Psalm 147:19: “He declares His words to Jacob, His statutes and His ordinances to Israel.” (My note: Other Scriptures in the Old Testament also point to Israel, as follows. (Ryrie note: His word commands the forces of nature (vv 15-18), but particularly communicated His laws to Israel, thus distinguishing her from all other nations (vv 19-20).
Scriptural context is key to understanding God’s Word. Consider Psalm 147:19, in relation to the following discussion of God’s timeline.
There is current day teaching that physical protection is guaranteed by Scripture in our world now, in such writings as in the twenty-third and ninety-first psalms. However, the perfection and protection that are written in those psalms, and other writings, will not be present until Christ’s rule takes place during the millennial Kingdom Age. We have to be honest with our thoughts and recognize that horrible things happen to God’s people, and will continue to happen to God’s people as long as we are alive in this time of world history. If the physical protections that are addressed in the twenty-third and ninety-first psalms are available to some of God’s people, now, they must be available to all of God’s people, now, which is not the case at this time in God’s timeline.
Consider the environment of righteousness that will possess the world when Jesus sits on His throne in Jerusalem during the millennial age of the Kingdom: Isaiah 2:1-4; 11:4-9; 65:19-24; Zechariah 14:1-5, 9. It will only be when Christ rules over the world as “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:16) that the perfection of the twenty-third and ninety-first psalms will be provided to all of God’s people.
Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3 He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalm 91
1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” 3 For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper And from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.
5 You will not be afraid of the terror by night, Or of the arrow that flies by day; 6 Of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. 7 A thousand may fall at your side And ten thousand at your right hand, But it shall not approach you. 8 You will only look on with your eyes And see the recompense of the wicked. 9 For you have made the Lord, my refuge, Even the Most High, your dwelling place. 10 No evil will befall you, Nor will any plague come near your tent.
11 For He will give His angels charge concerning you, To guard you in all your ways. 12 They will bear you up in their hands, That you do not strike your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread upon the lion and cobra, The young lion and the serpent you will trample down.
14 “Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. 15 “He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. 16 “With a long life I will satisfy him And let him see My salvation.”
My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles; you can check it in my list of Pages.
I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.), Dr. Ron Rhodes (Th.M., Th. D.), Dr. Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.), Dr. Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D. Ph. D.)
II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.), and others.
A. 22:1-5: The new paradise; its river and tree of life. B. 22:6-19: The Last Message of the Bible. C. 22:20-21: Conclusion.
III. Overview.
A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.
1. 22:1-5: Jesus Among His People Forever. 2. 22:6-16: Divine Authority of the Prophecy, 3, 22:17-21: Nearness of Christ’s Return.
B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
1. 22:1-5: The River Of Life. 2. 22:6-11: The Time Is Near. 3. 22:12-17: Jesus Testifies To The Churches. 4. 18-19; A Warning. 5. 22:20-21: I Am Coming Quickly.
C. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
1. 22:1-5: John’s Final Impressions. 2. 22:6-10: The Faithful Word Of God. 3. 22:11-16: The Finished Work Of Christ. 4. 22:17-21: The Final Witness Of The Spirit.
D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.
1. 21:1-22:5: The New Heaven And New Earth. 2. 22:6-21: The Concluding Message.
E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
1. 21:9-22:5: The Holy City. 2. 22:6-7: The Testimony Of The Angel. 3. 22:8-11: The Testimony Of John, 4. 22:12-20: The Testimony Of Jesus And John’s Response. 5. 22:21: The Grace Of The Lord Jesus Be With All.
F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible.
1. 22:1: The River Of the Water Of Life. 2. 22:2. The Tree Of Life. 3: 22:3a: The Removal Of The Curse. 4. 22:3b: The Throne Of God And Of The Lamb. 5. 22:3c-4: The Bliss Of The Godly. 6. 22:5a-5b: The Absence Of Darkness. 7. 22:5c: The Saints Reign. 8. 22:6: The Validity Of The Message. 9: 22:7a. The Coming Of Christ. 10: 22:7b: The Blessedness Of The Obedient. 11. 22:8-9: John’s Reaction To The Revelation. 12: 22:10-19: The Angel’s Final Words. 13: 22:20: The Testimony Of Christ To His Coming. 14. 22:21: Benediction.
G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.
“The whole of the things described in the remaining portion of the book are subsequent to the general judgment, and descriptive of the consummation of the triumph and bliss of Christ’s people with Him in the eternal kingdom of God: 1. 22:1-2a: The river of the water of life. 2. 22:2b: The tree of life. 3. 22:3-4: The throne of God. 4. 22:5: The saints’ reign with God. 5. 22:6-7: The certainty of the return of Christ. 6. 22:8-9: The worship by John. 7. 22: 10-11: The Command to proclaim the prophecy of the book. 8. 22:12: The coming judgment and reward. 9. 22:13: The eternal Christ. 10. 22:14-15: The coming blessing and judgment. 11. 22:16-17: The invitation of the Spirit and the Bride. 12. 22:18-19: The final warning. 13. 22:20-21: The final prayer and promise.
H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come.
1. p494. By establishing the theocracy on earth for a thousand years, under the Messianic theocratic King, God has accomplished His purpose of demonstrating His rule in the sphere in which that authority was first challenged. By merging this earthly theocracy with the eternal kingdom, God’s eternal sovereignty is established. Such was the purpose of God in planning the theocratic kingdom and developing it through successive stages throughout history until it reaches the climax of the program in the theocracy under the enthroned Christ in the millennium. That authority, which Satan first challenged, Christ has now demonstrated belongs safely to God. God’s right to rule is eternally vindicated. 2. p561. After the dissolution of the present heaven and earth at the end of the millennium, God will create a new heaven and a new earth (Isa 65:17; 66:22; 2 Pet 3:13; Rev 21:1). By a definite act of creation, God calls into being a new heaven and a new earth. As God created the present heavens and earth to be the scene of His theocratic display, so God will create the new heavens and earth to be the scene of the eternal theocratic kingdom of God.
IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 22 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway.
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).
A. 22:1-2. These descriptive phrases indicate fullness of life and continuous blessing in the New Jerusalem. B. 22:3-5. The “curse” and all darkness will be excluded, and service, communion, and reigning will be the believers’ privileges. C. 22:8-9. Again, John is commanded not to worship angels (see 19:10). D. 22:11. When Christ comes there will be no more opportunity for a man to change his identity. What he is then he will be forever. E. 22:12. Salvation is not of works but rewards are. F. 22:14. “Blessed are those who wash their robes.” I. e., believers. G. 22:15. “dogs.” Not animals, but people of low character (cf. Phil 3:2). H. 22:16-17. Jesus is gracious because (1) He gave the book of Revelation to the churches, (2) as the son of “David: he will fulfill Israel’s promises, (3) He is the “moring star,” the precursor of the new day, and (4) He offers the “water of life” freely. I. 22:18. For similar OT warnings against additions or omissions, see Deut. 4:2; 12:32; Prov. 30:6. J. 22:20. “Yes, I am coming quickly.” The third occurrence of this promise (see VV. 7, 12). The believer’s reaction is “Do come quickly, Lord Jesus!”
VI. Summary.
Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor). In this twenty-second chapter of Revelation, we see” 1. The river and tree of life. 3. The blessedness of God’s servants. 6 .The conclusion: sundry directions, promises, and exhortations. 18. Nothing may be added to, or taken from, the words of this book.
VII. Parting Thought. The Kingdom which will come.
1. The biblical story of the kingdom begins as early as the Garden of Eden. Here, God placed Adam and Eve in a position of authority over God’s creation. Gen 1:26-28 says:
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’ God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.'”
2. It should be noted that Adam and Eve were given authority over the physical realm (fish, birds, living things that move on the earth). Here, God arranged for humanity’s first couple to govern God’s creation on God’s behalf. The technical term for this hierarchy is the office of Theocratic Administrator. This term simply refers to someone who governs for God. In other words, God ruled the world indirectly through the first Adam.
3. However, Satan soon took the form of a serpent with the specific goal of perverting and reversing this divinely ordained hierarchy. Instead of governing the physical world for God, Adam and Eve were influenced by creation (the serpent) to rebel against God (Gen 3). Such rebellion represented a top to bottom reversal of God’s original intention for the office of Theocratic Administrator. Satan’s success in inciting this rebellion effectively removed the office of Theocratic Administrator from the earth, as Satan became the ruler of the world (Luke 4:5-8; John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; 2 Cor 4:4; Eph 2:2). What then is the story-line of the Bible? It is how this office is restored through the messianic kingdom. Just as God the Father originally intended to indirectly govern the physical world through the first Adam, He will one day govern the world through the Last Adam or God the Son.
4. The restoration of the physical kingdom or office of Theocratic Administrator as the dominant theme of the Bible has been recognized by numerous theologians.
5. The universal kingdom is eternal, comprehensive, and under God’s direct rule. By contrast, the theocratic kingdom is futuristic, earthly, and under God’s indirect rule. God’s theocratic, mediatorial kingdom is a vast, sweeping subject from the first book of the Bible to the last.
B. Alva J. McLain, (A.B., LL, D., D.D., B. D., Th. M.) The Greatness Of The Kingdom, p 81.
(1) When the last enemy of God is put down by our Lord, as the Mediatorial King, the purpose of the Mediatorial Kingdom will have been fulfilled (1 Cor 15:25-26). (2). At this time, Christ will hand over the Mediatorial Kingdom to God, to be merged into the eternal Kingdom, so that the Mediatorial Kingdom is perpetuated forever, but no longer having a separate identity (1 Cor 15:24, 28). (3). This does not mean the end of our Lord’s rule. He only ceases to rule as a Mediatorial King. But, as the eternal Son, second person the one true God, He shares the throne with the Father in the final Kingdom (Rev. 22:3-5; cf 3:21).
D. The importance of Prophecy. The prophecies that are written in the Bible will happen.
1. The Coming Kingdom. Jesus told Jews to pray for the Kingdom to come (Matt 6:10). At the end of the Tribulation Israel calls on Jesus to save them from utter annihilation (Zech 12:10). Jesus ascends from Heaven to earth and saves Israel (Rev 19:11-21). The Kingdom has come, and Jesus rules and reigns over the earth from Jerusalem for 1,000 years in the Kingdom Age (Rev 20:4). After 1,000 years Jesus turns over the Kingdom to God (the Father) (1 Cor 15:24-28). But, as the eternal Son, second person the one true God, He shares the throne with the Father in the final Kingdom (Rev. 22:3-5; cf. 3:21). The Kingdom will come and the eternal state will immediately follow.
2. We will follow this study of the Book of Revelation with the prophetic studies of Daniel, Zechariah, Ezekiel and Matthew. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (Deceased) said that Daniel is the timeline of the Gentiles, and Ezekiel is the timeline of the Jews; Zechariah also has a sizeable amount of Jewish prophetic flavor in its teachings. The audience of Matthew is Jewish, and tells of the offer of the Kingdom, only to Israel, and of their rejection of that offer. The preaching of Jesus and His disciples went only to Jews. There was no church at the time of the preaching of Jesus to the Jews. Jesus said that He was going to build His church, which did not happen until after His death, burial and resurrection, and ascension to Heaven. Matthew tells of the time that exists between the first and second advents of Christ, and of the time of the Tribulation and Kingdom age, all of which was taught to Jews.
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
What will the new heaven and the new earth be like?
I. Opening Video. John Ankerberg Show. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.) ; Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)
II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.).
A. 21:1-8: The new heaven, new earth, and the new Jerusalem. B. 21:9-27: The Lamb’s wife; the new Jerusalem.
III. Overview.
A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.
1. 21:1-8: The Holy Bride City – New Jerusalem. 2. 21:9-21: Description of the Heavenly City and Its Splendor. 3. 21:22-27: The Lord as the Light of All Nations at Last.
B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
1. 21:1-8: All Things Made New. 2. 21:9-21: The New Jerusalem. 3. 21:22-27: The Glory of the New Jerusalem.
C. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
1. 21:1-8: The Bright New World. a. 21:1: It is planned as a new creation. b. 21:2: It is provided with a new capital. c. 21:3-4: It is prepared for a new community. d. 21:5-8: It is protected by a new constitution.
2. 21:9-22:5: The Brand New City. a. 21:9-14: John’s first impressions. b. 21:15-27: John’s further impressions.
D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.
Revelation 21: The New Heaven and New Earth.
E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
One might expect the judgment of the Great White Throne to end the last of the seven last plagues, but it does not. One more scene remains. It may seem inappropriate to call this scene a plague or a bowl judgment, but alongside the future bliss of the saints (21:1-7) comes an indication of the exclusion of those in the lake of fire from the promised blessings of the new creation (21:8). So, besides the structural features that indicate a continuation of the last plague in this section, the continuing theme of misery and punishment shows how this section belongs in the scroll of judgments first introduced in chapter 5.
F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).
1. 21:1: Passing of the Old Heaven and Earth. 2. 21:2-7: New Jerusalem. 3. 21:8: The Portion of the Ungodly. 4. 21:9: The Wife of the Lamb.5. 21:10-27: Description of the New Jerusalem.
G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.
Following the judgment of the great white throne depicted in the closing verses of chapter 20, John’s attention is next directed to the new heaven and the new earth which replace the old heaven and the old earth which fled away (20:11). The expression “And I saw” is the first of three such statements in this chapter marking the major elements of the revelation (cf. 21:2, 22). The new heaven and new earth presented here are evidently not simply the old heaven and earth renovated, but an act of new creation (cf. discussion at 20:11). No description is given of either the new heaven or the new earth in verse 1 except for the cryptic statement “There was no more sea.” There is remarkably little revealed in the Bible concerning the character of the new heaven and the new earth, but it is evidently quite different from their present form of existence. Most of the earth is now covered with water, but the new earth apparently will have no bodies of water except for the river mentioned in 22:2.
H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come. p561, 562 .
1. After the dissolution of the present heaven and earth at the end of the millennium, God will create a new heaven and a new earth (Isa. 65:17; 66:22; 2 Pet. 3:13; Rev 21:1). By a definite act of creation, God calls into being a new heaven and earth to be the scene of the eternal “theocratic kingdom” of God (italics, mine).
2. Israel’s covenants guarantee that “people the land,” a national existence, a kingdom, a King, and spiritual blessings in perpetuity (italics mine). Therefore, there must be an eternal earth in which these blessings can be fulfilled. By a translation out of the old earth, Israel will be brought into the new earth, there to enjoy forever all that God has promised to them. Then, it shall be eternally true, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people (Rev 21:3). The creation of the new heavens and new earth is the final preparatory act anticipating the eternal kingdom of God. It is now true that God has a kingdom “where dwelleth righteousness” (2 Pet 3:13).
3. In relation to the eternal destiny of the church saints, it is to be observed that their destiny primarily is related to a Person, rather than a place. While the place looms with importance (John 14:3), the place is overshadowed by the Person into whose presence the believer is taken.
IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 20 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway.
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).
A. 21:1. “a new heaven and a new earth.” The present creation will be destroyed so that it may be cleansed from all the effects of sin (2 Pet 3:7, 10. 12). No more “sea” because the climactic and human conditions will be completely different.
B. 21:2. “new Jerusalem.” This heavenly city will be the abode of all the saints (Heb 12:22-24), the bride of Christ (vv. 9-10), and the place Christ is preparing for His people (John 14:2). During the Millennium the New Jerusalem will be suspended over the earth, and it will be the dwelling place of all believers during eternity (as is emphasized in 21:1-8).
C. 21:3-4. People will enjoy a new intimacy with God and the elimination of those sorrows that sin brings.
D. 21:8. Those whose lives can be characterized in these ways will be cast into the lake of fire, because they have shown themselves to be unbelievers. “brimstone” = sulphur.
E.21:11. The city will shine with the “glory of God,” like “crystal-clear Jasper,” which will allow that glory to shine “brilliantly.”
F. 21:12-14. Though both Jewish saints and Christian saints will inhabit the city, the names of the “twelve tribes” and “the twelve apostles” are a witness to their continual distinction.
G. 21:16-17. Shaped foursquare like a cube, the city is 1,380 mi (2,220 km) on each face, including height, with a wall 72 ye (66 m) thick. It has been calculated that even if only 25 percent of this space were used for dwellings, 20 billion people could be accommodated spaciously.
H. 21:19-24. Whether these nations and kings are millennial people, or resurrected people in the eternal state, is unclear. In either case, only the redeemed will be allowed to enter the city (v. 27).
VI. Summary.
Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this twenty-first chapter of Revelation, we see” 1 A new heaven and new earth. 2 The blessings of God’s people. 8 The doom of the wicked. 9 The heavenly Jerusalem described. 22 No temple there. 23 The light and glory of the city. 27. Nothing that defiles can enter therein.
VII. Parting Thoughts.
A. Dr. Ryrie’s comment on Revelation 21:8, “Those whose lives can be characterized in these ways will be cast into the lake of fire, because they have shown themselves to be unbelievers.”
B. Revelation 21:8 shows a correlation to 1 Corinthians 6:9-10.
a. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10: “9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, 10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.” (This passage is a message to those of us who are present in this age of the church. Each offending identity shows a person who continues in a lifestyle that shows such a person has not been born again, not having the Spirit of God dwelling within their spirit prompting them to righteousness; they will not be caught up in the rapture which will precede the Tribulation, 1 Thess 4:16, “the dead in Christ; 1 Thes 4:17, we who are alive.” Only those “in Christ,” living or deceased, will be caught up by Christ and taken to Heaven prior to the Tribulation.)
b. MacArthur Study Bible note: (1 Corinthians 6 :9-10).
While believers can and do commit these sins, they do not characterize them as an unbroken life pattern. When they do, it demonstrates that the person is not in God’s kingdom. True believers who do sin resent that sin and seek to gain the victory over it (cf. Rom. 7:14–25). fornicators. All who indulge in sexual immorality, but particularly unmarried persons. idolaters. Those who worship any false god or follow any false religious system. adulterers. Married persons who indulge in sexual acts outside their marriage. homosexuals . . . sodomites. These terms refer to those who exchange and corrupt normal male-female sexual roles and relations. Transvestism, sex changes, and other gender perversions are included (cf. Gen. 1:27; Deut. 22:5). Sodomites are so-called because the sin of male-male sex dominated the city of Sodom (Gen. 18:20; 19:4, 5). This sinful perversion is condemned always, in any form, by Scripture (cf. Lev. 18:22; 20:13; Rom. 1:26, 27; 1 Tim. 1:10).
C. Consider Revelation 21:8.
1. Rev 21:8: But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” (This passage comes after the Battle of Gog and Magog (Rev 20:7-8). An assault is mounted on God’s people at the end of the Millennium, not the same as Ezek. 38:1. The large number of rebels will come from the many people born during the Millennium, who, though giving outward obedience to the King (Jesus), never accept Him. Those whose lives can be characterized in these ways will be cast into the lake of fire, because they have shown themselves to be unbelievers. (Ryrie Study Bible, Rev 20:8; 21:8). Rev 20:12 shows “the dead,” as opposed to “the dead in Christ” (1 Thes 4:16), with “the dead” being those who have not been born again, and the “dead in Christ” those having been born again.
2. All unbelievers, typified by their behaviors in 21:8, will be excluded from the new Jerusalem ( Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.
3. Consider “cowardly: (Rev 21:8). 1169 deilós (an adjective derived from deidō, “fear-driven”) – properly, dreadful, describing a person who loses their “moral gumption (fortitude)” that is needed to follow the Lord. (Bible Hub).
4. MacArthur Study Bible note. Revelation 21:8.
A solemn, serious warning about the kinds of people who will be outcasts from the new heaven and the new earth in the lake of fire. The NT often goes beyond just citing unbelief in listing character and lifestyle traits of the outcast, so that believers can identify such people (1 Cor. 6:9, 10; Gal. 5:19; cf. John 8:31).
5. Consider The New Jerusalem, Revelation 21:2.
A. “And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband.”
B. MacArthur Study Bible note.
New Jerusalem. Cf. 3:12; Heb. 11:10; 12:22–24; 13:14. This is the capital city of heaven, a place of perfect holiness. It is seen “coming down out of heaven,” indicating it already existed; but it descends into the new heavens and new earth from its place on high. This is the city where the saints will live (cf. John 14:1–3).
bride. An important NT metaphor for the church (cf. Matt. 25:1–13; Eph. 5:25–27). John’s imagery here extends from the third part of the Jewish wedding, the ceremony. Believers (the bride) in the New Jerusalem come to meet Christ (the bridegroom) in the final ceremony of redemptive history (see note on 19:7). The whole city, occupied by all the saints, is called the bride, so that all saints must be finally included in the bride imagery and bridal blessing. God has brought home a bride for His beloved Son. All the saints live with Christ in the Father’s house (a promise made before the church began; John 14:2).
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.), Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021).
II. Introduction.
Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., and others.)
A. 20:1-3 – Satan bound in the abyss during the Kingdom Age.
B. 20:4-6 – Completion of first resurrection; the Kingdom Age.
C. 20:7-9 – Satan loosed at the end of 1000 years; rebellion quelled.
D. 20:10 – Satan cast into the lake of fire.
E. 20:11-15 – Second resurrection and great white throne judgment.
III. Overview.
A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.
(20:1-6) The Martyrs’ Great Reward. (20:7-10) The Devil’s Final Doom. (20:11-15) The Judge at the White Throne.
B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
(20:1-3) Satan Bound 1,000 Years. (20:4-6) The Saints Reign with Christ 1,000 years. (20:7-10) The Great White Throne Judgment.
C. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
(20:1-10) The Great World Threat At the End Of The Millennium. (20:11-15) The Great White Throne At The Beginning Of Eternity.
D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.(20:1-15)
The Millennium.
E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
The twentieth chapter is most famous because of its revelation about the millennial kingdom of Christ, but the first ten verses function primarily as a two-part vision of the doom of Satan. First, comes the period of his enforced restraint (20:1-3), and then his permanent assignment to the lake of fire following a desperate, but unsuccessful, attempt to regain power (20:4-10). The chapter closes with a description of the judgment and commitment of lost human beings to that same lake (20:11-15).
F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).
(20:1-15) The millennial reign of Christ. (20:1-3) The binding of Satan. (20:4-6) The resurrection and reign of the saints. (20:7-10) The final doom of Satan, the Beast and the False Prophet. (20:11-15) The Great White Throne Judgment.
G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.
THE REIGN OF CHRIST. This is one of the great chapters of the Bible. It presents in summary the tremendous series of events which relate to the millennial reign of Christ on earth. In this future period of one thousand years, many expositors believe that hundreds of Old Testament prophecies will be fulfilled, such as that of Jeremiah 23:5-6: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”
H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come: P411.
Scripture shows that Israel will be resurrected at the close of the tribulation period, while the church will be resurrected prior to it. The order of events in the resurrection program would be:
(1) The resurrection of Christ at the beginning of the resurrection program (1 Cor 15:23); (2) the resurrection of the church age saints at the rapture (1 Thes 4:16); (3) the resurrection of the tribulation period saints (Rev 20:3-5), together with, (4) the resurrection of the Old Testament saints (Dan 12:2; Isa 26:19) at the second advent of Christ to the earth; and finally, (5) the final resurrection of the unsaved dead (Rev 20:5, 11-14) at the end of the millennial age. The first four stages would all be included in the first resurrection, or resurrection to life, inasmuch as all receive eternal life, and the last would be the second resurrection, or the resurrection unto damnation, inasmuch as all receive eternal judgment at that time.
IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 20 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway.
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).
A. “the abyss.” The place where all evil spirits will ultimately be consigned. (See note on Luke 8:31).
B. “a thousand years” (mentioned six times in this chapter). Since the Latin equivalent for these words is “millennium,” this period of time is called the Millennium. It is the time when Christ shall reign on this earth (Isa 2:3; Dan 7:14; Zech 14:9). Satan will not be free to work (here in v. 2), righteousness will flourish (Isa 11:3-5), peace will be universal (Isa 2:4), and the productivity of the earth will be greatly increased (Isa 34:1-2). At the conclusion of this time Satan will be loosed to make one final attempt to overthrow Christ, but without success (vv 7-9).
C. 20:4. The occupants of the “thrones” are not identified. Some think they are the 12 disciples (Luke 22:29-30); others that they are the church saints (1 Cor 6:2; 2 Tim 12). “the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony of Jesus.” These are martyrs of the tribulation days who will be resurrected to share the joys of the millennial kingdom.
D. 20:5. “The rest of the dead.” The wicked dead will be raised and judged after the Millennium. “the first resurrection.” Refers back to the end of verse 4. This resurrection includes all the righteous (the resurrection of life, John 5:29, and the resurrection of the righteous, Luke 14:14), who will be raised before the Millennium begins.
E. 20:8. “Gog and Magog.” The worldwide enemies of Christ. Not the same battle as described in Ezek 38-39. See note on Ezek 38:1. The large number of rebels will come from the many people born during the Millennium who, though giving outward obedience to the King, never accept Him.
F. 20:11-15. Here is pictured the judgment of the unbelieving dead. It occurs at the close of the Millennium; it is based on works in order to show that the punishment is deserved (v 12, though, of course these unsaved people are first of all in this judgment because they rejected Christ as Savior during their lifetimes); and it results in everyone in this judgment being cast into the lake of fire. This is the resurrection of judgment. See note on John 5:29.
G. 20:12. “before the throne,” upon which Christ sits as judge (see v 11, John 5:22, 27).
H. 20:13. The wicked dead will receive some kind of resurrection body in which they will be tormented forever.
VI. Summary.
Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this twentieth chapter of Revelation, we consider the following: 1 Satan bound for a thousand years. 4 The first resurrection. 7 Satan let loose again. 8 Gog and Magog. 10 The devil cast into the lake of fire and brimstone. 11 Resurrection and judgment. 14 The second death.
VII. Parting Thoughts.
This parting thought is made possible by the many Biblical scholars of whom I have been blessed to have read their books, listened to their sermons, and watched many hours of their video teachings. Dallas Theological Seminary and Moody Bible Institute have provided me with the greatest number of references, both individuals and source material, in addition to other highly respected institutions of Biblical instruction. The conclusions that I have drawn come from the study, which has blessed me, of such highly acclaimed theologians, due to their unending deep studies of God’s Holy Word. There will be repetition to be found in this section. You can check the credentials of my sources of information in this article. You can also check the Pages on this website, and find information on more theologians in the tab, “About My References.”
The twentieth chapter of Revelation is one of the most important of all areas of Scripture, as it shows in a nutshell, the fulfillment of God’s Covenant with Abraham, which is of “land, seed, and blessing,” which travels through the bloodline of “Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” The bloodline of Isaac and Jacob, being the nation of Israel, is identified in Deu 14:2 as being “God’s chosen people.”
The “land blessing” of the Abrahamic Covenant, as stated in Gen 15:18-21, shows a promise of God to Israel of a land stretching from the Nile River in Egypt to the Euphrates River in Iraq, with an eternal permanence that God promised in Gen 17:7-8. This land is far larger than the land of Israel that is drawn on maps today.
The “seed blessing,” of the Abrahamic Covenant, is shown in the Davidic Covenant in 2 Samuel 7:8-16, where a seed of David (Jesus) will reign over David’s Kingdom forever.
The “blessing” of the Abrahamic Covenant is shown in the New Covenant of Jer 31:31-34, which God will make only with the Jews, such as a change of heart, fellowship with God, knowledge of the Lord, and forgiveness of sins. All of this will be fulfilled for Israel when the Lord returns (Rom 11:26-27), per Ryrie Study Bible. The spiritual blessings of the New Covenant (Ezek 36:24-30) are being experienced by Christians today, such as in the New Birth (John 3:3-8). Water in this passage does not relate to water baptism, but to spiritual cleansing.
The Abrahamic Covenant will not be fulfilled until Christ has returned to earth from Heaven (Mt 24:29-30), at the time of Armageddon, and He rules and reigns over the earth from Jerusalem (Isa 9:6b-7). The governance of Christ over the earth is a fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Sam 7:12, 13, 16).
The Kingdom does not have an Old Testament length of years attached to the teaching. It is in Revelation Chapter 20. that the length of time is stated as being 1,000 years, which is stated six times in Rev 20 (vs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7). Just as “Israel means Israel,” “church means church,” and “Babylon means Babylon, “thousand means thousand,” with no wiggle room for any other duration to be inferred. From Ryrie Study Bible, Rev 20:2, ” a thousand years” (mentioned six times in this chapter). Since the Latin equivalent for these words is “millennium,” this period of time is called “The Millennium.” It is the time when Christ shall reign on this earth (Isa 2:3; Dan 7:14, Zech 14:9.
Kingdom: Universal vs Theocratic.
When Adam ruled the earth, he was God’s theocratic administrator of the earth. When Adam fell, that rule was taken away, and will be given to Christ upon His return to Earth to rule over His Kingdom on Earth, and to no one else in the time, in between. In the meantime Satan has gained the title of, “prince of the power of the air.” (Eph 2:1-2, 1 John 5:19, Luke 4:6). This power has been given by God to him (Luke 4:6; Matt 12:24; 9:34; 12:26; Rev 2:13), and has also given Satan power over some illnesses (Heb 2:14 (Got Questions.org)
J. Dwight Pentecost, Things To Come.
Universal Kingdom. Ps 103:19, “The Lord has prepared His throne in the heavens; and his kingdom rules over all.” ( A good example is that God keeps Jupiter from bumping into Mars, mine.)
Theocratic Kingdom. From the onset of God’s program to manifest His sovereignty by His rule in this earthly sphere until the consummation of that program, when universal sovereignty is acknowledged (1 Cor 15:24), there has been one continuous, connected, progressive development of that program. While there might be various phases of the program and different media through which that sovereignty was exercised, it has been the development of one program. This whole program may be called the theocratic kingdom. Alva J. McClain defines this theocratic kingdom as: the rule of God through a divinely chosen representative who speaks for God; a rule which has “especial” reference to the human race, although it finally embraces the universe; and its mediatorial ruler is always a member of the human race.
The theocratic kingdom is that which was discussed with the Jews by John the Baptist (Matt 3:2), Jesus (Matt 4:17), the disciples (Matt 10:7), and “the seventy” (Luke 10:9), and was offered, “only to Israel” (Matt 10:5-6). But the Jews rejected the offer to accept God’s chosen King and the Kingdom (Deu 17:15). The theocratic Kingdom offer was postponed (Matt 13:37-39) and will be offered again to the Jews during the Tribulation (Matt 24:14), who must receive the kingdom by calling on Christ before He will return to Earth from Heaven with His saints (Zech 12:10; Ps 118:26). This brings us to the second coming of Christ (Matt 24:29-30, Rev 19:11-21; Zech 14:1-5, 9), which also brings us to Rev 20, where the earth’s conditions will be of perfection, as shown in: Isa 2:1-4; 11:6-9). Christ will rule and reign, per Isa 9:6b-7. The theocratic kingdom will be instituted at the second advent of Christ (Things to Come, p 472, Dwight Pentecost),
The role of a prophet in the Old Testament was to speak the word of God. Some would foretell events, perform healings, and/or do miracles. Jesus did all these things (Luke 1:76-77; Matt 4:17).
What it Means That Jesus Is a Priest
In the Old Testament, the priests were the temporary mediators between God and man. They offered the sacrifices required under the law. Within that priesthood was a single High Priest. He alone offered the sacrifice on the day of atonement that cleansed the people for one year. Jesus not only fulfilled the role of a priest but he exceeded the role of the High Priest removing our sins forever (Heb 4:15; 10:8-12). Jesus
What it Means That Jesus Is King
A king is one who has the rightful complete authority over another. This position was decreed over Jesus before his birth. “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end” (Luke 1:31-33). Jesus has passed from Prophet to Priest, where He is seated at the right hand of God making intercession for His believers (Rom 8:34). When He returns to earth, He will rule as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Rev 19:16). At Present time, Jesus is not exercising His earthly role as King. At the time that Jesus sits on His throne in Jerusalem, the world will be of the condition of Isa 2:1-4, with that perfection and sinlessness that comes with such Kingdom authority being exercised by Jesus.
In the overview of Dr. Pentecost he gave Scriptures that tell of various stages of “bodily” resurrection. But, it is important to understand the truth of 2 Cor 5:8, “absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.” This promise is for saints of the Old Testament and New Testament periods. Body, soul, and spirit (1 Thes 5:23). The deceased body stays in the grave until the Resurrection takes place (1 Thes 4:16), at which time, the soul (mind, emotions, etc), is removed from the body and is in the Presence of God (Luke 16:23b). Upon the new birth, the spirit dwells within the Spirit of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (John 14:20). At the time of the rapture, all living born again believers in Christ will be caught up to Heaven by Jesus (1 Thes 4:16-17). There will be a reunion of believers, of all times, living and deceased, with their glorified bodies and souls, being with their born again spirits.
Consider the commentary of the Ryrie Study Bible to the follow verses: Luke 1:32-33, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”
Ryrie Comment: As the Davidic Messiah, Jesus will reign over the “house of Jacob, which will happen in the millennial kingdom. This promise is not now being fulfilled, simply because the church is not the house of Jacob, and Christ is presently at the right hand of the Father, which is never equated with the throne of David.
The Kingship of Jesus during the coming kingdom is a prophetic fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Cor 7:8-16). The Kingdom is “yet to come” (Acts 1:6-7), with the earthly conditions of Isa 2:1-4. The church is not spiritual Israel. The church is the church and Israel is Israel. The church has not replaced Israel, but will be grafted into the blessings of Israel during the Kingdom Age, such as is seen in Isa 2:1-4. The church will be raptured after God’s purpose for the church has been fulfilled, with the “fullness of the Gentiles coming in” having been achieved (Rom 11:25). At such a time, God will turn His focus from the Church to Israel, where he will make the identity of Christ known to the Jews. See Ryrie Study Bible note: on Rom 11:25, as follows:
Rom 11:25: Israel’s “hardening” is partial (Jews are being saved today) but temporary (“until” they acknowledge Jesus at His coming). “the fullness of the Gentiles.” I.e., the full number of Gentiles who will be saved (Acts 15:14). After that, God will turn again to the Jews and will save “all Israel” at the Lord’s return (v 26).
The Kingdom is a piece of real estate, as stated in Gen 15:18-21, which extends from the Nile River in Egypt, to the Euphrates River in Iraq. Such real estate can not be found within anyone. The Kingdom consists of Christ ruling and reigning on the earth, per the Davidic Covenant, and will have people ruling and reigning with Christ. No one can have people “within them.” In some Bible translations, Luke 17:21 is incorrectly translated, to say, “the kingdom of God is within you..” The correct wording is, “the kingdom of God is in your midst.” per CSB, Darby, ESV, HCSB, NASB, NET, NIV, NLT. Consider the context. In Matt 19:28, Jesus said that the Apostles will rule and reign over the twelve tribes of Israel during the Kingdom Age; in 2 Tim 2:2 , Paul wrote said that New Testament believers will reign with Christ; interestingly enough, Paul said in 1 Cor 6:2-3 that believers will judge the world, and angels. The Prophet Ezekiel tells of the boundaries of the land of Israel, and the division of the land in Ezekiel 47:13-48:35. Consider Ezekiel 47:13: “This shall be the boundary by which you shall divide the land for an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel.” Two things are apparent. First, the land of Israel has not been divided among the twelve tribes of Israel; therefore, “the kingdom has not yet come.” Second, because the twelve tribes of Israel will reside, and be ruled within the land of Israel, non-Jews will not be ruling and reigning over Jews within the land of Israel, but will have such responsibility outside of the land of Israel, throughout the remaining lands of the world.
The grafting in process of gentiles into the blessings of the Jews, will not happen until when Christ returns to earth from heaven, with His born again believers following Him (Rev 19:11-14), thus fulfilling the Abrahamic Covenant with Israel (Gen 15; Deu 29-30 [Land, Land Covenant]; 2 Sam 7:8-16 [Seed, Davidic Covenant]; Jer 31:31-34 [Blessing, New Covenant]). In Revelation 20, we have discussed the Kingdom Age of the Millennial reign of Christ. We have discussed the “grafting in” of born again believers in Christ during the Kingdom age, and the “grafting in again” of Jews who come to belief in Christ (Rom 11:17-24), also during the Kingdom Age. Throughout the study of the Kingdom Age, context has been stressed. It is important to remember that God’s covenants were made with Israel, and not with the Church. The church will be blessed by God’s covenants with Israel, and is presently being blessed through a portion of the new covenant (Jer 31:33b). It must be remembered, though, that before Jesus returns to earth to rule and reign over the kingdom that Israel must accept a King (Jesus) of God’s choosing (Deu 17:15). Israel must call out to Jesus to come (Matt 23:39/Ps 118:26) and save them. Israel will not call out to Jesus to come until the end of the Tribulation period when they are about to be totally annihilated (Zech 12:10), when Israel will recognize Jesus as her Messiah, acknowledging with deep contrition that He was the One whom their forefathers had pierced (Jn 19:37), per Ryrie Study Bible. Regardless of how many Gentiles have believed in Christ for salvation, it will not be until after Israel calls on Jesus to be her Messiah that Jesus will return from Heaven to Earth to begin His rule and reign of the Earth, by sitting on His earthly throne. At the time that Christ assumes His kingship on His throne, on the earth, the conditions of Isa 2:1-4, 9:6-7, 32:18, will be present, and not until then.
Ruling and reigning with Christ is a topic that will be discussed now. Israel is a nation that was promised land by God. The church is the body of Christ, and is not a nation, and has not been promised land. Jews will rule and reign with Christ, during the Kingdom Age, in the land of their promise (Matt 19:28). Christians have also been promised that they will rule and reign with Christ during the Kingdom Age (1 Cor 6:2-3). Gentiles who survive the Tribulation will be spread throughout the world, and will be required to go to Jerusalem (for the feast of Tabernacles, Zech 14:16-19; Feast of the New Year, Ezek 45:18-20; Feast of Passover Ezek 45:21-25.). They will go to Jerusalem to be taught by the King (Jesus) Isa 2:1-4. Gentiles will come to seek the favor of the LORD (Zech 8:21-23) and to seek the LORD. The physical Land of Israel, is a gift from God to the descendants of the bloodline of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (God’s chosen people, Deu 14:2). God’s chosen people will be ruling over “God’s chosen people,” in the land that has been chosen for Israel to possess. Gentiles will rule and reign, but it seems that such rule will not force the Jews out of the land of God’s choice for them. The remainder of the world, beyond the borders of Israel, will need to have Godly rule and reign over it; it is in that area which is beyond the borders of Israel that saved Gentiles will rule and reign over other saved, and unsaved, Gentiles (at least it seems reasonable to me).
We have considered the events that lead to the Tribulation, and the conditions within the Tribulation. We have considered the Kingdom Age. Our next stop on the road to eternity is a study of the eternal state of the new heaven, new earth and new Jerusalem, which will be the focus of Revelation 21-22. The Kingdom Age will come to an end, as stated by 1 Cor 15:24: “then comes the end, when He (Jesus) hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power;” at that time, the eternal state of the new heaven, new earth, and new Jerusalem,” will begin (Rev 21:1-2). Jews never had a promise of going to Heaven; they believed that God was in Heaven, but not that they would “go up” to Heaven. Jews believed that the Kingdom will be on earth, which is true. The mystery of the eternal state will become clear to the Jews, at least by the time when saved Jews enter into the eternal state.
After certain horrible and deadly events have happened on earth, people have often said, “God is in control.” We must remember, however, that following the fall of Adam, with the resulting curse (Gen 3:14-24), that everything of the perfection of Genesis 1 and 2, has been “no more.” That is why people die, sickness is so horrible, and animals make deadly attacks on other animals and on people. The curse will be minimized during the Millennium (Rev 20: 7-9), and “will be no more” during the eternal state (Rev 21:3-4, 22:3).
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told the Jews to pray for the Kingdom to come in Matt 6:9-10, “thy Kingdom come.” On the day that Jesus ascended to Heaven, the disciples asked Jesus, in Acts 1:6, “Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?” Jesus had just spent forty days with His disciples. If the Kingdom had “already come,” Jesus would have explained that key teaching of Israel and the end times to His disciples. Jesus spoke to His disciples in Matt 24:5, “many will come in my name, saying I am the Christ.” He added vs 29-30, (which relates to people who will be left behind from the rapture, and will be alive at the end of the tribulation),
29 “But immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 30 And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.”
It is clear from the verses that have been shown in this article that, “the Kingdom has not yet come.” Considering all of the crime, corruption and the other horrible things that are taking place in the world, if Christ were on the throne ruling the earth, “He would be doing a very poor job.”
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg, (M. Div., D. Min.), (Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021).
II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.).
The Doom Of Babylon, Revelation Chapters 17-18
A. 17:1-6 – The great prostitute exerts power over the revived fourth world empire.
B. 17:7-13 – The prostitute is overthrown.
C. 18: 1-8 – Babylon destroyed.
D. 18:9-19 – Earth dwellers bewail Babylon’s destruction.
E. 18:20-24 – Heaven rejoices over Babylon’s fall.
III. Overview.
A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.
“Babylon the Great,” mistress of the world. God will judge her directly and dramatically.
B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
Babylon, in all its religious, political, and economic glory, will be reduced to an ash heap by One with greater authority and glory.
C. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
The Babylonish system is both religious and political. The religious system paves the way for the political system, but in the end the political system supplants the religious one. The religious system is symbolized as the Babylonian mother; the political system is symbolized as the Babylonian monster.
D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.
This part of John’s revelation describes the end for the city of Babylon on the Euphrates, and the world of people that followed her ways. It highlighted the truth of the apostle’s earlier writing (1 Jn 2:15-17). All who loved the power, idolatry, and riches of the world so exemplified by the city would see their dreams destroyed before their eyes.
E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
The seventh bowl description does not terminate at the end of Chapter 16, but continues into Chapters 17-18 with a detailing of Babylon’s downfall.
F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).
That the theme of Babylon is an important one in the Revelation can be seen from the fact that the Spirit of God devotes two chapters in this essential book of prophecy to the subject. From Genesis 10:10, which is the first mention, to (Rev) 18:21, which is the last reference, this subject of biblical revelation and prophecy is given extraordinary prominence.
G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.
Chapters 17 and 18 of Revelation are dedicated to the description of the final destruction of Babylon in both its ecclesiastical and political forms. John is shown the vision of the destruction of Babylon, as representing false religion, by one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and is invited to behold the judgment of a woman, the symbol of Babylon, described as the great whore (Gr., porne„, usually translated “harlot”), who is seen sitting on many waters. The interpretation of “waters” is that these are the many nations ruled by Babylon. In chapter 18, the context seems to indicate that Babylon here is viewed in its political and economic character rather than in its religious aspect. It seems that chapter 17 deals with the religious aspect and chapter 18 with the political and economic aspects of Babylon. 18:4-8: A voice from Heaven instructed the people of God to leave the city so that they would escape the judgment to come on it (vv. 4-5). Death, mourning, and famine, also fire, will come on the city in one day (v. 8). [See Ryrie comment below (18:4)]
H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come:
1. P195. The nature of the 70th week (The Tribulation) is divine “wrath” and divine “judgment” (Rev 17:1). Jesus bore for us (believers in Christ) His judgment; therefore we who are in Him “shall not come into Judgment” (1 Thes 5:9).
2. P 215. The only organized church ever mentioned in the tribulation period is the Jezebel system (Rev 2:22) and the harlot system (Rev. 17-18). If the true church were on earth, since it is not mentioned as separate from the apostate system, it must be a part of that apostasy. Such a conclusion is impossible. The believing witnesses, converted during the period, are specifically said to have kept themselves from defilement by this apostate system (Rev 14:4). Since the church is not mentioned as also having kept herself from this system it must be concluded that the church is not there.
3. P231. “The events of the Day of the Lord” will include the overthrow of the false professing church (Rev 17-18).
4. P354. The invasion of the land of Israel by the northern confederacy will bring the Beast and his armies to the defense of Israel as her protector. (Daniel 11:40-45)
5. P356. The Beast moves his headquarters into the land of Israel and assembles his armies there. It is there that his destruction will come (Daniel 11:40-45). During the time that the Beast (Antichrist) is headquartered in Israel, he will make a covenant with Israel, and midway during the covenant period, he will break that covenant with Israel (P 234).
6. P357. With the King of the South defeated by the armies of the Beast, and the northern confederacy defeated by the Lord on the mountains of Israel, we find two opposing forces drawn up in battle array — the armies of the Beast and the armies of the Kings of the East ((Daniel 11:40-45).
7. P364. The religious system under the Beast is an organized system of worldwide scope (Rev 17:15). The system will be destroyed by the Beast, so that his supremacy may not be threatened (Rev 17:16-17)
8. P368. Regarding the Judgment of the Beast and his armies. In tracing the campaign of Armageddon, it has been seen how God judges the Gentile world powers and brings about their downfall. The northern confederacy was judged by God upon the mountains of Israel in the middle of the Tribulation period. The Kings of the East and their forces, and the armies of the Beast were seen to be destroyed at the second coming of Christ to the earth.
IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapters 17-18 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway.
Revelation Chapters 17-18 New American Standard Bible 1995
V. Verse Examination. Revelation 17-18.
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 17:1. Babylon is represented as a “whore ” whose unfaithfulness affects many people and nations (the “waters” as explained in v. 15).
B. 17:3. “a scarlet beast.” A reference to Antichrist and his allies on whom Babylon sits (controls).
C. 17:8. This would place the events of this chapter (17) in the first half of the Tribulation before Antichrist comes out of the abyss at its midpoint (cf. 11:7; 13:11).
D. 17:10. “seven kings.” The seven heads of vs. 9, are seven kings, probably a selective list either of Roman emperors or world empires.
E. 17:12. “ten kings.” The 10-nation federation that will be headed by Antichrist. “one hour.” I.e., for one purpose (as in Luke 22:53).
F. 17:15. The apostate church will be ecumenical, or worldwide.
G 17:16. “these will hate the harlot.” The political power headed by Antichrist will overthrow the false church organization (probably at mid-point of the Tribulation).
H. 18:2 “fallen.” The Kings lament this destruction (vs. 9), which apparently will occur at the end of the Tribulation.
I. 18:4. “my people.” God’s people are to separate themselves from the Babylonian system. (See Walvoord comment above, 18:4).
J. 18:8. “in one day.” The judgment will be consummated in a single day, as it happened once before to Babylon, when it was taken by Darius (Dan. 5:1, 3-5, 30).
K. 18:20. “God has pronounced judgment for you against her. I. e., Heaven and the martyrs may now rejoice.
L 18:21. Babylon will sink into the sea like a rock.
V. Summary.
Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In these seventeenth and eighteenth chapters of Revelation, we considered the following: 17:1 A woman arrayed in purple and scarlet, with a golden cup in her hand, sits upon the beast. 5 The mystery of the woman is explained. 18:1 The fall of Babylon. 4 The people of God commanded to come out of her. 9 The lamentation of kings, 11 of merchants, 17 and of seamen, over her fall. 20 The saints are bidden to rejoice. 21 Babylon shall be found no more.
VI. Parting Thoughts.
A. The name, Babylon, is written 273 times in the Bible. There is no reason to believe that in Revelation Chapters 14-18, another name is intended for Babylon. Some people have said that when Peter mentions “Babylon” in 1 Peter 5:13, he is using a code that means that he is actually writing from Rome. There is no evidence that Peter was ever in Rome. Paul was said to be the Apostle to the Gentiles (Rom 11:13), with Peter being the Apostle to the Jews (Gal 2:7). Consider Romans 1:11, “I long to see you so that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, that you may be established.” Is Paul saying that since Peter didn’t do a good enough job in Rome, that Paul is going there “to clean up his mess?” If Peter had been in Rome, Paul would not have written such words (Rom 1:11). In 536 B.C. 49, 897 Jews returned to Jerusalem from 70 years of Babylonian captivity. However, many remained in Babylon (Ezra 2:64-65) (Ryrie Study Bible). The Book of Esther (465 B. C.) describes life for the Jews who remained in Babylon, and the attempted annihilation of the Jews by Haman (Esther 3:1-15, 474 B.C.). There is every reason to believe that Babylon means Babylon. In the Revelation that was given to the Apostle John, of this Chapter 17-18 narrative, was a view of the city of Babylon, far into the future. John saw the city of Babylon, and wrote of that which he saw.
B. The words of Revelation 17:5 are important to be considered in context.
(CSB) On her forehead was written a name, a mystery: Babylon the Great, the Mother of Prostitutes and of the Detestable Things of the Earth.
(ESV) And on her forehead was written a name of mystery: “Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth’s abominations.”
(HCSB) On her forehead a cryptic name was written: BABYLON THE GREAT THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE VILE THINGS OF THE EARTH.
(NASB 1995) and on her forehead a name was written, a mystery, “BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.”
(NET) On her forehead was written a name, a mystery: “Babylon the Great, the Mother of prostitutes and of the detestable things of the earth.”
(NIV) The name written on her forehead was a mystery: Babylon the great the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth.
(NLT) A mysterious name was written on her forehead: “Babylon the Great, Mother of All Prostitutes and Obscenities in the World.”
(KJV) And upon her forehead was a name written, Mystery, Babylon The Great, The Mother Of Harlots And Abominations Of The Earth.
(NKJV) And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
C. Rev 17:7 discusses “the mystery” of Babylon.
1. (NASB) “And the angel said to me, “Why do you wonder? 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.”
2. The development of evil unto its culmination in the man of sin (2 Thess. 2:7) and the development of the great apostate system religious system (Rev. 17:5, 7) both constitute that which was called a mystery (Pentecost, Things to Come, p 135).
D. Rev 17:18 shows that Babylon is the name of a city, and not the second word of the incorrect rendering of, “MYSTERY, BABYLON.”
(NASB 1995). The woman whom you saw is the great city, which reigns over the kings of the earth.”
E. Context is necessary for the understanding of Scripture. All of the Bible is for us, but not all of the Bible is about us. Lev 24:23 was in context, in the Jewish understanding of Scripture during the time of the Law. However, it is out of context to say that we stone people today who act improperly. Israel is Israel, and the church is the church; both are addressed in the New Testament (78 times for Israel, and 112 times for the Church.) Israel consists of Jews of the bloodline of Abraham, through Isaac and Jacob. The church consists of the body of Christ (Col 1:24). Gentiles can never become Jews, thereby entering into the Jewish bloodline (whether the Gentiles are Christian, or not). Jews, on the other hand, can become part of the body of Christ, as can Gentiles, through belief in Christ (John 14:20, 2 Cor 5:17). When we are born again (John 3:3), our spirit enters into the Spirit of Father, Son and Holy Spirit (1 Jn 1:5), with the Spirit of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, dwelling within our spirit (Col 1:27). However, it is not until we are physically in the Kingdom on the earth that we will be grafted into the blessings of the Jews, at which time the Abrahamic Covenant will have been fulfilled. Jesus told the Jews to pray for the Kingdom come (Matt 6:10). At the time that Jesus was to ascend to Heaven (Acts 1:4-7), after the Apostles asked Him if He would, at that time, restore the Kingdom to Israel, that He said, “it was not for them to know the times or the seasons which the Father had put in His own power,” which meant that “the kingdom had not yet come.” During our study of the Kingdom, we will also discuss the roles of Jesus as Prophet (past), Priest (present), and King (future).
VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
What happens to the earth as a result of the vial Judgments?
I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg, (M. Div., D. Min.), (Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021). Notice that Dr. DeYoung uses the correct title, “Campaign of Armageddon,” as opposed to the often used, “Battle of Armageddon.”
II. Introduction.
Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.).
A. The seven bowls of wrath. B. Parenthetic: Armageddon.
III. Overview.
The following views of different highly respected theologians discuss the outpouring of the bowl (vial) judgments of God on the earth during the second half of the Tribulation. Yet, the “earth dwellers” do not repent. Earth dwellers are those who will be left behind from the Rapture (1 Thes 4:16-17). Earth dwellers identified (Rev 3:10; 6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8; 13:14; 17:8). Earth dwellers not repentant (Rev 16:9; 16:11; 16:21).
A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.
John witnesses the brief, but intense, scenes of the seven bowls of wrath being poured out on the earth.
B. Dr. Paige Patterson (B.A., D.D., D.D., Th. M., Ph. D.) Revelation Commentary, The New International Version, The New American Commentary.
In rapid succession the bowls of God’s wrath are poured out on the earth. The crass rebellion of the human heart is displayed through these tragedies; men do not repent.
C. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
A world ruined by man, and a world ruled by Satan, has been described. Now, the time has come for the world to be rescued by God. Down into the arena of human affairs He comes, shortening the days and making a swift, sudden end of the Beast and his hideous strength. The vials, shallow bowls used in the temple worship, are filled now with wrath and are swiftly out-poured.
D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.
1. First Bowl – Painful sores (16:1-2); 2. Second Bowl – The sea turned to blood (16:3); 3. Third Bowl – Fresh water turned to blood (16:4-7); 4. Fourth Bowl – A scorched earth (16:8-9); 5. Fifth Bowl – Darkness (16:10-11); 6. Sixth Bowl – Demonic assault; 7. Seventh Bowl – Worldwide devastation (16:17-21).
E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
1. First Bowl: Incurable sores on the Beast worshippers (16:1-2). 2. Second Bowl: Death to all sea life (16:3). 3. Third Bowl: Transforming of all fresh water into blood (16:4-7); 4. Fourth Bowl: Scorching of all through the sun’s intensity (16:8-9); 5. Fifth Bowl: Darkening of the Beast’s kingdom (16:10-11); 6. Sixth Bowl: Preparation for the doom of earth’s kings (16:12-16); 7. Seventh Bowl: The destruction of Babylon (16:17-18:24).
F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.,, Ph. D., 1909-1995).
1. Six Vials of Judgment are seen in Rev 16:1-12:
a. Command to empty the vials (16:1); b. Plague on the earth (16:2); c. Plague on the sea (16:3); d. Plague on the rivers and waters (16:4-7); e. Plague on the sun (16:8-9); f. Plague on the beast’s seat (16:10-11); g. Plague on the Euphrates River (16:12).
2. Preview of Armageddon (16:13-18).
3. The Seventh Vial (16:17-21):
a. Plague on the air (16:17-18); b. The fall of Babylon (16:19); Nature in upheaval (16:20-21).
G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.
Chronologically, this chapter is close to the time of the second coming of Christ, and the judgments described fall in rapid succession. There can be no doubt here, not only that the series reaches on to the time of the end, but that the whole of it is to be placed close to the same time. Daniel indicated that these closing days of the Tribulation will be a time of world war (Dan 11:36-45). World events are now pictured by John as coming to their climax. Chapter 19 of Revelation follows immediately after chapter 16 in the chronological development.
H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, 1958, p 363.
The third series of judgments, which complete the outpouring of divine wrath, are the vials (Rev. 16:1-21). Although four of these vials are poured out on the same areas as the trumpets, they do not seem to be the same judgments. The trumpets begin in the middle of the tribulation and depict events during the entire second half of the week (Daniel’s 70th week). The vials seem to cover a very brief period at the end of the tribulation, just prior to the second advent of Christ. These bowls seem to have particular reference to unbelievers, as they undergo the special wrath of God (16:9, 11), and have special reference to the beast and his followers (16:2).
IV. Verse Examination. Revelation Chapter 16, NASB, Link pasted from Bible Gateway.
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 16:1. Though there are similarities between the bowl judgments and some of the trumpet judgments in chaps. 8-9 there are differences as well, the bowl judgments being more intensive and extensive. Thus, it is best not to see the bowls as repeating the trumpets but as a distinct series of judgments following the trumpets.
B. 16:2. “a loathsome and malignant sore.” LIt., foul and evil sore. Probably, a plague of ulcers. The brief descriptions of these last seven judgments (vv 2-12, 17-21) may suggest that they occur in rapid succession upon a world already battered and bloodied.
C. 16:3. “every living thing in the sea died.” (see 8:9). Imagine the stench and disease that will accompany this event.
D. 16:4. Though drinking bloody salt water would be toxic, drinking bloody fresh water, though disgusting, would not be.
E. 16:6. “They deserve it .” I.e., they deserve to drink blood because they shed the blood of saints and prophets.
F. 16:8. Side effects of this scorching heat will drastically affect the climate, possibly including excessive evaporation and melting of the great ice areas of the world.
G. 16:9. “they did not repent.” See verse 11 and 9:21.
H. 16:11. “their sores.” I.e., those referred to in verse 2.
I. 16:12. “the kings from the east.” Lit., the kings from the rising of the sun. The armies of the nations of the Orient will be raided in their march toward Armageddon by the supernatural drying up of the Euphrates River.
J. 16:3. “the dragon.” Satan. the” beast.” Antichrist (13:1-10). “the false prophet.” the lieutenant (13:11-18).
K. 16:14. “the war of the great day of God, the Almighty.” The war will consist of several battles, beginning with Antichrist’s campaign into Egypt (Dan. 11:40-45) and including a siege of Jerusalem (Zech. 14:2) as well as the final battle at Armageddon (v. 16).
L. 16:15. A call to surviving believers to watch and be alert. The “clothes” of a guard caught asleep on duty were taken from him, leaving him “naked” and disgraced.
M. 16:16. “Har-Mageddon,” or Armageddon. Lit., Mount of Megiddo, near the city of Megiddo at the head of the plain of Esdraelon. This area was the scene of many OT battles, notably those of Barak with the Canaanites (Judg. 4) and of Gideon with the Midianites (Judg. 7).
N. 16:19. “The great city.” Either Jerusalem (11:8; cf. Zech. 14:4) or Babylon (18:2).
O. 16:20-21. The topography of the earth will be drastically changed, and unbelieving survivors of the hailstorm will curse God instead of turning to Him.
V. Summary.
Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this sixteenth chapter of Revelation we considered: The seven angels in succession pour out their vials of wrath upon the earth, and great plagues follow thereupon.
VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
What happens to the earth as a result of the vial judgments?
I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg, (M. Div., D. Min.), (Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021)
II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.), and others.
The Seven Bowl Judgments. A glorious heavenly scene.
III. Overview.
A. Dr. Tim LaHaye (D. Min., D. Litt.; 1926-2016). Revelation Illustrated & Made Plain. Chapter 15 concludes the events revealed in chapters 10 through 15, concerning visions in heaven or conditions on the earth to the middle of the Tribulation period. The chapter (15) serves as an introduction to the Great Tribulation, which is the latter half of the Tribulation Period described in chapter 16, when the seven angels pour out the bowls of the wrath of God.
B. Dr. Paige Patterson (B.A., D.D., D.D., Th. M., Ph. D.) Revelation Commentary, The New International Version, The New American Commentary. Chapter 15 constitutes an interlude that is also an introduction to the final plagues, which will be enumerated in chap. 16 as part of the tribulation period. However, the interlude is replete with importance for adequate comprehension of what follows in the outpouring of the bowls of wrath. The reader is first introduced to a scene of triumph in heaven where specifically those who withstood the siren songs and the threats of the false prophets are gathered. These extol the majesty of the King. The way is prepared for the introduction of the angels who are the waiters serving up the wrath of God.
C. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary. A scene in heaven precedes the bowl series as happened with the seals (chaps. 4-5) and the trumpets (8:2-6) too. Chapter 15 is a sort of celestial interlude to introduce the pouring out of the seven bowls of the wrath in chapter 16. The former facilitates an understanding of the latter. It is time for what has been anticipated in the cup of wine (14:10), the harvest (14:14-16), and the vintage (14:17-20) to be delineated in its chronological fulfillment. Correspondences between chapter 14 and 15-16 reflect how the visions have prepared the way up to now. Following the sign of the seven angels with the seven last plagues, the fifteenth chapter has two visions, the first one picturing the victors fresh from their triumph and the second describing the white-and-gold clad angels who hold the seven bowls.
D. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ. Chapters 15 and 16 of Revelation bring to consummation the chronologically ordered events leading up to the second coming of Christ described in chapter 19. These are introduced in this chapter as “the seven last plagues” which are the divine judgments preceding the second coming of Christ. As previously indicated, the chronological order of events in Revelation is presented basically in the seven seals (6:1-17; 8:1). The seventh seal includes all of the seven trumpets (8:1-9:21; 11:15-19). The seven vials or bowls of divine judgment are included in the seventh trumpet.
E. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible. The chapters now under consideration form a literary unit that follows logically after chapter 11, giving the third series of the septenary judgments of God. Why need there be three series of these judgments? They evidently follow the pattern of warfare as men know it: first, the initial encounter; then, the intensive assaults; finally, the consummating blows. Undoubtedly, the vial judgments take place in the Great Tribulation in its last stages. The implication seems to be that they will transpire in a very brief period of time. They will be both rapid and severe. The Revelation does deal repeatedly with judgments, but not exclusively so; for the final prospect is bright indeed.
F. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come, pp 236-238. From these Scriptures it can not be denied that this period is peculiarly the time when God’s wrath and judgment fall upon the earth. This is not wrath from men, nor from Satan, except as God may use these agencies as channels for the execution of His will; it is tribulation from God. This period differs from all preceding tribulation, not only in intensity but also in the kind of tribulation, since it comes from God Himself. The first great purpose of the tribulation is to prepare the nation of Israel for her Messiah. The prophecy of Jeremiah (30:7) makes it clear that this time that is coming has particular reference for Israel, for it is “the time of Jacob’s trouble.” God’s purpose for Israel in the Tribulation is to bring about the conversion of a multitude of Jews, who will enter the blessings of the kingdom, and experience the fulfillment of all Israel’s covenants. The second great purpose of the tribulation is to pour out judgment on unbelieving man and nations. It is stated in Revelation 3:10, “I will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” From these Scriptures it will be seen that God is judging the nations of the earth because of their godlessness.
.
IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 15. NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 15:2-3. The martyrs sing “the song of Moses,” praising God for His faithfulness and deliverance (Ex. 15 and Deut. 32) and magnifying God’s holiness and righteousness.
B. 15: 5. “the temple of the tabernacle of testimony.” I.e., the “Holy of Holies.”
VI. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this fifteenth chapter of Revelation, we have considered: 1 Seven angels with the seven last plagues. 3 The song of those that overcome the beast. 7 Seven golden vials full of the wrath of God.
VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
Does God Specifically Protect The 144,000, And If So, Why?
I. Opening Video. John Ankerberg Show. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.) ; Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)
II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.)
Parenthetic. 1. The Lamb and the 144,000 on Mount Zion (14:1-5). 2. Vision of the angel and the eternal Gospel (14:6-7). 3. Babylon’s fall foretold (14:8). 4. Doom to come on worshippers of the beast (14:9-12). 5. Blessedness of the holy dead (14:13).6. Vision of Armageddon (14:14-20).
III. Overview.
A. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
These seven visions are not in chronological sequence; they are more like a panoramic view of the Tribulation period. In some respects, this chapter is like a table of contents for the rest of the Book of Revelation, chronicling the salvation of God’s people, the fall of Babylon, the final battle, and God’s judgment on unbelieving humanity.
B. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div., Ph. D.) Holman New Testament Commentary – Revelation.
In this chapter, John has written for us images, both glorious and terrible. For the righteous, there will be glory and honor, for the Lamb has protected and gathered His people. For the wicked, there will be shame and torment, for the winepress of God’s fury will bring it to pass.
C. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, p 301.
The “destiny” of the remnant. Speaking of those brought to the Lord through the ministry of the 144,000 in Revelation 7:15-16, they are seen “before the throne” (Rev 14:3). Thus the destiny of this remnant is the kingdom over which Christ will rule from the “throne of David.” Those promises are not heavenly, but earthly, and will be fulfilled in the millennium.
D. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.,1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible.
Chapter 14 is the sequel and God’s answer to the wickedness of the persons in Chapter 13. God intervenes in grace and judgment. As stated earlier, Chapters 12-14 form a series of their own and are placed between the trumpet and vial judgments, intending to emphasize the individuals who are prominent in the end time. R.H. Charles claims: “The entire chapter is proleptic in character. That is, the orderly development of future events, as set forth in the successive visions is here … abandoned, and all the coming judgments from 16:17, to 20:7-10, are summarized in 6:6-11, 14, 18-20″ (The Revelation of St. John II, p 1).
E. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.
Chapter 14 brings to a conclusion the material found in the section of chapters 12 through 14. Chapter 12 deals with the important characters of the period, chapter 13 with the wicked rulers of the period, and chapter 14 with the ultimate triumph of Christ. All of this material is not chronological but prepares the way for the climax which begins in chapter 15. Chapter 14 consists of a series of pronouncements and visions assuring the reader of the ultimate triumph of Christ and the judgment of the wicked. Much of the chapter is prophetic of events that have not yet taken place, but which are now impending. The chapter begins with the assurance that the Lamb will ultimately stand in triumph on Mount Zion with his followers, and it concludes with a series of pronouncements of judgments upon the wicked.
IV. Verse Examination. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
Revelation Chapter 14 New American Standard Bible 1995
A. 14:1. “the Lamb.” I.e., Christ. “one hundred and forty-four thousand.” Evidently the same group that was introduced in 7:4, though now their work on earth is finished and they are in heaven. Another interpretation takes “Mount Zion” as the earthly Jerusalem and the 144,000 as surviving the Tribulation on earth.
B. 14:4. “not … defiled with women.” This may simply mean that the 144,000 were unmarried, or it may indicate their state of separation unto God (cf. 2 Cor 11:2). “first fruits.” The salvation of the 144,000 will precede the salvation of a larger group of Israelites, who will turn to the Lord at the end of the Tribulation (cf. Isa, 2:3; Rom 11:15).
C. 14:6. “an eternal gospel to preach.” God’s last call of grace to the world before the return of Christ in judgment.
D. 14:8. “fallen is Babylon.” This fall is described in detail in chaps. 17-18.
E. 14:10-13, The wicked will be tormented in the lake of fire forever, with no hope of annihilation or restoration. In contrast, the righteous will have rest forever.
F. 14:12: Saints will be able to endure, knowing that God will punish their enemies (vv. 9-11).G. 14:20. Apparently a reference to Armageddon (16:16; cf. 19:17-19), when the blood from the slaughter will flow 180 miles (290 km) to the depth of about 4.5 feet (1.3 m). The blood or horses added to that of the large armies of human soldiers could easily cause such an enormous river of blood.
V. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this fourteenth chapter of Revelation, we have considered: 1 The Lamb on Mount Zion with His company. 6 The triumph of the gospel. 8 The fall of Babylon. 9 The worshiper of the beast and his image threatened. 13 The reward of the faithful. 15. The harvest of the world.
VI. Parting Thought.
A. In Rev 14:3, we see the 144,000 Jews of Rev 7:4. In 7:4 these Jewish evangelists are “sealed.” In 14:3, these same 144,000 are still alive, having survived the Tribulation. Born again believers in Christ will be saved “from the tribulation,” by the Rapture (John 14:1-6, 1 Cor 15:50-58, 1 Thes 4:13-18, Titus 2:13). These Jews. who were not believers in Christ, at the time of the Rapture, were left behind “from the Rapture” to be present “in the Tribulation.” God sealed them for protection which saved them “through the Tribulation.” The number of these sealed Jews is 144,000 is shown in Rev 7:4, prior to the beginning of their Tribulation ministry. The number of these same Jews is shown to also be 144,000 in Rev 14:3, at the end of the Tribulation.
B. Rev 14:4 says that these 144,000 Jews “have not defiled themselves with women, for they have kept themselves chaste.” Per the remainder of this verse, it appears that these Jews, whether sexually virgins, or not, were “sold out to Christ.” In Walvoord’s, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, Dr. Walvoord gave a plausible understanding of these Jews, “referring to spiritual purity, that is, they are not defiled by love of the world or compromise with evil, but keep themselves pure in a world situation which is morally filthy.”
C. In Rev 14:19 the angel, in response to the entreaty, thrusts or “casts” (Gr., ebalen) his sickle into the earth and harvests its vintage casting it into what is described as “the great winepress of the wrath of God.” This action is actually fulfilled in Revelation 19:15, where the same figure of speech is used. (Revelation of Jesus Christ, Walvoord).
VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. Target Israel – Antichrist And The False Prophet. 100huntley. Dr. Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.)
II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.)
A. Rev 13. The Rise and Reign of the Beast and the False Prophet. 13:1-10: The beast out of the sea; the deadly wound healed. 13:11-18: The beast out of the earth; the number of a man 666.
B. Revelation Chapter 13 unveils the conditions on the earth at the end of the age when the following factors will be manifest:
C. The first beast of Revelation 13: 1. the world ruler is satanically energized (vv 2, 4). 2. he and his image are worshipped (vv 4, 8, 12, 15). 3. he is acknowledged as possessing supreme military power (v 4). 4. he exercises a universal authority (v 7). 5. he persecutes believers in Christ (vv 6-7).
D. The second beast of Revelation Chapter 13. 1. is a deceiver (vv 13-14). 2. exercises economic dictatorship (vv 16-17).
III. Overview.
A. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.) 1909-1995).Liberty Commentary Bible.
The Apostle John continues the delineation of the chief participants of the end times in this chapter, adding to more to those given in chapter 12. A study of Daniel 7, 9, and 11 is essential to the understanding of this vital chapter of the Apocalypse. (See following note).
B. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.; 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.(Rev 1:1 note).
The word “revelation” is a translation of the Greek “apokalypsis,” meaning “an unveiling” or a “disclosure.” From this word comes the English “apocalypse”
C. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.; 1910-2002) Every Prophecy of the Bible, p 580.
This narrative covers the remaining 3 1/2 years of the 7 year Tribulation. In this chapter prophecy focuses on the coming world government and the beast and the false prophet who lead it. This gathers in many prophecies throughout Scripture that speak of this crucial end time of three-and-a half years, culminating in the second coming of Christ.
D. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, p 231. The events of the Day of the Lord (Tribulation and Millennium) will include:
1. Daniel 2 and 7. The prophesied events of the tribulation period, such as the federation of states into a Roman Empire. 2. Daniel 9:27 and Rev 13:1-10. The rise of a political leader who made a covenant with Israel. 3. Rev 13: 11-18.The formulation of a false religious system under the false prophet.
E. Dr. David Hocking. (M. Div., D. Min., Ph. D.)
In Rev 12, the dragon was described as having “seven heads and ten horns.” That description is a prelude to what we discover in Rev 13. It is Satan himself who brings two world leaders to power, one political and the other religious. Both are called “beasts,” one “rising out of the sea” and the other “coming out of the earth.” This unholy trinity includes the following: 1. First beast out of the bottomless pit: Satan. 2. Second beast out of the sea: Antichrist. 3. Third beast out of the earth: False Prophet.
F. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
1. 13:1-10. The beast that John saw coming out of the sea is a composite of the four wild animals that Daniel saw (Dan 7:2-8). These four creatures (leopard, bear, lion, dragon) represent the four kingdoms that would arise, one after another (Babylon, Greece, Persia and Rome. This beast is the Antichrist (12:3; 17:3; Dan 7:7-8). 2. 13:11-18. John’s vision includes something that Daniel never saw – another beast, rising out of the earth. This beast is the false prophet, referred to in chapters 16, 19, 20. He looks like a lamb – meek and mild. In reality, this leader possessed by Satan has the heart of a serpent, the voice of a dragon, and the authority of the Antichrist. His miracles (great signs) will cause the whole world to bow down to the Antichrist and his image (Matt 7:15).
IV. Verse Examination. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 13:1. “a beast.” The Antichrist. See 11:7. Many emperors of Rome deified themselves, but Antichrist will far outstrip all his predecessors in his blasphemous ways. “ten horns.” The 10 kings that will give their power and authority to the Antichrist (17:12-13).
B. 13:2. “the dragon gives his power.” Satan gives Antichrist his power.
C. 13:3. “had been slain.” The same word is used in 5:6 of Christ’s actual death, though here it may indicate a wound that normally would be fatal. “his fatal wound was healed.” Apparently, Satan will miraculously restore Antichrist to life in imitation of the resurrection of Christ. No wonder the world will acclaim Antichrist.
D. 13:5. “forty-two months.” Apparently, the last 3 1/2 years of the tribulation period during which Antichrist’s power is practically unrestrained.
E. 13:6. “His tabernacle.” God’s dwelling place in heaven.
F. 13:7-8. Antichrist’s rule will extend to all, except believers whose names have been written in the “book of life.” The phrase “from the foundation of the world” relates to the writing of the names, not to the crucifixion (cf. 17:8).
G.13:10. Assurance that God will punish evildoers sustains the faith of those who are persecuted during these days.
H. 13:11. “another beast.” This man is Antichrist’s lieutenant, who will enforce the worship of Antichrist by performing miracles (v 13), by making and animating an image of Antichrist (vv 14-15), by sentencing to death those who disobey (v 15), and by requiring a mark on the hand or forehead in order that men may buy and sell (vv 16-17). Satan, the Antichrist, and his second beast form an evil trinity.
I. 13:18. “his number is 666.” Somehow unknown to us, this number will play an important part in the identification of the Antichrist in a future day.
V. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this thirteenth chapter of Revelation, we have considered the following flow of details: (1) A beast arises out of the sea with seven heads and ten horns, to whom the dragon gives his power. (11) Another beast comes up out of the earth, and causes men to worship the first beast, (16) and to receive his mark.
VI. Parting Thought.
All of the individuals who are seen in the Book of Revelation, beginning in Chapter 6, are those who were left behind from the Rapture (John 14:1-6; 1 Cor 15:50-54; 1 Thes 4:13-18; Titus 2:13). The Rapture will take place only after “the fullness of the Gentiles comes in” (Rom 11:25), with that fullness being determined by God, which relates to a certain number of Gentiles coming to belief in Christ. The Rapture relates only to “the church,” which consists of the born again body of believers in Christ, whether they were prior Jews or Gentiles. The Tribulation is a time in which God will deal with unbelieving Jews (Jer 30:7), to draw them to belief in Christ. During the Tribulation, unbelieving Gentiles who will be left behind from the rapture will also have the ability to come to belief in Christ. Regardless of which group of unbelievers are present on Earth during the Tribulation, they will all have the opportunity to come to belief in Christ as Messiah, as Lord and Savior. The Tribulation will begin only after the Antichrist confirms a covenant with Israel (Daniel 9:27), thereby making the Tribulation an event that relates to Israel, and not to the Church. The Tribulation will not begin immediately after the Rapture takes place, but only after the Antichrist confirms a covenant with Israel (a peace covenant of safety, J. Dwight Pentecost, Bible Knowledge Commentary). The length of time that will exist between the Rapture and the Tribulation is unknown. There are reputable theologians who believe that there may be as much as a fifty-year period of time, or a lesser time period, between the Rapture and the time that the Antichrist confirms a covenant with Israel. The conditions of Revelation 13 are consistent with the headlines of world events that are taking place today. We must understand that the provisions of Romans 11:25 have to take place prior to the Rapture. We must also understand that the events of Revelation, Chapter 6 and following chapters, will not take place until after the Rapture takes place. So, why does so much of current world events especially relate to Revelation 13, as well as to other chapters in the Book of Revelation? The answer to that question is quite simple. The effects of the fall of Adam and Eve, with the resulting curse (Gen 3:14), are easily recognizable in the world today, and will be present until the curse is removed, as is written in Rev 22:3, having been enacted in Rev 21:1. All of the perfection of the Garden conditions of Genesis 1 and 2 are “no more.” Ephesians 2:2, speaks of “the prince of the power of the air” (who is Satan, Ryrie Study Bible), “that is now working in the sons of disobedience.” Born again believers in Christ have the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their spirits, prompting them to righteousness (2 Cor 5:17, 21). Those of whom have not been born again, do not have the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their Spirits, and, therefore are prompted to unrighteousness by Satan. Everyone makes mistakes, but believers in Christ recognize their sinful mistakes and ask for God to lead them to righteous living (1 John 1:9). Unbelievers lead lifestyles that are not consistent with Godly teaching (1 Cor 6:9-11), and lead lifestyles that will lead them to the eternal lake of fire (Rev 20:15), due to their not being born again.. In the meantime, we are seeing the outward effects of the decisions of unbelievers as they are trying to lead our world into a society that exists to make our world into one that is totally opposed to the teachings of God’s Holy Word. Nobody can claim to be a born again believer in Christ, yet support abortion or homosexuality which is the focus of most of our world’s leaders today. There is no great world-wide revival that is discussed in Scripture that will reverse the effects of sin which is gradually, and, totally. taking over the minds and actions of most of our world’s leaders. So, as believers in Christ, our responsibility is to lead unbelievers to a belief in Christ as Lord and Savior (John 3:16-18), where such new believers will be “born again” (John 3:3), with the result of the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their Spirits, prompting them to righteous lifestyles. There will be revival during the Tribulation, for those who will be left behind from the Rapture, but it will be difficult for them to come to belief in Christ (2 Thes 2:11, “they will believe what is false,” Ryrie Study Bible note… men will believe what is false, as Satan works through Antichrist); such Tribulation saints will also come under great persecution and death during the Tribulation (Rev 6:9-11).
VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
A. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.)
Prominent Personages. 12:1-2, The woman, Israel, gives birth to the male child, Christ. 12:3-4, The red dragon: Satan. 12:5-6, The male child: Christ. 12:7-12, The archangel: Michael. 12: 13-17, Jewish remnant assaulted by Satan.
B. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.; 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.
1. 12:1. The woman symbolized Israel, as indicated by Genesis 37:9-11, where the sun and moon referred to Jacob and Rachel, Joseph’s parents. The stars in the woman’s crown clearly related to the 12 sons of Jacob, and identified the woman as Israel, fulfilling the Abrahamic Covenant. J.B. Smith cites Isaiah 60:1-3, 20, as proof that the sun relates to Israel’s future glory (A Revelation of Jesus Christ, p 182). 2. 12:4. The casting down of a third of the stars out of the sky seemed to imply the satanic power which extended to the heavens and the earth. Satan was seen here to extend his power over those who opposed him spiritually or politically.
C. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017) Revelation Commentary.
1. 12:2. This is the figure of Israel as a travailing woman, as occurs so often in the OT (Isa 13:8, 21:3, 26:17-18, and others). Just as a woman feels the pains of childbirth, so did the nation in preparation for the coming of Christ. The cause of these pains, at least in part, is the persecution of the nation inspired by Satan in an attempt to stop the birth and destroy this people of God. Israel was in travail at the time of Christ’s first coming. 2. 12:3. Establishing the identity of the dragon as Satan is not difficult because of explicit statements of who he is in 12:9 and 20:2.
D. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, 1958, pp 215, 296.
12:5. This verse can only refer to Christ, the one whose right it is to rule. The Psalmist confirms this interpretation in Psalm 2:9, which is admittedly Messianic. The one from whom Christ came can only be Israel. 12:7-17. The dragon is seen to have seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on his heads (Rev 12:3), which are the same as the beast possesses in chapters thirteen through seventeen. It is plainly stated in 13:2 that this individual derives his authority from Satan. This shows us that Satan is seeking a governmental authority over the woman’s “remnant” (12:7), which authority rightly belongs to Christ Himself.
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 12. NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway
Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
1. 12:1. “a woman.” She represents Israel, who gave Christ to the world (v 5) and who will be persecuted during the Tribulation (v 13). 2. 12:3. “a great red dragon.” Satan (v 9). 3. 12:4. “a third of the stars of heaven.” This may refer to Satan’s past rebellion against God (Ezek 28:13); if so it suggests that a third of the angels joined Satan and were cast out of heaven with him. Or, the reference may be to a meteor shower judgment on the earth. 4. 12:5. The earthly life and death of Christ are not mentioned, only His birth and ascension. 5. 12:6. “one thousand two hundred and sixty days.” The last 3 1/2 years of the Tribulation will see intense persecution of Israel. Details are given in verse 13-17. No mention is made of the many hundreds of years between the Ascension (v 5) and the future Tribulation (v 6). See Daniel 9:27; Matt 24:14, 21; 1 Thes 4:17. 6. 12:7. “Michael …. the dragon.” This likely will occur at the midpoint of the Tribulation. Michael is the only angel designated an archangel in the Bible (Jude 9). 7. 12:9-11. Notice two of Satan’s activities in these verses: to deceive the world and to accuse the brethren. The believer’s defense against Satan is: (1) to bank on the merits of Christ: (2) to be active in witnessing, and: (3) to be willing to make any sacrifice, including death (v 11). 8. 12:9. Several judgments have, and will be passed on Satan: (1) his removal from guarding the throne of God (Ezek 28:14, 16 ); (2) the prophecy in the garden of Eden (Gen 3:15); (3) his defeat at the Cross (John 12:31); (4) his being barred from heaven (here in v 9); (5) his confinement in the abyss (20:3); and (6) his torment in the lake of fire forever (20:10). 9. 12:14. Persecuted Israel will flee quickly as if on “wings” to an unspecified place in the “wilderness” where she will have protection and care. 10. 12:15-16 . In an attempt to dislodge the Jews, Satan will bring a flood. God then will cause the earth to open and swallow the water. 11. 12:17. Satan will then attack those who did not flee to the place of asylum.
V. Additional Examination. Revelation 12:4. Remember the importance of “context.” Consider, also, the above 12:4 comments of Drs. Walvoord and Ryrie.
A. Robert H. Mounce, (Th. M., Ph. D., December 30, 1921 – January 24, 2019), The Book Of Revelation, The New International Commentary On The New Testament, 1977. “The cataclysmic action emphasizes the tremendous size and awesome power of the dragon. That he casts down a third part of the stars indicates no more than a great number. John is not teaching a theology of fallen angels, but reporting a great pageant enacted in the heavens.
B. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div., Ph. D., (1949 – ) Holman New Testament Commentary – Revelation, 1998. “The seven heads suggest complete wisdom; the seven crowns point to blasphemous kingly claims; the ten horns mean power. (Daniel had a vision of a powerful single-headed, ten-horned beast (Dan 7:7, 20). Who is this sky-dragon? He, too, exists throughout the ages of time. Verse 9 will identify him as the devil. As God sees him throughout the ages, he is a vile dragon. In verse 4, John sees an illustration of his power: with a single mighty swish his tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky. “
C. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th., D., Ph. D., 1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible, 1994. “The tail symbolizes delusive power (cf. Isa 9:15), which Satan uses to accomplish the moral ruin of those in the highest position. But, he is not successful with all, only a third. Upon whom was the venom of Satan poured out? The answer is clear; the woman’s child, as soon as it was born (cf. Mt 2 with Gen 3:15). Herod was merely a tool of Satan’s power, but he was nevertheless responsible.
VI. Additional Thought. There has been discussion as it relates to the rapture of the church (born again believers of Christ) occurring during the Feast Of Trumpets (Lev 23:23-25; Num 29:1-6); relating it to the rapture passages of John 14:1- 6; 1 Cor 15:50-54, 1 Thes 4:13-18; Tit 2:13, and equating it to Matt 24:31. We will discuss that matter now. It is important to remember that the Feast of Trumpets took place around the fall of each year. The blowing of a trumpet signaled the beginning of the civil new year (Ryrie Study Bible, Lev 23:24 note). For the Israelites, the blowing of the horn represented God calling to His people to prepare for a holy assembly (Moody Bible Commentary, Rev 23:23-25 note). Notice that the Feast of Trumpets relates to Jews, and not to Gentiles, or to the church being caught up in the Rapture. We will continue.
A. In this Chapter, the conversation revolves around Israel, who is the main conversation piece of all of Biblical prophecy. From the beginning of Revelation Chapter 6, through the end of the Book, no mention is ever made of the Church.
B. Ryrie Study Bible. It is from the Jewish prophet, Jeremiah, that the Jews are told that the Tribulation is focused on the nation of Israel (Jer 30:7). It is from the Jewish prophet, Daniel, that the Jews are told that the Tribulation will come after the Anti-Christ makes a covenant with Israel (Dan 9:27), and that the Anti-Christ will break that covenant mid way through the Tribulation. It is from the Jewish prophet, Isaiah, that the Jews are told of the judgments of the tribulation period, and blessings of the millennial age (Isa 24:1). It is from the Jewish prophet Daniel that the Jews are told of the second coming Christ to earth, in that He will have dominion over the world (Dan 9:13-14).
C. J. Dwight Pentecost, Things To Come. Re: Matt 24:31: p 196: Since every passage dealing with the tribulation relates to God’s program for Israel, that the scope of the Tribulation prevents the church from participating in it. p 197: Since the Father never sees the church, except in Christ, perfected in Him, this period can have no reference to the church, for the true church does not need to be tested to see if her faith is genuine. p 282: The Lord is indicating that the regathering of Israel (Matt 24:31), the next event, will be the judging of Israel on the earth to determine who will go into the kingdom. (MT 24:31…THE REGATHERING OF ISRAEL). p 425: In Matt there is no resurrection before the judgment, but only a gathering of His elect (Matt 24:31). (The elect is Israel “Deu 14:2, mine).
D. John F. Walvoord, Every Prophecy of the Bible. p 36: The Feast of Trumpets anticipates the future regathering of Israel (Lev 23:23-25). p 39: God promised to restore His people when they turn to Him in repentance and submission (Deu 30:1-10). In Matt 24:30, Matthew was not talking about the Rapture of the church, which is described in totally different language (1 Thes 4:16). When Christ comes to earth He will send out His angels to assemble the elect (Israel; Deu 14:2) “And He will send His angels with a loud trumpet call and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other (Matt 24:31). Mark described the same event as the assembling of the elect both from earth and heaven (Mk 13:27).
E. Eugene H. Merrill, Ph. D. The New American Commentary, Deuteronomy. The Lord would undertake His work of restoration. From the ends of the earth He would bring back those whom He had banished in Judgment (Deu 30:3; 4:27-31). (Deu 30:2-4).
F. MacArthur Study Bible. The Feast of Trumpets, Rosh Hashanah (Num 29:1-6). Fulfilled in Israel’s regathering by Christ (Matt 24:31). Matt 24:31 note: All the elect from heaven and earth are gathered and assembled before Christ, ushering in the millennial reign of Christ.
G. Neither the Church, nor the Rapture, was known to Jewish prophets, therefore both were “mysteries” until the time in which they were revealed in the New Testament. Consider the following verses:
1. 1 Cor 15:51, “Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will be changed.” Ryrie Note. The rapture of the church described in verses 51-58 was a “mystery,” unknown in the OT but now revealed. “we will not all sleep.” I.e., not all die (1 Thes 4:15). Some will be alive when the Lord returns, but all will be “changed.”
2. Eph 5:32. “This ‘mystery’ is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church.”
H. The term “immiency” is key to a proper understanding of the Rapture, which means that the Rapture can happen at any time of the day, week, month, or year. Consider the following verses that show that the Rapture is not confined to the fall months of the year.
1. John 14:2-3, “2 I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will take you to Myself, so that where I am, there you also will be. (Note. Jesus was talking to Jews, If he had a plan to return on a feast day, this would have been the perfect occasion for such a discussion).
2. 1 Thes 4:16-17, “16 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. 17 Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. (Note. Paul explained the rapture without making any mention of a time of the Rapture).
3. 1 Cor 15: 52, “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.” (Paul makes no statement of a time for the rapture.).
4. Tit 2:13, “looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,” (Note: The early church was looking for the appearance of the Lord in the rapture, and not for a particular time of year.
I. Early Christians were not given a course of study in the Old Testament. The message of the New Testament was, “Christ and Him crucified.
1. 1 Cor 1:23, “but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness”
2. 2 Cor 2:2, “For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”
J. As the early church spread out beyond the borders of Israel, some of those who spread the message of Christ were Gentile, and some were Jew. Their purpose in teaching of Christ was of Him, and of Him crucified. Those early missionaries had no reason to teach the feasts of Israel, or anything else of the Old Testament. A good example of the witness of these early disciples was that of Acts 16:31, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.”
K. The rapture of the church will take place only after “the fullness of the Gentiles comes in” (Rom 11:25), i.e., the full number of Gentiles who will be saved (Ryrie Study Bible), and not based on any other standard.
L. The Old Testament prophets spoke to Jews about things that they knew about, such as the Tribulation and Kingdom Age (Millennium), i.e., Isa 24-27. Chs 24-27 deal with judgment and blessing in the last days, the time of God’s final victory over the forces of evil (NASB Study Bible). The end times is a subject that is based on spoken prophecy from God, to Jewish Prophets, to Jewish people. The Rapture is not a matter of prophecy, and relates only to born again believers in Christ. The Tribulation is a matter of prophecy, and relates only to Jews (and Gentiles) who are not born again believers in Christ. The Kingdom Age (Millennium) is a matter of prophecy and relates to the earthly Kingdom that Christ will establish and oversee for 1,000 years, with only born again believers in Christ (John 3:3, Jew and Gentile) being the subjects of Christ (Isa 2:1-4; Zech 14:1-5 9). Old Testament Jews “watched” for the prophecies to be fulfilled, based on the teachings and fulfillment of those teachings of the Jewish prophets. New Testament believers in Christ “wait” for our Lord’s return, without any particular season of the year having to come into view. If the rapture of the church was supposed to occur on the Feast of Trumpets, such a fact would have been clearly stated in Scripture, and would have been taught by Old Testament Jewish prophets, and by New Testament Apostles, neither of which happened.
VII. Summary.
Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this twelfth chapter of Revelation, we considered the following flow of details: (1) A woman clothed with sun travails. (3) A great dragon stands ready to devour her child. (5) Being delivered, and the child caught up to God, the woman flees into the wilderness. (7) Michael and his angels overcome the dragon. (13) The dragon, cast down into the earth, persecutes the woman.
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
Who are the two witnesses, and what is their purpose?
What happens to the two witnesses in the book of Revelation.
I. Opening Videos’ Speakers. John Ankerberg Show. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th.M.,Th.D.); Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.); Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)
II. Overview.
A. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D; 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary,
1. John was instructed to measure the temple and the altar, but not the outer court, meaning he was to measure the holy place and the holy of holies. While others could come into the outer court, only priests could enter into two temple rooms. The explanation was given that this would be under the control of the Gentiles, who would trample on the holy city for 42 months. The times of the Gentiles (Luke 21:24) will not end until the second coming of Christ to the earth to set up His Kingdom. Though Jews may possess Jerusalem temporarily, as they have in this century, they will lose possession in the Great Tribulation.
2. At the same moment of the rapture of the two witnesses an earthquake occurred in Jerusalem, with 1/10 of the city collapsing and 7,000 people being killed. The survivors were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven. So ended the second woe, leaving only the seventh trumpet, the final and third woe, to come. Though the full results from the sounding of the seventh trumpet are only introduced here, and not brought to finality (as they will be in chap 16), the introduction of the seventh trumpet is dramatic. As the trumpet sounded, voices were heard in heaven: “the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever. (Cf. predictions of the earthly kingdom of Christ in Ezek 21:26-27; Dan 2:35, 44; 4:3; 6:26; 7:14, 26 -27; Zech 14:9). The fact that this will be fulfilled at the Second Coming makes it clear that the period of the seventh trumpet chronologically reaches to Christ’s return. Therefore, the seventh trumpet introduces and includes the seven bowl judgments of the wrath of God revealed in chapter 16. In contrast with previous trumpets where a single voice was heard, here a mighty chorus from heaven joined in the proclamation.
B. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017) Revelation Commentary.
1. The temple as the dwelling place of God is not in view here, It is the Jewish temple in Jerusalem which is hardly a suitable picture of the church which is largely Gentile. The outer court and the entire city experience trampling by the Gentiles, signifying that the temple and the court stand for something that best contrasts with the Gentiles, i.e., something Jewish. The mention of the sanctuary, the altar, the court of the Gentiles, and the holy city shows unmistakably that the discussion at this point is on Jewish ground. But most obvious of all is the logical fallacy that if the sanctuary represents the church of the Messianic community, who are the worshipers that are measured along with the sanctuary and the altar?
2. This is a literal temple that will exist in actuality during the future period just before Christ returns. The false Messiah will desecrate it and turn it into a place for people to worship him (cf. Dan 9:27; 12:11; 2 Thes 2:4; Rev 13:14-15). This allows for a distinction between the temple and the worshipers in it, Jesus’ anticipation of the future abomination of desolation (Matt 24:15) and Paul’s prophecy regarding the future temple (2 Thes 2:4) require a literal temple in the future.
C. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, 1958, pp 215, 295.
1. Page 215. Chronologically, in the Book of Revelation, Chapters 1-3 present the development of the church in this present age. Chapters 4-11 cover the events of the entire 70th week of Daniel and conclude with the return of Christ to the earth to reign in 11:15-18. According to the instructions given in John 10:11, chapters 12-19 survey the 70th week a second time, this time with a view to revealing the actors on the stage of the drama.
2. Page 295. When the nation of Israel is brought back to her land after the rapture by the covenant enacted by the head of the the Revised Roman Empire (Dan 9:27), Israel is still in unbelief. God, however, is very definitely dealing with that nation to bring it to salvation. The whole 70th week of Daniel is a period of preparation for the coming of the King. The gospel of “the kingdom” (Mt 24:14), which requires repentance, will be preached. There will be the ministry of the 144,000 sealed of Israel (Rev 7) and the ministry of the two witnesses (Rev 11), all with the intent of bringing the nation (Israel) to repentance and salvation. The outpouring of the wrath of God is seen for the purpose of bringing men to repentance (Rev 16:9-10). While the majority will not repent, some may be turned to God by these signs.
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 11. NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway
IV. Verse Examination. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., Litt. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 11:1. “the temple of God.” Apparently the temple that will be built during the Tribulation, in which Jewish worship will be carried on during the first part of that seven-year period and in which, at the midpoint, the man of sin will exalt himself to be worshipped (2 Thes 2:4).
B. 11:2. “forty-two months.” This equals 3 1/2 years and probably refers to the last of the tribulation period during which Jerusalem will be under some sort of Gentile (the nations) control. Thus, “the times of the Gentiles” (see Luke 21:24) will not conclude until the end of the Tribulation.
C. 11:3. “1260 days.” This also equals 3 1/2 years and refers to the period of the ministry of the two witnesses. Whether the two witnesses will prophesy during the first half or the last half of the Tribulation is not stated, though the first half seems more likely, since their termination by Antichrist (v 7) fits better at the midpoint of the Tribulation than at the end.
D. 11:4. “two olive trees.” For the symbolism, see Zechariah 4:12 and 14. “two lampstands” that give out a witness (v 3).
E. 11:5-6. The miraculous powers of the two unnamed witnesses are reminiscent of those of Elijah and Moses (cf. Ex 7:20; 8:1-12:29; 1 Kings 17:1; 18:41-45; 2 Kings 1:10-12).
F. 11:7. “the beast.” The Antichrist, also called “the man of lawlessness” (2 Thes 2:3). The same person is mentioned in 6:2; 13:1; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2; 17:3, 13; 19:20; 20:10. He can not kill these two witnesses until God allows him to.
G. 11:8. “the great city.” I.e., Jerusalem, which in these coming days will be like “Sodom” (filled with perverted sex) and “Egypt” (persecuting God’s people).
H. 11:9-10. So corrupt are peoples’ hearts that they will refuse burial and have a 3 1/2 day celebration of Antichrist’s victory over the two witnesses.
I. 11:11. “and they stood on their feet.” Imagine the effect the resurrection of these two men will have on those who, only the moment before, were viewing their corpses in the street or were watching TV news!
J. 11:13. “the rest.” Those who were not killed by the earthquake. “gave glory to the God of heaven” momentarily, for soon they would again curse the God of heaven (16: 11).
K. 11:15. The end is near enough now that the announcement of it can be made.
L. 16-19.The announcement evokes praise from the “elders” (vv 16-17) and anger from the “nations;” and soon will come judgment on the “dead” and the rewarding of the “saints.”
V. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this Eleventh Chapter of Revelation, we have considered: 1 John is directed to measure the temple. 3 The two witnesses, 6 and their power. 7 The beast shall kill them. 8 Their bodies unburied, 11 after three days and a half are raised to life. 14 The second woe is past. 15 The seventh angel sounds, and there is rejoicing in heaven.
VI. Added Thought.
When we consider whether the two witnesses are Enoch and Elijah, or Moses and Elijah, there are couple of key things to take into consideration. During the time of the Tribulation, when the two witnesses will be preaching for the world to hear their message, their message will relate to “The Gospel of The Kingdom,” (Matt 24:14, John 3:2; Matt 4:17; Matt 10: 7; Luke 10:9). Moses and Elijah were Jews; Moses died, but Elijah did not die, having been caught up to heaven. Enoch was a Gentile, having lived on this earth before the nation of Israel came into existence (Gen 5:21), and never knew anything about the Law, also having been caught up to heaven without dying. Moses represented the Law, and Elijah represented the Prophets. Per the opening video, Moses and Elijah appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration; Enoch did not. Some people point to Hebrews 9:27, ” it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment.” But, Heb 9:27 is a general statement. Consider Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from death (John 11:43-44); he died a second death. All of us who will be caught up in the rapture (if the Lord wills it to happen in our lifetime), will not have to taste death.
VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
What is the “little book” that John was told to eat?
I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Speakers are Drs: John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th.M., Th.D.); Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.); Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)
II. Overview.
A. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
1. With the completion of the sixth trumpet, also called the second woe, the seventh trumpet does not come immediately, but awaits the setting of the stage for its sounding. Two preliminary elements must prepare the way for this last in the trumpet series: the announcement of the end of delay (10:1-11) and the measurement of the temple and its worshippers (11:1-14).
2. 10:1a. John sees the angel in the process of his descent from heaven, as he does the angel in 20:1. This confirms that John has moved from heaven, where he has been since 8:2, to the earth. Being “clothed in a cloud” enhanced the glory of the angel’s appearance. Clouds are often the vehicles on which heavenly beings ascend or descend, usually in an eschatologial setting (Ps 104:3; Dan 7:13; Isa 19:1; Acts 1:9; Rev 1:7).
3. 10:1b. The angel’s function is shown in relation to the trumpet judgments, past and future. This association adds reinforcement to the theme of judgment suggested by the fire, tempered by mercy already seen in the rainbow.
4. 10:7. The period of the seventh trumpet includes the seven bowls (16 :1 ff.), which culminate in the destruction of Babylon, and consummation of all things.
B. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, pp 187-190.
1. 10:7. (1) The trumpet of 1 Cor 15:52, sounds before the wrath of God descends, while, the chronology of Revelation indicates that the trumpet in Rev 11:15 sounds at the end of the time of wrath, just prior to the second advent. (2) The trumpet that summons the church is called “the trump of God,” while the seventh trump is an angel’s trumpet. (3) The trumpet for the church is singular. No trumpets have preceded it so that it can not be said to be the last of a series. The trumpet that closes the tribulation period is clearly the last of a series of seven. (4) In 1 Thes 4:16-17, the voice associated with the sounding of the trumpet summons the dead and the living, and consequently is heard before the resurrection. In the Revelation, while a resurrection is mentioned (11:12), the trumpet does not sound until after the resurrection, showing that two different events must be in view. (5) The trumpet in 1 Thessalonians issues in blessing, in life, in glory, while the trumpet in Revelation issues in judgment upon the enemies of God. (6) In the Thessalonian passage the trumpet sounds “in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.” In Rev 10:7, the indication is that the seventh trumpet shall sound over a continued period of time, probably for the duration of the judgments that fall under it, for John speaks of the angel that shall “begin to sound.” The duration gives the evidence of the distinction in these two. (7). The trumpet in 1 Thes is distinctly for the church. Since God is dealing with Israel in particular, and Gentiles in general, in the tribulation, this seventh trumpet, which falls in the period of the tribulation, could not have reference to the church without losing the distinctions between the church and Israel. (8) The passage in Revelation depicts a great earthquake in which thousands are slain, and the believing remnant that worships God is stricken with fear. In the Thes passage there is no earthquake mentioned. There will be no believing remnant left behind at the rapture to experience the fear of Rev 11:13. (9) While the church will be rewarded at the time of the rapture, yet the reward given to “thy servants the prophets, and to the saints” can not be that event. The rewarding mentioned in Rev 11:18 is seen to take place on the earth after the second advent of Christ, following the judgment on His enemies. Since the church is rewarded in the air, following the rapture, these must be two distinct events.
2. 10:11. John has outlined the events of the first half of the tribulation under the seals (4:1-7:17), the last half of the tribulation under the trumpets (8:1-11:14), and closes the period with the return of the Lord to reign (11:15-18). Between the sixth and seventh trumpets, John is told (10:11) that “it is necessary for you to prophesy again concerning many peoples and nations and tongues and kings.” Concerning the word “again”, “it denotes renewal or repetition of the action.” This would seem to be a divine notice that, since John has taken us through the entire period once, it is God’s intention to have him retrace his way through the period again. Therefore, beginning in Chapter 12, John surveys the period a second time, placing emphasis on the individuals who play so important a part in the events of the 70th week. The bowls (Rev 16:1-17) evidently come at the close at the period and occupy only a brief period of time and can not be spread over the last 3 1/2 years of the period. This second survey, like the first, terminates the period by the return of Christ, and the consequent judgment of His enemies (Rev 19).
C. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M.,Th. D.; 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.
1. 10:1. Revelation 10:1-11:14 gives additional information as a background to the seal, trumpet, and bowl judgments. Another angel is introduced, but apparently was not one of the seven angels sounding the trumpets. There is no evidence other than his being a mighty angel, (cf. Rev 5:2), perhaps, Michael the Archangel. In contrast with the seven-sealed scroll held by the Lamb (5:1), this angel held a small scroll, also used in 10:9-10. This scroll apparently contained the angel’s written order for the mission he was about to fulfill.
2. 10:5-7. The angel declared, “there will be delay no longer.” Announcement was made that the “seventh trumpet” would bring about the accomplishment of the mystery of God. This mystery had been previously announced to God’s prophets. The reference, therefore, is not to hidden truth, but to the fulfillment of many Old Testament passages which refer to the glorious return of the Son of God and the establishment of His Kingdom of righteousness and peace on the earth. Here again is evidence that the seventh trumpet introduces the seven bowl judgments of God’s wrath in Revelation 16.
3. 10:9-10. “The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than pure gold, than pure gold; they are sweeter than honey from the comb” (Ps 19:9-10). Though the Word is sweet to believers, it will be bitter to unbelievers when it brings divine judgment to them.
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 10, NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway.
IV. Verse Examination. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph., D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 10:6. “there will be no longer.” I.e., when the seventh angel sounds his trumpet (11:15), the bowl judgments will be poured out.
B. 10:7. “the mystery of God.” Truth concerning God, Himself, which will not be revealed until His kingdom is established on earth.
C. 10:9-10. The eating of the “little book” (scroll) was to remind John that, although these truths from God may be pleasant to his taste, they were bitter when digested because they spoke judgment. The revelation of God’s judgment, on careful reflection, should always bring heaviness of heart to the child of God. Compare Ezek 2:8-3:3.
V. Summary.
In this Tenth Chapter of Revelation, we have considered: 1. A mighty angel appears with an open book, and, 6 swears by Him that lives forever, that time shall be no longer. 8. John is commanded to take and eat the book. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. What Happens To The Earth During The Trumpet Judgments? John Ankerberg Show. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021)
II. Overview.
A. The Bible presents hell as a literal place designed to punish those who rebelled against God while on earth. It is not a state of mind, or a myth, as many modern religions claim. This chapter presents a preview of the horrors of hell on earth during the Great Tribulation. As horrible as it will be, it is only temporary. Hell, itself, is worse, not in the least because it never ends. Dr. David Jeremiah, (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.
B. John required but six verses to set forth the first four trumpet-plagues (8:7-12). But, now, he is about to devote an entire chapter to the first two Woes. This additional attention corresponds to the seriousness of the calamities which follow. Men, who were earlier discomforted by judgments upon the world, are now directly subjected to torments which arise from the underworld. Dr. Robert H. Mounce (Th. M., Ph. D., December 30, 1921 – January 24, 2019) The Book Of Revelation, The New International Commentary On The New Testament.
C. We see the true evil empire in the Book of Revelation. The empire of Satan unleashes its unholy war, not only against God’s people, but against all humanity. Demonic plagues emerge as the dominant source of tribulation in Chapter 9. The natural phenomenon of locust and horse demon invasions provides for the terrible supernatural invasions of Revelation 9. These are unleashed during the Great Tribulation when the fifth and sixth trumpet angels blow their horns. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.
D. Already introduced by the eagle’s proclamation in 8:13, the fifth trumpet sets the tone for the last three trumpets in its specificity and independence of the two to follow. The feature marks the last three seals too. The seventh trumpet also resembles the seventh seal in the way it solemnly concludes the whole, and contains the next series within its scope. As with the seals also, two episodes intervene between the sixth and seventh members. In so doing, set the stage for the seventh trumpet. With the sixth trumpet, the severity of the judgments increases even more than with the fifth. In this case, for the first time, the trumpet angel, in addition to blowing his trumpet, assumes an active role in initiating the visitation. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017) Revelation Commentary.
E. The threefold cry of woe from the call of the angel (8:13) has nothing to do with the four trumpets that have just sounded, but rather with the trumpet blasts sounded by the other three angels, a fact often unnoticed. The significance of the declaration by John must have been devastating. The calamities unleashed by the blasts of the first four trumpets are beyond anything imaginable to the inhabitants of the earth today, but the woes announced by the eagle have to do with profoundly serious judgments yet to come. Paige Patterson (B.A., D.D., D.D., Th. M., Ph. D.) Revelation Commentary, The New International Version, The New American Commentary.
F. The trumpets continue to bring war, but war to which woe is added. The war to be described next is probably one of the more important in the Bible. Trumpets five and six move matters on earth along to the point where Satan’s man is left undisputed master of the globe — for a season. First, men are brainwashed by the Beast and are psychologically prepared to embrace the ultimate lie. Then, the Beast consolidates his position in the west, deals decisively with the great foe to the north, brings to heel for a while the awakened millions of the east, throws off all pretense, and sets himself up as this world’s god. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
G. Because of the “he” in verse 2 and “king” in verse 11, the “star” that fell to the earth was a person rather than a fragment of a star (cf. Isa. 14:12-17 Luke 10:18). Even in modern terminology it is customary to speak of an unusual athlete or performer as a star. This star, probably representing Satan cast out of heaven at the beginning of the Great Tribulation (Rev 12:9), was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss (“bottomless pit”). The “Abyss” (“abyssos”) is the home of demons (cf. Luke 8:31; Rev 9:11; 11:7; 17:8; 20:1, 3; in Rom. 10:7 it is translated “deep.”). Satan will be confined for a thousand years in the Abyss during the reign of Christ on earth (Rev 20:1-3). Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 9, NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway.
IV. Verse Examination. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 9:1. “a star” represents an intelligent creature, apparently “the angel of the abyss” v. 11). Notice the “he” in verse 2. “the bottomless pit.” Lit,, the shaft of the abyss. For other uses of this phrase, see Luke 8:31; Rom 10:7; Rev 9:11; 11:7; 17:8; 20:1, 3. Luke 8:31 indicates that this is the abode of the demons.
B. 9:3. “locusts.” That these creatures come from the abyss and are described in unusual terms in verses 7-11 indicates that they were demonic.
C. 9:4-5. The limitations that God places upon the activities of these creatures show that He is still in full control of these events. Only the 144,000 will escape the torment on people.
D. 9:6. Suicide, though desired, will be impossible.
E. 9:7-10. In describing these creatures John often has to use the word “like.”
F. 9:10. Two glands in the tail of a scorpion emit a poison that produces a painful, but usually not lethal, wound.
G. 9:11. “Abaddon … Apollyon.” Both words mean “destruction.”
H. 9:14-15. These “four angels” (demons) are released in order to kill one-third of the remaining population of the earth. Added to the one-fourth who were killed under the fourth seal judgment (6:4) these two judgments alone destroy one-half of the population, not including those who are killed by wars, famines, and diseases. “the hour” (v. 15). Lit., this particular hour.
I. 9:16. “the armies.” The 200,000,000 creatures who compose this supernatural cavalry may be human beings, or demons, or demon-possessed humans. For other supernatural armies, see 2 Kings 2:11; 6:14-17; Rev 19:14.
J. 9:18. “by these plagues.” I.e., by the fire, smoke, and brimstone.
K. 9:20. The religion of many will involve demon and idol worship.
L. 9:21. “sorceries.” I.e., magical arts, potions, and poisons (See Gal. 5:20; Rev 18:23; 21:8; 22:15). From the Greek word, we derive the English word “pharmacies.” This chapter shows (1) the reality and some of the activity of the unseen world of Satan and demons and (2) the hardness of human hearts.
V. Summary.
In this Ninth Chapter of Revelation, we considered the following events. 1. The fifth angel sounds, and the bottomless pit is opened, and smoke and locusts issue from it. 7. These locusts described. 12.The first woe is past. 13. The sixth angel sounds, and four angels are let loose for the work of destruction. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. The Seven Trumpets Of Revelation 8-11. Revelation One Three Publishing.
II. Overview.
A. With the breaking of the seventh seal comes the silence that precedes earth’s most awesome and ominous storm. In the OT, the trumpet summoned people to worship (Num. 10;23; 1 Chron. 16) and prepared people for war (Num 10; Judg 3; Neh 4). The seven trumpets declare the Lord’s final intervention, bringing judgment on the earth. [Dr. David Jeremiah (Th. M., D. D.) Jeremiah Study Bible]
B. Following the two parenthetical visions of Chapter 7, the Lamb opens the seventh, and final seal. There follows a dramatic pause during which the prayers of the saints rise to God as incense from the golden altar. An angel casts fire upon the earth and the seven trumpet-angels raise their instruments in preparation to sound another series of seven judgments (8:7-11:19; with 10:1-11:13 a parenthesis between the sixth and seventh elements as in the seals). [Dr. Robert H. Mounce (Th. M., Ph. D., 1921 – 2019). The Book Of Revelation, The New International Commentary On The New Testament]
C. This chapter opens with the announcement that the seventh seal is opened. This is the last of the seven seals marking the prophetic judgments of God. With the opening of the seventh seal the narrative is resumed from the close of chapter 6. Though simply introduced, the seventh seal is obviously the most important development up to this point. Contained in the seventh seal are all the subsequent developments leading to the second coming of Christ, including the seven trumpets and the seven bowls of the wrath of God. [Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary]
D. The world is now to be presented with Satan’s man, the devil’s messiah. The seals have been broken , the cries have rung out, the riders have appeared and conditions on earth have grown rapidly worse. Men have become horrified, and imagining that the day of wrath has dawned, have called on the mountains and rocks to fall upon them and hide them from the Lamb. But worse is to come. Seven trumpets have yet to be blown, and wars worse than anything history records have yet to be fought. The war and famines, persecutions and pestilences under the seals are, after all, but the beginning of sorrows. During the trumpet judgments, Satan is cast out of heaven and produces his trump card on earth — a superman. Men, no longer concerned about the Lamb, will be ready for the Beast. Before the trumpets are blown, one of the seals remains to be broken. The breaking of this seal (8:1) produces a deep silence in heaven, a silence that is caused by the prayers of God’s beleaguered saints on earth. Two items of great interest are to be noted about these prayers. (1) God holds up the entire process of judgment while He receives and weighs the prayers on His own. (2) In direct answer to prayer, God acts by setting in motion the trumpet judgments. [Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary]
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 8. NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway.
IV. Verse Examination. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
A. 8:1. “broke the seventh seal.” With the breaking of the seventh seal comes the second series of judgments — the seven trumpets. Apparently, the judgments, announced by the trumpets, follow chronologically those of the other seals. B. 8:4. The “prayers” likely petition God to judge evil and to inaugurate His kingdom quickly. A token judgment follows (v. 5). C.8:7. Though the implications are staggering, there is no reason not to understand this and the other judgments plainly. D. 8:8-9. The impact of this judgment on the world economy is beyond imagination. E. 8:11. “Wormwood.” Many species of wormwood (a woody herb) grow in the land of Israel, and all have a strong, bitter (not poisonous) taste, which causes the plant to be used as a symbol of bitterness, sorrow and calamity. This plague will make a third part of the fresh water supply of the earth unfit for human consumption. F. 8:12. This could mean that the 24-hour cycle of day and night will be shortened to 16 hours, or that the power of the sun, moon, and stars will be reduced by one-third.
V. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
In this eighth chapter of Revelation we considered: 1. The seventh seal opened. 2. To seven angels, seven trumpets are given. 3. Another angel offers incense with the prayers of the saints. 6. Four angels sound their trumpets, and great plagues follow.
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Who are the 144,000, and what power has God given to them?
II. Overview.
A. In chapter seven, the 144,000 are sealed by God, set apart to a special ministry, before the great tribulation begins. They seem to be sealed at the very outset of the tribulation period. In all probability the multitude of Gentiles, described in the passage that follows (Rev 7 :9-17), has come to a knowledge of salvation through the ministry of this group. In Chapter 14, the same group is pictured at the termination of the tribulation, when the kingdom is established. 2
B. Chapter 7 comes as a parenthesis between the sixth and seventh seals — a stylistic feature repeated in the trumpet sequence (10:1-11:13) but not with the bowls (cf. 16:12-11). It is not intended to take the reader back to a time before the Four Horsemen are released in order to parallel the trumpets with the seals. It contrasts the security and blessedness which await the faithful with the panic of a pagan world fleeting from judgment. In a sense it answers the question just posed, “Who is able to stand?” (6:17). 3
C. The first interlude of the book develops the contrast between the peril of the godless inhabitants of the earth and God’s faithful. The former would experience desperation and destruction, while the latter would enjoy protection on earth and exhilarating worship in heaven. Four angels were commissioned to delay the winds of judgment until God’s bond-servants would be sealed for protection. The “seal” indicates God’s ownership and thus protection by God. No more judgment would be exacted against the earth until their safety was assured. These can stand the wrath of the Lamb because they are rightly related to the Father and bear His seal upon their foreheads. They appear in stark contrast to those who are later seen as identifying with the beast by accepting his mark (13:16). 4
D. In contrast to chapter 6 which seems to give the chronological sequence of major events of the great tribulation, chapter 7 does not advance the narrative but directs attention to two major groups of saints in the tribulation. The opening portion of the chapter pictures the 144,000, which are representative of the Godly remnant of Israel on earth in the great tribulation. The latter part of the chapter describes a great multitude of martyred dead in heaven, those who died as a testimony to their faith from every kindred, tongue, and nation. 5
E . The Slaves Of God. 6
1. Those On Earth: The 144,000 (7:1-8). The assertion that no one will survive the crescendo of God’s wrath, as implied in the question of panic-stricken humanity (617), is corrected by two new visions injected after the conclusion of the sixth seal. The first pictures angelic actions of restraint and sealing
2. Those In Heaven: The Innumerable Multitude (7:9-17). The second picture injected under the sixth seal (cf. 6:17) has its setting in heaven. This group, like the 144,000, is unhurt by the effects of God’s wrath, but for a different reason. They have, at this point, been removed from the earthly scene of the wrath and have no need of protective sealing. Someone might ask, “Are the 144,000 the only ones who have maintained their composure under the first six seals?” This vision responds to such a question negatively. A vast throng has turned to God during this period and have now passed into His immediate presence through death.
A. 7:3. The judgments are delayed until these 144,000 Jewish people can be “sealed;” i.e., protected supernaturally.
B. 7:4. “one hundred and forty-four thousand.” These are Jews from the 12 tribes (12,000 each) who are protected in order to perform service for God during those days.
C. 7:9. “a great multitude.” This magnitude is composed of many racial and geographic groups who will be redeemed during the Tribulation (v. 14). In those difficult days, many will find Christ as Savior.
D. 7:15-17. Having died or been martyred during the Tribulation, this great multitude are seen in heaven enjoying the blessings.
V. Summary
In this seventh chapter of Revelation we considered: 1. An angel seals the servants of God in their foreheads. 4. The number that were sealed. 9. A countless multitude of the redeemed in heaven ascribe salvation to God and the Lamb. 13. The glory and happiness of those who came out of great tribulation.
VI. Footnotes.
1. John Ankerberg Show. Speakers are Drs. : Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.); Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.); Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J. D., Ph. D.)
2. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come, p 300.
3. Dr. Robert H. Mounce (Th. M., Ph. D., 1921 – 2019). The Book Of Revelation, The New International Commentary On The New Testament.
4. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.
5. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.
6. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D., 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
7. Pasted from Bible Gateway, Revelation Chapter 7.
8. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.
9. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
A. Worship is the theme of Revelation 4 and 5, but wrath is the subject of Revelation 6-19. The God who has been worshipped, now pours out His judgment. 2
B. The source of the seven-sealed scroll is now fully described. The scene is set and the time has arrived to begin breaking the seals, “one by one.” Re: 6:16-17: Man in his rebellion correctly analyzes the cosmic and terrestrial disturbances as a part of the great end-time day of wrath from the one sitting on the throne, and from the Lamb. The verb elthen (“has come”) is aorist indicative, referring to a previous arrival of the wrath, not something that is about to take place. 3
C. The seals are broken “one by one,” and restraint is increasingly removed from the earth. Vile human passions are given free rein, and the earth reaps the full harvest of man’s sin. 4
D. In Chapter 6 of the Seal Judgments: The first seal is that of Conquest (6:1-2). The second seal is that of War (6:3-4). The third seal is that of Inflation and Famine (6:5-6). The fourth seal is that of Death (6:7-8). The fifth seal is that of Martyrdom (6:9-11). The sixth seal is that of Cosmic Upheaval (6:12-17). The entire tribulation is a period of God’s wrath, not simply the latter portions of it as required by the mid-tribulation, pre-wrath, and post-tribulation approaches. While John often emphasized love in his writings, he did not hesitate to mention the severity of God toward the rebellious. 5
E. As each seal is removed, we are introduced to a series of preliminary judgments representing forces operative throughout history by means of which the redemptive and judicial forces of God are being carried out prior to the end. The prophet Joel described the day of the Lord as “great and very terrible” (Joel 2:11; cf. vs. 31). It is a day of wrath and retribution (Zeph. 1:14-18). According to those attempting to escape the presence of God and the Lamb, this day of wrath has come. Their rhetorical question (6:17) “who is able to stand?” echoes Nahum 1:6 (“Who can stand before his indignation?” Who can endure the heat of His anger?” –cf. Mal 3:2). The announcement of the end need not be understood as the mistaken opinion of terrified mankind. The beginning of the end has arrived, and the plagues of 8:7-9:21 and 16:2-21 follow the actual opening of the seven-sealed scroll. The wrath of God is neither personal vindictiveness, nor an impersonal process of retribution which works itself out in the course of history. It is the response of [God’s] holiness to persistent and impenitent wickedness. 6
F. The opening of chapter 6 of the book of Revelation marks an important milestone in the progressive revelation of the end of the age. In chapter 5 John is introduced to the seven-sealed book in the hand of Christ. In chapter 6 the first six seals are opened with the resultant tremendous events occurring in the earth. The interpretation of these events depends upon the understanding of other portions of the prophetic Word. If the events portrayed are taken in any literal sense, it should be clear that they describe an event yet future, in the words of Christ, “the things which shall be hereafter” (1:19). Van Ryn expresses the common pretribulation position: The opening of the seals ushers in the terrible judgments to fall upon this earth after the Church has been caught up to glory, as we saw in chap. 4:1. 7
A. 6:2. “he who sat on it.” Evidently a reference to Antihrist. His method of conquest at first does not seem to include open warfare, since peace is not removed from the earth until the second seal is opened (v. 3). This corresponds to the description of delusion in 1 Thes. 5:3.
B. 6:3-4. Everything about the second seal judgment indicates bloodshed (e.g., “red horse, take peace from, sword”).
C. 6:6. “a denarius.” A Roman silver coin that had a normal purchasing power of 10 qt (9.5 lit) of wheat, or 30 qt (28.5 lit) of barley. One qt (.95 lit) of wheat was the daily ration for a soldier. Thus, a daily wage will buy food for only one person, who will have to share with his family.
D. 6:8. “ashen”= a sickly, yellowish green. Probably representing the inevitable result of disease that accompanies war and famine. “Death” claims the bodies, and “Hades” the souls and spirits, of one-fourth of the world’s population in this single judgment (cf. 9:18).
E. 6:9. “the souls of those who had been slain.” Evidently the martyrs of the first months of the tribulation period.
F. 6:10. Notice that these martyrs are alive and conversing with the Lord in His presence.
G. 6:11. “rest for a little while longer.” I.e., wait a little while. It is difficult for these martyrs to understand why God would allow their murderers to live; yet, God asks these saints to trust Him.
H. 6:12. These cosmic disturbances are predicted elsewhere in Scripture (Isa. 34:4; Joel 2:30-31; Matt 24:29).
I. 6:16. When the Tribulation comes, men will act as if they believe the end of the world is at hand, not simply talk as if it were.
V. Summary. 10
In this sixth chapter of Revelation we considered, by verse: 1 What the apostle saw when the Lamb opened the first seal; 3 the second seal, 5 the third seal, 7 the fourth seal, 9 the fifth seal, 12 and the sixth seal.
VI. Additional Thoughts.
Notice that it is Christ (the Lamb) who broke open these seals which brought judgment on all who reside on the earth. The seal judgments are not a source of Satan, the Antichrist, mankind, or anyone other than Christ. Those who are left on the earth after the Rapture takes place, are left because they have not been born again, having the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their spirits, making their spirits as righteous as the Spirit of God (2 Cor 5:17, 21). Those who are left behind are known as “earth dwellers,” or “those who dwell upon the earth” (Rev 3:10; 6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8, 14; 17:8). Even as judgments on earth dwellers become increasingly more severe, many earth dwellers continue to defy God. Earth dwellers chose earth over citizenship in Heaven (Phil. 3:20). We who are believers in Christ have been told, “God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thes 5:9). Per J. Dwight Pentecost, Th. M., Th. D., “Things To Come,” p 195: “Wrath for others, but salvation for us at the Rapture, whether we wake or sleep.” Re: Rev 6:16-17: pp 183-184: “According to the observation of John, that the program there being unfolded is related to the ‘wrath of the Lamb.’ ” The aorist tense in verse 17, elthen (has come) signifies, not something that is about to happen, but that which has taken place. Thus, in unfolding the program of the seals, John announces that these represent “the wrath” that has already come.
VII. Footnotes.
1. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021).
2. Dr. David Jeremiah, (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible
3. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
4. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
5. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. M., D. Min.). The Moody Bible Commentary.
6. Dr. Robert H. Mounce (Th. M., Ph. D., December 30, 1921 – January 24, 2019). The Book Of Revelation, The New International Commentary On The New Testament.
7. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002). Revelation Commentary.
8. Link pasted from Bible Gateway.
9. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible.
10. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor), Anna Seamans Nave (Editor)
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
A. Revelation 6:1 begins the first of three series of judgments in the book (seals, chap. 6; trumpets, chap. 8-9; bowls, chap. 16). Some see the later series as recapitulating the earlier series. But, more likely, the three series are consecutive, each succeeding one following the preceding one. Rev 6:2. A reference to the Antichrist. Also see Matthew 24. 2
1. Matthew 24:3. Verses 4-14 list characteristics of the first half of the tribulation period, whereas verses 15-28 deal with the second half. 2
2. Matthew 24:6-7. See the same judgments outlined in Rev 6:1-8. 2
3. Matthew 24:14. “The gospel of the kingdom. This is the good news that will be preached during the tribulation days concerning the coming of Messiah and setting up of His kingdom. See Matt 3:2. Evidently, many will respond (Rev 7:9-10). 2
4. Matthew 24:15. “ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION.” This is the man of sin (2 Thes 2:4), the Antichrist, who at this midpoint of the Tribulation breaks the covenant he made with the Jewish people at the beginning of the Tribulation (Dan. 9:27) and demands that they and the world worship him. Those who resist will be persecuted, and many will be martyred; that is the reason for the urgency of the instructions of verses 16-22. 2
5. Matthew 24:29-30. “THE SUN…THE MOON…THE STARS.” These astral phenomena, which will accompany the return of the Son of Man, are foretold in Isa. 13:9-10 and Joel 2:31; 3:15. 2
B. Revelation chapters (6:1-18:24) describe the tribulation, during which God will exercise His wrath toward rebellious sinners, and work to bring Israel to repentance. This section assured first century believers that persecutors of God’s people would not ultimately escape justice. Seals, trumpets, and bowls are labels that John used to describe the judgments of this time period. 3
C. The vision of the glorified Son of man in chapter 1 led to the writing of the seven letters to the churches (chaps. 2-3), Similarly, the throne room vision of chapters 4-5 sets the stage for the opening of the scroll with its sequence of seals, trumpets, and bowls (chaps. 6-16). The dramatic portrayal of God’s righteous judgment is now under way. 4
D. Chapter 6 introduces the seal judgments, which make up the first quarter of the Tribulation Period. The seventh seal then introduces the seven trumpets, which indicates that we are carried to the second quarter of the Tribulation. The seventh trumpet, in turn, introduces the seven bowl judgments, which comprise the last half of the Tribulation Period. Everything else between chapters 7 and 8 must be placed within the consecutive events of these three judgments. John saw the seven seals broken, one at a time; then, the seventh one introduced the seven trumpets, and finally the seventh trumpet introduced the seven bowls. Each of these judgments, whether breaking a seal, blowing a trumpet, or pouring out a bowl, is a symbolic announcement in heaven of an event that actually takes place on earth. These judgments take place consecutively. 5
E. The opening of chapter 6 of the book of Revelation marks an important milestone in the progressive revelation of the end of the age. In chapter 5 John is introduced to the seven-sealed book in the hand of Christ. In chapter 6 the first six seals are opened with the resultant tremendous events occurring in the earth. The interpretation of these events depends upon the understanding of other portions of the prophetic Word. If the events portrayed are taken in any literal sense, it should be clear that they describe an event yet future, in the words of Christ “the things which shall be hereafter” (1:19). The opening of the seals ushers in the terrible judgments to fall upon this earth after the Church has been caught up to glory, as we saw in chap. 4:1. 6
1. The events here revealed also depend for their interpretation on the question of whether a translation of the church has already taken place. Though the book of Revelation itself does not determine this important question with finality, it is significant that the church so prominent in chapters 2 and 3 is not mentioned again until 22:16 except as the wife of the Lamb at the close of the tribulation. Nowhere in scenes of earth which describe the end time (chaps. 6-19) is the church pictured as involved in the earthly struggle. Further, the hope of the rapture mentioned to the church of Thyatira and the church at Philadelphia does not appear in the detailed prophetic program which unfolds in the book of Revelation. This lends credence to the conclusion that the rapture of the church has occurred before the events pictured beginning with chapter 4. 6
2. There is a remarkable similarity between the progress of chapter 6 as a whole and the description given by our Lord of the end of the age in Matt 24:4-31. In both passages the order is (1) war (Matt 24:6-7; Rev 6:3-4), (2) famine (Matt 24:7; Rev 6:5-6), (3) death (Matt 24:7-9; Rev 6:7-8), (4) martyrdom (Matt 24:9-10, 16-22; Rev 6:9-11), (5) the sun darkened, the moon darkened, and the stars falling (Matt 24:29; Rev 6:12-14), (6) a time of divine judgment (Matt 24:32-25:26; Rev 6:15-17). The general features of Matthew 24 are obviously quite parallel to the events of the book of Revelation beginning in chapter 6. Walvoord. 6
III. Context.
A. A message that is not given within its proper context, becomes a pretext, which means that “it’s not true.”
B. The above noted scholars have made the point that the events of Revelation 6:1 through 18:24 find their place in future prophetic events that relate to the Tribulation, the Antichrist, and God’s judgment on those who will be left behind from the rapture of the church. The severity of the time is described by Jesus in Matthew 24:21: “For there will be a great Tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will.” The context of Matt 24:21 will dictate that nothing, even within the worldwide flood of Genesis 7:10 through Genesis 7:24, will be as severe as the judgments that God will pour out upon the earth during the time of Matthew Chapter 24, or anywhere within Revelation Chapters 6 through 18.Yet, there are pastors, teachers and other theologians, who will take a verse out of Matthew 24, in particular, as well as Revelation 6-18, and try to match it to a condition of the world that is taking place now; that is pretexting. A passage that can be used to relate to the events of today is 2 Timothy 3:1-5. The Matthew and Revelation passages that are addressed in this paragraph relate to the time of the Tribulation which will take place after the rapture of the church. The 2 Timothy passage addresses conditions that are present upon our earth now, and are confined to the church age, and will be present on our earth until the time of the rapture.
C. The time and conditions which will be present upon our earth when the Tribulation begins is found in Daniel 9:27:
1. “And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate.” Daniel 9:27, NASB.
2. Ryrie notes. (Daniel 9:27). “he.” The Antichrist will make a pact with many (of the Jewish people) at the beginning of the tribulation period. “But 3 1/2 years later Antichrist will break his covenant, and desecrate the Temple by demanding worship of himself. (See notes on Matt 24:15 and 2 Thes 2:4). At Christ’s second coming, Antichrist and his false prophet will be cast into the lake of fire (Rev 19:20). 2
3. Before the time of the events of Matthew 24 and Revelation 6-18 occur, the Antichrist will make a pact with unsaved Israel, which has not happened yet, and will not occur until the church is raptured from Earth to heaven (John 14:1-6; 1 Cor 15:50-54; 1 Thes 4:13-18; Tit 2:13.
4. “The Day of the Lord” relates to the Tribulation and Millennium, as was written by the Old Testament Jewish Prophets (Zeph 1:14; Joel 1:15; Isa 13:6; Ezek 30:3; Joel 2:1. Rryrie. 2
5. “The Day of Christ” (Phil 1:6, 10; 2:16) relates to the return of Christ for the rapture of the Church (Ryrie).] “Rapture” is taken out of context when it is used to mean “Day of the Lord.”
IV. Conclusion.
A. God’s plan for eternity is not based on the ungodly actions of His created beings. God has already made a plan that is based on His sovereign eternal purpose; i.e., Rom 11:25, which is the “fullness of the Gentiles.” Such a fullness is the time when a Godly determined number of Gentiles comes to belief in Christ as Lord and Savior, Messiah. At such a time (Rom 11:25), the hardening of the Jews toward Jesus will be removed and the Rapture will take place, with Jesus coming in the air, taking His believers to Heaven with Him (John 14:1-6); the Antichrist will be revealed with His pact with unsaved Israel taking place (Daniel 9:27); the Tribulation will begin, with the judgments of Matthew 24 and Revelation 6:1-18:24 being poured out on earth by God, through Christ and God’s angels, on all (unbelievers, Jew and Gentile) who remain on the earth (See Rev 6:1, 6:3, 6:5, 6:7, etc.). The judgments of the Tribulation do not come at the hands of Satan, the Antichrist, mankind, or “mother nature” (there is no mother nature!).
B. It is important to know that the judgments of Matthew 24 are shown in a capsule view of the judgments of Revelation. Those judgments have not begun yet, and will not begin until after the Rapture of the church takes place. No one should relate any event that is taking place on earth now, to any judgment that is prophesied to happen in either Revelation 24 or the Book of Revelation. The fall of Adam and Eve, with the resulting curse (Gen 3:17), has affected, and will continue to affect all of the perfection that is shown in Genesis 1 and 2, until the curse is removed in the eternal state (Rev 22:3).
C. As opposed to Jesus coming in the air at the Rapture to take His church with Him to Heaven, these verses: “Zechariah 14:1-5, 9, Matthew 24:29-30 and Rev 19:11-21” show Christ returning to earth with believers of all times, and angels, to set up His prophesied “earthly, millennial kingdom on earth,” where Christ will rule and reign for 1,000 years. After 1,000 years, the eternal state of the New Heaven, New Earth and New Jerusalem will be the reigning place of God, and of Christ ( Rev 21:1-3, 22).
D. Much more can be said on the subject of Matthew 24, and how it relates to the prophecies of the Book of Revelation, but I will stop here.
V. Footnotes.
1. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021).
2. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible.
3. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. M., D. Min.). The Moody Bible Commentary.
4. Dr. Robert H. Mounce (Th. M., Ph. D., December 30, 1921 – January 24, 2019). The Book Of Revelation, The New International Commentary On The New Testament.
5. Dr. Tim LaHaye (D. Min., D. Litt.; 1926-2016). Revelation Illustrated & Made Plain.
6. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002). Revelation Commentary.
VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
When we get to heaven will we see God with our own eyes?
II. Overview.
A. Here begins the third section of the book (see 1:19) describing what is yet future. This section can be divided into three parts: the coming Tribulation (chaps. 6-19), the Millennium (chap 20), and the new heavens and new earth (chaps. 21-22). 2
B. In Chapter 4, the primary focus is on God the Father, sitting on His throne, enjoying the worship of His creatures. In Chapter 5, the focus is on God the Son, the Messiah of Israel, our Lord Jesus Christ. 3
C. In John’s first apocalyptic vision, the seven-sealed scroll arises in a heavenly vision setting that is dominated by a throne, more specifically by the one sitting on that throne. Chapter 4 focuses on God the Creator who delivers the seven-sealed scroll, and Chapter 5 on God (i.e., Christ) the Redeemer, the only one found worthy to take it and open the seals. 4
D. The scene has changed from earth to heaven (4:1). The Apostle Paul was once caught up into the third heaven and saw things “not lawful for a man to utter” (2 Cor 12:4). Now, John is caught up and is shown things he has already been commanded to communicate to men (1:1). Three things are impressed indelibly upon his mind. He sees an unforgettable throne, and unforgettable throng, and experiences an unforgettable thrill. 5
E. These chapters (4-5) look to the future for the first time in the book and contain John’s initial description of heaven. He was caught up in a vision where he saw the Father and the Son in the midst of a host of angels. The Father received praise for His creation of the world, and the Son for His redeeming work on the cross. The original readers would have been comforted by understanding that, while their world was most uncertain, heaven was properly focused and stable. 6
F. Chapters 4 and 5 are the introduction and background of the tremendous sweep of prophetic events predicted in the rest of the book. If chapter 4 and succeeding chapters relate to the future, they provide an important clue concerning the interpretation of the vision and the prophetic events which unfold in those chapters. One of the principal reasons for confusion in the study of the book of Revelation has been the failure to grasp this point. If Revelation has no chronological structure and is merely a symbolic presentation of moral truth, its prophetic significance is reduced to a minimum. If, as others hold, the predictions of this section of Revelation are already fulfilled in the early persecution of the church, it also robs the book of any prophecy of the future. 7
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapters 4 and 5. 8
A. 4:2. “I was in the spirit,” as in the 1:10 post.
B. 4:4. “24 elders.” Some understand these to be angelic beings, though it is likely that the 24 elders represent redeemed people, who are glorified, crowned, and enthroned. Angels are never said to be given crowns, though believers are (2 Timothy 4:8; James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 2:10).
C. 4:5. “7 Spirits of God,” as in the 1:4 post.
D. 4:6. “4 living creatures,” or living ones. These may be angels, probably cherubim (cf. Ezek. 10:15-20), or they may be representations of the attributes of God, Himself (since they are said to be “in the center” of the throne).
E. 4:7. Many see a similarity between the 4 living ones and the fourfold manner in which Christ is portrayed in the Gospels. In Matthew He appears as the Lion of the tribe of Judah; in Mark He is the Servant who became the sacrifice for sin (the calf was a sacrificial animal, Heb 9:12, 19); Luke’s emphasis is on the Son of Man; and “a flying eagle” links Him with heaven, as does John’s gospel.
F. 4:8-11. Here is a great anthem of praise by the 4 living ones and the 24 elders to God as creator. In 5:11-14 the focus of worship is on God as Redeemer.
G. 5:1. “a book.” Lit., a scroll. This may be called the “Book of Redemption,” as it contains the story of man’s fall through sin, and rise through Christ (Heb. 2:5-9).
H. 5:5. “the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah.” The noblest and victorious of the kingly tribe (cf. Gen. 49:9). “the Root of David.” The one who fulfills the covenant with David (cf. Isa. 11:1, 10). The messiah, John is assured, is competent and worthy to break the 7 seals and open the scroll to release the plagues.
I. 5:6. “as if slain.” Christ, the Lamb, bears the marks of His death (See Luke 24:40; John 20:20, 27) even in His glorified state. “horns” are a symbol of strength (cf. 1 Kings 22:11; Zech 1:18).
J. 5:8. “bowls,” like saucers.
K. 5:9-10. The Lamb is worthy because He died in the past to pay the ransom price for the sins of the world, positioned us in the present as a kingdom and priests before God, and gave us a promise of reigning on the earth in the future. A few mss. read “us” and “we” in verse 10 instead of “them” and “they.” In either case, the elders could be singing of their own redemption in either the first or third person.
L. 5:13. All creation joins in praise to God and the Lamb.
M. 5:14. The heavenly scene of chaps. 4 and 5 give heaven’s perspective on the need for the awful judgments to follow, for Christ’s right to reign must be realized, and sin must be punished.
V. Additional Thoughts. The “redeemed” of Revelation 4:4.
A. The New Testament redeemed consists of those whom will be caught up in the resurrection and rapture of believers in Christ (John 14:2-6; 1 Corinthians 15:50-54; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
B. The Old Testament redeemed will have already been taken to Heaven, per Ephesians 4:8. 10
C. Job spoke of his redeemer (Job 19:25-27).
VI. Summary.
In these fourth and fifth chapters of Revelation we considered: 4:1 John’s vision of the throne of God in heaven, 4:4 and of the twenty-four elders around it. 4:10 The elders worship him that sits on the throne. 5:1 The book sealed with seven seals. 5:3 No man is able to open it. 5:5 The Lamb that was slain takes the book; whereupon the elders and angels around the throne join in thanksgiving and praise to him. 11
VII. Footnotes.
1. John Ankerberg Show. Speakers: Drs. Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.), Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.), Mark Hitchcock (Th. M.; J. D., Ph. D.).
2. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible.
3. Dr. David Hocking. Bachelor of Arts in Bible, Greek and Ancient History; Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies & Systematic Theology; Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies and Languages; Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Studies.
4. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.
5. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.
6. Dr. Daniel D. Green (Th. M., D. Min.). The Moody Bible Commentary.
7. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002). Revelation Commentary.
8. Scripture link pasted from Bible Gateway, New American Standard Bible.
9. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible.
10. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Ephesians Commentary.
11. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor), Anna Seamans Nave (Editor)
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. Are the letters to the seven churches relevant to us today? 10
II. Overview.
A. These are letters dictated by the risen Lord to seven literal churches in western Asia Minor toward the end of the first century of the Christian era. 1
B. Chapters 2-3 are devoted to describing practical standards of behavior for the seven churches, and that the Apocalypse was written for a distinctively practical purpose. 2
C. The seven churches are addressed here. They have a common structure that includes: (1) a greeting, (2) commendations , (3) corrections, (4) an exhortation to repent, and (5) a promise of reward for those who overcome. Most are also encouraged by some aspect Christ’s character from 1:4-20. 3
D. The seven churches addressed in chapters 2 and 3 were actual churches of John’s day. But, they also represent conditions of churches of all generations. This idea is supported by the fact that only seven were selected out of many that existed and flourished in John’s time and by the statement at the close of each letter that the Spirit was speaking to the churches (vv 7, 11, etc.). 4
E. The things that are said about each of these churches is a message intended for all churches. There are seven problems or descriptions to which all churches may at one time or another subscribe. These troubles affect all Christians and churches not only when such matters specifically begin to influence us, but also when a given period of time is generally characterized by these problems. 5
F. The seven letters are, with minor exceptions, organized in the following general pattern: (1) a description of Christ derived from the vision of ch. 1; (2) a commendation of the congregation; (3) a rebuke for spiritual deficiencies; (4) a correction for what is wrong; and (5) a promise to overcomers. The seven churches were congregations in Asia Minor in John’s day. Sometimes they are interpreted as representing seven stages of church history. But this interpretation is unlikely, since there is disagreement among interpreters about what part of Revelation represents which period in history. More likely, these seven assemblies are examples of the kind of churches that exist throughout history (2:7). This means that all seven letters are warnings to every church in every age (see 2:7). 6
G. In the second chapter of the book of Revelation the second major division of the book begins. As previously mentioned, chapter 1 seems to fulfill the command of 1:19, “Write the things which thou hast seen.” Beginning in chapter 4, the material deals with “the things which shall be hereafter” (1:19). In chapters 2 and 3 the messages to the seven churches are referred to as “the things which are” (cf. 1:19). These messages, therefore, contain divine revelation and exhortation pertaining to the present age; and, having special pertinence in the present situation in the church, they constitute one of the most incisive and penetrating exhortations in the entire New Testament in relation to church doctrine and Christian living. 7
H. Some people hold that these churches, in general, represent the history of the church – the idea that the church in Ephesus represents the apostolic church, the others the progress of the church through the centuries, and the church at Laodicea as the final church at the time of Christ’s coming. There is, however, no scriptural verification of this type of interpretation. 8
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapters 2 and 3. 12
A. 2:1-7. Ephesus. the church that had forsaken its first love (2:4).
B. 2:8-11. Smyrna. the church that would suffer persecution (2:10).
C. 2:12-17. Pergamum. the church that needed to repent (2:16).
D. Thyatira. 2:18-19, the church that had a false prophetess (2:20).
E. Sardis. 3:1-6. the church that had fallen asleep (3:2).
F. Philadelphia. 3:7-13. the church that had endured patiently (3:10).
G. Laodicea. 3:14-22. the church with the lukewarm faith (3:16).
V. Additional Thoughts.
As was mentioned in the Overview, there were problems in the churches that existed during the time of John, that also exist during the time in which we live now; such problems can interfere with the work of the church in evangelizing and in teaching the love of Christ. In every congregation, the love of Christ should be visible, and without anyone being forced to look for it. Also, in every congregation, the Bible should be taught, and in its proper context.
VI. Summary. 9
In these second and third chapters of Revelation we considered: 2:1 Christ’s message to the angel of the church in Ephesus. 2:8 in Smyrna. 2:12 in Pergamos. 2:18 in Thyatira. 3:1 in Sardis. 3:7 in Philadelphia. 3:14 Laodicea.
VII. Footnotes.
1. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) John Phillips Revelation Commentary. 2. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary, 1992. 3. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. M., D. Min.). The Moody Bible Commentary, 2014. 4. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible, 1986, 1995. 5. Dr. David Hocking. Bachelor of Arts in Bible, Greek and Ancient History; Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies & Systematic Theology; Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies and Languages; Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Studies. 6. Dr. A. Boyd Luter (Th. M., Th. D. , Ph. D.) Holman Christian Standard Bible, 2010. 7. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002). Revelation Commentary, 1974. 8. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002). Every Prophecy Of The Bible, 1990, 1999, p 526 9. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor), Anna Seamans Nave (Editor) 10. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021). 11. Got Questions. 12. New American Standard Bible, 1995, pasted from Bible Hub.
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
I. Video Data. How is Jesus described in Revelation, Chapter 1? 1
II. Overview.
A. The first chapter of Revelation describes how God prepared John to receive subsequent portions of the revelation that were to constitute the book. After John introduces the work in its prologue (1:1-8), he describes a vision of Christ especially designed to direct the prophet’s thinking into channels appropriate to what follows in subsequent chapters (1:9-20). 2
B. The content of the book was revealed by Jesus Christ (v 1). The transmission of the material began with God the Father and was given progressively to Jesus, an angel, the apostle himself, and finally the seven churches of Asia Minor. Blessings were promised for the one who would read the prophetic scroll to the various congregations, as well as to those who would hear and obey its teachings. 3
C. The opening verse of the first chapter introduces immediately the central theme of the book of Revelation, namely, Jesus Christ in His present and future glory. The futuristic and prophetic character of the book is indicated in the words “a revelation of Jesus Christ” in which God will declare to John “things which must shortly come to pass.” The word revelation is the translation of apokalypsis without the article, meaning a “revelation, disclosure, or unveiling.” It is a revelation of truth about Christ Himself, a disclosure of future events, that is, His second coming when Christ will be revealed. It is as well a revelation which comes from Christ. 4
III. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 1. 5
The Revelation of Jesus Christ
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His bond-servants, the things which must soon take place; and He sent and communicated it by His angel to His bond-servant John, 2 who testified to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. 3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near.
Message to the Seven Churches
4 John to the seven churches that 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, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood— 6 and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen.
8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
The Patmos Vision
9 I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, 11 saying, “Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.”
12 Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands; 13 and in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. 14 His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. 15 His feet were like burnished bronze, when it has been made to glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters. 16 In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength.
17 When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, 18 and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades. 19 Therefore write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these things. 20 As for 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 are the seven churches.
IV. Verse Examination. 6
A. 1:1. “of Jesus Christ” = from Jesus Christ. Jesus gave this revelation from God, by means of an angel, to John. “soon.” This word does not indicate that the events described in this book will necessarily occur soon but that when they do begin to happen they will come to pass swiftly. (The same Greek word is translated “quickly” in Luke 18:8.)
B. 1:3. ‘Blessed.” There are seven beatitudes in Revelation. This is the first; the others are found in 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14. John wanted the book read at once, and preferable aloud, in the churches.
C. 1:4. “seven.” The number seven is associated with completion, fulfillment and perfection. In Revelation there are seven churches and seven spirits (1:4), seven lampstands (1:12), seven stars (1:16), seen seals on the scroll (5:1), seven horns and seven eyes of the Lamb (5:6), seven angels and seven trumpets (8:2), seven thunders (10:3), seven heads of the dragon (12:3), seven heads of the beast (13:1), seven golden bowls (15:7), and seven kings (17:10). “the seven spirits.” Many understand this to refer to the Holy Spirit in His perfect fullness (see 4:5a; Isa 11:2), though some take this as a reference to seven angels who are before God’s throne.
D. 1:5. “firstborn of the dead.” I.e., Christ was the first to receive a resurrection body that is immortal. See Col 1:15, where He is designated the firstborn of of every creature (cf. Ps 89:27).
E. 1.6. “a kingdom, priests.” Description of both Israel (Ex 19:6) and the church (1 Pet 2:9-10), indicating that we shall minister to Him forever.
F. 1:7. On “pierced” see Zech 12:10. “all…will mourn.” See Matt 24:29:30).
G. 1:8. “the Alpha and the Omega.” The first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, indicating that the Lord God is the beginning and end of all things.
H. 1:9. “Patmos.” A small island in the Aegean Sea, SW of Ephesus.
I. 1:10. “in the Spirit.” I. e., in a state of spiritual “ecstasy.” “on the Lord’s day.” Likely not a reference to Sunday (which is called the first day of the week in the NT) but literally a “lordian day,” or an “imperial day” (the same adjective is used elsewhere only in 1 Cor 11:20), referring to the contents of the vision that reveal the future time when Christ will judge and rule.
J. 1:12. “lampstands.” These represent the seven churches mentioned in verse 11 (see also v 20).
K. 1:13. Christ’s clothing designates Him as priest and judge. Notice the description of the Ancient of Days in Dan 7:9.
L. 1:14. “like white wool…..snow.” Pictures Christ’s wisdom and purity. “His eyes were like a flame of fire.”Piercing and penetrating in holiness. Compare the figure used in 1 Cor 3:13 in relation to judgment.
M 1:15. His “feet” walked through the trials and limitations of His earthly life. No one will talk back to one who has such a “voice.”
N. 1:16-20. “In His right hand he held seven stars.” The right hand is the place of honor (cf. Eph 1:20). The stars are the “angels of the seven churches” (v 20). The word “angel” may mean “a superhuman being,” implying that each church has a special guardian angel or, more likely, it refers to the human leader of each local church. (See Luke 9:52 and James 2:25, where the word “angels,” translated “messengers,” is used of human beings.) “sword.” A symbol both of the truth and of the severity of the Word of God (Heb 4:12).
O. 1:17. “I am the first and the last.” In verse 8 God is called “the Alpha and the Omega.” Here, Christ gives Himself a similar title.
P. 1:18. “the keys of death and of Hades.” The keys denote the authority of Christ over physical death and Hades, the place that temporarily holds the immaterial part of the unbeliever between death and the ultimate casting into the lake of fire (see 20:14).
Q. 1:19. This verse gives the basic outline of the book: (1) “things which you (John) have seen,” as recorded in chap 1; (2) “things which are;” i.e., the present state of the churches (chaps 2-3); and (3) “things which will take place after these things.” The third section clearly begins with 4:1, since the same phrase is used there.
R. 1:20. “the….stars are the angels.”
V. Additional Thoughts.
A. Rev 1:19, per Dr. Ryrie’s note: (2) “things which are;” i.e., the present state of the churches (chaps 2-3). There is much teaching on the churches of Revelation Chapters 2 and 3, as to future date periods for each of the mentioned churches, from the date forward of the Revelation, such as:
The Church of Ephesus era occurred from 33-100 A.D. The Church of Smyrna era, the Persecuted Church, occurred from 100-313 A.D. The Church of Pergamos era occurred from 313-538 A.D. The era of the Church of Thyatira, the Pagan Church 538-1514 A.D. The Church of Sardis era, the Dead Church, occurred during the 1514 – 1798 A.D. The era of the Church of Philadelphia occurred from 1798 – 1866 A.D. The era of the Church of Laodicea, the Lukewarm Church, 1866 A.D. – present
B. Based on such flawed assumptions of when certain church periods will occur, the rapture of the church could not have been possible until present day. Per Paul’s writing of Titus 2:13, “looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,” Christians were looking forward to the return of Christ, from the time of Paul’s writing of Titus in the year 65 A.D. John Walvoord had a sign in his office at Dallas Theological Seminary with the words, “Maybe Today.” As in the time of the writing of the New Testament, until all years forward, there has always been a teaching of imminency in regard to the Rapture of the Church. However, if the above suggested church periods were true, the Rapture could not have occurred until sometime during the “present”? Laodicean Church age. Chapters 2 and 3 address churches as they were functioning at the time of John’s writing. As we move on to chapters two and three of Revelation, we will see that every church problem that The Revelation addresses, has been common to the churches of every era of time, from the time of the Revelation, through present day churches.
C. In addition to the “church ages” incorrect teachings, it is important to address another incorrect teaching in reference to the Book of Revelation. Many people relate to “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, ” as to “the book of revelations.” But, per Rev 1:1, the correct wording is “The Revelation.” The Book of Revelation is “one revelation” (singular) that Jesus gave to the Apostle John, and “not many revelations” (plural).
VI. Summary. 7
In this first chapter of Revelation we considered: The preface (vs 1-3); John’s salutation to the seven churches of Asia (vs 4-6 ); the coming of Christ (vs 7-8); the Apostle’s vision in Patmos (vs 9-16); the effect of the vision of Patmos on the Apostle (vs 17-18); what the Apostle is commanded to write (vs 19-20).
VII. Footnotes.
1. John Ankerberg Show: Drs. Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.), Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.), Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J. D., Ph. D.).
2. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary, 1992.
3. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. M., D. Min.). The Moody Bible Commentary, 2014.
4. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002). Revelation Commentary, 1974.
5. Scripture Text. Revelation 1, New American Standard Bible (NASB 1995). Pasted from Bible Gateway.
6. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible, 1986, 1995.
7. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor), Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).
VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.
What are the three main themes in the Book of Revelation? 1
II. Introduction.
This series of articles on the Book of Revelation will be a refining of previous posted articles on this subject. The purpose of this series of articles is to write each chapter in Revelation in a more concise narrative, thereby making it easier for someone to understand and explain to others. The website category for this series of articles is “About Revelation.”
III. Overview. 2
Revelation WRITER: The Apostle John (1:1)
DATE: A.D. 96
THEME: The theme of the Revelation is Jesus Christ ( 1:1), presented in a threefold way:
1. As to time: “which is, and which was, and which is to come” (1:4); 2. As to relationships–the churches (1:9-3:22), to the tribulation (4:1-19:21), to the kingdom (20:1-22:21); 3. In His offices–High Priest (8:3-6), Bridegroom (19:7-9), King-Judge (20:1-15).
But while Christ is thus the central theme of the book, all of the events move toward one consummation, the bringing in of the covenanted kingdom. The key-phrase is the prophetic declaration of the “great voices in heaven” (11:15), “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. .” The book is, therefore, a prophecy (1:3).
The three major divisions of Revelation must be clearly held if the interpretation is to be sane and coherent. John was commanded to “write” concerning three classes of “things” (1:19):
1. Things past, “the things thou hast seen,” i.e. the Patmos vision, 1:1-20. 2. Things present, “the things which are,” i.e. things then existing–obviously the churches. The temple had been destroyed, the Jews dispersed: the testimony of God had been committed to the Churches (1 Timothy 3:15). Accordingly we have seven messages to seven representative churches, 2:1-3:22. It is noteworthy that the church is not mentioned in chapters 5-18. 3. Things future, “things which shall be hereafter,” lit. “after these,” i.e. after the church period ends, 4:1-22:21. The third major division, as Erdman (W.J.) has pointed out, falls into a series of six sevens, with parenthetical passages, making, with the church division, seven sevens. The six sevens are:
1. The seals, 4:1-8:1. 2. The seven trumpets, 8:2-11:19. 3. The seven personages, 12:1-14,20. 4. The seven vials (bowls), 15:1-16:21. 5. The seven dooms, 17:1-20:15. 6. The seven new things, 21:1-22:21.
The parenthetical passages are:
1. The Jewish remnant and the tribulation saints, 7:1-17. 2. The angel, the little book, the two witnesses, 10:1-11:14. 3. The Lamb, the Remnant, and the everlasting Gospel, 14:1-13. 4. The gathering of the kings at Armageddon, 16:13-16. 5. The four alleluias in heaven, 19:1-6.
These passages do not advance the prophetic narrative. Looking backward and forward they sum up results accomplished, and speak of results yet to come as if they had already come. In 14:1, for example, the Lamb and Remnant are seen prophetically on Mount Sion, though they are not actually there till 20:4-6. The end of the church period (2-3) is left indeterminate. It will end by the fulfilment of 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17. Chapters 4-19 are believed to synchronize with Daniel’s Seventieth Week (See Scofield Daniel 9:24). The great tribulation begins at the middle of the week, and continues three and a half years (11:3-19:21). The tribulation is brought to an end by the appearing of the Lord and the battle of Armageddon (Matthew 24:29,30; Revelation 19:11-21). The kingdom follows (20:4,5); after this the “little season” (20:7-15), and then eternity.
Interpreters of the Revelation should bear in mind two important passages: 1 Peter 1:12; 2 Peter 1:20,21. Doubtless much which is designedly obscure to us will be clear to those for whom it was written as the time approaches.
IV. Footnotes.
1. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D.; 1940-2021). 2. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921), Scofield Reference Notes 1917.
Eternity 