge’s decision is usually final.

The evidence to be considered by the Court of the universe is recorded in heaven: “Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, …And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and the books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.”⁵⁵  Those who reject Jesus will have their names blotted out: “Let them be blotted out of the book of the living, And not be written with the righteous.”⁵⁶  Either one’s sins are blotted out before the judgment, or one’s name is blotted out during the judgment: “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.”⁵⁷ Those who continue in sin will find their names removed from God’s book of life. “Whoever has sinned against Me, I will blot him out of My book.”⁵⁸  Notice how man’s Advocate pleads for him before the Court: “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.”⁵⁹

God will give to everyone who comes to Him in sincerity and truth clean white pages in his book of life.  “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols.  I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.”⁶⁰  The record books contain all the evidence necessary to render a just verdict for any human being.  God said that He will “by no means clear the guilty.” Ex. 34:7.

It is a serious thought that the judgment hour has come.  How will you fare as your life record stands before God?  The case of every person will be reviewed.  Every case will be decided before Jesus returns.

Every question will be answered. God’s love, mercy, and justice will be acknowledged as every knee bows before Him.  When your name comes before the great tribunal of heaven, will Christ be your Advocate or your Judge?  Will your name be retained in the book of life, or will it be blotted out?  “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, Whether it is good or whether it is evil.”⁶¹  Remember that when Jesus comes there are only two groups on earth, the righteous and the wicked.  Every case has been decided before that day; we are now living in the Day of Judgment.  We must be ready!

Notes

Chapter – 23

1- Acts 24:25LB 2-Rev 14:7 AV; 3-Rom 3:23; 4-Rom 6:23; 5- 2Cor 5:10; 6- Rev 14:6; 7- Eccl 12L14; 8- 2Cor 5:10; 9- Mat 22:1, 2 GT; 10- Mat 22:8, 9; 11- Mat 22:11-14; 12- Ps 73:17; 13- Ps 63:2; 14- Jo 14:6; 15- Lev 16; 16- Heb 8:1; 17- Jo 1:29; 18- Isa 53:5-9 TEV; 19- Isa 52:14 TEV; 20- Jo 1:29; 21- Ja 2:8; 22- Lev 16:16 TEV; 23- Dan 8:14; 24- Dan 9:25; 25- Heb 8:2; 26- Heb 8:5 JBP; 27- Dan 8:14 KJV; 25- Eze 4:6 KJV; 29- Dan 9:25; 30- Dan 9:24; 31- Gen 18:19 LT; 32- Dan 9:24; 33- Heb 9:26 KJV; 34- Dan 9:25; 35- Lk 3:21, 22; 36- Lk 4:18; 37- Acts 10:38; 38- Mk 1:15; 39- Dan 9:27; 40- Dan 9:27 KJV; 41- 1Cor 4:9 Clear Word; 42- Dan 7:9, 10; 43- Rev 4:2, 4 TCNT; 44- Ps 11:4;  45- Acts 17:31; 46- Acts 10:42 NBV; 47- Dan 7:13; 48- 1Jo 2:1; 49- Dan 7:22; 50- Rev 5:11; 51- 1Peter 4:17;  52- 2Cor 5:10 TCNT;  53- Mat 18:10 GT;  54- Eccl 5:6 NBV; 55- Rev 20:11-12; 56- Ps 69:28; 57- Acts 3:19; 58- Ex 32:33; 59- Rev 3:5; 60- Eze 36:25; 61- Eccl 12:13, 14.

“Saying with a loud voice, Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.”

“Was it by accident or design,” we question as we look at the wonders of the world about us.  Only two books, the Bible and the Book of Nature, can answer this question with authority.  The Holy Scriptures is the only authoritative, recorded detail on how this world and all life came into existence.  The Book of Nature irrefutably supports the biblical crea-tion description.  But beyond substantiating the origin of life, the Bible urges mankind to look at nature and see God’s handiwork—for nature reveals God and His character.

“For ever since the creation of the world His invisible nature and attributes, that is, His eternal power and divinity have been made intelligible and clearly discernible in and through the things that have been made—His handiwork’s.  So [men] are without excuse—altogether without any defense or justification.”¹

The Goodspeed translation of this verse emphasizes the character of God and His love:  “Ever since the creation of the world, His invisible nature His eternal power and divine character have been clearly perceptible through what He has made.”

The creation narrative in Genesis, the first book of the Bible and whose name means “origin,” reveals the purpose in the formation of this earth.  It portrays God following a plan in bringing this world into existence and shows unity of thought and action by the Creator.

The events of creation as recorded in Scripture are clearly stated as fact and leave no option or alternative for believers on the authorship and infallibility of the Bible.  For others, the biblical account of Creation and alternative theories has been debated for centuries.  However, even debates encompassing scientific arguments generally do not change a person’s beliefs.  The most convincing assertion that a Creator God set in motion and controls the universe is forcefully presented by the Holy Spirit through the study of the Bible.  This assertion is based on a combination of “God said,” objective reasoning, and the evidence from nature in the world about us.  These are the ingredients to be considered in this chapter.

God has given man a complete, albeit brief, account of creation in the book of Genesis.  Details concerning the co-operative endeavor of Father and Son in the creation are not directly detailed in the Genesis account, but are added to our understanding, directly or by evocation, from passages found elsewhere in the Bible.  Notice that creation was not by chance, but was planned: “He has made the earth by His power; He has established the world by His wisdom, and stretched out the heaven by His understanding.”²

“O Lord, how many and varied are Your works! In wisdom have You made them all; the earth is full of Your riches and Your creatures.”³

It is interesting to note that God made this world for human beings.  First, He completed it, including creating all other life forms, and then He created Adam and Eve and prepared the Garden of Eden especially for them.  Their home was just as beautiful as God could make it and every-thing was originally made for their benefit and enjoyment.

For believers of the authorship and infallibility of the Bible, the opening statement of Genesis rules out atheism, (the belief that there is no God) and polytheism (the idea of many gods).  It also denies pantheism (the teaching that god and the universe are identical) for the biblical account documents God existed before creation and beyond creation. “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed and given birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting You are God.”⁴

The Creation account describes the Creation as occurring when “God Spoke.” For centuries men scoffed at the idea of creating matter from that which is unseen, but today it is not considered so far fetched.  Man has learned to split the atom.  Atoms are the building blocks of this world.  What is an atom?  An atom is energy turned into matter. An atom is “a source of vast potential energy.”⁵  Nuclear fission is nothing more than releasing bound up energy.  The Bible account of creation strongly indicates that God formed matter from energy.  “God spoke, and it was done.”⁶  Speaking produces sound and sound is energy.  Sound can be very powerful. The Bible records that God formed all things from power (energy):  “God made the earth by His power, He established the world by His wisdom, and by His understanding and skill has stretched out the heavens.”⁷  God used energy to form matter.  Power or sound is energy.  What other source or elements God used to form matter is not revealed: “For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.”⁸

Thus the record makes it quite clear, God created by His command, sound.   Four words are used in the creation story to indicate God’s formation of this earth and all life.  The four words followed by their Hebrew words are:  To “create” (bara), to “make” (asah), to “build” (banah), and to “form” (yatsar).  These words tell us that, God was not limited or indebted to preexisting matter in His creation.  These words inform us that the “creative evolution theory” (the theory that God created the basic elements and then let evolution occur over eons of time) is not factual.

Most minds have been permeated by the philosophy of evolution.  Yet this theory, perpetrated by people unable to objectively believe in a Creator superior being, in actuality requires more imagination than does belief in special creation.  To believe that the universe, including this solar system and all its planets and satellites, came about by an accident(s) is difficult indeed.  But add to this the idea that life on earth, in all its forms, also came by chance becomes unbelievable.  When we see something as relatively simple as a typewriter, we cannot believe it came about by accident.  It has design.  It is a useful functional machine.

Then consider the billions of different components, elements, and relationships required to maintain the complex types of life on this planet.  Think of the incredible number of “accidents” which would be necessary to support the evolutionary theory.  Consider just a few of these “accidental occurrences.”

If the moon were much larger or smaller, there could be no life, as we know it on this planet.  If the moon were much farther away or closer to the earth, it is doubtful that life would exist.

Without the delicate balance of gases in the atmosphere there would be no life, as we know it.  Our air is 78 per cent nitrogen, 21 per cent oxygen, almost one per cent argon, and a very small quantity of about eight other gases. The partial pressure of oxygen is about three pounds per square inch, which is about one-fifth of the total atmospheric pressure.  If it were less, human beings and animal life would suffocate. If it were much greater, fires would be uncontrollable. The large amount of nitrogen in the atmosphere also helps control fire.  Likewise, the dust in the air we breathe is necessary, for it contains water vapor and salt.  By its composition, the atmosphere also serves as an umbrella protecting all life on earth.

What about gravity? What would life be like without it? What about the earth’s magnetic field?  It is essential to human life as well as to other forms of life.  Did all these things just happen by chance?  Pick an ear of corn some day and count the rows.  There will always be an even number.  You may find from ten to twenty-eight rows, but never an odd number.  Is this by accident?  Can chance count?  What about bees?  They are essential in adequately pollinating and thus propagating plant life on earth.  Do millions of facts like these from our Book of Nature reveal a designer or is it likely they all occurred by chance or accident?

Humanity was the crowning act of God’s creation: “God said, Let Us make mankind in Our image, after Our likeness; and let them have complete authority over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the beasts, and over all of the earth, and over every thing that creeps upon the earth.  So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God.  He created him; male and female He created them.”⁹  Before sin, human beings must have been like God; they must have looked like God. And this verse infers that they had some of the thinking and reasoning ability of God.  The above verse says:  “God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him.”¹⁰  However, sin has diminished their physical and mental capabilities, but even after nearly 6000 years of sin, men and women are still far superior mentally to the lower animals. “Come now, and let us reason together.”¹¹  What if a horse had the mental reasoning of a human being?  It would not be able to make his dreams a reality.  It has no hands.  Only human beings were given the combination of reasoning power, arms and hands and the physical senses necessary for creative function.

Look at the variety with which God has clothed the creatures He has made.  Birds are covered with feathers, and most of the animals are clothed with fur.  Human beings are naked, but because they have minds and hands, they can create or make their own clothing.  The animal kingdom is well equipped without human interference, and animals exist without the power of reason.  What does these facts from the “Book of Nature” tell us of a creator God?  ”But now ask the beasts and let them teach you, And the birds of the air and let them tell you, Or speak to the earth and let it teach you, And let the fish of the sea recount to you.”¹²  All of them know that the LORD’S hand made them.”¹³  The lower animals live and exist by instinct.  The advice of God to learn about Him through nature can be very revealing as we continue to study how God equips the different creatures for life.

Homing pigeons have been used for hundreds of years to carry messages back to their home bases.  Men have been guessing for centuries about how the pigeons know where they are going.  Some have speculated that they use the sun; others say they use landmarks, and still others have expressed their idea that the pigeons have a built-in magnet, which is sensitive to the earth’s magnetism.  As it turns out, all three of these theories are correct.  Experiments have shown that homing pigeons can tell where they are, and thus they fly to where they are going by looking at the sun.  They also recognize familiar landmarks when they get to an area where they have been before.  And it has been shown that homing pigeons actually are sensitive to the earth’s magnetic field.  Evidently the pigeon has a sensing system, which, like a compass, tells which direction is north.  With this information, plus its ability to judge locations or directions by the sun, and a sense of time—yes, birds have another instinct built-in, the ability to tell time.  The homing pigeon is able to travel more accurately than the sea captains who used to sail the seven seas using only the sun, a compass, and a watch.  But the pigeon does it automatically.  No one has to teach it to tell time or to read a compass.

God gave another bird the ability to navigate in a different manner.  On May 24, 1965, a young, gray-checked thrush was captured in central Illinois as it was on its way north for the summer for the first time. Scientists glued a tiny transmitter to the feathers on the bird’s back and then released it.  Local receivers began to pick up the signals and thus were able to keep track of the bird’s movements.  The thrush had already traveled several thousand miles from its winter home and had a few hundred miles still to go before reaching its Canadian nesting ground.  Earlier studies have shown that these birds actually travel by using the stars as a guide.

As evening approached on the day the transmitter was attached, the receivers picked up signals that indicated the bird had taken to the air in a northward direction.  The scientists had equipped a plane with a receiver, so they took off immediately and were soon picking up signals from the bird.  Before long they were able to establish its course and flying speed.  The course lay slightly east of north, and with the help of a stiff tail wind the bird was traveling about 50 miles per hour.  The full story is a thrilling one, but, briefly, the pilot followed the thrush for some eight hours through the night sky, during which time the bird passed directly over the city of Chicago and did not lose one degree of accuracy on its course.  The course was so exact that the pilot was able to land, refuel, and plot where the bird would be out over the middle of Lake Michigan, and exactly what time it would be there.  The pilot circled at that point, and the bird arrived right on time.  For eight hours man and bird flew through the night together.  Man’s ability depended on training and carefully constructed mechanical things.  The bird’s ability was built-in.  Was its ability built in by chance or accident?  The sensible answer is, the Master Designer equipped it with this instinct.  The same Master Designer who hung the stars in place gave that bird its instinct to navigate by those same stars.

Bats are given yet a different method for navigating. There are more than 800 different kinds of bats in the world, most of them nocturnal insect-eaters.  Some eat fruits, some live on the blood of other animals, and one bat actually catches and eats fish.  Still another feeds on the nectar of night-blooming cactus flowers.  The insect-eaters are extremely bene-ficial to man because they eat great numbers of insects in a few hours.

The bat is a unique animal because it is the only furred creature with wings.  The wings are formed of thin, leathery skin that is stretched over the bones of the hands and arms.  The bone of the upper arm is short and the one in the forearm is long, and those of the fingers are extremely long.  The bat has a short, clawed thumb.

Bats have a truly remarkable ability to navigate by a process called sonar: the sound signals it sends out bounce off objects and return to tell it where the objects are. Many bats have excellent eyesight, but since they hunt at night they need the sonar to avoid hitting things and to locate and capture their prey.  Their large ears are specially adapted to pick up the returning sounds they have emitted.

Bats have a normal life span of nearly twenty years, which is quite long for an animal so small, but they have few, if any, enemies since foxes, weasels, and cats can’t fly, and owls won’t chase them.

Bats have long been associated with evil.  However, with the exception of the vampire bat, these creatures are hardly harmful to man and should not be feared nor injured.

As we consider these three distinct types of navigation techniques given by the Creator, we can say with the ancient writers:  “Such know-ledge is too wonderful for me; It is too lofty; I am not equal to it.”¹⁴  “He does great things beyond understanding and marvelous things without number.”¹⁵  But these are only hints of His power, only the whispers that we have heard. Who can know how truly great God is?”¹⁶

Another lesson for us from the Book of Nature is the starry heavens. “The heavens are telling the glory of God, And the sky shows forth the work of His hands. Day unto day pours forth speech, And night unto night declares knowledge.”¹⁷  God the Father was the Architect and Designer of all creation and His Son Jesus Christ was the active agent in all creation. “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on the earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.”¹⁸

A look at the universe, or even merely our galaxy, staggers the imagination.  Distances are so great that miles are not used.  The term “light year” is used instead.  A light year is the distance that light travels in a year, a little over 186,000 miles—or about eleven and one-half times around the earth—per second, or nearly 6,000,000,000,000 (six million-million) miles in a year.  The nearest star is our sun; it is a mere 93 million miles away from the earth.  The next star to us is 300,000 times farther from us than the sun or 4.4 light years away.  This means that the light we see tonight left that star four years and three months ago.

On a clear night one can see about 2,000 stars at any one time.  Throughout the year, about 6,000 stars are visible with the unaided eye.  Our galaxy, the largest known to us, has billions of stars, which can be seen through a large telescope.  Our star cluster or galaxy is a flat spiral system and is about 100,000 light years in diameter, but only about 10,000 light years thick.  Even so, there are many other galaxies in space. Andromeda is about 750,000 light years away.  More stars and galaxies are found with each larger telescope built.

We learn some interesting facts about astronomy in the Bible through questions that God ask Job, which he could not answer—nor can astronomers answer them today.  These are questions God ask Job regarding two constellations, Pleiades (also known as the Seven Sisters) and Orion.  “Can you bind the chains of [the cluster of stars called] Pleiades, or loose the cords of [the constellation] Orion?”¹⁹  Or in today’s words: “Job, can you hold the Pleiades together or turn Orion loose?”  What is the lesson we can learn from the Book of Nature in these questions recorded in the earliest book, the Bible.  Astronomers say that in the cluster which makes up the Pleiades there are over 250 stars, all about one light year apart. Only six or seven can be seen with the unaided eye.  Orion also has numerous stars, most of which cannot be seen without the aid of a telescope.  Not many years ago astronomers discovered that the stars in the Pleiades all travel together, but the stars in Orion are all going in different directions.  It took a large telescope and some other very fine equipment to determine these facts.  Since this was only recently learned, how did these facts get into the Bible, the oldest book?  (“Can you bind the chains of Pleiades, or loose the cords of Orion?”²⁰)  No one objectively could say this could be guesswork.  Clearly this was the Design-er/Creator describing His work.

Arcturus is the only star other than our sun mentioned in the Bible.  Another ‘astronomy’ question God asked Job was if he could guide this giant star through the densely populated milky way without a collision: “Canst thou guide Arcturus with his sons?”²¹  Arcturus has a diameter 30 times the diameter of our sun and is 38 light years away from us. Our sun is traveling at twelve and one-half miles/a second through space.  But Arcturus is traveling nearly 100 miles/per second.  It is rightfully called “the run-away.”  Notice that the verse tells us that Arcturus has planets, i.e. ”sons.”  This giant sun is too far away for the world’s largest telescope to see any of its planets, but we can be sure they are there, for God said so.  We can be sure God is not just “guessing” about this super speeding sun and its planets, for He is the Designer/Creator who had this recorded in the Bible for our benefit.

Our solar system consists of our sun, nine planets, 31 moons or satellites, thousands of asteroids, scores of comets, and millions of meteors.  This earth and its inhabitants are traveling six different ways in and through space.  The gravitational force balances with the centrifugal forces of the world.  Man has learned to compensate for gravity.  The earth turns on its axis about 1000 miles per hour.  We move around the sun about 60,000 miles per hour.  Our solar system is traveling toward the star Vega at 31,000 miles an hour.  Our Galaxy is traveling hundreds of thousands of miles per hour around the center of the universe.

From this brief look at the astronomy page from God’s Book of Nature it is very evident that we serve a powerful Creator God.  The Bible says, “You alone are the LORD; You made the heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all things on it, the seas and all that is in them, and You preserve them all.  The host of heaven worships You.”²²

Yet with evolution being taught as very sound science, in our educational system, most people have the idea that evolution is fact and the Bible story of creation is false. But even though evolution is probably doing more to counteract true religion than anything else, there is more scientific proof for creation than for evolution.  Dr. Robert Gentry, a very reputable scientist, has shattered the theory of evolution.

Dr. Robert V. Gentry is a research physicist whose area of expertise is the geophysical phenomena of radioactive halos.  For thirteen years he was a visiting scientist in the Chemistry Division of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.  After completing a M. S. in physics at the University of Florida in 1956, he spent several years in the defense industry, and in college and university teaching.

Dr. Gentry has authored or co-authored over twenty research papers in scientific publications.  He holds membership in the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Physical Society, the American Geophysical Union, Sigma Xi, the New York Academy of Science, and is listed in Who’s Who in America.  His book, Creation’s Tiny Mystery, is powerful for creation.  Other scientists, who are not hesitant to voice their opinions, have applauded Gentry’s work as follows: “Creation’s Tiny Mystery is the account of some remarkable evidence for creation, and of a scientist’s lonely struggle to prevent the scientific ‘establishment’ from suppressing it.” D. Russell Humphreys, Ph. D. Physicist, Sandia National Laboratories New Mexico. “Creation’s Tiny Mystery is a fine documentation of a tenacious, courageous scientist.” W. Scot Morrow, Ph. D. Associate Professor of Chemistry Wolford College, South Carolina.

Dr. Gentry has graciously agreed to set forth a brief description of his findings.

“Etched within Earth’s foundation rocks—the granites—are beautiful microspheres of coloration produced by the radio-active decay of primordial polonium, which is known to have only a fleeting existence.  A simple analogy shows, on one hand, how these polonium microspheres—or halos—contradict the evolutionary belief that granites formed as hot magma slowly cooled over millions of years.  On the other hand, it demonstrates how these halos provide unambiguous evidence of an almost instantaneous creation of granites and the young age of the earth:  A speck of polonium in molten rock can be compared with an Alka-Seltzer dropped into a glass of water. The beginning of effervescence is equated to the moment that polonium atoms began to emit radio-active particles. In molten rock the traces of those radioactive particles would disappear as quickly as the Alka-Seltzer bubbles in water. But if the water were instantly frozen, the bubbles would be preserved.  Likewise, polonium halos could have formed only if specks of polonium had been instantly encased in solid rock.  An exceedingly large number of polonium halos are embedded in granites around the world.  Just as the frozen bubbles would be clear evidence of quick-freezing of water, so is polonium halos undeniable evidence that many rapidly “effervescing” specks of created polonium interacted with a sea of primordial matter, which was directly “frozen” as solid granite.  The occurrence of these polonium halos, then, distinctly implies that our earth was formed in a very short time, in complete harmony with the biblical record of creation.”

Dr. Robert V. Gentry

The study of God’s two great books, the Word of God and the Book of Nature, really will build faith:  “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.”²³

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.”²⁴

“For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”²⁵

This study clearly reveals that the Father and the Son were united in everything involving man.  The Lord Jesus Christ was the active agent in creation and He is our Redeemer, and man’s best Friend. He is everything to us.

Notes

Chapter – 24

1- Rom 1:20 AV; 2- Jer 51:15; 3- Ps 104:24 AV; 4- Ps 90:2 AV; 5- Webster’s New Collegiate Dic.; 6- Ps 33:9; 7- Jer 10:12 AV; 8- Ps 33:9; 9- Gen 1:26, 27 AV; 10- Gen 1:27; 11- Isa 1:18; 12- Job 12:7, 8 GT; 13- Job 12:9 TEV; 14- Ps 139:6 GT; 15- Job 9:10 BV; 16- Job 26:14 TEV; 17- Ps 19:1, 2 GT; 18- Col 1:16; 19- Job 38:31; 20- Job 38:31 AV; 21- Job 38:32 KJV; 22- Neh 9:6; 23- Heb 11:3; 24- Jo 1:1-3; 25- Col . 1:16, 17 NIV;

“Saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven, and earth, the sea, and springs of water.’”

Two main reasons are given in Revelation 14 why man should keep the seventh day Sabbath.  First, man is told he should remember to worship Him, who made heaven and earth, and secondly, man is directed to keep all of God’s commandments; this would include the fourth one.  Both of these points will be covered in this chapter.  In verse seven of Revelation 14 the call is made in “a loud voice,” saying, “Worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.”  This verse calls men to worship the Creator God.  The main reason for this loud cry is because most men have forgotten or disregard the Sabbath.

The commandments of God were in effect way back in the time of Cain and Abel.  Their story recorded in Genesis, reveals that murder is sin.  The Law, then, was in existence, for “By the law is the knowledge of sin.”¹  The Law says, “You shall not murder”²  That same Law also says: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.  Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates.  For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day.   Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.”³

Because God knew man would forget His day, He began this command with the word “remember.”  God reinforces this command to remember by saying:  “The works of the LORD are great, His work is honorable and glorious, And his righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonderful works to be remembered.”⁴

The Sabbath is a memorial of God’s creation, and it will continue to be God’s memorial forever. “Thy name, O LORD, endureth for ever; and thy memorial, O LORD, throughout all generations.”⁵

God’s reason for telling man to keep the seventh day Sabbath is so man will remember Him as the true God, the Creator God.  The record of creation reveals that the day of rest was given to man at creation.  After God finished His work, He surveyed it and said that it was “very good” (Genesis 1:31).  Then God rested.  The word “rested,” in Genesis 2:2 comes from the Hebrew word “shabath,” which literally means “to cease” from labor or activity:  “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.”⁶

If God does not weary, then He had another reason for resting or for setting aside this day of rest:  “And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done.^”7

The next verse tells why God set this day apart: “Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.”⁸

God not only blessed the Sabbath, but He also pronounced a blessing upon every person who keeps it:  “I will bless those who always observe the Sabbath and do not misuse it.  I will bless those who do nothing evil.”⁹

What did God do when He sanctified the seventh day?  The word “sanctified” comes from the Hebrew word “qadash” which means “to pronounce, to consecrate, or to dedicate as holy.”  The book of Genesis records the creation of the Sabbath, and how it was set aside for a holy use, but for whose benefit was it made?  Jesus answered this question: “the Sabbath was made for man.”¹⁰  The Greek word for “man” is anthropos, and it means a human being.  God made the Sabbath day for human beings, not only for their benefit and enjoyment, but so man would remember God as the true God, the creator God.

Why was Abraham blessed?  “Because that Abraham obeyed My voice and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws.”¹¹  So Abraham was a Sabbath keeper.

Even though the Ten Commandments were not mentioned before Sinai, it is obvious that false worship, stealing, killing, and adultery were forbidden.  Sabbath keeping was observed and known before that time.  The children of Israel knew and were taught to keep the Sabbath before Sinai.  Exodus 16:4-30 tells the story of bread from heaven, called “manna.” It came from God six days a week, but never on the Sabbath. The people were to gather twice the amount on the sixth day so it would not be necessary for them to gather any on the seventh or Sabbath day.  There would be none available on that day. Verse 30 says: “So the people rested on the seventh day.”  For forty years a double portion of the bread from heaven fell on the sixth day. God wanted to keep Israel’s attention focused on the Sabbath to help them remember Him and remain a holy people. By the time they came to Sinai they should have been well ac-quainted with “My holy day,” as God chose to call the Sabbath.

Do you wonder why most Christians keep Sunday, the first day of the week? When and how was the day changed?  Which day does the New Testament teach as the proper day of rest?  An examination of the New Testament in this regard may surprise you.

Almost everyone agrees that Sunday is the first day of the week; it cannot be both the first and the seventh.  The Bible tells us that Jesus arose on the first day of the week.  Many Christians celebrate Easter Sunday as the resurrection day.  There is indisputable evidence that Sunday is the first day of the week.  The followers of Christ kept the seventh day.  The record says that on the day before the Sabbath, which was called the “preparation day,” the women were preparing the Lord’s body for burial: “Then they returned and prepared spices and fragrant oils. And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.”¹²

The New Testament records that the apostle Paul kept the seventh day Sabbath: “Three days later he (Paul) called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them;  “My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans.”¹³

It was the custom of the Hebrew people to keep the seventh day Sabbath, yet Paul told the Jewish leaders that he had done nothing contrary to Jewish customs.  The record plainly says that Paul kept the Sabbath:  “Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures.”¹⁴

Paul and his companions went to Antioch and according to their custom, “went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down.”¹⁵

“And when the Jews went out of the synagogue, the Gentiles begged that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath.”¹⁶ “And he (Paul) reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded both Jews and Greeks.  And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.”¹⁷

Paul was teaching the Jews and the Greeks every Sabbath for seventy-eight Sabbaths.  If the day had been changed, Paul would have told the people.  Yet we find no such information. If they could not use a synagogue, they still worshipped on the Sabbath:  “On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer.  We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there.”¹⁸

Nowhere in the New Testament does the record reveal anyone keeping any other day sacred except the seventh day.  There are only eight places in the New Testament where the first day of the week is mentioned. The first one is:  “After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.”¹⁹  It is very clear that the Sabbath and the first day of the week are two different days.  When the first day came, the Sabbath was already past.  The word “Sabbath” means, “rest.”  God only designates the seventh day as a day of rest.  If God does not call any other day the Sabbath, or day of rest, man surely should not.

The next verse is:  “Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other; “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?”  Verse 9 also speaks of the first day of the week:  “When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”²⁰

Neither one of these texts tells of a change in the day of worship.  In fact, they teach that the Sabbath remained the day of rest.  Not only did the Lord’s followers keep that day, but also Christ rested in the tomb over the Sabbath.

Another text tells us: “Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared.”²¹

The fifth text mentioning the first day is:  “On the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb.”²² 

When all of these texts are considered together, a more detailed picture of what took place at the tomb is revealed.  After the Sabbath, very early on Sunday morning, just about daybreak, at least four women came to the tomb.  The four were Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and Salome.  When they arrived at the tomb, they saw that the stone had been rolled away from it.

Some claim that the sixth verse speaks of gathering for worship on Sunday. The verse reads as follows: “On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’”²³

Notice that the text does not record a worship service at all, but that they met together “with the doors locked for fear of the Jews,”

Acts 20:7 is the seventh text on the list.  In order to understand the time frame of this verse, some background is needed.  In Bible times the days were not measured from midnight to midnight, as they are today, but from sunset to sunset.  The book of Genesis records that God numbered the days from evening to evening, which is from sunset to sunset.  In Genesis the first chapter, six times, God says that evening and morning is a day.  The point is that at evening, or sunset, one-day ends and a new day begins.  “God saw all that He had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning – the sixth day.”²⁴

“It shall be to you a Sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict your souls; from evening to evening, you shall celebrate your Sabbath.”²⁵

The Today’s English Version uses the word “sunset” instead of “evening.”  Bible evidence reveals that the sun rules the day:

“But they urged him strongly, ‘Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.’ So he went in to stay with them.’”²⁶

With this in mind notice:  “On the first day of the week, when we had met for the breaking of bread, Paul addressed them, as he was going away the next morning, and he prolonged his address until midnight.”²⁷

The meeting began after sundown, Saturday night, as we know it, and Paul spoke to them until midnight.  Some claim they were celebrating the Lord’s Supper, but even if true this would not make the day holy.  The record states that they broke bread daily:  “So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart.”²⁸  The expression “breaking bread,” most likely means eating a meal together.

The last mention of the first day of the week is found in 1 Corinthians 16:2. This verse is not referring to tithes and offering being received at a church service, as some teach.  The New International Version reads as follows:  “On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.”  When this passage is examined in its setting it is found that it refers to funds saved up to give to Paul to take to Jerusalem to help the needy church members.

People mainly used a combination of the barter system and an exchange of money in those days.  But their main means of trade was barter.  Paul would be unable to carry a large quantity of items to the needy in Jerusalem.  Therefore, he was asking them to exchange their gifts into money so that he would not be delayed when he arrived in their locality.

No record of a change in the day of worship is found anywhere in the Bible.  If a change could be found it would conflict with what we read about the character of God. Whatever God does or says will stand forever:  “For I am LORD, I do not change.”²⁹

“The works of His hands are verity and justice; All His precepts (“commands” in some versions) are sure.  They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.”³⁰

God says that His people will forever observe the Sabbath, in the new earth: “As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before Me, declares the LORD, so will your name and descendants endure.  From one New Moon to another and from one Sabbath to anoth-er, all mankind will come and bow down before Me, says the LORD.”³¹

Remember the Sabbath was given to man before sin came to this planet.  Considering that it will be kept forever in the new earth, it stands to reason that we should remember it today.  Notice the counsel of God:  “Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day.”³²

“Keep my Sabbaths holy, that they may be a sign between us.  Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.”³³

Some people call Sunday the “Lord’s day,” but the Bible makes no such reference. The only place the phrase is used is in the book of Revelation: “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet.”³⁴ The only day the Lord calls His is the seventh day.  There are many places in the Scriptures where God calls the Sabbath His day.  Jesus said He was Lord of the Sabbath, “Therefore the Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath.”³⁵  Therefore, the Sabbath is the Lord’s Day.  The Sabbath is the only day, which God designates as being a special day.

Jesus was the active Agent of the Godhead in the creation of this world:  “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God.  All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.  In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.”³⁶

“And the Word became Man, and dwelt among us, (We saw his glory—glory of the Only Son sent from the Father), Full of love and truth.”³⁷

The book of Hebrews also tells us that Christ made the worlds:  “God who at various times and in different ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds.”³⁸

One more: “God who created all things through Jesus Christ.”³⁹

Is it any wonder that Jesus would say that He was the Lord of the Sabbath when He was the one who set the day aside after creating this world?  Jesus also said:  “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”⁴⁰

Just as obedience was a test to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, so the Sabbath is a test of our loyalty to God today.  Jesus not only told man to keep His holy Sabbath day, but He also left an example and said: “follow in My steps.”  Everyone would agree that we couldn’t go wrong following the counsel and example of Jesus:  “It was to this that God called you, for Christ Himself suffered for you and left you an example, so that you would follow His steps.”⁴¹

“So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up.  And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read.”⁴²

If Jesus wanted us to keep a different day than He did, He surely would have told us so.  We cannot go wrong following His word and ex-ample.

One story is recorded to teach man a very important lesson.  It is the story of the disobedient prophet; it is recorded in the thirteenth chapter of 1 Kings. For interesting reading, read it in the Today’s English Version.

A prophet of God was sent from Judah to the city of Bethel to deliver an urgent message to King Jeroboam. God had instructed the prophet to deliver His message and immediately return to his own home. He was also told neither to eat or drink nor to return by the same route.

After the prophet delivered his message the king became very angry.  Pointing to the prophet the king called out to his guards, “Seize him.”  The king’s arm became paralyzed.  Jeroboam began to beg the prophet to pray to his God to restore his arm.  The prophet did pray and the king’s arm was restored.  He was so deeply impressed that he invited the man of God to stay for dinner.  The king told the prophet that he would not only have a feast in his honor, but that he would reward him with a gift for what he had done.  The prophet answered, “Even if you gave me half of your wealth, I would not go with you or eat or drink anything with you.”⁴³

Then, in detail, the prophet told the king the instructions God had given him. The prophet left taking a different road home.  Two men, who had been present at the king’s residence, saw everything that had happen-ed and went home and told their father.  Their father claimed to be a prophet too.  He asked his sons, “Which road did he take?”  The sons told their father, and he immediately got on a donkey and went to find the man of God.  A short time later he found him resting under an oak tree.  The old man asked, “Are you the prophet from Judah?” He answered, “I am,” The old man who claimed to be a prophet invited the man of God home with him for a good meal.  Again the prophet of God repeated the instructions God had given him.  The old man replied, “I, too, am a prophet just like you, and at the LORD’S command an angel told me to take you home with me and offer you my hospitality.” But the so-called prophet was lying.  The prophet of God went home with the old man.  After dinner it was revealed to the prophet that he would not get home alive.  As a result of his disobedience a lion killed him shortly after leaving the old man’s home.

The prophet from Judah should have known that God does not change His mind. The Lord says what He means, and means what He says.  The prophet no doubt repented of his error.  But he gave his life to leave us this story, which was recorded to help us realize that God means exactly what He says.  If the Pope, a Rabbi, a clergyman, a prophet, or even an angel says anything contrary to God’s word, don’t believe it!  The Bible says the seventh day is the Sabbath.  Eternal life is dependent on obeying the plain truth of God’s word.

During Bible times people kept the seventh-day Sabbath.  Most professed Christian people today keep Sunday.  So, sometime in the past the day was changed. This change will be discussed in detail in a later chapter of this book.

A Chinese pastor tells this story: A man went to market with a string of seven coins.  He saw a beggar who asked him for alms; he gave the poor man six of the coins and kept one for himself.  The beggar, instead of being thankful, followed the good man and stole the seventh coin also.  What a low-down individual!  Yes, and would you, to whom God has given six days, steal the seventh also?

Notes

Chapter – 25

1- Rom 3:20; 2- Ex 20:13; 3- Ex 20:8-11; 4- Ps 111:2-4; 5- Ps 135:13 KJV; 6- Isa 40:28 NIV; 7- Gen 2:2; 8- Gen 2:3; 9- Isa 56:2 TEV; 10- Mk 2:27; 11- Gen 26:5; 12- Lk 23:56; 13- Acts 28:17 NIV; 14- Act 17:2; 15- Acts 13:14; 16- Act13:42; 17- Acts 18:4, 11; 18- Acts 16:13 NIV; 19- Mat 28:1 NIV; 20- Mk 16:2,3, 9 NIV; 21- Lk 24:1; 22- Jo 20:1; 23- Jo 20:19 NIV; 24- Gen 1:31 NIV; 25- Lev 23:32; 26- Lk 24:29 NIV; 27- Acts 20:7 GT; 28- Acts 2:46; 29- Mal 3:6; 30- Ps 111:7, 8; 31-Isa 66:22, 23 NIV; 32- Deut 8:11 NIV; 33- Eze 20:20 NIV; 34- Rev 1:10; 35- Mk 2:28; 36- Jo 1:1-4; 37- Jo 1:14 TCNT; 38- Heb 1:1, 2; 39- Eph 3:9; 40- Jo 14:15; 41- 1Peter 2;21 TEV; 42- Lk 4:16; 43- 1Kings 13:8 TEV;

“And another angel followed, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.”

We need to be sure that we know what time it is in the history of this world.  It may be later than we think!  There is a Bible story of two cities, which can help us locate where we are in the stream of time.

That “Tale of Two Cities” is far more profound than the Charles Dickens story.  The tale begins in the book of Genesis and continues on into the last book of the Bible. Both cities are portrayed in the Scriptures in contrast with each other, as opposites.  These cities are Babylon and Jerusalem.  Babylon is a symbol of apostasy; Jerusalem and the New Jerusalem are symbols of truth.  All the falsehood of the religious world will join with modern Babylon.  All God’s true followers will join together and become the New Jerusalem.  It is very important for God’s people to understand the story of these cities and just what they stand for because God’s last message to the world revolves around the symbolic meaning of these cities.  Figuratively, every person will be a resident of one or the other when the history of this world reaches its climax.

A look at the literal history of these two cities will aid in under-standing their figurative roles.  The city of Babylon was built about 2200 B. C.  Its builder was a great-grandson of Noah by the name of Nimrod.  Noah’s son Ham named his first son Cush.  Cush became the father of Nimrod.  Nimrod himself was a symbol of rebellion against God: “To Cush Nimrod was born, the first on earth to become a despot. He was a mighty hunter (warrior) before the LORD; therefore the proverb, “Like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before the LORD.”  He began his kingdom with Babel; (Babylon).”¹

Shortly after the city was completed, the people of Babylon built the tower of Babel in defiance of God.  The name “Babel” means “confusion.”  As the tower was being built, God intervened and confused the language of the people.  The tower was never finished, but the city of Babylon became a great city for many years.  Because the Babylonians probably did not like the name “Babel,” they claimed that the name of their city “Babylon” meant “the gate of the gods.”

About 1500 years after Babylon was first erected, it reached the pinnacle of its power.  King Nebuchadnezzar rebuilt it into a magnificent city.  Beautiful in the extreme, it was the capital city of the world and came to be known as the “Golden City.”  The kingdom of Babylon was a world power from 606 to 538 BC.  Three prophets, Daniel, Isaiah, and Jeremiah foretold the fall of Babylon.

Jerusalem may have been founded about the time Babylon was built, for it too is mentioned in the book of Genesis.  It was called Salem before it was known as Jerusalem.  “Salem” means “peace;” therefore, Jerusalem means “city of peace:” “Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine.  He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying,   “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth.”²  Abram met Melchizedek about two hundred years after the first city of Babylon was built.  Abram’s name was not changed to Abraham until he was about 75 years old. He was probably born before Noah died.

The literal city of Jerusalem is still one of the most important cities in the world.  It is referred to as a “holy city,” and is claimed as a holy place by three great religious faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.  The Jews claim Jerusalem as the capital of their nation.  The Christians revere it as the center of Christ’s ministry and the scene of His suffering, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension.  The Moslems claim it as the site of Mohammed’s ascension to heaven.

The histories of both Babylon and Jerusalem reveal why they were chosen to represent truth and error.  Babylon stands as Satan’s counterfeit to the church of God. The story of Jerusalem-versus-Babylon portrays a continuation of the great controversy, which began in heaven between Christ and Satan. It was ancient Babylon, which substituted pagan princ-iples of worship for the worship of the true God, Jehovah God.  Notice a few of the similarities between ancient Babylon and modern spiritual Babylon.

LITERAL BABYLON                       MODERN BABYLON

Great Babylon, Daniel 4:30.                BABYLON THE GREAT,

Revelation 17:5.

Caused the slain of Israel,                   Drunk with blood of saints

Jeremiah 51:49.                              and of martyrs, Revelation 17:6.

Lady of Kingdoms, Isaiah 47:5.      Called a “Queen,” Revelation 18:7

She has “children,” Isaiah 47:9.      Mother of harlots, Revelation 17:5

17:5.

A golden cup…the nations made   A golden cup…(people) made drunk

drunk with her wine. Jer. 51:7.      with her wine, Revelation 17:2,4.

Habitation for wild beasts,              Habitation of devils,

Jeremiah 50:39.                               Revelation 18:2.

A habitation of unclean birds,         A cage for unclean and hated birds,

Isaiah 13:21.                                    Revelation 18:2.

God’s people called out of her,        Come out of her My people,

Jeremiah 51:6.                                 Revelation 18:4.

Babylon falls, Isaiah 21:9.              Babylon falls, Revelation 18:2.

The lion, king of beast, represents literal Babylon.  Babylon built a great image and commanded the world to worship.  Modern Babylon is also represented in the book of Revelation as seated on a beast; it uses a beast’s (a nation’s) power to enforce its laws.  The entire world is commanded to worship her image.

All of this background is important, for it greatly aids in under-standing why God chose Babylon as a symbol of the enemy of truth and righteousness.  Remember that both Jerusalem and Babylon are referred to as “she,” and that both “city” and “woman” are symbols of churches.

Now a look at a very solemn message involving symbolic Bab-ylon.  This warning is so significant that it is the only subject of the second angel’s message: “And another angel followed, saying, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.”³

A detailed study of some of these verses will present a clear understanding of the identity of this religious power:  “Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.”⁴

A more complete picture of this woman will be given when we study the seventeenth chapter of Revelation.

The true people of God, His faithful church members, are pictured in Scripture as being united with their Lord in a sacred marriage relation-ship.  It is a beautiful, pure union.  The woman pictured in the verse above is not pure she is a harlot.  Harlotry by a church is deception, idolatry, unfaithfulness, and apostasy.  “They feed on the sins of my people and relish their wickedness.  And it will be like people, like priests. I will punish both of them for their ways and repay them for their deeds. They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new, which take away the understanding of my people. They consult a wooden idol and are answered by a stick of wood. A spirit of prostitution leads them astray; they are unfaithful to their God.”⁵

It is very clear in these texts that sexual immorality is symbolic of unfaithfulness to God.  The apostate church in Revelation 17:2,3 above is said to “sit on many waters.”  Water in this setting, remember, represents people and nations. In other words, she is influential among the nations of earth.  Notice that she influences the leaders of nations to support her false teachings.  The inhabitants of the nations become intoxicated by her doctrines.  She is further identified in Revelation 17:  “The woman is arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication.”⁶

The purple, scarlet, gold, precious stones, and pearls are all highly symbolic, not only of Christ, but also of His followers and the truth they treasure.  The religious system mentioned above claims to have the truth of God, but in reality, what does it have?  It is full of abominations and filth.  A careful look at these symbols will clearly support the position stated.  Purple and scarlet were used extensively in the sanctuary built by Moses.  This sanctuary represented God and what God stood for (the book of Exodus chapters 25 and on).

Purple was also used for royalty, for kings and leaders (Judges 8:26). Christ was clothed in a purple robe at His crucifixion.  This robe may have been both purple and scarlet since Matthew calls it scarlet (Mark 15:17; John 19:2; Matthew 27:28).  Scarlet also is symbolic of sin (Isaiah 1:18).  Jesus carried the sins of the world to the cross.

Gold is symbolic of faith and love:  “Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.”⁷

Eighteen times in the Bible God says He is the shield of His people.  Solomon was very much aware of symbolism, for much of what he wrote was prophetic and symbolic. 1 Kings 10:17 records that Solomon “made three hundred shields of beaten gold; three pounds of gold went into one shield.”  This symbol of a gold shield is better understood when we look at two other texts: “But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.”⁸

“And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith.”⁹  A person, who goes through trials and has faith in God, has God as his Sustainer, Protector, and Shield.  He will come forth tested and purified.  Faith and love are the commodities, which make men valuable in God’s sight.

Jesus is the Pearl of great price. Those for whom He died are also considered pearls.¹⁰ Jesus is called “a precious corner stone.”¹¹  God’s people are also called “precious stones:” “As you come to Him, the living Stone – rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to Him – you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”¹²

The claim of the apostate religion, called “the mother of harlots,” to be a follower of Jesus Christ and to possess the truth of God is an abomination.  This system has a golden cup in her hand, offering its contents for all to drink.  A cup or a vessel represents an individual or an entity, together with the thoughts and ideas or doctrines with which they are filled.  God said of Paul:  “He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.”¹³

The cup this harlot offers does not contain God’s truth, as Paul’s did, but it contains the doctrines of the devil, also called “filth.”

To further identify Babylon, the next text gives even more infor-mation: “And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMIN-ATIONS OF THE EARTH.”¹⁴  Notice that she has daughters; she is “the mother of harlots.”  Thus the complete identity of Babylon includes both mother and her daughters.  Babylon, in its broadest sense, eventually includes all false religions.  For through the mother’s influence they will all bind themselves together against God’s truth and against His people.

John gives us further identification of the mother:  “And I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the mar-tyrs of Jesus.  And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement.”¹⁵

For 1260 years, from 538 to 1798 AD, this system was guilty of executing millions of dedicated conscientious Christians.  Not only did she kill Christians, but many were tortured as well.  The record of these atrocities still stands.  The Church of Rome is the mother church.

Pope Pius IV said in the Authoritative Creed, Article 10: “I acknowledge the Holy Catholic Apostolic Church for the mother and mistress of all churches.”

When any church, denomination, or group of believers reject any of the fundamental Bible doctrines such as the fall of man, the inspiration of the Bible, the deity of Christ, His virgin birth, His resurrection, His atonement, salvation by grace through faith in Christ, His Second Coming, the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit, or if they teach error in regards to any doctrine pertaining to salvation, they become a part of Babylon.

“What gives life is God’s Spirit; man’s power is of no use at all. The words I have spoken to you bring God’s life-giving Spirit.”¹⁶

“But vainly do they worship Me, For they teach but the precepts of men, You neglect God’s commandments and hold to the traditions of men…. Wisely do you set aside God’s commandments, He exclaimed, to keep your own traditions!”¹⁷

When choosing whether to accept the Bible or tradition, the “mother church” says, “Though these two divine streams are in them-selves, on account of their divine origin, of equal sacredness, and are both full of revealed truths, still, of the two, tradition is to us more clear and safe.”¹⁸  This is contrary to the words of Jesus quoted above.

Another point of interest is in the following text:

“But the angel said to me, ‘Why did you marvel?  I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and the ten horns. And the ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast.”¹⁹

The beast this woman is riding upon is said to have seven heads. Seven is a “divine” number.  It often means perfection and completeness, and can stand for allegiance to God.  This beast claims devotion to God.  The beast is said to have ten horns, which are ten kingdoms.  Ten is a number, which is often symbolic of human affairs.  It also can mean the total amount or number.  The prophecy says that the entire world “will wonder after the beast;” consequently, all nations who follow Rome are most likely included in this number.  Ten is a symbolic number, which appears to mean or pertain to governments.  It is a number, which is often associated with a political scene.  These two numbers, seven and ten, being joined together with this beast, indicate a joining of the religious and political powers of the world.  It is clear that this is a religio-political power.

The nations, which are on the world scene during this great strug-gle, will join together to exercise their powers to enforce laws concerning religion. This combined church-state union will exist only for a short period of time.

Notes

Chapter – 26

1- Gen 10:8-10 BV; 2- Gen 14:18, 19 BV; 3- Rev 14:8; 4- Rev 17:1, 2; 5- Hosea 4:8-12 NIV; 6- Rev 17:4; 7- Eph 6:16; 8- Job 23:10; 9- 1Jo 5:4; 10- Mat 13:45-48; 11- Isa 28:16; 12- 1Peter 2:4, 5 NIV; 13- Acts 9:15; 14- Rev 17:5; 15- Rev 17:6; 16- Jo 6:63 TEV; 17- Mk 7:7-9 TCNT; 18- Joseph Faa De Bruno, Catholic Belief (1884 4ed), p 45; 19- Rev 17:7, 12.

“Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, ‘If anyone worship the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. And he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb.’”

In past history God has sent warnings to the world.  Many fearful warnings are recorded in Scripture, but one of the most solemn warnings ever given to mortals is to be sent to the world in this our day.  “If anyone worship the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God.”

In order to understand the significance of this warning it is nec-essary to know the identity of the beast and his mark.  Ten points are to be considered, which will positively identify this beast.  To cover the mark of the beast we must review these points we have covered in Revelation 13.

The ten points are:

1. This particular beast came up out of the sea.
2. It was like the “great red dragon.”
3. The dragon gave the beast its “seat” (place) and great authority.
4. It was a religious power.
5. The world would “wander after” and “worship” this beast.
6. This beast spoke “blasphemies.”
7. It would continue for forty-two months or 1260 days.
8. One of its heads would be wounded and taken captive.
9. It was “to make war with the saints.”
10. This beast will receive aid from a strong world power to enforce

observance of its mark.

The identity of this power should not be considered a condemnation of the individual members of this organization, for this power is a system condemned by God in His word.  Let us consider these points one by one.  There are many true Christians still in this persuasion, which must be called out.

POINT NUMBER 1

This beast comes up in a populated area.  It rose up out of the sea, or in other words, in an area well populated with people.  John in vision said: “Then I stood on the sand of the sea.  And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns.”¹

It will also be necessary to repeat the meaning of some of the symbols for a better understanding of the subject matter. A sea or a body of water is representative of people.  “And he said to me, ‘The waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues.’”²

A beast represents a nation, or as in this case, a religio-political power that comes out of the dragon beast as brought to view in Revelation 13:1,2.  This dragon beast is the same one, which Daniel saw as the fourth beast of his vision in Daniel 7.  It is also the same power John saw in Revelation 12:3:

“After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong.  It had huge iron teeth; it was devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling the residue with its feet. It was different from all the beast that were before it, and it had ten horns.”³

“And another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads.”⁴  The beast whose mark is urged upon people would come on the scene of action, with renewed power, at the time the beast with the two horns like a lamb is a world power.  This beast with the mark receives his power and place from the beast with the seven heads and ten horns.

POINT NUMBER 2

It is like the dragon.

The beast with the mark and the dragon beast, from which he comes, are both like the great red dragon that was cast out of heaven. Satan, the “great fiery red dragon,” claimed to be “like the Most High,” but in reality he made war against the God of heaven (Isaiah 14:14). Satan used and/or instigated an earthly power to war against God:  “And another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems on his head. His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. And she bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron.  And her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.”⁵

The power identified in this verse is obviously Satan, for he is the one who brought a third of the stars (angels) of heaven with him to this earth.  This dragon beast would be the political power used by Satan.  The devil, to a large extent, controlled the earthly power symbolized by this dragon with the seven heads and ten horns.  Notice that it was Rome, the beast pictured in all of these texts, that was in power when the Christ Child was born. Both Luke and Matthew make this clear:  “And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.”⁶

“When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.”⁷

Augustus Caesar (Gaius Octavius) was born in 63 BC and was the Emperor of Rome from 27 BC to 14 AD; He was the grandnephew of Julius Caesar who adopted him.  He followed Julius to the throne.

Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem to register for tax purposes in compliance with Caesar’s orders.  Bible critics for years thought Luke was mistaken about this fact, but more recent light on the subject reveals papyri and inscriptions confirming that Augustus’ official records report at least three such general surveys during his reign (Res Gestae Divi August, i,8).

Herod the Great was King of all Palestine at the time of Jesus’ birth.  He was a very suspicious individual, and had a number of people killed who he thought might usurp his throne.  When he heard that the Scriptures predicted the birth of Christ as King of the Jews, he attempted to have Him killed.  Herod died the year Jesus was born.

POINT NUMBER 3

The dragon gave him authority.

The dragon beast was to give the beast with the mark its “seat” or throne, and great authority. It is necessary to go back to the book of Daniel for the background to find the prophecy of this beast’s rise to power.

In his seventh chapter, Daniel records four world powers that were to come on the scene.  These four world powers parallel the four world kingdoms predicted in the great image of Daniel 2.  The first two are identified as Babylon and Medo Persia. The third world kingdom was Greece, and the fourth was Rome: “After this I saw in the night vision, and behold, a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong.  It had huge iron teeth; it was devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling the residue with its feet.  It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns.  I was considering the horns, and there was another horn, a little one, coming up among them, before whom three of the first horns were plucked out by the roots.  And there, in this horn, were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words.”⁸

The beast power with the mark was to come out of the dreadful beast as a little horn and is described in the following manner.  “Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion.  And the dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.”⁹

History records that Rome did give the Roman church its land (place) and its power. Note the following:

“One of the most stupendous institutions in history has been the Papacy. Throughout the Middle Ages it dominated Western Europe.  Today its power is different from what it was in 1200 AD, but who shall say it is less?  This Papacy has been in many senses the legatee of the dying empire of the west.  The Pope in the chair of Peter is to a large extent the successor of the emperor on the seat of Augustus or the throne of Constantine.”¹⁰

POINT NUMBER 4

It is a religious power.

This beast is to be a religious power.  A political power is symbol-ically referred to as a man.  A woman is symbolic of a religious power or a church.  When the beast power with the mark is referred to, it is at times, called “he” and at other times “she.”  This is another evidence that it is a religio-political power.  This power demands worship, which also ident-ifies it as a religious power:  “And all who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”¹¹

The unity in religious matters, predicted in this verse, is yet too come.  Apostate religions will bind themselves together upon those points of doctrine upon which they agree.  The phrase, “all the world wondered after the beast,” is also still in the future.  This probably indicates that the entire world will turn to the Vatican for peace negotiations or other political advice or counsel.

POINT NUMBER 5

The world follows this beast in worship.

The eyes of the whole world are upon the Papacy today:  “I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed.  And all the world marveled and followed the beast.”¹²  The Pope is now accepted with open arms in almost any country in the world. Many people of all lands bow down before him. The world is truly “wondering after” this power today.

POINT NUMBER 6

It is guilty of blasphemy.

A charge of blasphemy is recorded against the beast that has the mark:  “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months.  Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven.”¹³ “Blasphemy” is defined in Scripture as falsely claiming divinity or divine prerogatives.  Also, blasph-emy is the defamation of God or sacred things or the teaching of lies.  Two texts make these points clear:  “The Jews answered Him, saying,  ‘for a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.’¹⁴  “And behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed.  And Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the par-alytic, ‘Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.’  “And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, ‘This Man blasphemes!’”¹⁵

A human can only forgive one who has wronged him.  To claim the ability to forgive sins is blasphemy.  Only God can do that, but Cath-olic clergy claim this right.  When God says He will not change anything that He has said, and men claim the right to change God’s word, especially His Law, it is blasphemy.  “For I am LORD, I do not change.”¹⁶  “I will not violate my covenant or alter what my lips have uttered.”^17/

The Pope is regarded as divine, or nearly so, as indicated in the following:  “For thou art the shepherd, thou art the physician, thou art the director, thou art the husbandman; finally thou art another God on earth.” ¹⁸

It continues in power for 1260 years.

The Roman Church would continue in power for “forty-two months” or “1260 days,” before receiving a deadly wound.  Notice the language of the text: “He was given authority to continue for forty-two months.”¹⁹ “I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast.”²⁰

Using prophetic time, a day for a year, this period would be 1260 years long.  Emperor Justinian issued a decree in 533 AD to recognize the pope as “head of all the holy churches” (Justinian Code Book 1, sec. 4, in The Civil Law, translated by S.P. Scott, Vol. 12, p.12).  Five years later in 538 AD the Ostrogoths were defeated in the siege of Rome.  This was a deathblow to the independence of the Arian power then ruling Italy.  The year 538 stands out as the beginning of papal supremacy.  This date also marks the beginning of the 1260-year prophecy, which would extend to 1798. This brings us to the next point.

POINT NUMBER 8

It will be wounded.

The prophecy stated that one of the Papacy’s heads would be wounded.  The Roman apostate power did receive a mortal wound in 1798.  The French temporarily overthrew it.  The French General Berthier took the pope prisoner, and he died in exile that same year.  After this event the Papacy continued to function, but not with its former splendor and power.  In 1929 the situation changed. Cardinal Gasparri met with Mussolini in the palace of Saint John Lateran, and the temporal power was returned to the papacy.  It restored to the Papacy the land and authority, and it really did “heal a wound of 59 years.”  (The Catholic Advocate [Australia], April 18, 1929, p.16).

The San Francisco Chronicle carried a front-page article on February 12, 1929, with a picture of the Cardinal and Mussolini, the signers of the Concordat.  It carried the headline, “Heal Wound of Many Years.”

POINT NUMBER 9

It persecutes God’s people.

“And it was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them.”²¹  During the 1260 years of papal supremacy millions of men, women, and children suffered martyrdom.  This period was known as the “Dark Ages.”  The “saints” were literally worn out by persecution.  Many were “overcome” by burning at the stake, by lions in the arenas, and by the loss of their heads on the block.  Some of the horrible modern butchering of certain people was only child’s play in comparison to the atrocities of those dark days.  The accounts of this dismal period in history have been removed from modern history books.

In the past, the Catholic Church has defended its use of force:  “The Roman Catholic Church, convinced, through its divine prerogatives of being the only true church, must demand the right to freedom for herself alone, because such a right can only be possessed by truth, never by error.  The Catholic Church would betray her trust if she were to proclaim, theoretically or practically, that error can have the same rights as truth, especially where the supreme duties and interest of man are at stake. The church cannot blush for her own want of tolerance, as she asserts it in principle and applies it in practice.”  (A statement from the official publication of the Society of Jesus in Rome, La Civilta Cattolica, quoted in American Catholics; a Protestant-Jewish View, pp. 82-86).

Another statement dealing with the church’s alleged right to deal with dissenters or “heretics:”  “When confronted by heresy she [the church] does not content herself with persuasion; … she has recourse to force, to corporal punishment, to torture.  She creates tribunals like those of the Inquisition, she calls the laws of the State to her aid, if necessary she encourages a crusade, or religious war.” (Alfred Baudrillart, The Catholic Church, the Renaissance and Protestism, pp. 182, 183).

POINT NUMBER 10

It receives aid from a strong world power.

For many years now, the United States has been the freedom capital of the world.  Our country was founded on religious freedom. The people of this great nation enjoy as much or more freedom than any other people on this planet.  This is the greatest nation on earth.  Every citizen should be proud to be an American.

Our country became the great nation because of its principle of civil and religious freedom.  The beast power of Revelation 13 had a lot to do with the United States’ early success as a nation.  Many people in Europe were experiencing religious persecution from the Roman Catholic Church.  As a result they came to this country by the hundreds of thou-sands.

Revelation 13:1-10 describes the Papacy’s rise to power.  Then John the Revelator reveals what he saw next: “Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.”²²

Several points stand out to help identify this beast:

1. He comes up as the first beast receives his deadly wound.
2. He would come up out of the earth.
3. He had two horns like a lamb.
4. He would speak as a dragon.

First, one should look for a nation to be coming up about the time the Papacy received the wound.  The United States is the only nation “coming up” to power in 1798. In 1787 the Constitution had been accep-ted by vote.  The Bill of Rights had been adopted in 1791.  In 1798 America was first recognized as a political power.

Second, this power would come up out of the earth.  All previous nations recorded in prophecy came out of the sea or water.  They came on the scene by the conquest of others.  “Sea” represents large numbers of people.  This new power would come up in a sparsely populated area.  Our nation arose in the New World exactly as prophesied; it grew “out of the earth.”

Third, it would have “two horns like a lamb.”  Horns are symbolic of leaders, or types of power; these horns symbolized its’ type of govern-ment, Republicanism and Protestantism. These leadership qualities were “lamb-like.” Thus, this beast portrays a democracy with a very peaceful beginning.  All through the Bible the lamb is a symbol of Christ. This new nation was to be “lamb-like” in is government.  Horns were also used to send messages to the people; the message to the world was freedom!  Almost all the early settlers came here for religious freedom.  They came to worship God according to the dictates of their consciences.  The founding fathers said that this nation was founded as “one nation under God.”  There was no mention of crowns on the horns. This nation would not be a monarchy.

Fourth, he had horns like a lamb, but he would eventually speak as a dragon.  The prophecy states that he will aid the beast in enforcing its mark.

There is no doubt about the identity of this nation; it is the United States of America.  Notice again what the great Methodist leader, John Wesley, had to say about this lamb-like beast in 1754.  He began by applying the first beast of Revelation 13 to the Papacy.  Then he said, “Another…beast…But he is not yet come, though he cannot be far off; for he is to appear at the end of the forty-two months of the first beast” (John Wesley’s New Testament with Explanatory Notes, p. 427).  John Wesley was a good Bible student.  He was looking for a new nation to come on the scene.  The United States is the only power that could have fulfilled His expectations.

The prophecy does not end at this point. Our country will not continue its lamb-like disposition:  “He had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.  And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”²³ To speak like a dragon is a serious indictment.  The dragon is a symbol of Satan. The picture portrayed is that he not only speaks like a dragon but acts like one as well.  Remember, the first beast persecuted God’s people, His saints.  We would hope that the United States does not enforce the mark of the beast.  But prophecy seems clear, but what else does this second beast do?  “And he deceives those who dwell on the earth…telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived. He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed.  And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.”²⁴

It seems incredible that such a scene as this could happen in this good land.  The picture painted here involves a combination of church and state.  Many see a trend toward this situation and are sounding an alarm.  That the United States will aid the Roman Church in her religious endea-vors is very evident from this prophecy.

Two main themes stand out in Revelation 13; they are the mark of the beast and the image to the beast.  These two are diametrically opposed to the seal of the living God.

THE SEAL OF GOD

The seal of God is found in God’s Law: “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.”²⁵  It is clear from this verse that the seal of God is found in the Law. God said that the keeping of His Holy Sabbath would be a sign or seal between Him and His people.  “Keep My Sabbaths holy, that they may be a sign between us. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.”²⁶  Both words “seal” and “sign,” in these two texts can mean a “mark,” or a “monument,” something that distinguishes or sets apart.  The identifying mark or seal of God’s authority is in the Sabbath. The Sabbath is in the center of the Ten Commandments.  God made the Sabbath His seal.  He said the Sabbath would be a perpetual sign between His people and Himself.

The Sabbath will last throughout all eternity:  “As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me, declares the LORD, so will your name and descendants endure. From… one Sabbath to another, all mankind will come and bow down before Me, says the LORD.”²⁷

The true God, the Creator God, is identified in the fourth commandment.  This command also contains the  Seal of God. A seal contains three things:

1. The name of the person.
2. His title or office.
3. The territory over which he rules.

The seal of a president of the United States would contain all three of the above.

1. The name: Abraham Lincoln.
2. His title or office: President.
3. His territory: The United States of America.

Notice, the true God, the King of the universe, is identified in His seal contained in the Sabbath commandment. “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.  Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God.   In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates.  For in six days THE LORD MADE THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.”²⁸

His name:      THE LORD.

His office:     CREATOR (HE MADE).

His territory:  THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH, or UNIVERSE.

Daniel the prophet discloses the beast’s blasphemous attempt to change God’s Law:  “He shall speak words against the High One and shall crush the saints of the most High. And shall think himself able to change times and laws.”²⁹

The Amplified Version says that he shall “think to change the times and the law.”

The Sabbath command is the only religious law that has anything to do with time. What does history record with regard to an attempt to change God’s Law?

“Question: Have you any other way of proving that the church has power to institute festivals of precept?

Answer: Had she not had such power, she could not have done that in which all modern religionists agree with her—she could not have substituted the observance of Sunday the first day of the week, for the observance of Saturday the seventh day, a change for which there is no Scriptural authority. (A Doctrinal Catechism. Rev. Stephan Keenan, p. 174.)

Of course the Catholic Church claims that the change was her act…. and that act is a MARK of her ecclesiastical power (Cardinal Gibbons by Chancellor H. F. Thomas).

The MARK of the beast will become law.  “He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name.”³⁰

The second beast (The United States) is to make an image to the first beast.  This image is a representation, a likeness in word and actions to the first beast.  This image is also called a “mark” both in verse 16 and in verse 17.  The enforcement of Sunday the Church has called the “mark of their authority.”  The first beast will bring in the mark of the beast and it will be brought in by the use of deception.  “And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived.”³¹ This deception will occur by bringing in the Sunday law in such a way that it will not be considered a religious law.

The image or mark of the beast “on” or “in” the forehead, in figurative language means “fixed in the mind.” The forehead is symbolic of the mind.  This fact is quite clear in Ezekiel: “But I will make you as unyielding and hardened as they are. I will make your forehead like the hardest stone, harder than flint. Do not be afraid of them or terrified by them, though they are a rebellious house.”³²  In this verse the forehead is represented as a set mind or strong will. When the mind is determined to accept the mark of the beast, it figuratively is “on the forehead.”

When the mark is “in” or “on” the hand, it is accepted for labor reasons. A non-Christian could receive this mark.  The hand is symbolic of labor or compliance; it would not be necessary to believe it.  “Whatsoever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”³³

No one will receive the mark of the beast until the issues are drawn and the choice is put before the people.  One may receive the mark of the beast by membership in the organization of the beast after the subject matter is known.  If one complies with the requirements of the beast, the mark is in the hand.  The third way the mark of the beast may be received is in the mind, that is to accept its’ false teachings as true.

If those of us who live here in the United States lose our God-given freedoms, it will not be God’s fault.  Anyone with eyes open can see the handwriting on the wall.  A union of church and state may soon be formed.  Religion and politics are joining hands. Wake up America!  Hear God’s last warning!

Notes

Chapter – 27

1- Gen 10:8-10 BV; 2- Gen 14:18, 19 BV; 3- Rev 14:8; 4- Rev 17:1, 2; 5- Hosea 4:8-12 NIV; 6- Rev 17:4; 7- Eph 6:16; 8- Job 23:10; 9- 1Jo 5:4; 10- Mat 13:45-48; 11- Isa 28:16; 12- 1Peter 2:4, 5 NIV; 13- Acts 9:15; 14- Rev 17:5; 15- Rev 17:6; 16- Jo 6:63 TEV; 17- Mk 7:7-9 TCNT; 18- Joseph Faa De Bruno, Catholic Belief (1884 4ed), p 45; 19- Rev 17:7, 12.

“Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”

The first woman to swim the English Channel was Gertrude Ederle.  She might have received the honor the year before except that she had broken one rule.

Eighteen-year old “Trudy” entered the English Channel from the rocky shore of France on August 18, 1925.  In nine hours she had covered seventeen miles of the very choppy sea.

Her coach called out, “Only six more miles! You can make it!” Just about that time a huge wave buried Trudy beneath the water.  She stopped swimming to catch her breath and to clear her throat of the salt water she had swallowed.  The coach thought she was in serious trouble. He called out to the man swimming beside her. “Help Trudy!”

The man reached her in a moment and put his arm around her to help her.  “Why did you do it, Jim?  I was all right. I could have made it easily,” Trudy sobbed. She was disappointed indeed as she climbed back into the boat.

It wouldn’t do any good to go on. She had broken one of the rules. Even though she had kept every other rule, she was still disqualified.

One year later, on the second try, Trudy made it without breaking any of the rules.  The record shows that she was the first woman to swim the English Channel.

Every game has rules.  Every profession, every worthwhile endeavor, has them too.  Our very existence is guided and guarded by ordinances, codes, and laws.  Every good law is for man’s protection and happiness.  While we play the game of life, we must keep all the rules:

“Whoever breaks one commandment is guilty of breaking them all.”¹  The law-breaker will be disqualified.  The apostle Paul compares the Christian life to a race.  We must all “run with patience the race that is set before us.” ²  If we stumble and fall, we must not quit.  If we want victory, we will try again.  The man swimming at Trudy’s side could not help her.  But we cannot make it on our own.  Yet, God has not left us in a hopeless situation.  We do not need to struggle in the sea of life alone – we have someone by our side.  God has promised us all the power necessary for victory.  When a rule is broken, we must follow the Bible counsel.  We must ask for forgiveness and also for the strength and power to keep God’s rules.  Paul told us to keep in touch with God when he said, “Pray without ceasing.”³  Man can keep all God’s rules only by being controlled by God’s Holy Spirit.  The apostle Paul said Christ would give us all the power needed to live the victorious life: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”⁴

Regardless of man’s field of study, he soon discovers that all life is subject to law.  The earth, our solar system, and the entire universe, in their orderly operation are bound by controlling laws. Without law life could not exist.  Without the Moral Law earth would soon be a savage jungle.  The Ten Commandments summarized every right principle. God’s Law is a summary of the entire Bible.

The Decalogue  (the Ten Commandments) is called “the Royal Law.”⁵  This title is very fitting, for the King of the Universe is its Author.  The Eternal God in love gave the intelligent beings under His domain “the perfect law of liberty.”⁶  Freedom has always been and still is based on good law.  Obedience to the Moral Law means continued freedom.  When Lucifer chose to rebel against the government of God, sin entered.  There certainly was a law when Lucifer sinned, for God said, “Sin is a breaking of the law.”⁷  Lucifer would not have been cast out of heaven if he had not broken the rules of God’s government; Lucifer sinned.⁸

At creation man was introduced to Law.  The account is brief but decisive.  Man learned of a beautiful being who had violated the Royal Law.  Adam and Eve should have had no cause to worry, for no doubt Lucifer had access to them only at the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

It was man’s nature to obey the Moral Law.  The desire to obey was implanted in man by his loving Creator, for man was created in God’s image and likeness.  God’s likeness is beyond our comprehension; for “God is love,”⁹ perfect love.  Love was the motive for Adam’s obedience before sin came to this earth.  Love is still the only incentive for spontan-eous obedience.  All true love is from God.  While love ruled, man was a happy child of God, but sin severed Adam and Eve’s relationship with their Lord.  The loss of their beautiful garden home, and the loss of association with celestial friends must have been heartbreaking.

However, the revelation of the plan of salvation gave Adam and Eve hope and courage, and the possibility of restoration to their first estate brought a measure of happiness and joy back into their lives.

Sin separated man from God.  All God’s faithful people who lived before Moses knew of God’s Holy Law.  “Sin is a breaking of law.”¹⁰ Also,  “I would not have known what sin was except through the law.”¹¹ They must have known the Law, or they could not have had knowledge of sin.

Cain, one of Adam and Eve’s first two sons, was very angry because his form of worship was unacceptable.  God said to him:  “If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door.”¹²

Before the Law was given in written form at Mount Sinai, Abraham kept God’s Commandments.  “Abraham obeyed My voice and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws.”¹³

God states that the reason He brought Israel out of Egypt was so they could keep His Holy Law.  Even before Sinai Moses rehearsed God’s Law with the people.  “He brought out His people with joy, His chosen ones with gladness. That they might observe His statutes and keep His laws.”¹⁴

“When two people have a dispute, they come to me, and I decide which one of them is right, and I tell them God’s commands and laws.”¹⁵

Abel sacrificed a lamb.  Christ is called the “Lamb slain from the foundation of the world,”¹⁶ and the sacrificing of that innocent lamb typified the sacrifice of Christ for the sins of the world.  Abel, therefore, sacrificed because  “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” ¹⁷  Abel acknowledged himself as a sinner and could “not have known sin but by the law.”¹⁸

The first thing Noah did after coming out of the ark was to build an altar and sacrifice clean animals to God.  Abraham also offered sacrifices to God. Abraham said:  “God will provide Himself a lamb for offering.”¹⁹

Century’s later John the Baptist identified Christ as “the sacrificial lamb” when he said:  “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”²⁰

God’s Law, the Ten Commandments, is the fundamental rule of life for every man in every age.  It is evident that God’s Law was the code of man’s behavior before man sinned in the Garden of Eden.  Adam and Eve were given the whole world, with the exception of one tree.  They were told not to eat the fruit of that tree.  It was a test of obedience or disobedience.  The first couple on earth had the freedom of choice.  Before Eve could eat of that tree she first had to covet some of its fruit.  Then she stole something, which did not belong to her.  When she gave some of the fruit to Adam, he too had a choice.  He could obey or disobey.  Because of his love for Eve he made the wrong choice.  Anything, which comes between a person and his God, becomes an idol.  Adam not only accepted something, which was stolen, but he broke the first commandment as well.

The next recorded sin was that of Cain.  Cain violated the second commandment.  His mode of worship was not acceptable.  His brother Abel brought a lamb according to instructions from God.  Throughout the Old Testament a lamb represented the Messiah-to-come who would die for man’s sins.  Abel’s offering and worship was accepted.  Abel obeyed; Cain did not.  Cain’s offering was a substitute; God will not accept a man-made religion.  When Abel tried to reason with his brother, Cain killed him; Cain broke God’s Law!

By an examination of Scripture it is not difficult to find that every one of the Ten Commandments was broken before Mount Sinai.  The Ten Commandments were given to man in written form at Mount Sinai.  God Himself wrote them with His own finger on tables of stone.  Stone is symbolic of durability.

When God wrote the Ten Commandments and gave them to Israel, they were given to all mankind as well.  A short time before the two stone tablets were given to Moses God had presented them orally to His people.  The record states: “And God spoke all these words” (Exodus 20:1).  Then all the people heard God Himself proclaim the Ten Commandments.

Since God does not make mistakes, He does not need to take back or change anything.  In fact, God says:  “I am Lord, I do not change.” ²¹  “My covenant I will not break, Nor alter the word that has gone out of My lips.”²²

“In all he does he is faithful and just; all his commands are dependable. They last for all time; they were given in truth and righteousness.”²³

Some people attempt to do away with the Ten Commandments, but God tells us they will last forever. D. L. Moody in his book Weighed and Wanting (p.11) said:  “I have never met an honest man that found fault with the Ten Commandments.” On page 15 of the same book Moody said: “The commandments of God given to Moses in the mount at Horeb are as binding today as ever they have been since the time when they were proclaimed in the hearing of the people.”

There are many texts in the Bible, which totally support D. L. Moody’s contention that the Law is binding on all men now and eternally.  Notice how plain David makes this point:  “Yet you are near, O LORD, and all your commands are true. Long ago I learned from your statutes that you established them to last forever.” ²⁴ and:  “All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal.”²⁵

To this day the Ten Commandments still remain on those tables of stone.  They were placed inside the golden Ark of the Covenant.  The Ark was hidden in a cave on Mount Nebo.²⁶  Someday it will most likely be found.  If so, the Ten Commandments will again be presented to the world as a testimony of God’s immutable moral code.

Some Christian groups are teaching that Jesus did away with the Ten Commandments and gave us a law of love in its place.  The words of Christ Himself do not support this view.  Jesus said:  “I and My Father are one.”²⁷ “There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy.”²⁸  There is perfect and total agreement by and between the members of the Godhead.  The relationship of Jesus and the Law was prophesied in the Old Testament.  “The LORD is well pleased for His righteousness’ sake; He will magnify the law and make it honorable.”²⁹

The life and teachings of Jesus testify to the fact that He magnified the Law.  How did He magnify the Law?  Christ magnified the Law in the life that He lived as a human being.  He was without fault.  He lived in perfect obedience to all the Law.  The Lord also magnified the Law in his teachings.  Jesus taught that one could lust to the point that it becomes adultery, or hate to the point that it becomes murder.  The Psalms make plain Jesus’ attitude towards the Law:  “I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart.”³⁰  Jesus also said:  “I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.”³¹

Jesus is our example: in fact, we are told:  “He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.”³²   Actually, if one claims to be a follower of Jesus and does not obey, he lives a lie: “He who says, ‘I know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”³³

Jesus revealed His relationship to the Law in His own words: “Do not think I have come to do away with or undo the Law and the Prophets; I have not come to do away with or undo, but to complete and fulfill them. For truly, I tell you, until the sky and earth pass away and perish not one smallest letter nor one little hook will pass from the Law until all things have been accomplished.”³⁴

One morning little Jack came running to his mother excitedly declaring, “I am nine feet tall!  I am nine feet tall!”

His mother lovingly took him in her arms and asked with a smile, “What makes you think that you are nine feet tall?”

The six-year-old said, “I made a ruler and measured myself.” We smile, but when man replaces God’s Law with his own set of rules, the standard is no longer correct.  Man would be right only in his own eyes.

There are some questions we need to consider.  What is man’s duty in regard to the Law?  Can man keep God’s Law? What does the Bible say in regard to these questions?  It is easy to understand why keeping the Law is in man’s best interest.  The Bible tells us that man’s nature is sinful; he cannot keep the Law by his own determination.  Yet, the Scriptures say man must keep the Law: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”³⁵

God does not leave us in darkness concerning these issues.  All our questions are answered in Scripture.  An interesting picture is found in Paul’s writings:

“To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace.  And so a person becomes an enemy of God when he is controlled by his human nature; for he does not obey God’s Law, and in fact he cannot obey it.  Those who obey their human nature cannot please God.”³⁶

The word presented here is that one can choose to submit to the leading of the Holy Spirit and have life and peace, or he can follow his human nature, which leads to disaster:  “For our love for God means that we obey his commands. And his commands are not to hard for us.”³⁷

His commands are not to hard to obey if we avail ourselves of the power God offers us.  “But to all who receive him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God.”³⁸ and, “Remember, I have given you the power… to meet all the strength of the enemy.”³⁹

God wants to save man, for He has made it clear that all the power of heaven is at man’s disposal.

The vast majority of men realize that life would be far more pleasant if all men kept the Moral Law.  Just imagine what life on this earth would be like if no one violated any of the Ten Commandments.  If men would only keep the Law, we would not need law enforcement.  Locks would be a thing of the past, and all men would live in peace and happiness.

In an attempt to govern human conduct, it has been estimated that man has enacted over forty million laws.  State and Federal law books are constantly being changed.  But crime marches on; men are continually trying to take advantage of each other.  Man can only wish all men were kind, courteous, and obedient.

The Law does not take away sin; Jesus does. “He shall save His people from their sins.”⁴⁰  Those who teach that Jesus came to save people in their sins need to examine the Bible texts on this subject with an open mind.  Gathering all the important texts on that subject and examining them with the guidance of the Holy Spirit we can only properly understand the truth on any subject. The Lord has promised to save all that in sincerity come to Him for salvation.  When a person does come to Jesus, our Savior will forgive his sins and say,  “Go and sin on more.”⁴¹  Moreover, Jesus will give us all the help we need to overcome the temptations that come.  Christ would not tell us to do something impossible:  “Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will give you strength to endure it …and so provide you with a way out.”⁴²

There are three main things God will give to aid men in their Christian walk.  The Holy Spirit gives these three gifts to men. They are faith, love, and the privilege of prayer:  “This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”⁴³

The more true Bible knowledge a person acquires, the greater his faith will become.  Faith comes by a sincere study of the word of God.⁴⁴

True love is the strongest moral force known to man.  A young expert in the Law came to Jesus and attempted to trap Him by asking some trick questions.  One question was: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”

Jesus turned the question around and asked him:  “What do the Scriptures say?  How do you interpret them?”

The man answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and your neighbor as yourself.” “You’re right,” Jesus replied; “do this and you will live.”⁴⁵

The lawyer was quoting Deuteronomy 6:5.  Love sent Christ to the cross to save man.  Man must accept that great love by revealing his love through obedience to God’s commands.  The love of Jesus in the human heart is the key to obedience and eternal life. Jesus tells us that obedience is the test of love:  “If you love me, you will obey my commandments.”⁴⁶

“For in Christ Jesus. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”⁴⁷

The proper faith and love, which bring obedience, come through the power of the Holy Spirit.  “But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.”⁴⁸  The gift of love through the Spirit, which is the power of God for obedience, is summarized in the book of 1 John 4:19.  “We love Him because He first loved us.

“And we ourselves know and believe the love which God has for us.  God is love, and whoever lives in love lives in union with God and God lives in union with him. Love is made perfect in us in order that we may have courage on the Judgment Day; and we will have it because our lives in this world is the same as Christ’s.”⁴⁹

To live as Christ lived is possible only by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit—“Christ in you, the hope of glory.”⁵⁰  Remember that the symbolic meaning of “glory” is a beautiful character.  One other text clearly tells us about the transformation of the individual through the power of God.  “Whoever is a child of God does not continue to sin, for God’s very nature is in him; and because God is his Father, he cannot continue to sin.”⁵¹

If God’s love fills the human heart, there is no room for sin:  “Owe nobody anything—except the duty of mutual love, for whoever loves his fellow-men has fully satisfied the law.  For the commandments, ‘You must not commit adultery, You must not murder, You must not steal, You must not covet,’ and any other commandments there are, are all summed up in one saying, “You must love your neighbor as you do yourself.’ Love never wrongs a neighbor, and so love fully satisfies the Law.’”⁵² 

Prayer is a necessary part of the victorious life in Christ.  Jesus, our example, spent a great deal of time in communion with the Father.  The most powerful Christian men and women are those who have a close connection with God in prayer.  To unlock the resources of heaven, one must use this key of prayer.

While Jesus was teaching one day, He said:  “You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”  Some of the religious teachers challenged Him by saying: “We are descendants of Abraham, … we have never been anybody’s slaves.  What do you mean, then, by saying, `You will be free’?”⁵³  Jesus answered them by saying:  “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.”⁵⁴  “Surely you know that when you surrender yourselves as slaves to obey someone,  you are in fact the slaves of the master you obey either of sin, which results in death, or of obedience, which results in being put right with God.”⁵⁵

Jesus says that by accepting Him we become free from the slavery of sin:  “But now you have been set free from sin and are the slaves of God.”⁵⁶  “For the law of the Spirit, which brings us life in union with Christ Jesus, has set me free from the law of sin and death.”⁵⁷

A summary of these verses paints a very clear picture of slavery to sin and Satan, or slavery to God and obedience.  “The wages of sin is death.” What is sin?  “Sin is breaking the law.”  So a person who breaks God’s Law is under its penalty, which is death. Even today a person who breaks the law is under that law, under its penalty.  If one travels down the road having a speed limit of 70 miles per hour, he is free from the law as long as he is going 70 or less.  But if he travels over the speed limit, he can soon be under the law.  If he is stopped and tells the officer he is sorry and that it won’t happen again and the officer lets him go he is free again; he has been saved by grace.  The officer did not need to turn him loose.  The man found grace (favor) in the eyes of the officer.  This does not mean that he is free to break that law again.  If he did, he would be back under the law.

So when man comes back to God, confessing and forsaking his sins, Christ forgives him and sets him free.  He can continue to be free as long as he allows God to control his life.  All, who are ready when Jesus comes again, will be among the group John talks about in the book of Revelation:  “Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”⁵⁸

Notes

Chapter – 28

1- James 2:10 TEV; 2- Heb 12:1; 3- 1Thes 5:17; 4- Phil 4:13; 5- James 2:8; 6- James 1:25; 7- 1Jo 3:4 TEV; 8- Eze 28:15, 16; 9- 1Jo 4:8; 10- 1Jo 3:4 TEV; 11- Rom 7:7 NIV; 12- Gen 4:7; 13- Gen 26:5; 14- Ps 105:43, 45; 15- Ex 18:16 TEV; 16- Rev 13:8; 17- Rom 3:23; 18- Rom 7:7; 19- Gen 22:8 AV; 20- Jo 1:29; 21- Mal 3:6 TEV; 22- Ps 89:34; 23- Ps 111:7, 8 TEV; 24- Ps 119:151, 152 NIV; 25- Ps 119:160 NIV; 26- 2Maccabees 2:5-7 NAB; 27- Jo 10:30; 28- James 4:12; 29- Isa 42:21; 30- Ps 40:8; 31- Jo 15:10; 32- 1Jo 2:6; 33- 1Jo 2:4; 34- Mat 5:17, 18 AV; 35- Eccl 12:13; 36- Rom 8:1-8 TEV; 37- 1Jo 5:3 TEV; 38- Jo 1:12 RSV; 39- Lk 10:19 TCNT; 40- Mat 1:21; 41- Jo 8:11; 42- 1Cor 10:13 TEV; 43- 1Jo 5:4 NIV; 44- Rom 10:17; 45- Lk 10:25-28 TEV; 46- Jo 14:15 TEV; 47- Gal 5:6 NIV; 48- Gal 5:22; 49- 1Jo 4:16, 17 TEV; 50- Col 1:27; 51- 1Jo 3:9 TEV; 52- Rom 13:8-10 GT; 53- Jo 8:32, 33 TEV; 54- Jo 8:34 NIV; 55- Rom 6:16 TEV; 56- Rom 6:22 TEV; 57- Rom 8:22 TEV; 58- Rev 14:12.

“Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”

Sin brought sadness to God and to all the loyal intelligent beings of the universe, but God was prepared for the emergency.  Just as soon as Adam and Eve sinned God revealed His plan to save them from eternal death.  His first concern was for man’s welfare and happiness.  He present-ed to them not only the plan of salvation, but he also gave them rules for their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.  The first pair was given all the necessary instructions concerning the road back to the Paradise they had lost.   Their instructors were holy angels as well as God Himself.  After a time God selected certain Spirit-filled individuals to present His counsel to the human race.  So completely has the Lord’s commands and counsel been presented, that men have always been without excuse.

From the creation of human life on this planet the Lord has used various channels in communicating with mankind.  Before sin entered this world, God spoke to Adam and Eve face to face; they were His children.  He displayed His great love for them by giving them this world filled with beauty.  Everything that God had created was made to serve man and was made for his benefit and enjoyment.  The Lord especially designed a very beautiful home for the children He had fashioned in His own image. The Garden of Eden was the most beautiful spot on earth.  God was not only their Creator; He was also their Provider, Teacher, and Friend.  Sin, however separated Adam and Eve from God: “But your iniquities have separated you from your God.”¹

Since the fall God’s personal audible communion with man has been very rare.  Besides audible conversations with men, God communicated by several other methods such as by means of the Urim and Thummim.  The word “Urim” is the plural of the Hebrew word for “light,” and “Thummim” means “perfection.”  These were precious stones placed on the front of the garment of the high priest and were located just below each shoulder.  A light would shine from the right stone to indicate a positive response to the question of the high priest, and a shadow or cloud would come over the stone on the left to indicate a negative answer.*

Located in the Most Holy place of the sanctuary was the Ark of the Covenant.  On special occasions God communicated with the high priest as he stood before this golden ark.  A beautiful light (which was called the “Shekinah”) shone above the mercy seat of the ark.  The record reveals that at times a voice answered the high priest as he stood facing the ark on the Day of Atonement.  At times, while the high priest was officiating in the Most Holy place, God made His will known by varying the light of the Shekinah.  Disapproval was shown by a shadow or dimming of the glow above the mercy seat, and approval was indicated by an increase in the intensity of the light.  The messages given by God to the high priest involved all Israel.

But, for centuries the gift of prophecy has been the method God has used, more than any other, to convey His will to man:  “Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.” ²  This true prophetic gift comes to man only through the Holy Spirit and it is known as the gift of prophecy, also called the “spirit of prophecy.”

To foretell the future is only one meaning of the word “prophecy.”  All the instruction and counsel given by the prophets in known as “prophecy.”  When a prophet received a vision or a dream, he was often directed by God to present that reproof, instruction, or warning to the individual or group for whom it was intended.  Prophets were also told to record the various doctrines pertaining to the plan of salvation.  They recorded counsel covering all aspects of life, as well as laws, history, songs, poetry of devotion and praise, as well as predictions.

The gift of prophecy was not limited to the Old Testament alone.  There were prophets before the Old Testament was written. The New Testament also lists a number of prophets. The Bible records about a hundred prophets.  There have been only relatively short periods known in history when the gift of prophecy was not in existence.  The longest period known without a true prophet lasted about 1260 years and has rightfully been called “The Dark Ages.”  The Bible reveals what happens to people when the prophetic gift is not present or is rejected:  “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” ³  History records that man has always needed the guidance of spirit-filled men, especially men who have been gifted with the spirit of prophecy.

___________________

*In connection with the Urim and Thummim, the high priest learned the will of God in doubtful cases. This method was not adopted for inquiring the divine will concerning private individuals or private matters, but was employed only in behalf of the nation…. With the Urim and Thummim, the will of Jehovah, the Judge, concerning judicial matters, and the royal desires of Jehovah, the king, were learned. Numbers 27:21; cf. Joshua 9:14; Judges 1:1; 20:18, 23, 27, 28; 1 Samuel 10:22; 14:36-42; 22:10, 13; 23:9-12; 28:6; 30:7,8; 2 Samuel 2:1; 5:19, 23, 24. The Westminster Dictionary of the Bible, p. 619.

In a number of places the apostle Paul speaks of the “gift of prophecy.”  In his chapter on love (1 Corinthians 13), this gift is mentioned in the words, “Though I have the gift of prophecy.”  He makes it clear that even this gift is not enough; man still needs love.  When Paul lists the gifts of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, he mentions the gift of prophecy as one of them.  Also, Paul lists the gift of prophecy in Romans 12:6.  In Ephesians the fourth chapter, Paul records that just before Jesus went back to heaven, He gave gifts to men through the Holy Spirit.  Then he lists five gifts that the Lord gave to the church.  “It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” ⁴

All spiritual gifts are from the Lord, including the gift of prophecy.  These gifts will continue to be in the church until all of God’s true people are bound together in love, unity, and they are sealed.  This will only happen to those who allow the power of God’s Holy Spirit to control them.  When this takes place all of God’s true people will be united in one fold as Jesus predicted.

At the present time most of the Christian groups recognize and even claim the gifts of teaching, evangelism, pastors, and the others, but they omit and even ignore the gift of prophecy.  We know of only four Christian groups claiming to possess this essential prophetic gift.

In early Old Testament times a prophet was called a “seer.” ⁵  He was the eyes and ears for God’s people.  He would guide the people into a correct understanding of God’s will, and he would also keep before them the true interpretation of Scripture.  Thus he would lead God’s true people physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Today people do not know what to believe.  Most Bible teachers do not know how to correctly interpret Bible prophecy.  Ask ten ministers of any Christian denomination to explain any chapter of the book of Revelation.  Some will tell you that Revelation is a closed book, or that it cannot be understood.  If all of them would attempt an interpretation there would likely be ten different explanations.  Some of the doctrinal differences between denominations are very wide.  Even members of a particular group find differences of opinions on major points.  A church with-out the gift of prophecy is groping in darkness.  Many are, as Jesus said, “blind leaders of the blind.” ⁶  Paul foretold what would happen without proper guidance: “Yes, and even from among you men will arise speaking perversions of the truth.” ⁷  And he tells of false teachers: “Who changed the truth of God into a lie.” ⁸  The prophets of the New Testament warned that without the Holy Spirit and without the gift of prophecy men would take gospel truth and twist it into falsehood.

All of the gifts listed by Paul were given to aid the church in attaining spiritual unity and love.  Jesus Christ placed these gifts in the church.  The five gifts listed by Paul are the most important gifts for “the perfecting and the full equipping of the saints (His consecrated people).” ⁹  Every one of these gifts is greatly needed; if just one is omitted, the church will suffer greatly.  The idea conveyed in these verses is not to emphasize sinless perfection, but spiritual maturity.  These gifts, conferred on the church, are designed to aid in perfecting character.  Then, by the power of the Holy Spirit, they will “guide you into all truth.” ¹⁰  This will cause God’s church to become stable, strong, and energetic.  As the members of God’s church assimilate the character of Jesus, they will be ready for Him to come.

After Pentecost all of these gifts were in the church.  As the members went forth with power, they set the world on fire with their message and love.  At the present time there is little unity among believing Christians and little power, because the Spirit of love and unity controls but a few.  Pentecost must be repeated. In order for its repetition, the gifts must be revived and utilized, especially the gift of prophecy.

Contrary to the teaching of most Christian bodies, the Bible records that the gift of prophecy was given to the church for all time. “So then the gift of tongues is for a sign, not to believers, but to unbelievers; but prophecy is not for unbelievers, but for those who believe.” ¹¹  And,  “Where there is no vision the people perish.” ¹²  History records that this gift has been a great blessing to the church.  Almost every great reform movement has been under the leadership of one who had the spirit of prophecy.  During every time of crisis God has delivered His people through one or more prophets. “By a prophet the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt, And by a prophet he was preserved.” ¹³  During this the grandest hour of earth’s history, the hour just before Jesus comes, God’s true people will have and must have the gift of prophecy.

We have no record of John the Baptist writing anything, yet Jesus said that he was the greatest of the prophets.  “But, what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist.” ¹⁴  The prophecy, fulfilled by John the Baptist, recorded in Malachi 4:5 has a double application.  John came in the Spirit and power of Elijah and “prepared the way of the Lord” at His first coming.  The prophecy has a stronger application for the Second Coming of Christ than it did for His first coming as the Messiah: “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.”¹⁵  John did prepare the way for the first coming of the Lord, but that was not “the great and dreadful day of the Lord.”  This phrase is found in a number of places in Scripture and refers to the Second Coming of Christ.  Jesus came the first time as a Babe, not as a conquering King.  The total fulfillment of this prophecy will come in our day.  Many of the professed people of God in the past took the word of their religious leaders and refused the message of God’s true prophets.  The same type of rejection will happen now, just before Jesus comes.  “God commands: “Despise not prophesying.” ¹⁶  “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.” ¹⁷

Both the Old and the New Testaments teach that not only will God’s true people in the last days of earth’s history desire the prophetic gift, but also they will have it among them. “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” ¹⁸ Also, “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” ¹⁹

The Scriptures have a great deal to say about the Law and the prophets. The Law and the prophets are bound together throughout the Scriptures.  Those who disregard God’s Law cannot understand the work given through the spirit of prophecy.

“There shall be disaster after disaster, rumor shall be upon rumor. Prophetic vision shall fade; instruction shall be lacking to the priest, and counsel to the elders.” ²⁰ “We do not see our symbols; there is no longer any prophet, neither does any among us know how long.” ²¹  This prophecy is being fulfilled in the religious world today.  The teaching is plain, however, that whenever the Law of God is ignored, there is no prophetic guidance: “Where there is no vision the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” ²²

A church, which receives the gift of prophecy, will be a commandment-keeping church. This combination also identifies God’s last true fold. God foretold that just before Jesus comes, there would be false prophets:  “I have heard what the prophets say who prophesy lies in my name, They say, “I Had a dream! I had a dream!”…Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams, declares the LORD. They tell them and lead my people astray with their reckless lies.” ²³  Under no circumstances can lying prophets be true prophets: “For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect if it were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time.” ²⁴  Since God has given such strong warnings concerning false prophets, everyone should know how to apply the Bible tests for true prophets to anyone claiming the gift of prophecy.  Before we look at the tests for a true prophet we shall look at the gift of prophecy to the last church.

Remember the gift of prophecy was lacking in the church for 1260 years, but it was to be restored at the end of the 2300 day-year prophecy of Daniel.  The last true church was also to come on the scene at the same time.  The book of Revelation calls this church the “Laodicean,” meaning the judging of the people, and it is also called the “remnant church.”  To be God’s last true church it must have the gift of prophecy.  In December of 1844 a seventeen-year-old girl had her first vision, her name was Ellen G. Harmon.  She later married a minister by the name of James White and for seventy years she lead God’s last true church in the capacity of “more than a prophet.”

There are twelve points presented in the Scriptures to positively distinguish between a true and a false prophet.  The true prophet of God will meet all twelve of these testing points. These points are as follows:

TEST NO. 1.  A true prophet will see visions. The proper under-standing of the word “vision,” in relation to the prophet, means a divine revelation.  There are two types of visions.  One is during the daytime. The other is the night vision also called a “dream.” God is speaking: “Then He said, hear now My words: If there is a prophet among you, I, the LORD, make Myself known to him in a vision, And speak to him in a dream.” ²⁵

TEST NO. 2.  The prophet will be the only one to see the vision. “And I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, for the men who were with me did not see the vision.” ²⁶  Two prophets may see the same vision.  God, on occasion, has given dreams to men for specific reasons.  But, in every case, God’s true prophet interpreted the dream or vision. Only prophets see visions. Other people may be all around them, but they will not see the vision.

TEST NO. 3.  The physical effect of the vision, which a true prophet experiences, is important.  First, he goes into what we would call a trance.  During this trance he first becomes very weak.  Daniel said he was too weak to talk.  He then becomes exceedingly strong.  During the entire vision, whether ten minutes or four hours, he does not breathe.  His eyes are open, but he is unaware of what goes on around him. “Therefore I was left alone when I saw this great vision, and no strength remained in me; for my vigor was turned to frailty in me, and I retained no strength.”²⁷  Daniel continues to describe the physical effect of a vision: “For how can this servant of my lord talk with you, my lord? As for me, no strength remains in me now, nor is any breath left in me. Then again, one having the likeness of a man touched me and strengthened me.  And he said, O man greatly beloved, fear not!  Peace be to you; be strong; So when he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.”²⁸  To help protect one from deception God has recorded a detailed description of a prophet in vision.  The fact that a true prophet does not breathe during a vision is a very important test for it is impossible to go very long without breathing.

TEST NO. 4.  The true prophet is given an understanding of the vision. The angel of prophecy, the angel Gabriel, was sent to Daniel to explain the vision to him:  “Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come.”²⁹ Also: “And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, who called, and said, Gabriel, make this man understand the vision.”³⁰ Thus, God’s true prophets are given the ability to correctly understand prophecy.

TEST NO. 5.  Also, the true servants of the Lord as many of the prophets are called, are given the gift of interpretation of Scripture.  They are able to distinguish truth from error: “But first I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth.”³¹  “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”³²  “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”³³  If God’s people had the gift of prophecy among them, there would be total unity of belief as far as the cardinal doctrines of the Scriptures are concerned.

TEST NO. 6. A true prophet will uplift the Savior and God’s word: “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” ³⁴  All of the Bible prophets uplifted the Messiah and testified of Him: “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of me.” ³⁵

The theme of the Old Testament is the Messiah.  The New Testa-ment is an unfolding of the theme of the Old.  Jesus pointed out this fact:  “And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself.”³⁶  A false prophet is in it for his own benefit and praise; he will exalt himself.

TEST NO. 7.  A true prophet will have a close connection with God.  He will have a strong prayer life and commune often with his Lord.  It was Daniel’s custom to kneel in prayer at least three times a day. A group of his enemies attempted to use this devotion to his God against him. They tricked the king into signing a decree, which prohibited bowing before anyone except before him for thirty days.  But Daniel continued his practice and was arrested.  “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.”³⁷  God’s prophets become well aquatinted with their Lord by meditation, study, and communion.

TEST NO. 8.  A true prophet will not be afraid to rebuke sinners or to bring reproof.  “Cry aloud, spare not; lift up your voice like a trumpet; tell my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.”³⁸  The prophets spent a good part of their time pleading with the erring. A false prophet will speak “smooth things” to gain the approval of men.

TEST NO. 9.  A prophet’s life will be exemplary; he will live what he claims to believe.  His life will be fruitful. “Therefore by their fruits you will know them.”³⁹  This, of course, does not mean that a prophet will never make a mistake.  Prophets, like the rest of us, are only human and may at times make mistakes.  Errors are recorded by many of the prophets.  The point is that a prophet will set a good example.  He will live a Christ-like life.  He will be used by God to be an effective soul winner.

TEST NO. 10.  God’s prophets have always suffered rejection, opposition, persecution, and sometimes-even martyrdom. “O, Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to he!.”⁴⁰   “Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute?  And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers.”⁴¹  Only God’s true people will receive a true prophet.  True prophets will be mistreated, slandered, and even persecuted by others.

TEST NO. 11.  A true prophet’s predictions come to pass. “And if you say in your heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD has not spoken? When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing does not happen or come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken; the prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.”⁴²   False prophets are the ones who make false predictions.  A true prophet’s predictions come to pass.

TEST NO. 12.  God’s true prophets will teach and believe all God’s commandments, and their lives and teachings will be in harmony with all Bible teaching, including God’s Law. “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”⁴³

Be sure to reject all false prophets.  If one claims to have been given the gift of the spirit of prophecy today, apply the Bible tests.  Be very careful not to refuse to accept any of God’s true prophets.  Jesus said that if we refuse to accept any one of His prophets, we reject Him.

There were three others who claimed to have been called of God as prophets near the time Ellen White came on the scene.  Mary Baker Eddy of the Christian Science, and Aimee Semple Mc Fearson of the Four Square Gospel, and Joseph Smith of the Latter Day Saints.  Only Ellen White passes all twelve of these tests.

Notes

Chapter – 29

1- Isa 59:2 NIV; 2- Amos 3:7 NIV; 3- Prov 29:18 KJV; 4- Eph 4:11-13 NIV; 5- 1Sam 9:9; 6- Mat 15:14; 7- Acts 20:30 JBP; 8- Rom 1:25 KJV; 9- Eph 4:11-13 AV; 10- Jo 16:13; 11- 1Cor 14:22 CV; 12- Prov 29 ;18 KJV; 13- Hosea 12:13; 14- Mat 11:9, 11; 15- Mal 4:5; 16- 1Thes 5:20 KJV; 17- 1Cor 14:1 NIV; 18- Rev 12:17 KJV; 19- Rev 19:10; 20- EZE 7:26 NAB; 21- Ps 74:9 AV; 22- Prov 29:18 KJV; 23- Jer 23:25, 32 NIV; 24- Mat 24:24, 25 NIV; 25- Num 12:6; 26- Dan 10:7; 27- Dan 10:8; 28- Dan 10:17-19; 29- Dan 10:14; 30- Dan 8:16; 31- Dan 10:21 NIV; 32- Jo 8:32; 33- Jo 16:13 NIV; 34- Jo 12:32; 35- Jo 5:39; 36- Lk 24:27 NIV; 37- Dan 6:10; 38- Isa 58:1; 39- Mat 7:20; 40-Mat 23:37; 41- Acts 7:52; 42- Deut 18:21, 22; 43- Isa 8:20.

“Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on,’” ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.’”

There are many beliefs about death.  Some believe that death is the beginning of a much better life.  Others believe that you live only once; death is the end, eternal darkness.  Then there are some that believe in reincarnation.  They teach that when one dies he will come back as a cow, a dog, a cat, or even a fly. Many other teachings are just as bizarre.  But what truth does the Bible present about death?

The story of creation will aid in answering questions about life and death.  The book of Genesis records that God formed the first man from the elements of the earth.  Then into this creature He put life.  God brea-thed into his lungs the breath of life, the spark of life, “and he became a living being.” ¹  Adam was only the form of a man before God put life into him.  He could not see, think, speak, or hear.  He was without feeling, totally unconscious and void of life.  His mind did not function.  A body without life is a dead body.  Death is the absence of life.

That which God has revealed concerning man’s nature at the time of creation is fascinating.  After so many centuries of sin, man’s appear-ance is considerably different now, for the first man, Adam was created in the image of God.  Physically and mentally he was far superior to man now.  The most beautiful man and woman on earth today would not hold a candle to Adam and Eve in Eden.  As the first pair came from the hand of the Creator, they were magnificent, a perfect balance of physical, mental, and spiritual powers.  A large portion of their splendor was the result of their spiritual composition.  They glowed with an aura of beauty.  A soft colorful light radiated from their bodies.  This garment of light was undoubtedly beyond our comprehension for we have never seen anything like it.  They looked like God for they were made “in His likeness:” “O LORD my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty. He wraps Himself with light as with a garment.” ²  “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” ³  “God created man, He made him in the likeness of God.” ⁴

When man is filled with the Spirit of God he again reflects that aura of beauty and light. After Moses had spent forty days and forty nights with God on Mount Sinai, his face shown with such brilliance that the people were afraid of him.  It was necessary for Moses to veil his face when he spoke to the congregation. ⁵

Since Adam and Eve were created in the likeness of God, their inclination or tendency was only toward good.  But they were not incap-able of disobedience.  They were created with the power of reason and were given the power of choice.  God planned that their lives would be endless.  Progressively they were to increase in knowledge and skill.  Life would continually become more enjoyable and beautiful.  They did not live by instinct; consequently, their reasoning powers would continually advance.  Since God gave them power to choose, they had the opportunity to develop moral characters for good or evil, for life or for death.  Adam and Eve were placed in an environment where evil was only a remote possibility; it must be a deliberate choice.  Everywhere they turned, they saw the evidence of God’s great love.  Everything in the New World was created for man’s happiness and enjoyment.  God did not give the pair a multitude of written rules and regulations.  God gave the first pair a beautiful world with everything their hearts could desire.

God required only loving obedience.  He reserved only one tree for Himself.  It appears that only on that one small spot on earth, could Adam and Eve choose disobedience.  Standing before that one tree they had the ability to weigh the consequences, to reason and to decide between right and wrong.  God explained to them that choosing disobedience would not be wise for if they made that choice they would cease to live.  And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” ⁶

Evidently Adam and Eve died spiritually the very day they ate of the forbidden fruit.  Sin was responsible for their nakedness.  They lost the garment of light with which they were clothed.  Spiritual life was gone; it was dead.  The only reason they did not die totally—physically, mentally, and spiritually—was because the plan of salvation had been enacted.  Christ took their place, He was “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” ⁷ From the very moment they sinned, the King of heaven became the promised Lamb of God. “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.  For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” ⁸

Death is referred to as a sleep sixty-two times in the Scriptures.  During a sound sleep time goes by unmeasured; there is a total loss to consciousness; mental activity is inactive.  By the account of Lazarus of Bethany, Jesus left His followers a very dramatic picture of the death known as the “first death.”  Lazarus was a very close friend of Jesus and the disciples.  The Lord called his death a “sleep.”  “Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.” ⁹  The disciples did not under-stand: “Then His disciples said, ‘Lord if he sleeps he will get well.’ However, Jesus spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus said to them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead.’”¹⁰

What is death like?  “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.” ¹¹  A dead person has nothing more to do with anything in this world.  Satan may deceive people into believing that the dead can communicate with the living, but it is not true.  “For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not anything.” ¹²

If the dead know nothing, then they certainly do not go to heaven when they die.  King David lived a thousand years before Christ, yet the New Testament records that he had not as yet ascended into heaven the day that Peter preached that mighty sermon by the power of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.  In that sermon Peter said: “Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. For David did not ascend into the heavens.” ¹³ “All go to one place: all are from the dust, and all return to dust.” ¹⁴  “And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake.” ¹⁵  David said he would awake: “I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness.” ¹⁶  Yes, David, together with all the righteous, will some day come from the grave and be taken to heaven.

People who die do not go to one of a number of different places, as taught by some.  The dead will not go to heaven, hell, or purgatory at the time of death.  Everyone goes to one place, —to the grave.  The Hebrew word for grave is “sheol.”  This word means a dark, hollow place.  It simply means the abode of the dead.  From the moment a person dies he knows nothing until the resurrection.  “When his breath leaves him he returns to his earth; in that very day his thoughts, plans, and purposes perish.” ¹⁷

There is hope for the righteous.  The resurrection from the sleep of death is possible only for those who accept Christ’s atoning sacrifice for their sins.  The promise made to Adam and Eve that the Messiah would come to die for man’s sins should be accepted by all as though He had died that very day, the day Adam and Eve sinned in Eden.  He was the Lamb slain from the day the promise was made.

The vast majority of religious people are taught that the “soul” is immortal.  The origin of the doctrine of natural immortality comes from the one who was a liar “from the beginning.”  When Eve was standing before the tree of knowledge of good and evil looking at the forbidden fruit, Satan said, “Go ahead, Eve, try some; it’s very good.”

Eve responded with, “God said we may not eat of it nor touch it, or we die.”

The devil, through the serpent, said,  “You will not really die. God knows that as soon as you eat this fruit you will receive great wisdom and understanding.  You will be like God and know good from evil.”  Part of what Satan said was true.  They did learn good from evil. Ministers standing before their congregations today are still repeating that lie.  Especially is this lie repeated at funeral services.  It is usually repeated with words like “our loved one has gone to be with the Lord.”

The word “immortal” is used only once in the Bible. “Immortality” is used five times.  The Scriptures teach that God alone is immortal. “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever.  Amen.” ¹⁸

An examination of the five texts, which use the word “immortality,” will help clarify the question.  “Grace…has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”¹⁹  Today’s English Version reads: “He (Jesus Christ) has ended the power of death and through the gospel has revealed immortal life.” ²⁰

This version is the best to help one get a clear understanding of this text.  The sacrifice of Jesus ended the power of death that is; it removed the second death as far as the believer is concerned.

Christ’s death also helps clarify the subject of immortality.  One now knows that salvation brings eternal life.  This fact is supported by all four of the following texts.  “He (God) who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.” ²¹  Immortality is a free gift from God to the righteous. “To those who with insistent good behavior seek glory, honor, and immortality, He awards eternal life.” ²²  God would not tell man to strive for immortality if he already had it.  God has made it very clear that immortality, eternal life, is a gift from God.  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” ²³  Immortality is mentioned twice more:  “For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.” ²⁴  “So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immor-tality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: Death is swallowed up in victory.” ²⁵  These verses call man “mortal.” Mortal means subject to death. Death is the opposite of life.  The Scriptures make it clear that man does not have immortality, [see note]* he accepts it as a gift when he accepts Christ.  Those who do not accept Christ and eternal life die the second death.  “The soul who sins shall die.” ²⁶

When God put breath into man, He put more than air into his lungs.  He gave him the spark of life.  He made him a rational being.  The Scriptures do not reveal, and we do not understand, what all was involved when God gave Adam the breath of life.  Just as man does not fully understand the spirit that God gave to Adam, just so is the spirit that returns to God a mystery.  But nowhere does the Bible teach the existence of a conscious entity, called a “spirit” or “soul,” that lives separate from the body.

The term “soul” is frequently used when the discussion turns to the subject of death.  Does the soul leave the body at death and with reasoning power go to be with God?  The word “soul” appears in the Hebrew as “nephesh.” When “nephesh” is translated “soul,” it is found 428 times.  The nearly 300 more times “nephesh” is used it is translated in different ways.  It is translated “life” 119 times.  The remaining times it is used it is translated as “person,” “mind,” “heart,” “creature,” “body,” “dead,” and other such concepts.  To verify the above information one need only use a Bible and a concordance.

A statue of a mother holding the lifeless form of her small son in her arms stands in a famous art gallery in Europe.  The mother’s face reflects the grief and the sorrow that fills her heart.  Her husband, who is standing beside her, also reflects the same anguish of soul as he stares into empty space.  A bronze plaque beneath the statue bears the title, “The first death.”  The sculptor has strikingly depicted the agonizing pain and heartache, which is so often experienced by many in the human family.

The first death or sleep as Jesus liked to call it, is far more reasonable than the erroneous beliefs of most people.  The common belief is that when a person dies he goes right to heaven in some bodiless form or apparition.  He is fully conscious, and not only sees and hears and enjoys heaven with God, but is totally aware of what takes place on earth.

*Many still insist that the “soul” of man lives on after death. Is this true? To find the answer, it is essential to understand the meaning of the words “soul” and “spirit.” With few exceptions the Hebrew word for spirit is “ruwach,” and the Greek word is “pneuma.” The Old Testament uses the word “ruwach” 388 times, yet not once does it denote an intelligent entity capable of living apart from the body. Usually “ruwach” and “pneuma” are translated “spirit;” also the “breath” of the body, and “wind” are two more common translations. Both these words are translated in some places as “mind,” or are descriptive of the mind. When these words are translated as “spirit,” they are used to mean the Spirit of God, or the Holy Spirit, a large number of times. They are also translated to mean, in man, a state of feeling or being, the seat of emotions, or a sense of vitality. Every time the word soul or spirit is used they are translated as affecting or being connected with life and/or the reasoning process that God has given man. The word “pneuma” is used in the New Testament 385 times. Not once is it used to indicate an entity connected to, or that has been a part of, a human being capable of living on after death.

He sees without eyes, hears, without ears, he can reason without a mind, how?  He can even see the sorrow and pain of his loved ones on earth.  He is aware of all the misery, bloodshed, and crime here also.  How can heaven be a happy place under these conditions?

The truth is that when man dies, he sleeps in the grave until Jesus awakes him at His Second Coming.  Man’s rest in the grave, whether one day or five thousand years, would seem like the snap of a finger.  Job says that when man dies, he will sleep “till the heavens are no more.” ²⁷  This phrase is a portrayal of the Second Coming of Christ. ²⁸ “So man lies down and does not rise.  Till the heavens are no more, They will not awake nor be roused from their sleep. Oh, that you would hide me in the grave, That you would conceal me until your wrath is passed, That you would appoint me a set time, and remember me! If a man dies, shall he live again? All the days of my hard service I will wait, Till my change comes.  You will call, and I will answer You.” ²⁹

An elderly blind man who had just shortly before been converted to Christianity from the Moslem religion in the Andaman Islands knew only a little about the Bible.  When the Christian missionary came to talk to him, he found that the old man was very troubled.  The question, which bothered him the most, was: “What is going to happen to me after I die?”  The missionary opened God’s word and read to him many comforting texts, ending with the precious promise of the resurrection.

The face of the old man reflected joy and hope, and he said with a broad smile,  “I want to be among those who come forth in that first resur-rection!”

After the missionary had prayer for his aged friend, he saw that the man’s sightless eyes were filled with tears, but his face shown with the glow of true happiness and peace.  “Your dead shall live; Together with my dead body they shall arise.  Awake and sing, you who dwell in dust.” ³⁰

Man does not like to think of parting with loved ones.  It seems much more appealing to think of them in heaven with the Lord.  The truth is that God’s way is best. All God’s true people will go to heaven together.  At the Second Coming of Christ “The dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.” ³¹

REST

   It’s hard to know just what to say,

                                  When someone dear has passed away.

                                  We search for words that are so kind,

                                  Some words of comfort for the mind.

                                 When eyes are closed in final rest,

                                 The words, “I’m sorry,” may be best.

                                 They tell those grieving that it’s true—

                                “We really sympathize with you.”

                                 A loved one’s death is hard to bear,

                                 Espec’ly when we really care.

                                 But time alone can’t heal grief.

                                 Depend on God to bring relief.

                                His words of comfort can be heard,

                                By turning to His Holy Word.

                               “The dead will live!”—He tells us when,

                               “They rise the day I come again.”

        To rest in Jesus brings one peace,

                                So angels sing when life shall cease.

                               For angels know, we all unite—

                               If we are faithful in God’s sight.

               By D. O. Van Buren

Notes

Chapter – 30

• Gen 2:7 NIV; 2- Ps 104:1, 2 NIV; 3- Gen 1:27; 4- Gen 5:1; 5- Ex 34:29-35; 6- Gen 2:16, 17; 7- Rev 13:8; 8- 1Cor 15:20-22; 9- Jo 11:11; 10- Jo 11:13,14; 11- Eccl 9:10; 12- Eccl 9:5 KJV; 13- Acts 2:29, 34; 14- Eccl 3:20; 15- Dan 12:2; 16- Ps 17:15; 17- Ps 146:4 AV; 18- 1Tim 1:17; 19- 2Tim 1:9, 10; 20- 2Tim 1:10 TEV; 21- 1Tim 6:15, 16; 22- Rom 2:7 BV; 23- Jo 3:16; 24- 1Cor 15:53; 25- 1Cor 15:54; 26- Eze 18:20; 27- Job 14:12; 28- 2Peter 3:10 NIV; 29- Job 14:12-15; 30- Isa 26:19; 31- 1Thes 4:16-18

“And I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and on the cloud sat One like the Son of Man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle.”

Many years ago, so the story goes, a man of Carnarvonshire, Wales, was walking home.  It was a very cold stormy night. He carried a lantern to light his path across the mountain. He became so chilled that he put his coat around the lantern in an attempt to get warm.  The moon was barely shining, but he thought he could find his way without the light from his lamp.

After a time a sudden gust of wind blew his coat aside.  To his horror the light revealed that he was on the very edge of a deep slate quarry.  Another step or two, and he would have plunged to his death on the rocks below. He turned away to walk around the danger.  You can be quite sure that he did not cover his light again.

All of us are traveling through this dark world and need God’s light to stay on the safe path:  “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.”¹  The Second Coming of Christ is the main Biblical event, which the beacon light of prophecy illuminates.  The more we learn about this subject, the brighter and more beautiful the blessed hope becomes.  The prophet Amos says: “Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.”²

What greater event could there be than the coming of the Messiah, either the first or the second time?  The coming of Christ is referred to as “the Desire of All Nations.”³   The Second Coming is called: “the blessed hope.” ⁴  History confirms that the Messiah came.  The Old Testament records nearly four hundred prophecies that were fulfilled by Jesus as the promised Messiah.

Towards the end of Christ’s work on earth He told His followers that He would soon be leaving this world.  He assured them that just as certainly as He left, He would come again.  This assurance was given to them in the upper room just before Jesus went to the garden of Gethsemane:  “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”⁵  Jesus not only told His disciples that He must soon leave them, but He also consoled them by saying, “Stop letting your heart be troubled.”  He assured them that His departure would be only temporary.  The word “house” in this text is the Greek word “oikia,” which may also be translated “home.”  Jesus was telling the disciples that He would soon be leaving for home.  “When I arrive home I will prepare ‘abiding places’ for you.”  Jesus not only told His followers that He would come again, but He told them that they would be reunited at His Second Coming.  He promised to return and take His followers to a beautiful place He would prepare for them.

After His resurrection Jesus spent some time with His disciples preparing them for their work and for His departure.  Just before He left them, He gathered them about Him in Galilee and gave them their last instructions:  “Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.’”⁶

The ascension of Jesus is recorded as a historical fact.  This fact was a beautiful climax to the Lord’s ministry on earth. He had foretold that He would return to heaven:  “As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me.  This is the bread which came down from heaven—not as your fathers ate the manna, and are dead.  He who eats this bread will live forever.  Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, ‘This is a hard saying; who can understand it?’  When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples murmured about this, He said to them, ‘Does this offend you? What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before?’”⁷

The disciples saw Jesus ascend into heaven for a very good reason.  They were His witnesses.  The information given to them as they gazed at the spot where He disappeared agreed with what He had told them.  He would come again.  The statement by the two “men” in white was prophetic.  White is symbolic of purity.  Even though called “men,” these two must have been angels.  One of them may have been Gabriel. He is referred to as the angel of prophecy.  He himself said that he had the prophetic gift.  In the book of Daniel, Gabriel is referred to as a man.  Some versions say “in the form of a man.”  Daniel knew that Gabriel was no mortal man, for the prophet was terrified when he saw him.  In Revelation 19:10 the angel who appeared to John may also have been the angel Gabriel, for he said he had the gift of prophecy.”⁸

The record of the ascension of Jesus in the book of Acts reveals that Jesus retained His humanity when He left this earth.  The angels in white said, “This same Jesus” will return, the same Jesus they all knew and who had been with them for over three years.  He was the same One who was born of Mary as a human being and He will always belong to the human race.

The disciples were also told, as they saw Jesus go into heaven, that He would “come in like manner.”  This is a very important bit of infor-mation.  When this truth is carefully examined and understood, false teachings regarding His return are easy to recognize.  How did Jesus leave this earth?  He left personally; it was “the same Jesus.”  He left visibly, and He will return, “as you saw Him go.”  He left with clouds.  These clouds were no doubt a cloud of angels, for “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.”⁹  “Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him.”¹⁰  Therefore, His coming will not be secret, for everyone will see Him.  The record in Acts eliminates the guesswork.  Christ’s Second Coming is a certainty.  “This same Jesus will return.”¹¹

The Apostle Peter saw Jesus ascend into heaven, and in speaking of His ascension he makes a powerful statement:  “For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty.”¹²  This same verse is made very clear in the Today’s English Version.  “We have not depended on made-up stories in making known to you the mighty coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. With our own eyes we saw his greatness.

“So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”¹³  In the New King James Version the verse says He comes “to those who eagerly wait for Him.” His appearance is the “blessed hope” of those who are ready and eagerly waiting for Him.”  The word “appear” in the text is in Greek the word “horao,” which means, “to become visible.”  His Second Coming is not secret.  “Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him.”¹⁴

The Bible clearly pictures the two classes of people who will be on the earth when Jesus comes the second time.  They are either prepared or unprepared.  Those who are not ready are pictured as follows.  “But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”¹⁵  The other group are ready for Him.  They say, “This is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.”¹⁶

The Second Coming is the climax of the gospel and the end of this world, as we know it.  This subject is mentioned in Scripture more than any other with the exception of the Sabbath.  The first great evangelist mentioned in the Bible preached about this subject, notice what he said: “It was Enoch, the seventh direct descendant from Adam, who long ago prophesied this … ‘The Lord will come with many thousands of his holy angels to bring judgment on all.”¹⁷  The Psalmist gives a graphic picture of the Second Coming of Christ.  “Our God shall come, and shall not keep silent; a fire shall devour before Him, and it shall be very tempestuous all around Him.  He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that He may judge His people: Gather My saints together to Me, those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.”¹⁸

When all the texts that picture what happens to the earth and its inhabitant at the Second Coming are considered together, they picture a very awesome event.  Peter confirms the fact that the earth’s atmosphere burns up at the coming of Christ.  “Looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat.”¹⁹  This earth is left in shambles after the Second Coming.  But the righteous will be taken to heaven to be with the Lord for a thousand years.

The sacred Scriptures present a beautiful picture of those who are prepared for Christ’s coming, for it says that they will be like Him.

“Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.”²⁰

Both groups, the good and the bad, will receive the reward of acceptance or rejection at the coming of Christ.

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and MY REWARD IS WITH ME, to give to every one according to his work.”²¹

“And it will be said in that day: ‘Behold, this is our God; We have waited for Him, and He will save us.  This is the LORD; We have waited for Him; We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”²²

The counsel from God is that we must watch and be ready for the Lord’s appearing.

“But of that day and hour no one knows. Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.”²³

A few years ago I was holding meetings three nights a week not far from Mineral Wells, Texas. Because of my busy schedule it was necessary for me to fly there and back for each meeting.  I would leave my home-town airport, about forty miles north of Houston, just before dark, but I did not arrive until well after dark.

One beautiful evening just before sunset I took off as usual for my destination.  After flying about twenty-five minutes I noticed that it was overcast below, with some clouds above.  It was almost dark. In what seemed like just a very few minuets it had closed in. I could not see past the propeller of the plane.  I called the nearest flight service station and got on radar; they would inform me if any other traffic came near me.

I was flying by instruments.  The altimeter told me how high I was from the ground; another told me if I was turning right or left.  One more instrument told me if I was climbing or going down. I even had one, which pointed to the airport of my destination.  As long as I was heading directly toward that airport, the needle would point straight up, but if I would stray off to the right or left, it would show me that the airport was to the left or to the right.  As long as I flew by the instruments, I knew I was on course.

Just before I got to Mineral Wells, I suddenly saw the lights of the city below me.  A big hole just seemed to open in the sky, and I could see the airport just ahead.

As I thought of this, I also could not help thinking that flying by instruments is a lot like following the Bible.  As long as we read it correctly and follow what we find, we will be on course.  The prophecies of the Bible tell us not only where we are, but how near we are to our destination.  Stay on course, and soon the sky will open before you, and you will see the light of heaven.

GOD’S LAST CALL

Our earth keeps spinning on its way,

With quickend pace to end its day.

The storm clouds gather, dark the night;

The light’ning flashes loud and bright.

And then a sound that shakes the sky,

The angry nations’ battle cry.

Some angels hurry to and fro,

While others hold the winds that blow.

Then through the darkness of the night,

Across the sky, a shining light!

Three angels making God’s last call-

Their message must be heard by all.

So, Church of Christ, arise, awake,

And do your part, your soul’s at stake!

God calls for men in this last hour,

And offers them His Spirit’s power.

So, let God’s message fill your heart;

Then you can’t help but do your part.

By:    D. O. VAN BUREN

Notes

Chapter – 31

• 1- Ps 119:105; 2- Amos 3:7 NIV; 3- Hag 2:7; 4- Titus 2:13; 5- Jo 14:1-3; 6- Acts 1:9-11; 7- Jo 6:57, 58, 60-62; 8- Rev 19:10; 9- Mat 25:31; 10- Rev 1:7; 11- Acts 1:11; 12- 2Peter 1:16; 13- Heb 9:28 NIV; 14- Rev 1:7; 15- Mat 24:48-51; 16- Isa 25:9; 17- Jude 1:14 TEV; 18- Ps 50:3-5; 19- 2Peter 3:12; 20- 1Jo 3:2; 21- Rev 22:12; 22- Isa 25:9; 23- Mat 24:36, 42.

“Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous: seven angels having the seven last plagues, for in them the wrath of God is complete.  And I saw something like a sea of glass mingled with fire, and those who have the victory over the beast, over his image and over his mark and over the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.”

As John looks toward the sky he sees another great vision unfolding before him.  He knows that he is seeing the final events of earth’s history.  He has already recorded God’s last message to mankind and he now sees the last plagues that will fall on the earth before Jesus comes.  John must tremble as he witnesses these awful scourges that fall on the human race.  Before he describes the plagues he observes that the people of God are cared for during this time.  John figuratively places all God’s true people in heaven before the plagues fall, remember he also placed them in heaven before he presented the three angel’s messages.  This means they are safe during this time.  The sealing of God’s people will take place before the plagues begin to fall.  Probation is already closed at the time the first plague begins to fall, but few will know when probation closes.

John calls this vision “great and marvelous.”  He must have had mixed emotions as the picture unfolded before him.  For most of this vision was horrible, but the first part of it was so thrilling, so outstanding, that it was beyond description, it was a scene he would never forget.  He seems to be searching for words to adequately describe what he sees.  The statement a “sea of glass mingled with fire” is a symbolic word picture describing the scene before the throne of God.  Glass was rare, expensive, and beautiful in John’s day and it is used here to portray the splendor of the scene.  Fire is a symbol of the unspeakable glory and beauty of God and His throne.  The redeemed, “having the harps of God,” stand before Him amidst breathtaking beauty.  The harp is a symbol of joy, song, and pleasure.  Those who are victorious and stand before God reflect the joy and wonder of it all.  The scene is far more wonderful than they imagined; and standing before God is the greatest thrill of their lives.

The reason John is directed to present this scene before he records the seven last plagues is to encourage the living righteous, who go through this painful ordeal, to gladly put their trust in God and to hold on just a little longer, even though it will be difficult.  Remember, Daniel prophesied “there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation.”¹  We must be prepared before that time comes for it will be too late to prepare when the plagues begin to fall.  “The time of trouble such as never was, is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess, and which many are too indolent to obtain.  It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us.  The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal.”

The apostle John in vision heard a loud voice in Heaven exclaiming, “Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.”  Fearful are the scenes which call forth this exclamation from the heavenly voice.  The wrath of Satan increases as his time grows short, and his work of deceit and destruction reaches its culmination in the time of trouble.  God’s long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected his mercy, despised his love, and trampled upon his law.  The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation, and the Lord withdraws his protection, and leaves them to the mercy of the leader they have chosen. Satan will have power over those who have yielded themselves to his control, and he will plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble.  As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose.  The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.”²

 What does the phrase “the wrath of God is complete” mean?  The term “wrath of God” means justifiable abhorrence.  When men reject the Spirit of God there is nothing more God can do for them, God turns away and allows sin to take its toll.  This will be a terrible time for the people of this world, but God will protect His people during this awful time.

Revelation  15 : 3, 4

“And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying: ‘Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints!  Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy.  For all nations shall come and worship before You, for Your judgments have been manifested.”

The 144,000 assembled before God and surrounded by beauty beyond the human tongue to describe, they begin to sing the song of their experience before the Lord.  This will no doubt be one of the most beautiful songs that human ears have ever heard.  When John saw this thrilling scene and heard that song it is no wonder He calls this vision “great and marvelous.”  The fact that the splendor of the first part of this vision greatly impressed John is very evident, as we look at verses two and three.  John points out how those who stand before God praise and worship Him and it is clear that John, because of this scene, is also joining in the praise and worship.

Revelation  15 : 5, 6

“After these things I looked, and behold, the temple of the tabern-acle of the testimony in heaven was opened.  And out of the temple came the seven angels having the seven plagues, clothed in pure bright linen, and having their chests girded with golden bands.”

The scene changes, John sees that when the angels with the plagues come out of the temple, God’s work for man is finished.  Verse 5 reveals that the plagues do not fall until our Lord completes the work of judgment in the temple in heaven.  All “testimony” for or against each individual is finished when the temple of heaven is opened.  What an awesome day that will be when the probationary period for man is closed.  Daniel speaks of this time when he says, “At that time Michael shall stand up, the great Prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation, even to that time.  And at that time your people shall be delivered, every one who is found written in the book.”³  “When this time of trouble comes, every case is decided; there is no longer probation, no longer mercy for the impenitent.  The seal of the living God is upon His people.  This small remnant, unable to defend themselves in the deadly conflict with the powers of earth that are marshaled by the dragon host, make God their defense.”⁴

Remember these angels are not literal angels, they are symbolic angels.  Who are the three angels of Revelation fourteen and the one in the eighteenth chapter?  God’s people are the angels who give these messages.  The Spirit of Prophecy confirms this fact.  “When will the church do her appointed work?  She is represented as an angel of light, flying through heaven with the everlasting gospel to be proclaimed to the world.”⁵  And again:  “Under the appropriate symbol of an angel flying through the midst of heaven is represented the work of the people of God.”⁶  God’s people are also the angel of Revelation eighteen who comes down from heaven and cries, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen,…Come out of her, my people.”⁷  It is the message and the Holy Spirit that comes down from heaven and moves the people of God to do their work as the Lord’s messengers.

Notice that in verse six above are clothed “in pure bright linen, and having their chests girded with golden bands.”  There is no doubt that literal angels have a part in the finishing of God’s work in the earth and even executing the closing judgments on the earth, but these angels are also symbolic of God’s people.  The dress of these angels is clearly indicative of human beings.  Pure white linen is a symbol of the righte-ousness of Christ that the people of God who are sealed wear just before the coming of Jesus.  The meaning of the angels’ dress, pictured in verse six, clearly pictures this symbolism.  “And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.”⁸ The “golden band” around the chest is a symbol of what is in the heart of an individual.  Remember that gold is a symbol of faith, love, and truth.  God’s people stand in stark contrast to the wicked, and it is this contrast that causes the hatred of them evidenced during the great time of trouble.  The angels in the verse above also represent the righteous because it is the satanic hatred of God’s people that sparks the trouble that comes upon the earth.  “These plagues enraged the wicked against the righteous, and they thought that we had brought them down upon them, and if they could rid the earth of us, then the plagues would be stayed.”⁹

Revelation  15 : 7, 8

“Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever.  The temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power, and no one was able to enter into the temple till the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed.”

As soon as Jesus finishes His work in the sanctuary above He proclaims His work complete, and man’s probation is closed.  At this time He commissions the angels to begin to pour out the seven last plagues on mankind.  When Jesus leaves the temple it is “filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power.  This not only reveals that God approves of the work that was done by His Son, but it was also figurative of the fact that the work of judgment was not yet to be examined by the saints until after the coming of Jesus.  We are told that no one will enter the temple in heaven until the seven last plagues have been poured out.  It is not until God’s people enter heaven that the work of executive judgment begins.

The beauty of this chapter is the fact that even though God’s people will be here on earth during the plagues God indicates that they are sealed and protected during this trying time and it is as though they were safe in heaven.  This chapter will be of great comfort to them during this time.

TRUE FRIENDS

The value of true friends, we’re told,

“They’re worth their weight in solid gold.”

Those friends who walk with God are best.

They are the kind we do suggest.

So when you find this kind of friend,

Be faithful to the very end.

For friends like these will always be,

Our friends throughout eternity.

By D. O. Van Buren

Notes

Chapter – 32

1- Dan 12:1; 2- 4SP 440, 441; 3- Dan 12:1, 4; 4- 5T 213; 5- MM 131; 6- FE 208; 7- Rev 18:2, 4; 8- Rev 19:8 KJV; 9- Mar 264.

“Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, ‘Go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of God on the earth.’”

The announcement given here is that God has withdrawn his protecting hand from the wicked inhabitants of earth, for they have all sinned away their day of grace and rejected the love of God.  Since God is the creator of the universe and He is all-powerful the Bible writers taught that God controls everything done on earth.  In other words, what God allows God does.  One example is the death of King Saul.  The Bible says that “Saul took a sword and fell on it,” so it is clear that Saul committed suicide, but it also says, in the same chapter, that the Lord killed King Saul.¹  Because God is powerful enough to have prevented the death of Saul, while in battle, the Bible writer records that God killed him.  This rationale was the thinking of all Old Testament writers.  More than that, the very stern strict parental discipline and teachings of the Hebrew people gave them a picture of a very stern exacting God.  The God of the Old Testament is the same loving God of the New Testament.  He does not change, but it is necessary to understand the background of the writers, for their experience played a large part in their writings.  These writers were not secretaries for God, but wrote from their own background and exper-ience as well as by visions from God.  Remember that Jesus, by allowing the Holy Spirit to control Him, as He studied the Old Testament scrolls, developed a character that withstood every assault and test of Satan.  Jesus had no trouble recognizing that “God is love.”  The only God He saw was the God portrayed in the Old Testament scrolls.

It is true that there are questions that are hard to answer, but the Bible teaches that what is revealed is for our children and us.  “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever.”²  God has revealed everything we need for salvation and anything we don’t understand we must wait, for someday He will make it plain.  When we get to heaven we shall have the ability to understand.

The Bible also teaches that the devil and sin are the destroyers, not God.  God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”³  It also teaches that the perfect character of God is offered to us through Jesus Christ.  God’s perfect character is seen in the Old Testament, mainly in the story of Moses on Mount Sinai with God.  In the New Testament it is seen in the beautiful perfect character of Jesus.  On Mount Sinai God revealed to Moses that He was “longsuffering.”  The Hebrew word translated longsuffering means very patient, slow to become angry.  God does not lose His temper and slaughter people because they sin, but when people reject the continued call of the Spirit until they no longer respond to God’s love, He then allows them to subject themselves to the master they chose—Satan.

With great sadness the “wrath of God,” (you may remember it means justifiable abhorrence), has been chosen by the sinner when he totally rejects the love of his Creator.  This is the case in the first text of Revelation 16:1.  Remember that every vessel or container is a symbol of a person.  In this text it is Satan the destroyer, he is the “bowl” or “vial.”  The Old Testament speaks of God as destroying the firstborn of Egypt, but it was Satan and his angels who were really responsible.  The Psalmist speaking of the plagues of Egypt gives this account.  “He (God) cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending evil angels among them.  “And destroyed all the firstborn of Egypt.”⁴  There are some real tough questions on the subject of destroying the wicked that are very difficult to answer, but some day He will make it plain to us.  The seven last plagues will be no different than any previous plague, they come by God’s wrath, but the real executioner will be sin and evil—Satan and hosts.  These are the bowls of the wrath of God that come on the earth.

The seven last plagues are always interpreted as literal, but remem-ber that this is a symbolic book and should be looked at in that manner.  But since this chapter does seem to have a literal meaning as well as a symbolic one it would be well for us to consider both.  We shall consider the literal meaning first.

Revelation  16 : 2

“So the first went and poured out his bowl upon the earth, and a foul and loathsome sore came upon the men who had the mark of the beast and those who worshipped his image.”

The First Plague

These plagues, whether literal or symbolic, are a severe part of the great time of trouble, which comes upon the earth.  Notice that this plague comes upon those who have the mark of the beast.  This mark is an end time event and has not happened yet, so it is very clear that the plagues come at the close of earth’s history.  The only people on earth who do not suffer from the effects of the plagues are those who are safely marked by God, for He has put His seal upon His own.  This sore seems to be an incurable, painful, oozing, ugly sore, but as a literal plague, it is not worldwide.  It will be far worse than any plague we have today including AIDS.  This plague, like all plagues, is the result of sin and sin is always painful and it is, like all sin, eventually deadly.

Revelation  16 : 3

“Then the second angel poured out his bowl on the sea, and it became blood as of a dead man; and every living creature in the sea died.”

The Second Plague

Water is extremely important to the people of earth and turning the water to blood or a substance like blood would be very dreadful.  The red tide we hear so much about is a powerful pollutant.  We have seen the effects of just small areas of red tide, which has killed millions of fish and that was bad enough, but this plague seems to be many times worse.  If everything in the great bodies of water dies, the after effect would be staggering.  Besides the smell, that would be unbearable and sickening, disease, and death would make this plague terrible and devastating.  Sin pollutes everything, but the pollution of all the large bodies of water would be one of the very worse tragedies.

Revelation  16 : 4 – 7

“Then the third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they became blood.  And I heard the angel of the waters saying: ‘You art righteous, O Lord, the One who is and who was and who is to be, because You have judged these things.  For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.’ And I heard another from the altar saying, ‘Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments.’”

The Third Plague

If all the large bodies of water are like blood and then the rivers and springs become blood it would look hopeless, but it doesn’t say all the rivers and springs.  If one turns on his water faucet and gets only blood to drink, he would need to find a way to purify it.  Mankind could not endure long under an epidemic like this unless it would be very localized.  The fact that all criminals must pay the penalty for their crimes is called justice.  The Bible says that, “sin is a breaking of the law.”⁵  So all that have not had their sins washed away by the blood of the Lamb are criminals who are to receive their just punishment.  The fact that God allows this great time of trouble, for these most violent offenders, is a part of His righteous judgment and justice.  Why have they been given “blood to drink?”  Because “they have shed the blood of saints and prophets.”  The question is: did the wicked during the last remnant of time shed the blood of saints and prophets?  The answer is yes!  They will do it literally, for there will be some of God’s people slain before probation closes, but more than this they are guilty because of their motive not merely their actions.  “Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”⁶  The hatred of God’s people is very evident during this time.

Revelation  16 : 8

“Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give him glory.”

The Fourth Plague

To experience an extremely hot summer is not only very uncom-fortable, but many times, for a large number of people, it can be deadly.  The air conditioning is useless when the temperature goes above a certain point.  Many people have died in Death Valley, the hottest place in the United States.  But this plague seems to be one that, wherever on earth it strikes, it will be hotter than Death Valley.  If you notice, it is evident that man’s probationary period is ended, for no one calls on God and repents during this time; they only curse God.

Revelation  16 : 10, 11

“Then the fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom became full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues because of the pain.  And they blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and did not repent of their deeds.”

The Fifth Plague

These verses establish the fact that these plagues, as terrible as they are literally, do not kill all those on whom they fall.  No doubt some individuals will suffer more for their rebellion against God than do others.  This particular plague falls on the headquarters of the beast power, the papacy.  This plague will fall on Rome unless the papacy moves its throne to another location before that time.  It is evident that because of the error, deception, and darkness that the papacy has taught worldwide, the plague, which falls on this power, is justified.  It seems that a darkness that could be felt and cause terrible pain would be caused by a great increase in atmospheric pressure.  This plague records that some of the same people who experience this painful darkness will also suffer from the putrefying sores.  It is also in keeping with their life style that these so-called god-fearing people should curse and blaspheme God because of their pain. 

Revelation  16 : 12 – 16

“Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great River Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared. And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.  For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. ‘Behold, I coming as a thief.  Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.’ And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.’”

The Sixth Plague

A literal interpretation of this plague has been used for years, but in this modern day it does not seem logical.  The only logical interpreta-tion of this plague is a symbolic one. The teaching that the great battle of Armageddon, the battle between east and west, will be fought on the plains of Megiddo and that all nations will be gathered there is not reasonable today.  Even more misunderstood is the teaching that this battle of the nations of the world is called “the battle of that great day of God Almighty.”  Much of the interpretation of this prophecy in the past has been a mixture of literal and symbolic, but this should not be done.  The truth concerning this plague can only be found in the symbolic presen-tation.

Revelation  16 : 17 – 21

“Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!’ And there were noises and thunderings and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth.  Now the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell.  And great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.  Then every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. And great hail from heaven fell upon men, every hailstone about the weight of a talent. And men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, since that plague was exceedingly great.”

The Seventh Plague

As soon as the seventh angel pours out his bowl a voice from heaven is heard saying, “It is done.” This plague is an awesome picture of those events accompanying the Second Coming of Christ.  This plague will no doubt be both literal and symbolic.  There is lightning and thunder and a great earthquake; it is predicted that these will be a part of the Second Coming.  The dividing of Babylon into three parts has no literal meaning for Babylon is a desolate city, which lies in ruins today.  The hail predicted here could be a very destructive element and since much of earth will be destroyed this will no doubt be a contributing factor to earth’s destruction.  Remember what happens literally at the Second Coming of Christ, the atmosphere burns up and the whole world will shake like it’s going to fly apart.  All the cities will be broken down and the earth will be in darkness.  All that are not taken to heaven will die at the brightness of the Second Coming, and will be in “cold storage” for a thousand years.  The last great violent earthquake will cause much of this ruin.  This is the end of the literal presentation of the seven last plagues.

The Symbolic Meanings of the Plagues

As mentioned above, the book of Revelation is a symbolic book and so the symbolic meaning is very important and must be considered.  Also when a section or verse has a literal meaning it too should be presented, which has been done.  We shall now consider the symbolic meaning of the plagues.

Revelation  16 : 1, 2

“Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, ‘Go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of God on the earth.’  So the first went and poured out his bowl upon the earth, and a foul and loathsome sore came upon the men who had the mark of the beast and these who worshipped his image.”

The First Plague

Remember that when the plagues are poured out there are only two groups of people on earth, the righteous and the wicked.  The wicked no longer respond favorably to the Spirit of God, so God has turned from them and allows sin and Satan to control them.  These seven last plagues, inspired by Satan, will do their destructive work.

When the symbolism of this first plague is understood it is evident that it is worldwide and falls upon every person who has the mark of the beast.  Everyone either has the seal of God or the mark of the beast, so all the wicked have this mark and receive this plague.  The Bible pictures sin like the plague of leprosy.  “The priest shall look at the sore on the skin of the body; and if the hair on the sore has turned white, and the sore appears to be deeper than the skin of his body, it is a leprous sore.  Then the priest shall look at him, and pronounce him unclean.”⁷ Jesus cleansed any leper who came to Him, for leprosy was a symbol of sin.  “Of all diseases known in the East the leprosy was most dreaded.  Its incurable and contagious character, and its horrible effect upon its victims, filled the bravest with fear.  Among the Jews it was regarded as a judgment on account of sin, and hence was called ‘the stroke,’ ‘the finger of God.’  Deep-rooted, ineradicable, deadly, it was looked upon as a symbol of sin.  Ritual law pronounced the leper unclean.  Like one already dead, he was shut out from the habitations of men.  Whatever he touched was unclean.  His breath polluted the air.  One who was suspected of having the disease must present himself to the priests, who were to examine and decide his case.  If pronounced a leper, he was isolated from his family, cut off from the congregation of Israel, and was doomed to associate with those only who were similarly afflicted.  The law was inflexible in its requirement.  Even kings and rulers were not exempt.  A monarch who was attacked by this terrible disease must yield up the scepter, and flee from society.”⁸  The worse sore this world has seen is sin and the prophet Isaiah makes this evident.  Speaking of the sins plaguing God’s people he says:  “Why should you be stricken again?  You will revolt more and more.  The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faints.  From the sole of the foot even to the head, there is no soundness in it, but wounds and bruises and putrefying sores; they have not been closed or bound up, or soothed with ointment.”⁹  This plague is the worse calamity that has ever come to planet earth; it affects everything and everyone.

Revelation  16 : 3

“Then the second angel poured out his bowl on the sea, and it became blood as of a dead man; and every living creature in the sea died.”

The Second Plague

The second angel poured his bowl on the sea.  What does the sea or large bodies of water represent?  John answers this question.  “And he said to me, ‘The waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues.”¹⁰  When the nations of the earth rebel against God they all die spiritually and when every living soul dies spiritually the whole world will be plunged into that great time of trouble that the prophet Daniel spoke of.  “The Lord will arise to shake terribly the earth. We shall see troubles on all sides. Thousands of ships will be hurled into the depths of the sea.  Navies will go down, and human lives will be sacrificed by millions.  Fires will break out unexpectedly, and no human effort will be able to quench them.  The palaces of earth will be swept away in the fury of the flames.”¹¹  The time of trouble described by Daniel is the worse the world will ever see.  We have heard of people dying by the thousands, but we have yet to see people die by the millions.  People would die by the millions in nuclear warfare.  The picture presented by the second plague presents the whole world engaged in a blood bath far beyond anything we can even begin to fathom.  “A storm is gathering, ready to burst upon the earth, and when God shall bid His angels loose the winds, there will be such a scene of strife as no pen can picture ”¹²  “Satan, the originator of evil, is now revealing his power in the children of men. This is his hour, and the power of darkness.  Apparently he controls the world.  The gospel messenger will find that there is a power moving the world to greater and still greater opposition to Christ and His message. The last great conflict between the forces of good and evil is spoken of as “a time of trouble such as never was.”  “The violence which fills the earth will exceed that which existed before the destruction of the old world.”¹³

God’s people will separate themselves from the nations of the world and God will be their protection.  “He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him will I trust.  Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence.  A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look, and see the reward of the wicked.  Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your habitation; no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling.”¹⁴

Revelation 16:4-7

“Then the third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they became blood.  And I heard the angel of the waters saying: ‘You art righteous, O Lord, the One who is and who was and who is to be, because You have judged these things.  For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.’ And I heard another from the altar saying, ‘Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments.’”

The Third Plague

We know that “water” symbolically represents people, but water is so important to us that it has a number of other symbolic meanings.  Water is symbolic of the word of God, called the “water of life” and we are pictured as vessels, we pour the water in our minds and then pour it out of our mouths to others.  So, the “water of life” is a symbol of the word of God, contained in a person’s mind, which he can pour out in giving counsel to others.  “A person’s thoughts are like water in a deep well, but someone with insight can draw them out.”¹⁵  Water also represents the spiritual aspect of a human being that comes to us in the form of dew and rain.  Water represents the cleansing power of God’s word as it washes evil from our hearts. God “cleansed her, (the church,) by the washing of water by the word.”¹⁶

With this in mind it will help us understand how important the symbol of water is to humanity and especially to our spiritual wellbeing.  Such words and phrases as “river,” “Islands,” “a cup of water,” “the water of life or living water,” and the “River of Life,” as well as “springs of water,” are important for us to understand.  These are very important because many lessons concerning spiritual life are presented, in the Bible, using these spiritual symbols.

In the story of the woman at the well Jesus said to her, “If you only knew what a wonderful gift God has for you, and who I am, you would ask me for some living water.”¹⁷ The living water is the plan of salvation, which includes all of the counsel of God.  The wonderful gift is the gift of eternal life that comes through Jesus as we partake of the water of life.  Islands are surrounded by water and are symbols of God’s people, notice the message from Isaiah directed to the people living in the time of judgment.  Silently [listen] to Me, you islands, let the people renew their strength; let them approach and then speak; let us draw near together for judgment.”¹⁸  Here God is calling His people to prepare for the final judgment; He is calling for a revival and a reformation.  The “rivers” and “springs of water” are also symbols of churches where people come to drink of the water of life.  But in the third plague the rivers and springs of water have turned to blood indicating they are all spiritually dead and no longer are they fountains where people can drink of the water of life.

Revelation 16:8, 9

“Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give him glory.”

The Fourth Plague

Just before the seven last plagues begin, all mankind will make a decision for or against God.  God’s last true people, who are filled with the latter rain of the Holy Spirit, make a final appeal with their lives on the line.  As terrible as things are in the world, at the time of the plagues, it appears that some of God’s people, without knowing that probation is closed, are still attempting to turn sinners from their evil ways.  This is verified in a statement that probation is closed, but “the inhabitants of the earth know it not.”¹⁹  They are preaching Christ, the light of the world, but since the word of God is compared to fire; it only causes the lost to burn with hatred for God.  The “sun,” a symbol of Christ, shines on the wicked for the last time in an attempt to find maybe one more that will turn to God.  This plague proves that God is love and that He is, “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”²⁰  But this plague also reveals just how far Satan will go in his hatred of Christ.  His work is adding fuel to the fire, for the wicked know that God’s people are teaching truth, but the scorching by the fire of God’s word only maddens the wicked and they do not repent, they only curse God and His people.  This plague not only shows the power of sin, it also shows how sin will eventually make all sinners just like Satan.

Revelation  16 : 10 ,11

“Then the fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom became full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues because of the pain.  And they blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and did not repent of their deeds.”

The Fifth Plague

Through the prophet Ezekiel God foretold that as soon as probation closes the people of earth would be wrapped in thick darkness.  “I will put out all the lights of heaven and plunge your world into darkness. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken.”²¹  This plague is poured out primarily on Rome, or wherever the papacy has its headquarters at the time this fifth plague is released.  It will not take long, after probation closes, for people to realize that they have sinned away their day of grace and that they are eternally lost.  This hopeless situation will especially be realized by the leaders of the “mother of harlots,” the Roman church.  When the spiritual leaders of this organization contemplate the seriousness of the errors they have taught and how their deceptive teachings have caused millions to loose eternal life they will be appalled.  The Bible has much to say about this time of gross darkness.  The darkness of Egypt, in the time of Moses, was a literal darkness that was so thick it was painful.  But the darkness of Egypt was only a type of the spiritual darkness, which will cover the earth just before Jesus comes.  This darkness will be far more painful than literal darkness because nothing is worse than mental pain.

This darkness will no doubt be ten times more painful for the leaders of the papacy than it will be for anyone else.  The reason this is true is because they know that the darkness of their deliberate deceptions has been exposed and they have nowhere to hide. The terrible mental anguish of these leaders is clearly pictured prophetically by the prophet Zephaniah.  “That terrible day is near.  Swiftly it comes—a day when strong men will weep bitterly.  It is a day of the wrath of God poured out; it is a day of terrible distress and anguish, a day of ruin and desolation, of darkness, gloom, clouds, blackness.”²²  These leaders will feel the same spiritual darkness experienced by Judas when he realized the effect of his sin.  He was filled with bitter remorse when he realized the effect of his deed.  The painful darkness and shame that gripped his soul was so great that he hung himself.  As these leaders read the faces of those they have deceived, because of shame they would like to hide from man and God.  “There is no darkness dark enough to hide a sinner from God.”²³  Their darkness is so deep that they do not know which way to turn; and their pain is so agonizing that they curse and blaspheme God.

Think of the setting for this hopeless situation.  “The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent.  God’s long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected His mercy, despised His love, and trampled upon His law.  The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn.  Unsheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one.  Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble.  As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose.  The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.”²⁴  A graphic picture is presented of the violent end of these deceptive leaders; their worse fears will become a reality.  “No language can express the longing which the disobedient and disloyal feel for that which they have lost forever,—eternal life.  Men whom the world has worshiped for their talents and eloquence now see these things in their true light.  They realize what they have forfeited by transgression, and they fall at the feet of those whose fidelity they have despised and derided, and confess that God has loved them.  The people see that they have been deluded.  They accuse one another of having led them to destruction; but all unite in heaping their bitterest condemnation upon the ministers.  Unfaithful pastors have prophesied smooth things; they have led their hearers to make void the law of God and to persecute those who would keep it holy.  Now, in their despair, these teachers confess before the world their work of deception. The multitudes are filled with fury.  “We are lost!” they cry, “and you are the cause of our ruin;” and they turn upon the false shep-herds.  The very ones that once admired them most will pronounce the most dreadful curses upon them.  The very hands that once crowned them with laurels, will be raised for their destruction.  The swords, which were to slay God’s people, are now employed to destroy their enemies.  Everywhere there is strife and bloodshed.”²⁵  One thing these plagues do is to reveal how strong sin and Satan is and how we should avoid them like a plague!

Revelation  16 : 12 – 16

“Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great River Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.  And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.  For they are the spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. ‘Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.’ And they gathered them together to a place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.”

The Sixth Plague

Each river represents the country through which it passes as well as the people of that country.  The Euphrates River is a symbol of Bab-ylon and the water represents its people.  The sixth plague foretells the end of the papacy.  Its end is verified in Revelation eighteen.  “The kings of the earth who took part in her immorality and lust will cry and weep over the city when they see the smoke from the flames that consume her.  They stand a long way off, because they are afraid of sharing in her suffering. They say, ‘How terrible!  How awful! This great and mighty city Babylon! In just one hour you have been punished!’  Then a mighty angel picked up a stone the size of a large millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, ‘This is how the great city Babylon will be violently thrown down and will never be seen again.’”²⁶  Not until the work of God is finished in the earth and everyone has made the choice for or against God, will the way be prepared for the Second Coming of Christ.  This is revealed in the phrase, “the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.”²⁷  East is a symbol of the coming of Christ.  He will come with His own glory and with the glory of His Father and all the angels of heaven will be with Him.  “To make way for the kings of the east” is a phrase, which means to bring the Spirit’s appeal to the human race to an end, so Christ can come.  When the plagues begin to be poured out man’s probation is ended.

Revelation 15:1 tells us that the plagues contain a sign or symbol.  This sign prepares the world for the Second Coming of Christ by pointing out the three powers, which gather all who will join with him, into Satan’s camp.  This symbol gives each and every individual, with the power of reason, the choice of accepting or rejecting Jesus Christ.  “Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous: seven angels having the seven last plagues.”  The only way a sign would be of benefit is to happen before probation ends.  That sign is found in the sixth plague.  “I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.  For they are the spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.”  There are three unclean spirits and they come out of the mouth of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet.  The dragon is identified in Revelation 12:9 as Satan, but it is also a symbol of spiritualism for the first lie Satan told Eve, through the serpent, was that “you will not surely die.”²⁸ and this lie is the main compelling appeal that spiritualism has on people.  This first lie is so strong that it has been accepted by every false religion, including all false Christianity.  The “false prophet” is false Protestantism and the “beast” power is Catholic-ism.  These three powers are compared to a frog because a frog catches its prey with its tongue.  The tongue is a symbol of speech; and the deceptive speech of these three entities comes from their mouths.  These three “go forth” first politically to the world’s leaders and then to the whole world to gather all to make a decision to reject the truth of God; then the way is prepared for Jesus to come.  The sign in this plague is so important for it is the very last sign or symbol before Jesus comes.  This sign should shake all awake who are not ready for the time of test.  This last sign is clearly seen in our world today.  These three powers are doing their work of deception in our world now today!  The counsel of John is to watch and be ready, for the last battle in the great controversy between Christ and Satan is now dividing the world into two camps.

Revelation  16 : 17 – 21

“Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!’ And there were noises and thunderings, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth.  Now the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. And great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.  Then every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. And great hail from heaven fell upon men, every hailstone about the weight of a talent. And men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, since that plague was exceedingly great.”

The Seventh Plague

Seven, being a symbol of completeness, not only represents the last plague, it is also a picture of final thrust of Satan before the Second Coming of Christ. The whole earth and atmosphere are filled with evidence that the last acts in the drama are being played out and the end is evident.  Then a voice from heaven is heard saying, “It is done.”  Thunder and lightning are symbols of the coming of Christ.  The earthquake is literal and will be the most violent that the earth has ever experienced.  It will not be just a local quake, but it will be worldwide.  At the Second Coming the earth will change its direction of rotation and will move back towards the sun to its original location.  You may remember that at the time of the flood the earth moved away from the sun.  Before the flood, according to the book of Genesis the year had 360 days.  This earthquake also has a symbolic meaning in that every wicked person on the face of the earth will be so terrified that they will literally quake with fear. Moses, using his experience with God on Mount Sinai as a figure said, “I am terrified—aghast and trembling with fear.”²⁹  The Old King James says, “I exceedingly fear and quake.”  This will be the experience of the wicked that are alive on that day.  There is no doubt that this series of events, will be the most terrifying experience mankind has ever gone through.  It will be much worse than the flood of Noah.

The figure of Babylon dividing into three parts is a symbol of what happens to the people of earth during the closing moments.  Notice that the verse above speaks of the fall of the great city of Babylon and then it says, “the cities of the nations fell.”  Cities remember; represent churches or various religious groups.  There are three groups in the world.  There are two groups among the lost in the so-called Christian world, Catholic-ism, and false Protestantism.  Then there are the religions of the world that did not profess to accept Christ; Atheism is a part of this group. You may remember that the whole world will receive the wine of Babylon.  So Babylon is divided into these three parts. The symbolism is so complete that it even says, “the mountains and islands were not found.”  You may remember that “mountains and islands” also represent churches.  “Moun-tains” are those that claimed to be the most spiritual, those who were fanatical in regards to being possessed or “being filled” by the so-called spirit.  And the “islands” represent those who were fanatical in the study of the Bible.  Many of them could quote hundreds of verses, but they twist some of them to their own destruction.³⁰  Both these groups were deceived because they were willing to be deceived.

There is no doubt about the hail falling as a literal plague for there is evidence in the Bible that God has hail reserved specifically for this time.  “Have you entered the storehouses of the snow, or have you seen the storehouses of the hail, which I have reserved for the time of trou-ble.”³¹  We should always remember that in symbolic prophecy that those that have a literal fulfillment will also have a symbolic one.  Hail is a symbol of destruction; and this destruction will come upon the whole earth during the time of the seven last plagues.  Psalm 78:42-49 and also Isaiah tells us that hail is a symbol of destruction.  Isaiah records that the Lord allows Satan to release the storehouse of hail.  “Behold, the Lord has one who is mighty and strong; like a storm of hail, a destroying tempest, like a storm of mighty, overflowing waters, he will cast down the earth with violence.”³²  If you notice the seven last plagues are worse in their symbolic form than in their literal form.

Notes

Chapter – 33

1- 1Chron 10:4, 14; 2- Deut 29:29; 3- 2Peter 3:9; 4- Ps 78:49, 51; 5- 1Jo 3:4 TEV; 6- 1Jo 3:15; 7- Lev 13:3; 8- DA 262; 9- Isa 1:5, 6; 10- Rev 17:15; 11:Myp 89; 12- Ed 180; 13- UL 365; 14- Ps 91:1, 2, 7-10; 15- Prov 20:5 TEV; 16- Eph 5:26 RSV; 17- Jo 4:10 LB; 18- Isa 41:1 NBV; 19- GC 615; 20- 2Peter 3:9; 21- Eze 32:8 TEV; 22- Zeph 1:14, 15 LB; 23- Job 34:22 TEV; 24- GC 614; 25- GC 655, 656; 26- Rev 18:9, 10, 21 TEV; 27- Rev 16:12; 28- Gen 3:4 NIV; 29- Heb 12:21 AV; 30- 2Peter 3:16; 31- Job 38:22, 23 RSV; 32- Isa 28:2.

Revelation  17 : 2

“With whom the kings of the earth committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication.”

Revelation  17 : 3

Revelation  17 : 4

Revelation  17 : 5

Revelation  17 : 6

Revelation  17 : 7

Revelation  17 : 8

Revelation  17 : 9

1. The Trinity.⁸
2. The Change of the Sabbath.⁹
3. The teaching that the Dead go to Heaven, Hell, or Purgatory when they die.¹⁰
4. An Eternal Burning Hell.¹¹
5. The Mass.¹²
6. The Exaltation of the Virgin Mary.¹³
7. The Uniting of Church and State.¹⁴

Revelation  17 : 10, 11

Revelation  17 : 14

Revelation  17 : 15

Revelation  17 : 16

Revelation  17 : 17, 18

1. This beast came up out of the sea. Rev 13:1.
2. It was like the “great red dragon.” Rev 12:3-5.
3. The dragon gave it its “seat” (place) and authority. Rev 13:2.
4. It is both a political and a religious power. Rev 13:7, 8.
5. This beast spoke “blasphemies.” Rev 13:5, 6.
6. It would continue for 1260 day-years, or forty-two months. Rev 13:5.
7. One of its heads would be mortally wounded and it would be healed. Rev 13:3.
8. It was to “make war with the saints.” Rev 13:7.
9. It would receive aid from a strong world power to enforce its mark. Rev 13:11, 12.

Notes

Chapter – 34

“After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory.”

The messenger from heaven introduced in this chapter joins with the three angels who have gone before in the fourteenth chapter.  This is the fourth angel and “four” is a symbol of worldwide.  The message listed here will be given to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people.  The fact that the message of this angel lights up the whole earth is evidence of its importance.  This message is said to come “down from heaven.”  Any message that comes from heaven should receive our undivided attention.  God designed all four of these messages for the closing hours of earth’s history.  Remember Jesus is “the light of the world”¹ and these messages are given primarily to prepare a people for His coming.

Revelation  18 : 2, 3

“And he cried mightily with a loud voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a habitation of demons, and a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.”

Each time in the book of Revelation that a message is given “with a loud voice” it is an urgent message for the entire world to hear.  We have already found that Babylon is a symbol of the woman called the “harlot” and includes her daughters.  Babylon was not always a corrupt church; the fact that it has fallen indicates that at one time it was upright.  Like literal Babylon, when Nebuchadnezzar turned to God, it became a symbol of God’s people, but it fell and became a symbol of apostasy.  Just so a message is sent from heaven, during this hour, telling the people of earth: “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.”  This message reveals how and why it fell.  It fell because it “has become a habitation of demons.”  Like Adam and Eve, or any person or group of people who have fallen from God’s grace, they allowed the deceiver to do his work, his work of deception.  When one earnestly studies God’s word, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he will not be deceived.  One must be willing to be deceived in order to be deceived.  The next phrase, a prison for every foul spirit, is saying that those who accept any falsehood will be a slave to Satan and be locked in his prison house of sin.  Unclean and hateful birds are symbols of persecution, violence and death.

One day I was driving along a country road.  I saw a large number of buzzards in a field and as I looked I saw some of them on a prostrated cow.  I drove into a drive, which led to a farmhouse.  As I looked at the scene I saw that the cow was attempting to give birth to a calf.  As I got close the buzzards took off, and I saw that the cow was still alive, but the calf was already dead.  The first thing the buzzards did was to pick the eyes out of the calf.  They also ate a part of the calf and had even taken chunks out of the cow.  I drove to the farmhouse and told the farmer.  He was able to save the cow. I would call buzzards “mean and hateful birds”² The first attack of the devil is to pick the spiritual eyes out of a person.  Jesus said, “You say, ‘We see.’ Therefore your sin remains.”³  If one is willfully spiritually blind he will never find truth.  “We must love and obey the truth for this time.  This will save us from accepting strong delusions.” ⁴

A “cage” full of birds is a symbol of deceit. “As a cage is full of birds, so their houses (churches) are full of deceit.”⁵  The only protection against deception is allowing the Spirit of God to guide us as we study His word.  The deceived person is pictured as being in prison or locked up in a cage.  This chapter presents the mother church as spreading her false teachings into every country on earth.  It calls the spread of false doctrine spiritual “fornication.”  It also points out that this church’s “merchants” spread her false teachings.  Remember that buying and selling spiritually is promoting your belief.  The leaders of the false Churches primarily do this work.

To what extent will the deceptions taught by the mother of harlot’s reach?  It will actually destroy the religious freedom we have had for over two hundred years.  Satan will do this by using the United States to make laws that will unite church and state and allow congress to pass laws that will enforce a national Sunday law.  Listen to Satan’s plan, “I will make the observance of the seventh day a sign of disloyalty to the authorities of earth.  Human laws will be made so stringent that men and women will not dare to observe the seventh-day Sabbath.  For fear of wanting food and clothing, they will join with the world in transgressing God’s law.  The earth will be wholly under my dominion.”⁶

Revelation  18 : 4

“And I heard another voice from heaven saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plag-ues.’”

This verse is the main message of this chapter.  By heeding the counsel presented in these words one’s name will not be blotted out of the book of life.  God has true believers in every organized group of wor-shipers, and since the Catholic Church is by far the largest, it may have more of God’s true people in it than in any other persuasion.  But remember, as we have already pointed out God’s last message calls all His true people into His one last true fold.  It is the same voice from heaven, which gave the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14:6-14, which makes this call to “Come out of her, my people.”  This mighty message is designed by God Himself and is recorded, as we have seen, in Revelation 14:6-14.  The message of chapter eighteen joins with that of the fourteenth chapter and swells into the final loud cry.  Before Jesus returns all of God’s true people will heed this call and respond, for Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.”⁷  Only those who do not come out of Babylon will suffer during the time of trouble and receive the judgment of the seven last plagues.

Revelation  18 : 5, 6

“For her sins have reached to heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities.  Render to her just as she rendered you, and repay her double according to her works; in the cup which she has mixed, mix for her double.”

The detailed record of all the sins of the mother of harlots: her bloody hands as she took the lives of millions of God’s true people, the deception she taught that caused many to lose their eternal salvation, all these sins are remembered by God.  God says that not only will her iniquities be remembered, but also she will receive her just due.  All the falsehood and violence, all the evil she has poured out will be returned to her again and will be returned double.

Revelation  18 : 7

“In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as queen, and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.’”

The conceit of the leaders of this system is pictured here; and some of the fatal defects of this worldly church are pointed out in this verse.  The boast of this mother church is that she is no longer destitute of power.  She has been healed of her deadly wound and is now at the top as the religious authority on earth and plans on continuing in that high position.  This great city of blood and confusion had its spiritual fall many years ago, but this chapter also predicts its literal fall as well as its literal destruction.  The fall of Babylon in this chapter is mainly addressing the fall spiritually of the daughters as well as the mother’s literal fall.  The verse above foretells that the mother does not understand that her demise is predicted; she believes that she will continue to reign as the great “queen” of all churches indefinitely.

What a shock it will be for this power, whose claims of worship, and who claims to be in the place of God on earth, to face the judgment awaiting her. The phrase, “the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously,” is a picture of the selfishness of her leaders and the great wealth and power of this system.  She controls most of the entities of banking and finance as well as controlling most of the world’s gold.  But “torment and sorrow,” as we see in this chapter, will be her lot.

“Babylon is said to be ‘the mother of harlots.’  By her daughters must be symbolized churches that cling to her doctrines and traditions, and follow her example of sacrificing the truth and the approval of God, in order to form an unlawful alliance with the world.  The message of Revelation 14, announcing the fall of Babylon must apply to some religious bodies that were once pure and have become corrupt.  Since this message follows the warning of the judgment, it must be given in the last days; therefore it cannot refer to the Roman Church alone, for that church has been in a fallen condition for many centuries.  Furthermore, in this eighteenth chapter of the Revelation the people of God are called upon to come out of Babylon.  According to this scripture, many of God’s people must still be in Babylon.  In what religious bodies is the greater part of the followers of Christ now to be found?  Without doubt, in the various churches professing the Protestant faith.  At the time of their rise these churches took a noble stand for God and the truth, and His blessing was with them.”⁸

Revelation  18 : 8

“Therefore her plagues will come in one day—death and mourning and famine.  And she will be utterly burned with fire, for strong is the Lord God who judges her.”

The statement that “her plagues will come in one day,” can only be understood when we know the symbolic meaning of the word “day.”  We know that before 1844 in prophecy it meant a year.  But symbolically after 1844 the word “day” means, “time of judgment.”  “He (God) has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness.”⁹  One other text reveals this point.  “All who reject me and my message will be judged at the Day of Judgment by the truths I have spoken.”¹⁰  So, the plagues will come on this woman when the “time of judgment” comes, which is during the “time of trouble” spoken of by Daniel the prophet. This time will be a time of spiritual death, mourning and famine, notice the prophets prediction of this time.  “I will send a famine on the land – not a famine of bread and water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.  Men will wander everywhere from sea to sea, seeking the Word of the Lord, searching, running here and going there, but will not find it.”¹¹  It will be too late for probation will be closed.  The word of God is the “fire” that will burn in her mind as she remembers the truths she has rejected.  Her “mourning” will be far worse than the mourning over the death of a loved one.

Revelation  18 : 9, 10

“And the kings of the earth who committed fornication and lived luxuriously with her will weep and lament for her, when they see the smoke of her burning, standing at a distance for fear of her torment, saying, ‘Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! For in one hour your judgment has come.’”

Many countries that have been influenced to accept her spiritual fornication, which is her false teachings, have accepted her with open arms.  She has been guiding and controlling nations, not only spiritually, but also financially and politically as well.  With the largest part of the world’s gold and much of the banking system in her control, is it any wonder that it is said, “the kings of the earth … lived luxuriously with her.”  It is understandable why the world’s leaders will be sad as they witness her demise.  Remember that this is a symbolic city and that “the smoke of her burning” is also symbolic.  “Is not My word like a fire? Says the Lord.”¹² It is the truth of God’s word that causes this city to vanish away like smoke.  As the fire of God’s word begins to dissolve her, the world’s leaders say, ‘How terrible! How awful! This great and mighty city Babylon! In just one hour you have been punished.”¹³ The “one hour” means in a very short time serious consequences will come upon her.  The verse also says that the leaders of the world, as they see her judgment, are terrified because they too are guilty before God—notice.  “They stand a long way off, because they are afraid of sharing in her suffering.”¹⁴

Revelation  18 : 11 – 13

“And the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her for no one buys their merchandise any more: merchandise of gold and silver, precious stones, and pearls, fine linen and purple, silk and scarlet, every kind of citron wood, every kind of object of ivory, every kind of object of most precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble; and cinnamon and incense, fragrant oil and frankincense, wine and oil, fine flour and wheat, cattle and sheep, horses and chariots, and bodies and souls of men.”

Who are the symbolic merchants and what merchandise do they buy and sell?  The word “merchant” means one who deals in spiritual commodities, which are the truths and doctrines of God’s word.  Jesus taught this when He said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”¹⁵  “Truth is represented as a pearl of great price.  It is to be enthroned in the heart; for it alone can convince of, and reclaim from sin.  By comparing the kingdom of heaven to a pearl, Christ desired to lead every soul to appreciate that pearl, above all else.  The possession of the pearl, which means the possession of a personal Saviour, is the symbol of true riches.  It is a treasure above every earthly treasure.”¹⁶  The buying and selling, as we have seen, is the sharing of the beautiful truths with each other.

The merchants, the various leaders of Christendom, are said to “weep and mourn over her.”  When her falsehood and deceptions are exposed and probation closes, her commerce will end.  The list of her merchandise, in verses twelve and thirteen, are details of her false teachings.  Her claim that she does not err and that her doctrines are true only makes them more deceptive.  Some of these symbols have already been mentioned, but we shall consider the list with what they mean symbolically.  Gold represents faith, love and truth, which the church claims to, teach; silver is good works, but good works to gratify self is useless.  Precious stones and pearls are symbols of true doctrines not false ones.  The fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet all pertain to the righteous-ness of Christ and the only way we can receive that free gift is by accept-ing Jesus, and then by His Spirit He will live His life in us.  The list of vessels, which includes the sweet smelling incense, represents the clergy, and also represents her type of prayers.  When all of these symbols are joined together it points out the fact that their clergy seems so dedicated and sincere.  In verse thirteen, after the prayers, the wine and oil represent the teachings concerning the plan of salvation, especially the spilled blood of Christ, but remember that mystical Babylon has a cup in her hand representing the “wine of Babylon,” and her wine makes the nations spiritually drunk.  The “oil” she uses in her worship is the “spirit of the anti-Christ.”  The “fine flour and wheat, cattle and sheep,” represent her sacrifices, which are polluted on her corrupt altars.  The “horses and chariots,” as we have seen represent the teachings concerning salvation, but her perverted teachings, are salvation by works.  The last phrase of verse thirteen is given “slaves, and even human lives,”¹⁷ which symbolically means spiritual teaching that causes humans to be in slavery to conscience as well as slavery to idols and sin; and she also causes many to die spiritually.

Revelation  18 : 14 – 20

“And the fruit that your soul longed for has gone from you, and all the things which are rich and splendid have gone from you, and you shall find them no more at all.  The merchants of these things, who became rich by her, will stand at a distance for fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, and saying, ‘Alas, alas, that great city that was clothed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls!  For in one hour such great riches came to nothing.’  And every shipmaster, all who travel by ships, and sailors, and as many as trade on the sea, stood at a distance and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What is like this great city?’  And they threw dust on their heads and cried out, weeping and wailing, and saying, ‘Alas, alas, that great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! For in one hour she is made desolate.’  Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you holy apostles and prophets, for God has avenged you on her!”

Statements in this chapter, such as found three times in verse fourteen, teach that the hopelessness of Babylon’s plight is the result of her sins.  The thought that Babylon’s desire “has gone from her” is mentioned twice and it ends up that she will “find them no more at all.”  This verse teaches that the desire of every heart is eternal life, without the ills of this world, but why did Babylon miss it?  Here is the answer, “Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil?  Shall I give my first-born for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?  He has declared to you O man, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”¹⁸  This verse tells why the multitudes in Babylon loose “the fruit (they) longed for.”  They rejected the Spirit of God when they heard Him say, “This is the way; walk in it.”¹⁹  God doesn’t want sacrifice He wants obedience!

Verse fifteen mentions the second time that the “merchants” “will stand at a distance for fear,” for fear of receiving her fate when they see her judgments.  When something is mentioned a second time it is done to emphasize its importance.  This is a warning, placed in the Scriptures, to help people understand that God means what He says.  When He says, “keep My commandments,”²⁰ and “Remember the Sabbath to keep it holy,”²¹  He means it. We know that the free gift of eternal life is offered to all, and those that reject it will regret it and will weep and wail.

Jesus is the One who informs us as to which commodities to buy and sell.  And when we are sharing God’s beautiful truths with each other we are buying and selling.  And remember that every transaction hinges on Him, for He is the Source of all truth.  His word to His people is:  “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.”²²  Notice that Jesus has told us to buy from Him.  Notice also that He sells only three commodities.  They are “gold,” which are faith, love, and truth; next He sells, “white garments, that (we) may be clothed, this represents the righteousness of Christ, and lastly “eye salve,” which is spiritual discernment.  The “eye salve” is primarily for character development and was given to the last church primarily with and through the Spirit of Prophecy.

Notice the commerce of Babylon deals with much more than three items. Even though Babylon was at one time upright it is now fallen.  This means that at one time it traded with the Lord Himself, but she was not satisfied with the full truth, as it is in Jesus, she twisted and perverted the truth.  Notice also that the mother church has many more commodities that she deals in, than do the merchants of the daughters.  Two of the main items the mother sells that are not in the list of the daughters are “silver” and “silk.”  The symbolism of silver is good works and idols.  Salvation by works and the use of idols are much more prevalent in the mother church than in the daughter’s churches.  The dress of the clergy of the mother’s church is much more ostentatious than that of the daughters.  Silk, a symbol of the false righteousness is displayed by the mother church.

“One hour” is mentioned nine times in the Bible, but only five times in a symbolic sense.  It is mentioned once in Daniel and four times in the book of Revelation and each of these times it is a symbol meaning a short time with serious consequences.

“Ships” are symbols of commerce and the shipmasters represent the clergy.  Two texts clearly teach this fact.  The virtuous woman that Solomon writes about has a literal meaning, but it is primarily symbolic of the church.  “She is like the merchant ships, she brings her food from afar.”²³ The translation would read, the church is like a merchant ship, she brings her spiritual food from afar, really from heaven. The other text is in the Psalms and it teaches that spiritual trading is done among people.  “Those who go down to the sea in ships, who do business on great waters, they see the works of the Lord.” ²⁴

The cry of Babylon because of the judgments, which fall upon the mother church, is a cry for themselves as much as it is because of what happens to the mother.  For they know that they will eventually face the same fate.  This whole prophetic picture is also found in the book of Ezekiel where God gives a detailed account of the destruction of both the mother and the daughters.  Ezekiel uses the city of Tyre instead of Babylon because the meaning of the word Tyre gives a much better representation of the facts than does Babylon.  Tyre means “compressed, pressed together for strength.  Remember Babylon means “confusion” and so Tyre is a clearer picture of the Christian world compressed together against truth.  Listen to Ezekiel’s clear prophecy concerning the fate of all Babylon. “By many waters your oarsmen conveyed you; but a wind from the east has wrecked you on the high seas! Your wealth and your wares, your goods, your mariners and your sailors, your caulkers, your experts in bargaining, all your men of war, and the entire crew on board with you, shall sink into the depths of the sea on the day of your ruin.  At the wailing cries of your pilots, the pasture lands shake.  All the oarsmen and sailors and the pilots of the sea come down from their ships, stand on shore, and raise their voices in bitter agony over you, casting dust on their heads, wallowing in ashes, making themselves bald for your sake, girding themselves with sackcloth, and weeping over you in bitter-hearted lamentations.  In their wailing they raise a dirge for you and lament over you, “Who is destroyed like Tyre in the midst of the sea!”  When your wares went out by sea, you satisfied many peoples with your abundant wealth and your attractive wares, making kings rich.  Now you are wrecked by the sea; in the depths of the waters your merchandise and all your crew have sunk with you.  All the dwellers of the coastlands are appalled at you; their kings are aghast with horror, their faces are convulsed.  The merchants among the nations hiss at you.  You have become a horror.  You have forever ceased to be.”²⁵  If you check the symbolism of these verses it is not difficult to understand.  The first verse, “By many waters your oarsmen conveyed you; but a wind from the east has wrecked you on the high seas!”  This verse means that many people by accepting the false water of life from Babylon’s leaders (the oarsmen) have been deceived and will rebel against them, but at the Second Coming of Christ they will all be destroyed together.  Verse twenty of Revelation means that the entire universe will rejoice at the Second Coming of Christ because the battle between good and evil is finished, except for the executive judgment.  This text especially mentions the rejoicing of those who by inspiration wrote the Bible.  It is true that the Second Coming of Christ will especially bring great joy to all the prophets.

Revelation  18 : 21 – 24

“Then a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, ‘Thus with violence the great city Babylon shall be thrown down, and shall not be found anymore.’  The sound of harpists, musicians, flutists, and trumpeters shall not be heard in you anymore.  And no craftsman of any craft shall be found in you anymore.  And the sound of a millstone shall not be heard in you anymore.  And the light of a lamp shall not shine in you anymore.  And the voice of bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you anymore.  For your merchants were the great men of the earth, for by your sorcery all the nations were deceived. And in her was found the blood of prophets and saints, and of all who were slain on the earth.”

These verses record the final end of great Babylon and the end of all the deceived and all the deceivers as well.  These verses also tell that the blood of all martyrs will be vindicated by this annihilation of all the wicked as it says in Malachi.  “For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, and all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly, will be stubble.  And the day which is coming shall burn them up,” Says the LORD of hosts, “That will leave them neither root nor branch.”²⁶

Notes

Chapter – 35

1- Jo 8:12; 2- Rev 18:2; 3- Jo 9:41; 4- 8T 298; 5- Jer 5:27; 6- PK 184; 7- Jo 10:27 TEV; 8- GC 382, 383; 9- Acts 17:31; 10- Jo 12:48 LB; 11- Amos 8:11; LB; 12- Jer 23:29; 13- Rev 18:10 TEV; 14- Rev 18:9 TEV; 15- Mat 13:45, 46; 16- RH 8/01/99; 17- Rev 18:13 TEV; 18- Micah 6:7 NBV; 19- Isa 30:21, 22 NIV; 20- Jo 14:15; 21- Ex 20:8; 22- Rev 3:18; 23- Prov 31:14; 24- Ps 107:23, 24; 25- Eze 27:26-36 NBV; 26- Mal 4:1

“After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, saying, ‘Alleluia! Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power to the Lord our God!”

John is saying that after he sees the vision of the judgment of Babylon he receives a report of how that which is taking place on earth affects the entire universe.  He hears a great multitude in heaven praising God with songs of joy as preparations are made for Jesus to come to earth to receive His people.  There is no doubt that the courts of heaven will ring when Jesus proclaims the work for man is finished.  When Christ leaves the sanctuary He will say, “He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still; he who is righteous, let him be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still.”¹  The joy that fills heaven is no doubt verbally directed to the One who made salvation possible for the human race, Jesus Christ our Lord. John here records heaven as “saying, ‘Alleluia! Salvation, and glory, and honor, and power to the Lord our God!’”

Revelation  19 : 2 – 4

“For true and righteous are His judgments, because He has judged the great harlot who corrupted the earth with her fornication; and He has avenged on her the blood of His servants shed by her. Again they said, ‘Alleluia! And her smoke rises up for ever and ever!’ And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshipped God who sat on the throne, saying, ‘Amen! Alleluia!’”

All the intelligent beings of the universe now know that God is just and that the charges made against Him by Satan are false.  God’s character has been vindicated and John here proclaims, “For true and righteous are His judgments.”

God’s book of remembrance contains a detailed record of the millions of people who lost their eternal life because they were led astray by the deceptive teachings of the mother church.  Consider also the grue-some record, inspired by Satan himself, of torture and cruel bloody deaths of men, women, and children, by the thousands, and not just for a week or two, but carried on for centuries.  Is it any wonder that the verse above says that God “has judged the great harlot who corrupted the earth?”

Before sin is eradicated every being in the universe, endowed with the power of reason, will bow before Jehovah God and freely admit that He is just.  “The whole wicked world stand arraigned at the bar of God on the charge of high treason against the government of heaven.  They have none to plead their cause; they are without excuse; and the sentence of eternal death is pronounced against them.  The Wicked Acknowledge God’s Justice.  “We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written: ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.’” ²

“As if entranced, the wicked have looked upon the coronation of the Son of God.  They see in His hands the tables of the divine law, the statutes which they have despised and transgressed.  They witness the outburst of wonder, rapture, and adoration from the saved; and as the wave of melody sweeps over the multitudes without the city, all with one voice exclaim, ‘Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints’ (Revelation 15:3); and, falling prostrate, they worship the Prince of life.

“Satan seems paralyzed as he beholds the glory and majesty of Christ.  The time has now come when the rebellion is to be finally defeated and the history and character of Satan disclosed.  In his last great effort to dethrone Christ, destroy His people, and take possession of the City of God, the arch-deceiver has been fully unmasked.  Those who have united with him see the total failure of his cause—He is the object of universal abhorrence.

“Satan sees that his voluntary rebellion has unfitted him for heaven.  He has trained his powers to war against God; the purity, peace, and harmony of heaven would be to him supreme torture.  His accusations against the mercy and justice of God are now silenced.  The reproach which he has endeavored to cast upon Jehovah rests wholly upon himself.  And now Satan bows down, and confesses the justice of his sentence.”³

Revelation 19:3 says,  “Again they said, ‘Alleluia! And her smoke rises up for ever and ever.’”  It is true that every being in God’s universe will experience a great pang of sorrow at the loss of those who have rejected salvation.  We will be especially sad if we lose anyone we have known and deeply loved.  The joy expressed in the sentence above is certainly not over those who were lost, but because the universe will soon be clean, sin will be eliminated once and for all.  This fact is expressed in the last phrase “smoke rises up for ever and ever.”  Smoke is a symbol meaning to vanish away.  God said He will make a total end of sin and sinners and “affliction will not rise up a second time.”⁴  The twenty-four elders, and no doubt the rest of the redeemed, express great joy over this thought “Amen! Alleluia!”

Revelation  19 : 5 – 7

 “Then a voice came from the throne, saying, ‘Praise our God, all you His servants and those who fear Him, both small and great!’ And I heard, as it were, the voice of a great multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunderings, saying, ‘Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns!  Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.’”

The vast throng of redeemed now find their attention directed to an even greater thrill; it is now time for the wedding of the bride and the Bridegroom.  Only by getting a little picture of a wedding, following the ancient customs of the East, can we appreciate and understand what the Lord has prepared for His redeemed.  The east, as we have seen, is a symbol of the Second Coming.  This wedding will take place immediately following that event.  A wedding at the time of Christ was the number one event for binding people together in love, unity, joy and happiness.  The marriage contract involved a dowry by the groom and all the detailed preparations on the part of the bride.  The bridegroom was busily engaged in preparing the new home.  This ancient wedding scene is a symbolic picture of the marriage of Christ and His people.  The dowry of the bride-groom is the greatest gift Christ can give His people before He comes and that is the Holy Spirit.

Who is the bride?  Some people have a problem with this question.  There seems to be two answers, but which one is right, or are they both right?  Notice, “Come, I will show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.”  And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God.”⁵  This text makes it very clear that the New Jerusalem is the bride of Christ.  But there are other texts that clearly point out that the church is the Lord’s bride.  Notice the second one, “Like a young man taking a virgin as a bride, He who formed you will merry you. As a groom is delighted with his bride, so your God will delight in you.”⁶  Remember, this is all symbolic language and both texts point out that the church is the bride of Christ.  Every “city” is called a “she” and a woman is the church.  Not only that, but the first text clearly points out that the New Jerusalem is the bride because the Lord built it as a home for His people.  Also the text in Revelation says He showed me “a great and high mountain…the holy Jerusalem.”  You may remember that a “mountain” is a symbol of the church.  Zechariah calls both a “Holy Mountain” and “the City of Truth, Jerusalem,” filled with God’s remnant, “My people.”⁷  Christ the Bride-groom marries people not a city without people.  Remember that in the time of Christ the bridegroom prepared a home for his bride.  Christ has also prepared a home for His bride, His people.  Another point is that the New Jerusalem is not called the bride of Christ, in the book of Revelation, until they are occupying it.  Paul under inspiration said, “The free woman typifies the heavenly Jerusalem, who is the mother of us all.”⁸

What a wonderful joyous occasion it will be to have a part in that grand wedding in heaven.  None of us have ever experienced, here on earth, the pleasure and joy that this event will bring to us.  Just think of reuniting with loved ones that are now asleep in Jesus.  And think of all the great men and women whose stories have thrilled us as we have read them from the Bible.  We will not only get to meet them, and personally talk with them, many of them may also become our close friends.

A very important part of Rev. 19:7 is, “rejoice and give Him glory, for … His wife has made herself ready.”  The Second Coming of Jesus is so very near that our main concern should be to be ready.  As we have seen and as we have studied this book, the only way we can give glory to God is by developing a character like the character of Jesus and this is what verse seven is really talking about when it says “be ready.”

Revelation  19 : 8, 9

“And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of saints. Then he said to me, ‘Write: Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’” “And he said to me, ‘These are the true sayings of God.’”

These two verses are a part of the counsel of God for the bride to make “herself ready.”  We know that the bride must be ready before the bridegroom comes.  Jesus gave a parable, which is directed, primarily to the last church, urging us not to delay the work of preparation.  This parable listed in Matthew 25:1-13, is one of the most important messages found in the Scriptures for this hour.  In the last few verses of the chapter that precedes the first verse of this chapter we find that people are unready, for they are in spiritual slumber, but in verse one they have received a wake-up call.  When did the end time church wake up the first time? We know that it was just before 1844.  Verse one is very clear that the church wakes up to prepare for the coming of the bridegroom.  “Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, who took their lamps and went forth to meet the bridegroom.” “Virgins” we know are symbols of brides.  Ten is a symbolic number meaning human beings; it also means all of them.  They all were busy preparing to meet the bride-groom.  They all had the “lamp,” the word of God. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”⁹

“Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.”  What was it that made five of them foolish?  The fact that they “took no oil with them,” and this was not only a foolish mistake, it was critical because they lost their eternal salvation.  “Since “oil” is a symbol of the Holy Spirit the question is, how do we take it with us?  To have the lamp, the word of God is not enough; we must hide it in our hearts that we do not sin against Him.¹⁰  Only then will we have “oil in our vessels with our lamps.”  Since “five” is a symbol of the human effort, it is understandable that the foolish did not take the time to digest the word of God.  It is the feeding on the word of God that fills the life with “the cloven tongues of fire,” the Holy Spirit.  The wise, on the other hand, used their lamps to light their lives and their pathway through life as well.

“But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept.  And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’  Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.  And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are gone out.  But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’”¹¹  Notice that the whole church fell asleep, “they all slumbered and slept.”  It was at “midnight a cry was heard, ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him.’”  “Midnight” is symbolic of the darkest hour of earth’s history.  When is the second time the church wakes up?  “Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation.  So now, a sudden and unlooked-for calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether there is any real faith in the promises of God.  It will show whether the soul is sustained by grace.  The great final test comes at the close of human probation, when it will be too late for the soul’s need to be supplied.”¹²  What event closes probation for the true church and what event would wake up the church more than any other?  There is no doubt the national Sunday law. We are almost there; this is the evening of earth’s history; this is the time to wake up and prepare.

Notice that when the call is made “Behold, the bridegroom is coming” that all wake up and begin to trim their lamps; but all are not prepared for the coming of the groom.  The foolish lack the Holy Spirit in their lives.  They are told to go “to those who sell.”  You may remember that buying and selling is spending time feeding on God’s word and sharing it with each other.  They should have been studying the word and sharing it with each other, but this they neglected to do, so they are foolish and unready.  The light, the Holy Spirit, is no longer shining from God’s word and the question may be asked of them, why did you “neglect so great a salvation?”¹³  Why could not the wise share the oil with the foolish?  The heart, the desire of the mind, is where the Holy Spirit abides and unless one learns to love the truth by allowing it to fill the heart, the Spirit cannot control the life.  This can only be done on a personal basis, one cannot share his character with another, each one stands for himself.

“And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.  Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ “But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’”¹⁴  Notice that while they were trying to prepare “the door was shut,” probation had closed.  There is a Bible text that presents this sad picture.  “They shall wander from sea to sea, and from north to east; they shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the LORD, but shall not find it.”¹⁵  How sad! But why were the foolish not admitted into the wedding?  They did not study the word so they did not know God, therefore God did not know them. “And this is eternal life, that they might know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”¹⁶

The last verse of this parable says, “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.”¹⁷ Jesus gave this whole parable primarily for the people living in this hour.  It is a warning not only to prepare, but also to be ready and to stay ready for His Second Coming.

Revelation  19 : 10

“And I fell at his feet to worship him.  But he said unto me, ‘See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.’”

John is overwhelmed at seeing the angel so he “fell at his feet to worship him.”  The angel told John that he should not worship him for he was only a messenger for God.  The main reason this verse is recorded is to define what the phrase “the testimony of Jesus” means.  The angel plainly tells John that it is “the spirit of prophecy.”

Revelation  19 : 11 – 16

 “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse.  And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no man knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.  And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed him on white horses.  Now out of his mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations.  And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron.  He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.  And He has on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

John now sees heaven open the mediatorial work of Christ as our intercessor has been completed.  He removes His priestly robes and attires Himself with His beautiful kingly garments.  We see here a picture of the Second Coming of our Lord.  The “white horse” is a symbol of a conq-ueror.  The great controversy between Christ and Satan is entering its last stages.  All those who belong to Christ have been sealed and are awaiting His return.  But those who have rejected Him only see Him as a fierce worrier.

A word picture is also presented here revealing what Jesus went through to be our Victor.  His “robe dipped in blood” is a symbol of His life here on earth to save mankind.  The devil was after Him even before His birth.  Christ suffered more than any human being that has ever lived. When we look at the true picture of His “farce of a trial” and how terribly He was abused and crucified, we begin to understand that His robe was surely “dipped in blood.“

We also read, “on His head were many crowns.”  There are both literal and symbolic crowns recorded in Scripture.  The Bible lists three literal crowns and they are the kingly crown, the royal crown and the crown of thorns.  All three of these apply to Jesus.  There are seven sym-bolic crowns; they are a holy crown, and a crown of joy, a crown of right-eousness, an incorruptible crown, a crown of gold, as well as a crown of glory, and finally a crown of life.  Each and every one of the char-acteristics of these crowns would apply to Jesus.  The crown of gold represents faith, love, and truth.  And the crown of glory is a figure of a very beautiful character.  Is it any wonder that John says, “on His head were many crowns?”

When we consider the plan of salvation and everything Jesus has done for us, we can’t help being drawn to Him. There is no truer statement recorded in the Bible than this one, “I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.”¹⁸  “This He said, signifying by what death He would die.”¹⁹  Then as we are drawn to Him if we will become acquainted with His life, and treasure His word, we will love Him and accept Him with our whole heart.  This fact is clearly taught when we consider the full significance of the symbols of verse thirteen.  It reads, “He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God.”

At the Second Coming our Lord is pictured as riding a symbolic white horse from the east with all the hosts of heaven, like a great army totally filling the sky.  This picture is far beyond our comprehension.  The statement that all “the armies of heaven”²⁰ are “clothed in fine linen, white and clean,” is a beautiful picture, but there is far more here to be considered.  If the brightness of one or two angels was so blinding that a hundred soldiers fell down, at the tomb of Christ, just try and visualize what the entire sky will look like with all the angels of heaven.  No wonder the psalmist gives this account, “Our God comes, and does not keep silence; a fire devours before Him, and round about Him a mighty tempest rages.”²¹  The fact that Peter also records the brightness of the Lord’s coming burns up the atmosphere, listen.  “The day the Lord will come …the elements will be destroyed with fire, and the earth and every-thing in it will be laid bare.”²²

Verses fifteen and sixteen tell of the end of the wicked host, which of course happens after the millenium, when Christ has “on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”

Revelation  19 : 17 – 21

The Final Defeat of the Beast and His Armies

“Then I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather together for the supper of the great God, that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and those who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, free and slave, both small and great.  And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshipped his image. These two were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.  And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse.  And all the birds were filled with their flesh.”

These five verses are a symbolic prophecy of the complete eradi-cation of Satan and all the wicked.  Throughout the Bible the total end of sin and sinners is portrayed in a number of different ways, but here, in these five verses, it is pictured in a symbolic sense.  The sun is a symbol of Jesus, for He is the central figure in this prophetic lesson, and He is “The Sun of Righteousness”²³ and evil cannot dwell in His presence.  “He cried with a loud voice,” no doubt, figuratively speaking, so every being in the universe could hear.  He is here calling the birds of prey to do their destructive work.  Remember that eating symbolically is feeding on the word of God.  Only the righteous will believe and be benefited by the symbolic picture, which Christ has given here in these verses.  The word of God presents the fact that Satan, sin, and sinners are the destroyers not God. One of the names of Satan even means “destroyer.”  The king of the pit, who teaches error concerning the subject of death, as we have seen, is Satan.  “They had a king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek he has the name Apollyon.”²⁴  Both these names mean destroyer.  Jesus is not the destroyer for He said, “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”²⁵  He did exactly that and in the verses above He is saying “with a loud voice,” to the entire intelligent universe look, see what sin does; it destroys.

The call made in these five verses is no doubt after the resurrection of the wicked, for it assembles the leaders of earth.  In verse eighteen it mentions “all people” and even mentions the reason they come together.  In the next verse the wicked are assembled including “the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army.”  In verse twenty it points out that all that fought against God’s people just before Jesus comes, namely, the beast and the false prophet are destroyed.

Chapter twenty presents the time between the Second Coming and this assembly; it also tells how Satan and the wicked surround the New Jerusalem and how the fire out of heaven devours them.  The big question is how are the wicked destroyed?  Do they destroy themselves or does God destroy them?  If God is the executioner how can He say “My covenant I will not break, nor alter the word that has gone out of My lips.”²⁶  What is God’s covenant?  “He declared to you His covenant which He commanded you to perform, that is, the Ten commandments; and He wrote them on two tablets of stone.”²⁷  The Bible is clear that God does not break His own laws.  “Now Satan prepares for a last mighty struggle for the supremacy.  While deprived of his power and cut off from his work of deception, the prince of evil was miserable and dejected; but as the wicked dead are raised and he sees the vast multitudes upon his side, his hopes revive, and he determines not to yield the great contro-versy.  He will marshal all the armies of the lost under his banner and through them endeavor to execute his plans.  The wicked are Satan’s captives. In rejecting Christ they have accepted the rule of the rebel leader.  They are ready to receive his suggestions and to do his bidding.  Yet, true to his early cunning, he does not acknowledge himself to be Satan.  He claims to be the prince who is the rightful owner of the world and whose inheritance has been unlawfully wrested from him.  He represents himself to his deluded subjects as a redeemer, assuring them that his power has brought them forth from their graves and that he is about to rescue them from the most cruel tyranny.  The presence of Christ having been remov-ed, Satan works wonders to support his claims.  He makes the weak strong and inspires all with his own spirit and energy.  He proposes to lead them against the camp of the saints and to take possession of the City of God.  With fiendish exultation he points to the unnumbered millions who have been raised from the dead and declares that as their leader he is well able to overthrow the city and regain his throne and his kingdom.”²⁸  The host of evil, inspired by their hatred of God and all He stands for, with all the latest weapons of war rush to capture the city of God, but the weapons they launch into the heavens against the New Jerusalem fall on them.  “Give back to her as she has given; pay her back double for what she has done.  Mix her a double portion from her own cup.”²⁹  Throughout the Bible God has told us that evil is a destroyer.  “May those who accuse others falsely not succeed; may evil overtake violent people and destroy them.”³⁰  “Satan is the destroyer; God is the restorer.”³¹

The word of God was very clear that sin and sinners are a destructive force, so the armies of evil are destroyed by the very method predicted in God’s word.  Evil men, beasts, and mean and hateful birds and especially eagles are all symbols of creatures of prey.  The birds of prey, mentioned in Revelation nineteen, are the wicked hosts who intend to destroy God’s people and capture the New Jerusalem; but they destroy themselves.  The weapons of fire, (no doubt nuclear weapons), they intended to use against the righteous will, come down from the sky and destroy them and the earth.  Then after the earth is purified by fire, God recreates it as the eternal home of His people.

Notes

Chapter – 36

1- Rev 22:11; 2- Rom 14:10, 11; 3- GC 668, 670; 4- Nahum 1:9; 5- Rev 21:9, 10; 6- Isa 62:5; 7- Zec 8:3; 8- Gal 4:6 JBP; 9- Ps 119:105; 10- Ps 119:11; 11- Mat 25:5-9; 12- COL 412; 13- Heb 2:3; 14- Mat 25:10-12; 15- Amos 8:12; 16- Jo 17:3; 17- Mat 25:13; 18- Jo 12:32; 19- Jo 12:33; 20- Rev 19:14; 21- Ps 50:3; 22- 2Peter 3:10 NIV; 23- Mal 4:2; 24- Rev 9:11; 25- Mat 5:44; 26- Ps 89:34; 27- Deut 4:13; 28- GC 663; 29- Rev 18:6 NIV; 30- Ps 140:11 TEV; 31- MH 113.

“Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in the which all who are in the graves shall hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, unto the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.”

These two texts are the words of Jesus Himself; He makes it very clear that two resurrections await those who are in the graves, but these texts do not say how much time there is between the two.  He does say that all shall come forth in one group or the other.  This clearly indicates that the two groups do not come from the grave at the same time.  The first resurrection Jesus calls “the resurrection of life” and the other He calls “the resurrection of condemnation.” The book of Revelation confirms the fact that there are two resurrections and even tells how much time between them.

Revelation  20 : 6

“Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.”

This verse specifically tells us that the righteous, those who are “blessed and holy” will come from the grave in the first resurrection.  And since Jesus said that there are two resurrections the second one must be that of the wicked.  We already know that at the Second Coming of Christ the righteous are raised and given eternal life.  But in the verse above we find that the righteous will reign with Christ for a thousand years.  The first resurrection mentioned above marks the beginning of this period we call the millennium.  This word “millennium” is not found in the Bible.  It is made up of two Latin words: “milli,” meaning a thousand, and “annum,” meaning a year.  So the word means one thousand years and this period of time is mentioned six times in Revelation twenty.  Verses four and five shed more light on this period of time.

During the Thousand Years

Revelation  20 : 4, 5

“And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was committed to them.  And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshipped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands.  And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.”

These verses clearly teach the work that the righteous will be involved in during this thousand years, the work of judgment.  You may remember when we studied the Second Coming of Christ that He did not set His feet on this earth at that time, but His angels gathered up the resurrected righteous, as well as the living righteous, to meet the Lord in the air.  Christ had promised His followers, “I will come again and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.¹”  When Jesus left this earth He told His disciples that He was going “to prepare a place for (them.).”  This prophetic picture foretells that when He comes back He will take His people to that place He has prepared for them.  During this time the righteous will be busily engaged in a work that must be done, the work of judgment.  In every criminal case there are three phases to the judgment.  The first is the one we call the grand jury or an examining trial to decide whether there is enough evidence to try the individual.  The second phase is to determine by trial the guilt or innocence of an accused. This phase uses every available means, such as records, witnesses, and videos; a thorough investigation is made to be sure one is guilty.  After the guilty verdict the last phase is to decide the punishment.  God is just, and He knows that it is best that those who have experienced living here on earth where the great controversy between good and evil has waged, should be the ones to determine the punishment of the lost.

Notice that God appoints the righteous to review and render judgment, in the punishment phase, for every lost soul who has ever lived on earth as well as the evil angels.  “Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?”²  As for the angels, Peter says, “Did God spare even the angels who sinned?  He did not! He held them captive in Tartarus—consigned them to pits of darkness, to be guarded until judgment.”³  “Do you not know that we shall judge angels?”⁴ The picture here of evil angels being held in darkness is exactly what the Scriptures teach.  The word “Tartarus” above means Hades, the deepest abyss or a desolate place; the angels that sinned will be in that place, as we have seen, for one thousand years.  This fact is clearly taught in Revelation chapter twenty.  This work of judgment, by the righteous, will continue during this thousand years.

The verse then says that, “the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished.”  This makes it very clear that there is a thousand years between the two resurrections.  It is also clear that “the rest of the dead” speaks of the wicked.  We mentioned that the righteous would be resurrected at the Second Coming, but lets look at a text that verifies this fact. “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God.  And the dead in Christ will rise first.”⁵  This “first” resurrection marks the beginning of the thousand years.  There are five points that take place at the beginning of this period.  One, the Second Coming of Christ, two, the resurrection of the righteous, three, the meeting of Christ in the air, four, the death of the wicked, and five, the saints taken to heaven for one thousand years.  Paul gives a part of this picture in this verse.  “Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And thus we shall always be with the Lord.”⁶  This is a really thrilling scene especially when we see the whole picture.  “Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”⁷  What a beautiful promise that all the righteous will be given perfect new bodies.  One version puts it this way, that Jesus Christ, “will change these wretched bodies of ours so that they resemble his own glorious body, by that power of his which makes him in command of everything.”⁸  Originally we were created in the image and likeness of God, but six thousand years of sin has nearly destroyed that image and very little of God’s beauty is still seen in man.  But at the Second Coming of Christ all of God’s people will be perfect in beauty like Adam and Eve when they came from the Creator’s hand.  The wonderful part of this picture is the fact that we will never again be faced with sickness, sorrow, death or pain.  We shall be a part of God’s family forever.

Revelation  20 : 1 – 3

“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand.  He laid hold on the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while.”

We have already considered what happens to Satan and his angels, but we shall here consider what the earth will be like during this thousand years.  At the Second Coming of Christ, Peter told us that the atmosphere would burn up, which will leave this earth in total darkness.  Without an atmosphere the world would be in cold storage.  Jeremiah gives this view of the earth during this time.  “I looked at the earth, and it was formless and empty; and at the heavens, and their light was gone.  I looked, and there were no people; every bird in the sky had flown away.”⁹  The next verse says, “I beheld, and indeed the fruitful place was a wilderness, and all the cities were broken down at the presence of the LORD.”¹⁰  As we have seen all the wicked will die at the brightness of the coming of Christ.  Remember the word “bottomless pit,” means a desolate place.  The chain that binds Satan is a chain of circumstances.  He is not permitted to leave this earth and will not be loosed until the thousand years are over.  The only life on planet earth during this time will be Satan and his hosts.  It is a vacation that the Devil will not relish for he has no one to tempt.

Revelation  20 : 7 – 10

“Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea.  They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them.  And the devil who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”

There are five points that mark the end of the millenium.  They are, One, the holy city with all the righteous comes to this earth, two, the wicked dead are raised, three, Satan is “released from his prison,” four, Satan and all the wicked surround the New Jerusalem, and five, fire destroys them all.  All of these five points are listed in the texts above, but two of them could be clearer so we will look at other texts to support them.  “Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”¹¹  This text clearly presents the fact that the New Jerusalem comes to this earth. In Revelation 20:5 we have already seen that “the rest of the dead [the wicked] did not live again until the thousand years were finished.”

What is it that causes the release of Satan?  The fact that God has resurrected the wicked gives him people to deceive, and he immediately begins his work of deception.  Remember that we were told in verse three that “he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished;” then he was to “be released for a little while.”  This “little while” is long enough for him to build an army with all the weapons of war.  Listen to this: “Now Satan prepares for a last mighty struggle for the supremacy.  While deprived of his power and cut off from his work of deception, the prince of evil was miserable and dejected; but as the wicked dead are raised and he sees the vast multitudes upon his side, his hopes revive, and he determines not to yield the great controversy.  He will marshal all the armies of the lost under his banner and through them endeavor to execute his plans.  There are kings and generals who con-quered nations; valiant men who never lost a battle, proud, ambitious warriors whose approach made kingdoms tremble.  In death these experienced no change. As they come up from the grave, they resume the current of their thoughts just where it ceased.  They are actuated by the same desire to conquer that ruled them when they fell.

“Satan consults with his angels, and then with these kings and conquerors and mighty men.  They look upon the strength and numbers on their side, and declare that the army within the city is small in comparison with theirs, and that it can be overcome.  They lay their plans to take possession of the riches and glory of the New Jerusalem.  All immediately begin to prepare for battle. Skillful artisans construct implements of war. Military leaders, famed for their success, marshal the throngs of warlike men into companies and divisions.

“At last the order to advance is given, and the countless host moves on,—an army such as was never summoned by earthly conquerors, such as the combined forces of all ages since war began on earth could never equal. Satan, the mightiest of warriors, leads the van, and his angels unite their forces for this final struggle. Kings and warriors are in his train, and the multitudes follow in vast companies, each under its appointed leader.  With military precision, the serried ranks advance over the earth’s broken and uneven surface to the City of God.  By command of Jesus, the gates of the New Jerusalem are closed, and the armies of Satan surround the city, and make ready for the onset.

“In the presence of the assembled inhabitants of earth and heaven the final coronation of the Son of God takes place.  And now, invested with supreme majesty and power, the King of kings pronounces sentence upon the rebels against His government, and executes justice upon those who have transgressed His law and oppressed His people.  Says the prophet of God:  ‘I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.  And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.’  

Revelation  20 : 11, 12

“The whole wicked world stand arraigned at the bar of God, on the charge of high treason against the government of heaven.  They have none to plead their cause; they are without excuse; and the sentence of eternal death is pronounced against them.

“Notwithstanding that Satan has been constrained to acknowledge God’s justice, and to bow to the supremacy of Christ, his character remains unchanged.  The spirit of rebellion, like a mighty torrent, again bursts forth. Filled with frenzy, he determines not to yield the great controversy. The time has come for a last desperate struggle against the King of heaven.  He rushes into the midst of his subjects and endeavors to inspire them with his own fury, and arouse them to instant battle.  But of all the countless millions whom he has allured into rebellion, there are none now to acknowledge his supremacy.  His power is at an end.  The wicked are filled with the same hatred of God that inspires Satan; but they see that their case is hopeless, that they cannot prevail against Jehovah.  Their rage is kindled against Satan and those who have been his agents in deception, and with the fury of demons they turn upon them.

“Saith the Lord: ‘Because thou hast set thine heart as the heart of God; behold, therefore I will bring strangers upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy brightness.  They shall bring thee down to the pit.’”  “I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire . . . I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee. . . I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all-them that behold thee . . .Thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any more.’” Ezekiel 28:6-8, 16-19.

“Every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire.”  “The indignation of the Lord is upon all nations, and His fury upon all their armies:  He hath utterly destroyed them, He hath delivered them to the slaughter.”  “Upon the wicked He shall rain quick burning coals, fire and brimstone and a horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup.” Isaiah 9:5; 34:2; Psalm 11:6. (margin.)  Fire comes down from God out of heaven.  The earth is broken up.  The weapons concealed in its depths are drawn forth. Devouring flames burst from every yawning chasm.  The very rocks are on fire.  The day has come that shall burn as an oven.  The elements melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein are burned up.  Malachi 4:1; 2 Peter 3:10.  The earth’s surface seems one molten mass,—a vast, seething lake of fire.  It is the time of the judgment and perdition of ungodly men,—“the day of the Lord’s vengeance, and the year of recompenses for the controversy of Zion.” Isaiah 34:8; Proverbs 11:31.

“Satan’s work of ruin is forever ended.  For six thousand years he has wrought his will, filling the earth with woe, and causing grief throughout the universe.  The whole creation has groaned and travailed together in pain.  Now God’s creatures are forever delivered from his presence and temptations.  “The whole earth is at rest, and is quiet: they [the righteous] break forth into singing.” Isaiah 14:7. And a shout of praise and triumph ascends from the whole loyal universe.  “The voice of a great multitude,” “as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings,” is heard, saying, “Alleluia; for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.”¹² Revelation 19:6.

Revelation  20 : 13 – 15

“The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them.  And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.  And anyone not found written in the book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.”

These verses are very clear that all sin and sinners will come to an end.  There will be no more death.  All tears will be wiped away.  There is no doubt about it that the destruction of the wicked will cause the righteous to shed many tears, but because of His great love God will even wipe the memory of lost individuals from the mind.  “For the living know that they will die; but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten.”¹³  The only way God could remove all sadness and tears is to blot out from the memory those we have lost.  “God is love.”¹⁴

Notes

Chapter – 37

1- Jo 14:3; 2- 1Cor 6:2; 3- 2Peter 2:4 NAB; 4- 1Cor 6:3; 5- 1Thes 4:16; 6- 1Thes 4:17; 7- 1Cor 15:51-53; 8- Phil 3:21 JBP; 9- Jer 4:23, 25 NIV; 10- Jer 4:26; 11- Rev 21:2; 12- GC 663, 664-666, 671-673; 13- Eccl 9:5; 14- 1Jo 4:8.

“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away.  Also there was no more sea.  Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”

When we look at our world today and see all the hatred, violence, with war and bloodshed, we can surely appreciate the text above.  What a beautiful promise God has given us in these words.  The thought that God is going to create a new atmosphere around this earth and recreate this planet to be like it was before sin entered, is just fantastic.  It is impossible to really grasp the perfection and beauty of this earth and the holy city, as it will come from the hand of the creator when this earth is made new.  John seems to be at a loss for words as he sees the thrilling scene of the new earth as it comes from the hand of the creator.  The entire earth will be perfect in every respect.  Remember when God finished this world He pronounced it “very good.”

Revelation  21 : 3, 4

“And I heard a great voice from heaven saying,  ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them and be their God.  And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying; and there shall be no more pain, for the former things are passed away.”

The word “tabernacle” also means vessel so the text could read, “the vessel of God is with men.”  The apostle Paul was called a “chosen vessel.”  Any container in the Scriptures represents a person.  A vessel holds whatever is poured into it, and it will pour out whatever it contains.  Jesus came to earth and was filled with the Spirit of God His Father. As He studied the Old Testament, through the guidance of the Spirit, His mind and heart was filled with its power, He became the Word.  When at Jordan He was anointed with the Spirit, to begin His work;  He began to pour out to mankind the words of life.  For three and a half years “no man ever spoke like this man.”¹  When the earth is made new the vessel of God, the Lord Himself, will dwell with us.

The wonderful promises that are found in the texts above will all be fulfilled.  All the misery sin has brought to mankind, we are told, will be gone. Death, sorrow, crying, and pain will no longer be.  The only way that these can be eliminated is to do away with sin.  It took God to devise a plan to do that, and that plan is based on love.

Revelation  21 : 5, 6

“Then He who sat on the throne said, ‘Behold, I make all things new.’ And He said to me, ‘Write, for these words are true and faithful.’  And He said to me, ‘It is done! I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts.’”

“He who sat on the throne,” this phrase does not identify who it is, but since God the Father and the Son are co-rulers of the universe it really doesn’t matter.  Jesus was the active agent in all creation and here we are told that all things will be made new.  Adam and Eve had to take creation by faith, but when the New Jerusalem settles on earth and this world is purified by fire, God’s people will actually see this world recreated in six literal days.  In the texts above God promises to “make all things new.”  We can count on it, for He said, “these words are true and faithful.”  Hundreds of prophecies have been fulfilled and one can count on his hands, those that remain to be fulfilled.  So what God promises will be done!  These words, in the closing chapters of Revelation, are very precious to God’s people.  As Jesus told the woman at the well, “whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst.”²  People cannot live long without water.  The water of life, which is the word of God, is the only true “living water,” for those who freely drink of it will live forever.

Revelation  21 : 7, 8

“He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, and sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

God paints a beautiful picture in this chapter with a number of precious promises and then He gives some simple words on how to be eligible to receive it.  He said it is all for him “who overcomes.”  What is it that must be overcome?  The answer is, of course, evil-sin. “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”³  Not only are all the promises of God for him who overcomes, but also he or she will be adopted into the family of God and will “inherit all things.”

God does not leave His people without a warning.  He is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”⁴  The majority of those who miss out on the kingdom of heaven will no doubt be the “cowardly.”  Those who do not take their stand for one reason or another because they are afraid of the consequences are the cowardly.  People who are convicted that they should keep the Sabbath, but are afraid of losing their job are in this class.  During the time of test the cowardly will be shaken out.  The warning is given by inspiration God wants all to take heed.

The second group mentioned is the “unbelieving.” It is obvious that those who doubt, lack faith.  The reasons there are so many who do not believe is because they do not study God’s word.  We know that faith comes as we hear the word of God.  The Scripture puts it this way, “Faith, you see, can only come from hearing the message, and the message is the word of Christ.”⁵  Just how important is the study of God’s word?  The “world” is a symbol of sin; Jesus said He overcame the world and He said we could too.  “This is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith.”⁶

The third word is “abominable.”  This word means to abhor and to be guilty of idolatry, which God abhors.  The Spirit of the Lord tells us “Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.”⁷  God abhors, not only lying, but we find, in the Scriptures that He also hates and abhors selfishness, covetousness, disloyalty, and lukewarmness as well.  “The Lord abhors indifference and disloyalty in a time of crisis in His work.  The whole universe is watching with inexpressible interest the closing scenes of the great controversy between good and evil.  The people of God are nearing the borders of the eternal world; what can be of more importance to them than that they be loyal to the God of heaven?” — Prophets & Kings, 148.

Why would “murderers” be number four?  Most people wouldn’t give much thought to this point, but this is a big problem for many professed Christians.  “Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”⁸  “He who is at peace with God and his fellow men cannot be made miserable.  Envy will not be in his heart; evil surmising will find no room there; hatred cannot exist.  The heart that is in harmony with God is a partaker of the peace of heaven and will diffuse its blessed influence on all around.”⁹  Jesus even said that we should love our enemies.  Love and hatred are opposites that cannot dwell together.  To look at people with disdain is contrary to the spirit of Christ.  The statement that hatred cannot exist in the heart of one who is at peace with God is a shocking thought to many.  Jesus said, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.”¹⁰  To accept the offer of the mind of Christ is a free gift that comes from the Holy Spirit.

Number five is the “sexually immoral.”  “Sensuality is the sin of the age.  But the religion of Jesus Christ will hold the lines of control over every species of unlawful liberty; the moral powers will hold the lines of control over every thought, word, and action.”¹¹  It is obvious that the sin of immorality has been increasing by leaps and bounds these past few years.  The whole world seems to have become a Sodom and Gomorrah.  Illicit sex is being glamorized on TV and the movies for profit.  It has become Satan’s trap for the youth of today.  The only safeguard against this sin is the same one Joseph used four thousand years ago.  “The only condition upon which the freedom of man is possible is that of becoming one with Christ.  Subjection to God is restoration to one’s self,—to the true glory and dignity of man.”¹²  We are also told how to guard against temptation.  “A close study of the word of God … will prove a mighty barricade against temptation.”¹³

The sixth one is “sorcerers,” these are people controlled by evil spirits and may also practice witchcraft.  In this day and age there are many people who are controlled by evil spirits.  When people die spiritually the spirit of God no longer controls them.  The prisons are full of people who are dead spiritually and the spirit of Satan controls many of them.  Many of these individuals would just as soon kill a person as look at them.  The fact that the news today is full of violence and bloodshed indicates that evil spirits are more in control of planet earth now than at any time since the days of Noah.  “Men possessed by demons are killing men women and little children.  The taking of human life is a matter of daily occurrence.  All these things testify that the end of all things is at hand.” ¹⁴  Speaking of people practicing sorcery, including hypnotism, the Spirit of Prophecy says, “This science may appear to be very valuable, but to you and others it is a fallacy prepared by Satan.  It is the charm of the serpent, which stings to spiritual death.  It covers much that seems wonderful, but it is foreign to the nature of Christ.  This science does not lead to Him who is life and salvation.”¹⁵

The seventh point is “idolaters,” Anything we put before God is an idol.  When we love God we obey Him, and when we obey Him we are lead by His Spirit.  Anything that interferes with the Spirits control is an idol. We are told that, “Amusements are doing more to counteract the working of the Holy Spirit than anything else, and the Lord is grieved.”¹⁶  If we think about this it is plain to see what it means.  What are the main amusements that absorb our time and money and lead us away from God?  Sports, TV, movies, novels, and some are always looking for a thrill; these are just a few of the amusements that rob us of the Spirit.  In this day we need more of the Holy Spirit, not less.  We should not only surrender ourselves to the Spirit’s control; it is time to pray for the Spirit and surrender to the Spirit’s control.

The eighth and last point is “all liars.”  Everyone who lies belongs to Satan for he is the father of all liars.  Lying was the first sin recorded on earth; is it any wonder that God hates it?  It is easy to understand why God said, “all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone which is the second death.”¹⁷

Since God, through John, records that all things shall be made new and then makes the appeal to overcome, would it not be wise to comply?  Throughout the Scriptures God has given many warnings, but His appeals are presented through love, and this is the next-to-last warning given in the Bible.  As strong as the language is in verse eight it is still given because of God’s great love.  God has made it very clear that He desires that all should be saved.  Let us each accept both the warning and God’s appeal with our whole heart.

Notes

Chapter – 38

1- Jo 7:46; 2- Jo 4:14; 3- Rom 12:21; 4- 2Peter 3:9; 5- Rom 10:17 JBP; 6- 1Jo 5:4 AV; 7- Prov 12:22; 8- 1Jo 3:15; 9- MB 27, 28; 10- Phil 2:5; 11- MM 142; 12- DA 466; 13- Ed 190; 14- AUCR 1/15/04; 15- 2MCP 714; 16- MYP 371; 17- Rev 21: 8.

“Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls filled with the seven last plagues came to me and talked with me, saying, ‘Come, I will show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.’  And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, having the glory of God. And her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal.”

This particular subject should be of great interest to the people of God at this particular time, because we shall soon see this city literally for Jesus is about to come.  We shall attempt to cover this subject with as many Bible facts as possible. There is no doubt that this will be a beautiful picture, for the bride of Christ, as we have seen, is the holy city New Jerusalem together with all the redeemed.  We can be sure that our Lord will consider His bride His most precious possession.  But even though this will be a beautiful chapter we also know that human words are incredibly inadequate to realistically describe it.

John must have been thrilled as he saw the vision of that beautiful city.  We can clearly see that John found difficulty in describing, in human language, the splendor of that holy place.  John said the angel took him to “a great and high mountain” to show him the city.  This is a symbolic phrase meaning a place of great spirituality.  A “mountain,” you may re-member, is a symbol of a high spiritual plane.  The church reaches this mountaintop experience when the latter rain of the Holy Spirit seals them.  Only those who reach the high ideal that God has set for them will be sealed and become a resident of the holy city.

John speaks in Rev. 21:2 of the “decent of the holy city.”  He said that the city was, “prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”  How does a bride prepare for her wedding?  She makes herself just as beautiful as she possibly can.  The holy city, New Jerusalem, will be as beautiful as God can make it.  Remember that in an eastern wedding at the time of Christ, the bridegroom prepared the home for the bride.  Jesus said, “I go to prepare a place for you”¹. and He will make that home very beautiful. When we look at some of the beauty, still revealed on earth today, even after six thousand years of sin, it must have been extremely lovely as it came from the Creator’s hand.  We will be amazed when we see that city.

When John saw the New Jerusalem in vision, he saw it coming down from God out of heaven. This bothers some people for they say how could a city that size “fly”?  This would not be a problem for God for all the suns and worlds of the universe are now flying through space. John not only saw the holy city descending from heaven to this earth, he also saw that it had the “glory of God.”  You may remember that the word “glory” usually means character.  To put this in other words we could say that the New Jerusalem reflects the personality and love of God.  John is also saying that God Himself will abide with His people throughout eternity.  Next, John says, “her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal.”  Many believe that the Bible “jasper” stone is really what we today call the diamond.  It may be for today’s jasper is not a clear stone nor is it a “most precious stone.”  John seems to indicate that the city had a radiance of its own.  The words “her light” seems to indicate her aura; for this light, mentioned in the text, seems to imply that her atmosphere glows with a sparkle, as a light through a diamond or prism.  This may be difficult to visualize, but with just a little imagination one can picture a magnificently beautiful radiance emanating from the atmosphere of that city, even much more spectacular and beautiful than the aurora borealis; and this fantastic city Christ has already prepared for His bride.

Revelation  21 : 12 – 14

“Also she had a great and high wall with twelve gates, and twelve angels at the gates, and names written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates on the south, and three gates on the west.  Now the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”

Both chapter twenty-one and chapter twenty-two are primarily literal, but both have some symbolism.  Since these chapters are mostly literal we shall clearly cover that aspect, but we shall also cover those important symbolic meanings as they appear.  A “wall” in symbolic language means protection, and it is also a figure of God’s Law.  It is true that the need for protection will end with the annihilation of the wicked, but the wall is no doubt for beauty as well as a figurative reminder of God’s Law.

The “twelve gates” represent the twelve different types of char-acter traits into which God’s people are divided.  Each individual will go into the city through the gate, which identifies his or her character.  Notice also that the twelve gates are identified by the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.  John lists these names in the book of Revelation.  There is no doubt that the twelve listed in chapter seven are the correct ones for Rev-elation is an end time book.

We see that the twelve foundations contain the names of the twelve apostles.  You may remember that the church of Christ was built upon the foundation of the apostles, Jesus Himself being the chief Cornerstone.  Speaking of the Gentiles who had accepted the plan of salvation, Paul said, “You are now citizens together with God’s people and members of the family of God.  You, too, are built upon the foundation laid by the apostles and prophets, the cornerstone being Christ Jesus Himself.”²  For four thousand years God’s people looked forward to the coming of the Messiah and when He came, He not only died for man, but men were also saved by the example of His life as well as His teaching.  Jesus was truly the Chief Cornerstone, but He also founded His church on the apostles.

Revelation  21 : 15 – 17

“And he who talked with me had a gold reed to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. And the city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as its breadth.  And he measured the city with the reed: twelve thousand furlongs. Its length, breadth, and height are equal. Then he measured its wall: one hundred and forty-four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of an angel.”

We must remember that our Savior built this city for the people He came to save.  The measuring of the city must have a symbolic as well as a literal application.  Remember that “gold” is a symbol of faith, love, and truth.  Those who enter this city will have all of these precious traits.  One more interesting point is that “twelve” is mentioned five times in verses 12-14.  Twelve, as we have seen, is a symbol of the combination of the human and the divine.  Remember Adam and Eve lost their spiritual nature the moment they sinned.  But all that enter the city of God will be human and “divine.”  The word “divine” means God-like.

It is very difficult for human beings to picture, in the imagination, a city with the dimensions as recorded by John, as being very beautiful.  It is believed that the standard “cubit of a man” is equal to about eighteen inches; the city then would be about 375 miles on each side or fifteen hundred miles in circumference.  This city would more than cover the state of Colorado.  But if the cubit is that of an angel the city may be much larger.  Some believe it is 1500 on each side.  We can only wait and see.

Revelation  21 : 18 – 20

“And the construction of its wall was of jasper; and the city was pure gold, like clear glass.  And the foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with all kinds of precious stones: the first foundation was jasper, the second, sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth sardius, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst.”

The foundations of the walls of the New Jerusalem are no doubt far more beautiful than any precious stones we have on earth today.  The most valuable and precious today is the emerald.  As we have mentioned the first one, jasper is most likely what we call the diamond today.  The colors of the stones listed are: The second one, sky-blue sapphire, the third one is chalcedony, a bluish white stone.  The fourth one is the vivid green emerald, and the fifth is the sardonyx, which is orange-colored.  The sixth one is sardius, a vivid purple, the seventh one, chrysolite, which is a bright yellow.  The eighth is beryl and is light green; the ninth is topaz a yellow-green and the tenth is chrysoprase, which is golden-colored.  The eleventh one is jacinth, a deep red or green, and the twelfth one is, amethyst, a violet color.  There is no doubt that the foundation stones of the city of God will be far more beautiful than the most brilliant rainbow.  It is impossible to describe the beauty of the holy city.

Revelation  21 : 21 – 23

“And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.  But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.  And the city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it, and the Lamb is its light.”

We know that the “Pearl of Great Price” is Jesus the Son of God.  We also know that pearls are doctrines pertaining to salvation.  Jesus, the greatest Teacher that ever walked this earth, clearly taught the doctrines of salvation.  Jesus said, “Do not throw your pearls to pigs.”³  Meaning don’t waste your time with people who reject the clear plain doctrines that pertain to salvation.  All those who enter the city of God accept all the doctrines that are a part of the plan of salvation.  The description of the holy city, as already mentioned, has both a literal and a symbolic meaning. “The street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.”  John is attempting to present a very beautiful picture of the streets of the city, and since gold is very valuable, he likens the streets to gold.  But even more than that, the golden streets are symbols of the way God’s people lived on earth.  They walked by faith, and they were filled with love and truth and as a result they can walk on the literal golden streets.

The symbolic language is carried on a bit farther when John said, “I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.”  Jesus spoke of His body as a “temple.”  “But the temple Jesus was speaking about was his body.”⁴  We are also told that, “Don’t you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and who was given to you by God?”⁵  So the teaching here is that since God and His Son are present with His people it will not be necessary to go to a physical temple to worship. God the Father and His Son are also the light of the city.  As the Father and the Son are clothed with a robe of light, which is their Spiritual natures, just so are the people of God clothed with light as well.  We were created in the image and likeness of God.  It is very difficult for humans to picture people glowing with light, but it is biblical, so we must just be faithful so we will have the privilege of seeing it.

If, as we have already seen, the holy city will be illuminated with its own light, how can it be said that God the Father and His Son are the light of the city?  We know that God created the sun and moon as literal lights for this earth.  The texts above do not teach that God the Father and the Son will be the literal light of the city.  Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”6  This verse makes it clear that God the Father and the Son is our spiritual light as well as our life.  We must remember that all life comes to us through God.  God is our light and our life physically, mentally, and spiritually.  In Rev. 21 verse twenty-five it says, “there shall be no night there.”  In the book of Isaiah we are told, “the light of the moon will be as the light of the sun.”  The book of Genesis records that God created two great lights, the sun and the moon.  See Gen. 1:14-18.  There are many things we cannot visualize or understand now; but we can be sure that the New Jerusalem will be far more wonderful and more beautiful than human language is capable of describing.  To paraphrase 1Corinthians 2:9: Our eyes have never seen anything like it, our ears have never heard of anything so wonderful and we can’t even imagine the splendor and beauty of the things that God has prepared for those who love Him.

Revelation  21 : 24 – 27

          “And the nations of those who are saved shall walk in its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory and honor into it.  Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there). And they shall bring the glory and honor of the nations into it. But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.”

These texts, when fulfilled, teach that the great controversy is now history.  It also teaches that people from all nations of earth will be present in the holy city.  Notice with the fulfillment of this text that we shall be made “kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.”⁸ How can this be?  The answer is that the righteous shall walk in God’s light.

Speaking of the holy city, it is clear that all sin and evil will be excluded from the New Jerusalem and “only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life” will be admitted into that holy city.  Our decision to be there must be made now!

TRUTH OR MAN’S OPINION?

Now, man’s most hopeless sin is said to be,

“Pride of opinion,” don’t you see!

How stubbornly he’ll close his eyes;

Then willingly he’ll b’lieve in lies.

How true the phrase, “convinced against his will,

He’s of the same opinion still.”

Now, for each truth we find in Holy Writ

Old Satan has a counterfeit.

So, if it’s truth we really wish to find,

How do we keep an open mind?

We can’t rely on minister of friend

And take their council in the end.

Opinion of a Scripture’s just fool’s gold.

So, to man’s word we dare not hold.

The Bible tells us how to find true light,

Be positive, and know we’re right!

First, ask the Holy Spirit, “Be my guide,”

Make sure that self is crucified.

Then as we search and text to text compare,

The truth will shine like diamonds rare.

Then, too, the voice of God will softly say,

“Keep on my child, this is the way!”

By D. O. Van Buren

Notes

Chapter – 39

1- Jo 14:2; 2- Eph 2:19, 20 TEV; 3- Mat 7:6 NIV; 4- Jo 2:21 TEV; 5- 1Cor 6:19 TEV; 6- Jo 8:12; 7- Isa 30:26; 8- Rev 5:10.

“And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.  In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month.  And the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”

When Adam and Eve were created they could eat of the tree of life.  They could also drink of the pure river that flowed out of the Garden of Eden.  Even though the water of that river, recorded in Genesis, is not called “water of life,” it most likely was, for water is necessary for life.  The verses above, speaking of the New Jerusalem, tell us of both a “tree of life” as well as a “river of water of life.”  God’s people will eat of the tree of life and drink of the water of life.  We are also told that one must eat of the tree of life to live forever.  God said, after Adam and Eve had sinned: [They] “must not be allowed to reach out [their] hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever.”¹  The tree of life is one tree, yet its trunk is on both sides of the river.  We are not told the size of that beautiful tree, but it must be massive.  God’s people will come at least once a month and eat of that tree.  Isaiah tells about it this way: “From one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, all mankind shall come to worship before Me, says the LORD.”²

It seems that the water of life and the fruit of the tree of life as well as its leaves are to perpetuate life and keep us well.  Consider this detailed description from the servant of God:  “The glorious City of God has twelve gates, set with pearls most glorious.  It also has twelve foundations of various colors.  The streets of the City are of pure gold.  In this city is the throne of God, and a pure, beautiful river proceeding out of it, as clear as crystal. Its sparkling purity and beauty makes glad the City of God.  The saints will drink freely of the healing waters of the river of life.  On either side of this beautiful river is the tree of life.  And the redeemed saints, who have loved God and kept his commandments here, will enter in through the gates of the City, and have right to the tree of life.  They will eat freely of it, as our first parents did before their fall.  The leaves of that immortal widespread tree will be for the healing of the nations.  All their woes will then be gone.  Sickness, sorrow and death they will never again feel, for the leaves of the tree of life have healed them.”³

Revelation  22 : 3 – 5

“And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.  They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads.  And there shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light.  And they shall reign for ever and ever.”

This chapter also has both a literal as well as a symbolic meaning.

The Bible makes it very clear that the New Heavens and the New Earth as well as the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, the capitol city of the new earth, are all very literal.  All of God’s creation has been designed and created specifically to bring joy and happiness to the human race, the crowning act of God’s creation.  The Bible is also clear that God considers us as His family.  Remember we are told to call God “our Father” and Christ is our elder Brother.

Even though this is all true the symbolic meaning of much of this chapter is a very beautiful picture for us to understand.  We will each be able to eat of that literal tree of life and drink of the literal water of life. But just as we now spiritually drink of the spiritual water of life, the Word of God, and eat of the tree of life, the life and teachings of Christ, we will also be able to partake of these symbols throughout eternity.  A few texts will make these facts very evident.

Remember Jesus is called the “Word” and the word is called the “water of life.”⁴  Jesus said to the woman at the well, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst.  But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”⁵  It will be possible for us to drink of both the literal and spiritual water of life throughout eternity.

As we study the life of Christ and feed upon His word we are spiritually partaking of the tree of life.  And as we feed on the tree of life we in turn can become trees of life to offer to others eternal life.  This is made clear in these words, “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.”⁶

The last chapter of the book of Revelation is a wonderful promise that the great controversy, which began in heaven, will soon be ended.  The final chapters of this book go much farther than that they even portray-that soon this world will be purified, cleansed of sin and sinners, and the character of God will be totally vindicated before the entire universe 

The apostle Peter tells of three worlds and focuses mainly on the last one, the eternal one.  Speaking of the world before the flood he says, “The world that then existed perished, being flooded with water.  But the heavens and the earth which now exist are kept in store by the same word, reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”⁷  Notice the three worlds that Peter speaks about:  1. “The world that then existed,” that is before the flood.  2. “The heavens and the earth which now exist,” that is our present world.  This is the world that Peter says will be destroyed by fire.  3. The last one is the promise of God, the “new heavens and a new earth.”  Peter points out that in this world “righteousness dwells.”  Never again will sin raise its ugly head.  No one will ever be interested in sin; it will be shunned like leprosy.

“Through Christ’s redeeming work the government of God stands justified.  The Omnipotent One is made known as the God of love. Satan’s charges are refuted, and his character unveiled.  Rebellion can never again arise. Sin can never again enter the universe.  Through eternal ages all are secure from apostasy.  By love’s self-sacrifice, the inhabitants of earth and heaven are bound to their Creator in bonds of indissoluble union.

“The work of redemption will be complete.  In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace much more abounds. The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be not only ransomed but also exalted.  Our little world, under the curse of sin the one dark blot in His glorious creation, will be honored above all other worlds in the universe of God. Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in humanity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died,—here, when He shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be with men, ‘and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.’  And through endless ages as the redeemed walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift,—Emmanuel, God with us.”⁸

It must have been a thrill for the disciples to spend three and a half years with Jesus.  But our text from Revelation says we “shall see His face” for we will be with Him forever.  The One who is said to be the light of the world shall continue to shine and enlighten our lives throughout eternity.

Revelation  22 : 6 , 7

“Then he said unto me, ‘These words are faithful and true.’ And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place. ‘Behold, I am coming quickly!  Blessed is he that keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.’”

After the prophecies of the book of Revelation were given to John he is given a view of the close of this world’s history including a view of heaven.  The words of these closing chapters of Revelation are very important for God’s people living in this hour, for they have great significance for us.  Those who study the scenes of Revelation and see their fulfillment realize why this book is called a last-day book.  A statement from the Spirit of Prophecy will help us in this regard.  “The books of Daniel and the Revelation are one.  One is a prophecy, the other a revelation; one a book sealed, the other a book opened.”⁹  The book of Daniel was sealed, but when the time of the end came, in 1844, then the book of Revelation by the Spirit of God unsealed the book of Daniel.  Even though the book of Revelation has been a blessing to many in the past, it is primarily an end-time book.  This is very evident when we consider the words of the texts above.  God sends prophecies by “His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place. ‘Behold, I am coming quickly!’”  Notice that after the book of Daniel is opened and the great disappointment has taken place the prophecies were “shortly to take place;” the next words are, Behold, I am coming quickly.”  This not only tells us that time is short now that we are in the closing scenes of Revelation, but also that we should be in earnest about getting ready.  I like this, paraphrased of this verse: “”I am coming soon! God, who tells his prophets what the future holds, has sent his angel to tell you this will happen soon.  Blessed are those who believe it and all else written in the scroll.”

Revelation  22 : 8 – 11

“Now I, John, saw and heard these things.  And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things. Then he said he to me, ‘See that you do not do that.  For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of these who keep the words of this book.  Worship God.’ And he said to me, ‘Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand. He who is unjust, let him be unjust still; he who is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he who is righteous, let him be righteous still; he who is holy, let him be holy still.’”

John was overwhelmed when he saw the angel and he falls down to worship him, but the angel rebukes him saying I am a “fellow servant.”  Then the angel tells John something very important for us; he says: “Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand.”  In other words, when these prophecies begin to come to pass it is an indication that the end is near.  These words are emphasized by the proclamation of Christ that the judgment is finished and man’s probation has ended.

An appeal by the Lord Himself

Revelation  22 : 12 – 17

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give every one according to his work. I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. Blessed are these who do His commandments, that they may have the right, to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.  But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.  I, Jesus have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.  And the Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come! And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’”  And let him who thirsts come.  And whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.”

All who are living when the prophecies of the book of Revelation are closing, and there is no doubt about our day being that time, are especially receiving a message from the Lord Himself appealing to us to get ready.  Why is it so urgent?  Because He says, “I am coming soon.”  And He says, “My reward,” good or bad, “is with Me.”

In verse thirteen He is saying that He is everything to us.  Then in verse fourteen we read one of the most beautiful appeals in the Bible. “Blessed are these who do His commandments, that they may have the right, to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.”  Jesus is telling us that He really wants us to be there.  He says that those on the outside are those who belong to Satan.

Jesus then says that He sent His angel, with the prophecies of this book, which are adapted too prepare His people; and remember, this book is a Revelation not only of Jesus; it is also a Revelation from Jesus.  And He sends this book to the churches and since it climaxes with the last church it has great meaning for us.  What does He mean by the last part of verse sixteen?  “I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”  He is saying that He is not only the King of Kings, but He is also the One who sheds light on these great prophecies and through His Spirit we can understand them.  Then Jesus makes another beautiful ap-peal.  Through the Spirit He says, “Come!”  How can we come?  “Let him who thirsts come. And whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely.”  This last phrase gives us the answer as to how to come to Him, how to receive the light.  The “water of life” is the word of God and if we really desire and drink, with the aid of the Spirit, we will understand this book and be ready.

A Warning

Revelation  22 : 18, 19

“For I testify to every one who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If any one adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”

This is a serious warning not to add to, or take away from, or change the words of this book, and also not to miss interpret the meaning of this book.  Many of the interpretations of the book of Revelation have been guesswork-whatever satisfies the curiosity.  But there is a text of Scripture that positively forbids this kind of speculation.  The Amplified Version gives the best rendition of this verse.  “First of all you must understand this, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, because no prophecy ever came by the impulse of man, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”¹⁰  This statement makes it very clear that because a prophecy of Revelation may look like, or remind one of the Turks or the Huns, (as an example,) this would not be enough to make such an interpretation.  Jesus is saying that any adding to, or private interpretation could be very dangerous, for the error could cost one his or her eternal life

Revelation  22 : 20, 21

“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quick-ly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.  The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

The fact that the book of Revelation is an end time book is very clear. The introduction to this book says, “The time is near.”  In the last chapter it again tells us that everything will “shortly take place.”  In the next verse, that’s verse seven, it again says, “Behold, I am coming quickly” and in verse twelve it once more says, “I am coming quickly.”  And one final time in verse twenty Jesus says, “Surely I am coming quickly.”  There will be no excuse if we are not ready when He appears in the clouds of heaven.

Notes

Chapter – 40

1- Gen 3:22; 2- Isa 66:23; 3- YI 10/01/52; 4- Rev 22:17; 5- John 4:13, 14; 6- Prov 11:30; 7- 2Peter 3:6, 7, 13; 8- DA 26; 9- 19MR 320; 10- 2Peter 1:20, 21 RSV.