The Time is Near
Notes
Transcript
V.6:
Reassuring words, as we transition from the Holy City to the final words of this prophecy.
We are assured that this prophecy comes from the Lord, as is true of any genuine prophecy.
We are assured that this prophecy comes from the Lord, as is true of any genuine prophecy.
2 Peter 1:20-21
2 Peter 1:20-21
knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
This assurance directly contradicts the point of view of many scholars that the Book of Revelation is an unknowable mystery to which no key is available today.
This book is the Word of God and not some figment of John’s imagination.
It is intended to describe future events.
When taken in its literal, ordinary meaning, this is exactly what it does, even though much of Revelation is written in symbolic form.
The Word of God was not given to be obscure. It was given to be understood by those willing to be taught by the Spirit.
V.7:
His return is imminent. And, of course, this is the overriding theme of Revelation.
This last book of the Bible, so neglected by the church and with its meanings confused by many expositors, contains more promises of blessing than any other book of Scripture.
This reference to blessing is the sixth beatitude in the book (the seventh is in v. 14).
Revelation 22:7 contains a blessing. Revelation contains more promises of blessing than any other book of Scripture.
Revelation 22:7 contains a blessing. Revelation contains more promises of blessing than any other book of Scripture.
Revelation 1:3
Revelation 1:3
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.
The first blessing (in 1:3) is similar to this one in 22:7.
VV.8-9:
John had just been a exposed to the Word of God, which is something that should always inspire worship.
However, just because the Word speaks to us is no excuse to worship the messenger.
It may be a pastor or anyone else who shares scripture that convicts you.
Just remember, like this angel, they are only a messenger and fellow servant. The Word emanates from God.
As such, it is He alone who is to be worshipped.
In fact, this whole episode is rather curios, considering John’s very recent experience.
Considering John’s recent experience, it is curious that he would once again attempt to worship the angel.
Considering John’s recent experience, it is curious that he would once again attempt to worship the angel.
Revelation 19:10
Revelation 19:10
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
John had already been told not to worship an angel, but he is so overwhelmed with the word which was revealed to him that he does it again. Such is the heart of man!
None of us are above such temptation.
V.10:
This is in direct contrast to the command to Daniel to seal up the book.
Long ago, Daniel was told to seal this book. Now, the angel reveals that it is time to reveal the prophecy.
Long ago, Daniel was told to seal this book. Now, the angel reveals that it is time to reveal the prophecy.
Daniel 8:26
Daniel 8:26
“And the vision of the evenings and mornings Which was told is true; Therefore seal up the vision, For it refers to many days in the future.”
The message is now meant to be heard by the church, and the vision is meant to be understood.
The time is at hand. Once again the imminent return of Christ is emphasized.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that He will come in a time frame which is quick by our standards, though it certainly doesn’t preclude it.
What it most definitely means, is that His return is imminent, it will happen.
From the Lord’s perspective, He will return very quickly.
From the Lord’s perspective, He will return very quickly.
2 Peter 3:3-4
2 Peter 3:3-4
knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.”
2 Peter 3:8-9
2 Peter 3:8-9
But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
He has promised a return, and He will fulfill that promise.
He has promised a return, and He will fulfill that promise.
Acts 1:9-11
Acts 1:9-11
Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
John 14:2-3
John 14:2-3
In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
When He does return, it will be very quickly, swiftly. Like a thief in the night. There will be no time to prepare.
When He does return, it will be very quickly, swiftly. Like a thief in the night. There will be no time to prepare.
1 Thessalonians 5:2-3
1 Thessalonians 5:2-3
For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.
2 Peter 3:10
2 Peter 3:10
But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.
Therefore, the time for preparation is now, for there will be no other advance warning!
V.11:
However, THIS warning does exist, and those who reject it will find themselves condemned to an eternity in hell.
In that horrid, torturous place, they will retain their evil and filthy natures for all eternity.
Those who do respond to the warnings will find their eternal destiny in glory and realize perfect righteousness and holiness in heaven.
As Christ’s return gets closer, there is a greater divide between God’s followers and Satan’s followers.
We must read the book of Revelation, hear its message, and be prepared for Christ’s imminent return.
