Revelation Notes
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Revelation
Revelation
LESSON 1
Session
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ (pop quiz) Chapter 1
2 The Church Age Chapters 2-3
GENERAL OVERVIEW
3 The Rapture of the Church and what follows for the Saints Pt 1 Chapter 4
4 The Rapture of the Church and what follows for the Saints Pt 2 Chapter 5
5 Events preceding the Great Tribulation Pt 1 Chapter 6
6 Events preceding the Great Tribulation Pt 2 Chapters 7-8
The Bible Guide Apocalypse Now!
Revelation’ comes from a Latin word which means ‘unveiling’ (or ‘wow!’). ‘Apocalypse’ comes from a Greek word which means the same thing.
7 Events during the Great Tribulation Chapter 9
8 The Angel, the Book, and the Witnesses Chapter 10-11:13
9 The Beginning of the third Woe Chapters 11:14-12:17
10 The Rise of the Antichrist Pt 1 Chapter 13:1-3
The Bible Guide Apocalypse Now!
John describes his visions in the extraordinary picture language which we first met in the book of Daniel. He uses images, symbols and numbers which are difficult for us to decode. But the overall message is clear—that Christ has defeated Satan and broken the power of evil.
11 The Rise of the Antichrist Pt 2 Chapter 13:4-10
12 The Rise of the False Prophet Chapter 13:11-18
13 Preparation for Armageddon Chapter 14
14 The Vials of God’s Anger Chapters 15-16
15 The Fall of Babylon Chapters 17-18
Revelation
16 The Beginning of the Earthly Reign of Christ Chapter 19-20
17 The New Heaven and Earth Pt 1 Chapter 21
18 The New Heaven and Earth Pt 2 Chapter 22
Revelation has visions that are similar to the ones in the book of Daniel
Revelation may have been a circular letter (sent to the 7 churches first)
Revelation was probably written about 95 AD
Revelation has a high emphasis on numbers. Some examples
3 = God
4 = The World
7 = Completeness (3 + 4 = 7)
12 = God’s work in the world (government)
DIFFERENT VIEWS ON REVELATION
A. Preterist view - Revelation dealt only with the church in John’s day
B. Historicist view - Revelation is a sweeping, disordered panorama of all church history. Revelation is symbols that describes now
Revelation 2. A Blessing to the Reader and Keeper of This Book (3)
a. The Preterist View: This approach believes that Revelation dealt only with the church in John’s day. In the Preterist approach, Revelation doesn’t predict anything. John simply described events of his current day, but he put them in symbolic code so those outside the Christian family couldn’t understand his criticism of the Roman government. In the Preterist view, the Book of Revelation was for then.
b. The Historicist View: This approach believes that Revelation is a sweeping, disordered panorama of all church history. In the Historicist approach, Revelation predicts the future, but the future of the “church age”—not the future of end-time events. In the Historicist view, Revelation is full of symbols that describe now.
C. Poetic view - Revelation is a book of pictures and symbols intended to encourage and comfort persecuted Christians. It is also considered allegorical. Revelation is a book of personal meaning
D. Futurist view - Starting with chapter four, Revelation deals with the end times, directly preceding Jesus second coming
12 = God’s work in the world
Revelation 2. A Blessing to the Reader and Keeper of This Book (3)
c. The Poetic View: This approach believes that Revelation is a book full of pictures and symbols intended to encourage and comfort persecuted Christians in John’s day. In the Poetic or allegorical view, the Book of Revelation isn’t literal or historic. Revelation is a book of personal meaning.
d. The Futurist View: This approach believes that beginning with chapter four, Revelation deals with the end times, the period directly preceding Jesus’ return. In the Futurist view, Revelation is a book that mainly describes the end times.
David Guzik Commentary on Revelation
I. The Revelation of Jesus Christ
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,
who testified to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.
A. God gave John
Show what must soon take place
the events that must soon take place. This would be better translated, “the things necessary to be in God’s timing.”
By His angel (most likely Jesus)
to John
the events that must soon take place. This would be better translated, “the things necessary to be in God’s timing.”
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.
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.
: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,
B. Blessed is he
B. Will shortly come to pass 1:3
1:1
I. The Revelation of Jesus Christ
B. Will shortly come to pass 1:3
a. Will shortly come to pass 1:3
1:3
i. Reads
· hear the words of this prophecy
ii. Hears the words of this prophecy
iii. Keeps those things which are written
It is never enough to just read and hear the Word of God. We must always do what God says, keep His commandments. This is especially true when it comes to Revelation. Why? Note the last statement made in verse 3: because "the time is at hand." The events are near, very near. Jesus Christ is returning to earth very soon. The events of the end time are about to happen. They are at hand, right over the horizon. Therefore, we must read, hear, and heed the things written in Revelation. We must be looking and preparing for the coming of Christ and for the events that point toward the end of the world. The believer who does what Revelation says shall be blessed ever so richly by God.
NOTE: Remember it is God’s timing, not man’s
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,
1:4
C. To the Seven churches
i. Grace be unto you, and peace (grace always comes before peace)
ii. Which is, which was, and which is to come (Alpha and Omega (1:8)
Which is, which was, and which is to come (Alpha and Omega (1:8)
iii. Seven Spirits – “The number seven in the Bible simply means completeness, fulness, and perfection. Thus, the seven spirits means the Holy Spirit in all His fulness. The Holy Spirit is before the throne of God in all of His perfection and fulness. Therefore, the believer is to find grace and peace in the fulness of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of God who lives within the believer in order to fill the believer with the grace and peace of God.”—Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible - Commentary
· Seven Spirits – “The number seven in the Bible simply means completeness, fulness, and perfection. Thus, the seven spirits means the Holy Spirit in all His fulness. The Holy Spirit is before the throne of God in all of His perfection and fulness. Therefore, the believer is to find grace and peace in the fulness of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of God who lives within the believer in order to fill the believer with the grace and peace of God.”—Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible - Commentary
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—
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.
D. From Jesus Christ:
rev 1
Jesus Christ:
i. Faithful Witness
ii. First begotten of the dead
3. Prince of the kings of the earth
iii. Prince of the kings of the earth
iv. Loves us
v. Washed us from our sins
vi. Made us kings and priests unto God
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.
1:7
E. Speaks of 2nd coming (After the Tribulation)
Speaks of 2nd coming (After the Tribulation)
Those who pierced Him (Israel)
All the tribes (Gentiles)
All the tribes (Gentiles)
1:8
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
iii. Again refers to 1:4
Again refers to 1:4
1:10
Lord’s day (Sunday)
Jesus voice was great and sounded like a trumpet
1:11
Seven churches – each represented in historical, natural, and symbolic natures
1:12-13
The candlesticks represent the churches (). Why this symbol? Jesus Christ is the Light of the world, and it is the task of the church to hold Him forth before the world. The church is to proclaim the light of Christ to the world, and it is to do so with the brilliance and speed of light. Note that Christ stands in the midst of the candlesticks. The churches receive their light from Christ. Unless He stands in the midst of the church, the church has no light. The church must see to it that Christ is in its midst, and the church must proclaim the light of Christ to the world.—Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary
1:13b-16
1. Jesus Christ was clothed with a robe down to His feet (). This was the robe of prophets (), of priests (; ; ), and of kings and princes (, ). The robe symbolizes the prophetic, priestly, and kingly ministry of Christ.
Þ As prophet, Jesus Christ proclaims the Word of God to us.
Þ As priest, Jesus Christ gives us access into the presence of God and makes us acceptable to God.
Þ As king, Jesus Christ rules and reigns over all the affairs of the universe, and He protects and provides and works all things out for good to those who love and follow Him.
b. With a golden breastplate wrapped around His chest
2. The chest of Jesus Christ had a gold breastplate strapped across it (). This was something like the breastplate of the high priest on which the names of his people were engraved (cp. ; ). The breastplate covered the heart. This symbolized that Christ holds His people and His church ever so close to His heart. They are all engraved upon the breastplate of His heart and held ever so dear by Him.
c. With hair like white wool, as white as snow
3. The head and hair of Jesus Christ were as white as white wool and snow (). This is the picture of Christ as the Ancient of Days, as being the eternal Lord of the universe. It is possible that this is also a picture of His sinlessness and purity of mind. The spiritual warfare is fought in the mind, and Christ never sinned; He never even had one evil or negative thought that came short of God's glory. He was the sinless Son of God Himself
4. Jesus Christ had eyes that were as a flame of fire (). This symbolizes a piercing, penetrating power. He sees everywhere, even in the dark places and behind closed doors. His eyes search the innermost recesses of the heart. He knows all; He is omniscient and He is able to conquer all those who reject Him and do evil. No one will be able to hide from Him nor can anyone hide anything from Him.
e. With feet as fine brass
5. Jesus Christ had feet like fine brass or bronze. This symbolizes strength and perseverance. His feet are the feet that preached the gospel, the glad tidings of peace. But they are also the feet that shall tread down His enemies. His feet are also able to rush to the rescue of His people.
"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" ().
f. With a voice as many waters
6. Jesus Christ had a voice that was like the sound of many waters rushing together (). His voice symbolizes authority.
Þ It sends forth the glorious message of salvation, hope, joy, confidence, and comfort.
Þ It thunders forth majestic rebuke, conviction, and judgment
7. Jesus Christ held seven stars in His right hand (; cp. ). The seven stars symbolize the messengers, the ministers of the churches. His hand securely holds the messengers with skill and strength and comfort.
h. With a sword in His mouth
8. Jesus Christ had a sharp two-edged sword coming out of His mouth (). This symbolizes the Word of God and its penetrating power (cp. ).
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" ().
i. With His countenance shining as the sun
9. Jesus Christ had a countenance that was like the sun shining in its full strength. This symbolizes the dazzling brilliance of His presence in all of His majesty and honor and glory as God.—Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary
1:18
Keys to hell and death -- He has conquered death, and He can deliver us from judgment and hell. He has the keys to unlock both death and hell and to deliver us from the bondage of both.—Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible – Commentary
1:19
Things that are and shall be hereafter – Refers to 1:11 and beyond
1:20
Seven stars – angels (pastors)
Seven candlesticks – (churches)
The Church Age
LESSON 2
NOTES
All notes taken from Complete Biblical Library…unless otherwise noted
Overcomes – the overcomer is the victorious believer. These victories are only won through Christ, as the believer remains in Him. Through Him Christians can be “more than conquerors.” ()
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
EPHESUS
Lampstand removed – that is the church would no longer be in a place where Jesus walked in their midst.
SMYRNA
Crown of life – The word crown her was used of a king’s crown or of a crown or wreath placed on the head of the winner in a race or athletic contest. Thus, even if Christians die, they win.
Second death -- is the lake of fire. Those who overcome God has a special place for them in heaven.
PERGAMOS
Hidden manna – Partake of Christ’s own nature. Jesus is the true manna (, , )
White stone – the white stone of acquittal. “In those times a white pebble was used to cast a vote calling for a verdict of “not guilty.” Believers sins are blotted out, and they become just as if they had never sinned.
New name – which in the bible means a new nature and a full inheritance.
THYATIRA
Power over nations -- to share in Christ’s Kingly rule
Morning Star -- Jesus will give of himself to the overcoming believer in a new and more wonderful way than ever before. tells us Jesus is the Morning star!
SARDIS
White raiments – white symbolizes holiness, righteousness
Confess name – to have Jesus personally confess your name before the heavenly father would be greater than any honor man could make!!!
PHILADELPHIA
Pillar – a place of permanence and stability as in the inner sanctuary, the holy of Holies. It is uses of the believers’ place in the final state, dwelling with God forever
Name – stands for authority, character, and person.
LAODICEA
Sit with Jesus – This will happen during the millennium when Jesus will rule here on earth.
The Rapture of the Church and what follows for the Saints
Pt 1
(Unless noted outline and notes from POSB)
LESSON 3
KJV
"Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter" ().
THE PICTURE OF THINGS HEREAFTER, 4:1-5:14
A. The Throne of God: The Focal Point of History, 4:1-11
1. John is given the vision
1 John is given the vision (v.1-2b)
a. Sees an open door in heaven
a. Sees an open door in heaven (v.1a) There are three doors mentioned in Revelation
() I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.
() Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
() After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.
b. Hears a commanding voice
b. Hears a commanding voice (v.1b)
c. Is called to "Come up here": To see things that must take place
c. Is called to "Come up here": To see things that must take place (v.1c)
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
d. Is in the spirit at once
d. Is in the spirit at once (v.2a)
e. Sees the astounding sight of God sitting upon His throne
e. Sees the astounding sight of God sitting upon His throne (v.2b)
The picture being dramatized is this: the throne in heaven, God's throne, is the throne above all thrones. It is the supreme seat of honor and majesty, of sovereignty and power. God is the supreme Majesty of the universe, the One who controls and holds all the events of history in His hands. He is the Supreme Authority over all the world and the coming events of the end time. No person can cause the events to take place but Him. The Lord Jesus Christ is returning to earth and the events of the end time are going to happen. But they are going to happen because of Him and because of Him alone. And note: the throne is "set in heaven." That is, the events are set forever. God rules and reigns forever. There will never be an end to His rule. (This is great security to the believer. God has promised to deliver and keep the believer from the hour of trial, the great tribulation [cp. ]).
2. The One on the throne
2 The One on the throne (v.2c-3)
a. His position: Sitting--as God
a. His position: Sitting—as God (v.2c)
b. His description: Indescribable
b. His description: Indescribable (v.3)
The jewels chosen to describe God proclaim a marvelous message to the hearer. They were considered the most brilliant and the most valued, precious, and desired gems on earth. Thus God is seen and described as the most brilliant and valued, precious, and desired Being—a Being of indescribable glory and splendor.
Þ The countenance of God shone like a jasper stone. The stone referred to was different from the jasper stone of today. The idea is that the stone was some sort of translucent crystal through which light was shining. It was shining so brightly that it was apparently like the concentrated light of a laser. This represents the penetrating perfection and purity of God.
Þ The sardine stone was a fiery red stone and it represents the justice of God.
Þ The rainbow that surrounded the throne looked like emerald green. This represents the mercy of God and the new covenant of grace given to man by God. (the promise of mercy made to Noah. .)
3. The twenty-four elders
3 The twenty-four elders (v.4)
Who are the elders? Scripture doesn’t say.
Could be 12 sons of Israel and 12 Apostles
Could be 24 Angelic beings of high rank
Could be representatives of the Levitical priests (symbolic representatives of all the redeemed of the Lord)
Whoever they are, “it represents the complete Work of God, throughout the entirety of the span of time.” (Swaggart)
a. Were seated upon thrones that surrounded God's throne
a. Were seated upon thrones that surrounded God's throne (v.4a)
· are near God, being honored with His presence.
· are resting in God, being fulfilled, complete, and satisfied.
· are enthroned with God, that is, they are given a permanent place in His presence forever and ever.
b. Were clothed in white
b. Were clothed in white
b. Were clothed in white (v.4b)
This means that they are clothed in the purity and holiness of God and of Christ. There is no imperfection in them at all
Also represents the righteousness of Christ (J. Swaggart)
Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
c. Wore crowns of gold
c. Wore crowns of gold (v.4c)
Gold – speaks of deity
Crown – victory
This means that they hold positions of authority; that they are given some duty and responsibility to oversee for God; that they serve God by overseeing some rule and domain; and that others serve under them. Simply stated, they rule and reign for God, serving Him by managing some vast rule and domain of the universe.
4. The awesomeness of the throne
4 The awesomeness of the throne (v.5-6a)
a. Lightnings--thunder--voices
a. Lightnings—thunder—voices (v.5a)
There is God's voice which is so commanding that it sounds like a combination of many voices and of lightnings and thunderings (). This shows us just how majestic and awesome the voice of God is. His voice flashes and thunders the great pronouncements of God. The events of history take place as He has ordered. This particular sight of God's majestic pronouncements is a scene of the coming judgment. The dreadful storm is about to break loose on the earth beneath.
b. Seven lamps of fire--seven spirits
b. Seven lamps of fire—seven spirits (v.5b)
Seven lamps of fire – the unquenchable fire against all evil
Seven spirits of God – represent the totality and universality of the Holy Spirit
The Baptism with the Spirit is not merely that we might speak in tongues, as wonderful as that is. But to be sure, the Spirit of God is dedicated to removing every vestige of sin from our lives, hence Him being described as “seven lamps of fire.” In fact the seven attributes are described in (Swaggart)
And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;[reverence] And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: [he could distinguish between him that feared God and him that feared him not -Gill] and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
c. A sea of crystal
c. A sea of crystal (v.6a)
c. A sea of crystal
There is a sea of glass stretching out before the throne (). The sea "looks like a transparent glassy sea, as if of crystal" (The Amplified)
5. The four living creatures who surround the throne of God
5 The four living creatures (zōon) -- beasts – bad translation] who surround the throne of God (v.6b-9)
zōon; (GK) a living creature:
thērion; (GK); a wild beast:
And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast (therion) that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.
a. Their position: Nearest to God--surrounding His throne
a. Their position: Nearest to God—surrounding His throne (v.6b)
b. Their description
b. Their description (v.6c-8)
Þ One being was like a lion: this symbolizes supremacy
Þ One being was like an ox (calf): this symbolizes strength.
Þ One being was like a man: this symbolizes intelligence.
Þ One being was like an eagle: this symbolizes swiftness
c. Their function: To glorify and honor God
c. Their function: To glorify and honor God (v.9)
6. The function of the elders
6 The function of the elders (v.10-11)
a. To show subservience
a. To show subservience (v.10a)
b. To worship
b. To worship (v.10b)
A person said “worship is what we are, while praise is what we do”
“True worship may be defined as a devote attitude of the soul superinduced by a sense of one’s own unworthiness in contemplation of the infinite worth of God.z” (J.D. Smith)
c. To show the supreme worthiness of the Lord
c. To show the supreme worthiness of the Lord (v.10c)
d. To praise
d. To praise (v.11)
The Rapture of the Church and what follows for the Saints
Pt 2
(Unless noted outline and notes from POSB)
LESSON 4
B. The Book of Destiny is Sealed: The Future of the World, 5:1-4
1. The book or scroll itself
1 The book or scroll itself (v.1)
a. Is in God's right hand
a. Is in God's right hand (v.1a)
God is the supreme Authority over the end of the world. He governs all the events of history both upon the earth and throughout the universe. God holds the future in His hands, the destiny of the world.
"Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever" ().
b. Is written on the front and back
b. Is written on the front and back (v.1b)
c. Is sealed with seven seals
c. Is sealed with seven seals (v.1c)
2. The search for one worthy to open the Book of Destiny
2 The search for one worthy to open the Book of Destiny (v.2-4)
a. The search proclaimed by an angel
a. The search proclaimed by an angel (v.2)
b. The search fails
b. The search fails (v.3)
c. The prophet weeps
c. The prophet weeps (v.4a)
d. The contents of the book are sealed
d. The contents of the book are sealed (v.4b)
Note that the same book is referred to by Ezekiel and Daniel.
"And when I looked, behold, a hand was sent unto me; and, lo, a roll of a book was therein; and he spread it before me; and it was written within and without: and there was written therein lamentations, and mounring, and woe" ().
"And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end" ().
C. The Book of Destiny is Opened: The Lamb Alone is Worthy to Open the Book, 5:5-14
1. The glorious announcement: God has intervened and sent One worthy to open the book
1 The glorious announcement: God has intervened and sent One worthy to open the book (v.5)
a. The Lion of Judah
a. The Lion of Judah (v.5a)
b. The Root of David
b. The Root of David (v.5b)
Þ He has conquered sin.
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace" ().
Þ He has conquered death.
"But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" ().
Þ He has conquered this evil world.
"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" ().
Þ He has conquered Satan and all other evil forces.
"Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me" ().
"And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it" (; cp. ).
Þ He has conquered all rule and authority and power.
"Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power" ().
Þ He has conquered hell.
"I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death" ().
2. The supreme moment: The first sight of Christ in heaven
2 The supreme moment: The first sight of Christ in heaven (v.6-7)
a. His position
a. His position (v.6a)
b. His redemption: He is the Lamb of God
b. His redemption: He is the Lamb of God (v.6b)
Note this: A.T. Robertson, the Greek scholar, points out that the word for lamb throughout the New Testament is ho amnos. But throughout Revelation John uses another word arnion, and he uses the word twenty-nine times for the crucified Christ. The difference is this: the word chosen by John stresses the slaughter, suffering, pain, agony, and humiliation of Christ. And all the suffering is still seen in heaven. As Robertson says: "The Lamb is now alive, but...with the marks of the sacrifice" (Word Pictures In The New Testament, Vol.6, p.334).
c. His power: He has seven horns
c. His power: He has seven horns (v.6c)
Jesus Christ is seen with seven horns which symbolizes complete and perfect strength and power.
d. His knowledge: He has seven eyes
d. His knowledge: He has seven eyes (v.6d)
The seven eyes symbolize complete and perfect knowledge, intelligence, and wisdom. He is omniscient; He knows all and sees all. Absolutely nothing escapes His sight and knowledge. Note: this is a symbol of the seven spirits of God which is the Holy Spirit. In the person of the Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ is everywhere, seeing and knowing all.
e. His destiny and sovereignty: He took the book
e. His destiny and sovereignty: He took the book (v.7)
3. The majestic worship of Christ by the four living creatures and the elders
3 The majestic worship of Christ by the four living creatures and the elders (v.8-10)
a. They fall down and play harps, praising Him
a. They fall down and play harps, praising Him (v.8a)
b. They offer the prayers of saints
b. They offer the prayers of saints (v.8b)
Just think of this: the very beings closest to God offer up our prayers to Christ for us. The heavenly host is concerned over our welfare even as the Lord is. They long for us to be helped through the trials and temptations of life even more than we long to be delivered through them. What a precious truth
c. They sing a new song praising Him for His worthiness
c. They sing a new song praising Him for His worthiness (v.9-10)
1) Because He was slain for man and has redeemed man
1) Because He was slain for man and has redeemed man (v.9a)
2) Because of His universal salvation
2) Because of His universal salvation (v.9b)
3) Because of His great gift of royalty
3) Because of His great gift of royalty (v.10)
Notice: We will serve as kings, some as priests.
This will happen during the Millennial Reign of Christ
KINGSHIP: “The way the sentence is structured in the Greek, we are “kings and priests” now, and are meant to “reign” now! Christ gives us first of all kingship, which is sovereignty over ourselves, which is the greatest kingship of all. The idea is, if we cannot properly rule “self” then we cannot properly rule anything else. So what we will have in the coming Kingdom, when Christ actually comes back to rule and to reign, will be determined by the manner in which we are presently ruling ourselves, or more particularly, allowing the Holy Spirit to rule us.” Swaggart
4. The majestic worship of Christ by the angels
4 The majestic worship of Christ by the angels (v.11-12)
a. Their outer circle
a. Their outer circle (v.11a) – angels, living creatures, and elders
b. Their great number
b. Their great number (v.11b) – without number
c. Their song
c. Their song (v.12)
They sing a new song focused upon the worthiness of Christ. Remember: God had just held out the book of destiny and the shattering call had just pierced the air for someone worthy to step forth and to take the book. Someone was needed to open the book and carry out the events upon earth. But no one was found worthy. Not even those who surround the very throne of God, the four living creatures and elders, were worthy. Only one Person could step forward: the Lamb of God Himself, the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the scene here: when the living creatures and elders see the Lamb of God step forward and take the book from God, they fall down in worship and adoration and sing a song to Him, a song that has never been sung before.
1) His power
1) His power (v.12a) dunamis (GK); (miraculous) power, might, strength:[dynamite]
2) His riches
2) His riches (v.12b) ploutos; (GK) to flow, abound; wealth
3) His wisdom
3) His wisdom (v.12c) sophia; (GK) skill, wisdom: - cleverness
4) His strength
4) His strength (v.12d) ischus; of unc. or.; strength, might: - might
5) His honor and glory
5) His honor (v. 12e) timē;(GK) (to value,); a valuing, a price: -
6) His Glory (v. 12f) doxa; (GK) (always good in N.T.), praise,
6) His blessing
7) His blessing (v.12f) eulogia;(GK) praise, blessing: bountiful gift
5. The majestic worship of Christ by the whole universe
5 The majestic worship of Christ by the whole universe (v.13-14)
a. All creatures worship both God and Christ
a. All creatures worship both God and Christ (v.13)
b. The four living creatures say "Amen"
b. The four living creatures say "Amen" (v.14a)
Amen means “firmly true” or “trustworthy”
c. The elders fall down and worship the eternal God
c. The elders fall down and worship the eternal God (v.14b)
Hoeksema said “Such is the picture, a picture of overwhelming beauty and glory. It is a picture which we can but very inadequately represent in words. But it is a picture the reality of which will still surpass our boldest expectation. That Kingdom shall surely come! Seal after seal shall be broken, ‘til the kingdom shall have been perfected. But it will come only through the power of the Lamb Who was slain.”
Events preceding the great tribulation
Pt 1
LESSON 5
THE DISTRESS OF THE NATIONS---UNCHECKED EVIL IN MAN UNLEASHED!
The Lamb opens the first seal (1-2)
§ One of the four living creatures said “come and see” (each creature introduces a new vision to John)
§ White horse - Conquer
§ A bow, a crown. He conquers though peace
The Lamb opens the second seal (3-4)
§ The second of the four living creatures said “come and see”
§ Red horse - War
§ Power given to him to take peace from the earth
o Notice that the rider does not make war, but takes peace away therefore causing war among men
§ Kill one another – not as in death of battle but for violent killing of all kinds. Violence will become rampant throughout the earth.
§ A Great Sword – symbol of wars destruction
§ “Paul warned of a time coming when the forces restraining evil would be gone. () …The prophecy tells of a time coming when that which restrains the full manifestation of evil will be gone. Peace will be displaced by strife, and love will be displaced by hate. Violence will become rampant though-out the earth.
“The Scriptures indicate that eh Antichrist will be a master of maneuvering people and will achieve power by flattery and deceit. He will promise peace, but he will not be able to bring it. The longing for peace will be superseded by a warring mood. Crime and violence will run rampant thought the earth. Thus conquest and war will bring part of the judgment of God on the earth. With peace taken from the earth, it will not be given back until the Prince of Peace returns, brings an end to the Antichrist’s dominion and establishes God’s kingdom on earth” Complete Biblical Library on pg 99
The Lamb opens the third seal (5-6)
§ The third of the four living creatures said “come and see”
§ Black horse – Represents Evil, suffering, and hunger
§ A pair of balances in his hand
§ A measure of wheat for a day’s wages
§ Three measures of barley (represents the food of the poor and slaves) for a day’s wages
§ Don’t hurt the oil and the wine
The Lamb opens the fourth seal (7-8)
§ The fourth of the four living creatures said “come and see”
§ Pale horse - His name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him.
§ Power was given to kill ¼ of all man on earth (1.75 Billion of 7 Billion)
§ Kill with sword, hunger, death, beasts of the earth
SAINTS AT REST
The Lamb opens the fifth seal (9-11)
Souls under the altar
§ Slain for the word of God
§ Slain for the testimony they held
§ Cry out for God’s vengeance
§ Given white robes – speaks of righteousness
CREATION TRAVAILS
The Lamb opens the sixth seal (12-17)
Heavens and the earth shaken
§ A great earthquake
§ Sun became black
§ Moon became as blood
§ Stars of heaven fell unto the earth
§ Every mountain and island were moved out of their places
§ Man is afraid and asks the mountains to fall on them realizing the wrath of the Lamb
Events preceding the great tribulation
Pt 2
LESSON 6
Chapter 7
First interlude:
“For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?”
§ Four angels hold back the four winds of the earth
§ God seals the 144,000 – these are evangelist
§ The tribe of Dan not mentioned
§ A great multitude which no man could number (9) with white robes and palms in their hands
§ The multitude are those that cam our of the great tribulation – robes washed white in the blood of the Lamb (14)
§ “Great” could mean persecution during the time of John, over the centuries, or a prelude to the final Great tribulation that was about to come on the earth
§ Lots of similarities to
§ God shall take care of them, dwell (Shechinah glory?) and feed them. God shall lead them unto living fountains of waters and God shll wipe away all tears from their eyes
§ Notice the similarities found in psalms 231-3,6
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. …Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Chapter 8
The Lamb opens the seventh seal (8:1-6)
§ Silence in Heaven for about ½ hour
§ Seven trumpets given to seven angels before God (2)
§ Another angel offers much incense and the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar before the throne (3)
§ The smoke ascended up before God (4)
§ Angel took the censer, filled it with fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth:
o Voices, thunder, lightnings, and an earthquake followed (5)
o Notice the similarities in ,
And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled… And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly.
DIRECT INTERVENTION OF GOD – JUDGEMENT ON MAN’S ENVIRONMENT
7 Trumpets – (the first 4)
1. Hail and fire mingled with blood – 1/3 of trees burned up and all green grass burned (7)
2. A great mountain (possible asteroid or meteor) burning with fire cast into the sea – 1/3 sea becomes blood, 1/3 sea creatures die, 1/3 ships destroyed. (8-9)
3. A great star from heaven burning as if it were a lamp fell – 1/3 rivers and fountains of water poisoned. – star called wormwood (10)
“…possibly a meteorite set on fire by friction with atmosphere; though, in contrast to the preceding mountainous mass, this may be mostly liquid. It could be that this bitterness will be specially created by God to break up and dissolve in the rivers, springs, and wells, turning them into the bitterness of wormwood
WORMWOOD – “…taken from the name of a plant with very bitter juice. Used in the old testament to represent the bitter results of sin (; ) and is sometimes connected with gall” Complete Biblical Library on pg 131.
4. 1/3 part of the sun, 1/3 part of the moon, 1/3 part of the stars becomes dark. Day and night not shown.
a. Most agree that there is no naturalistic explanation for how this could take place. The God who created the universe controls it. This judgment is, like that others, supernatural. The bible does not say anything here about the effect on the earth. It will undoubtedly cause a drop in the earth’s temperature and upset the ordinary course of the winds and the weather. God’s purpose here, as before, will be to let the world know this is not by chance, that there is still opportunity to repent. Though a holy God must judge, He does not really will any to perish ().
And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!
Events during the great tribulation
LESSON 7
The timing of the events in the tribulation period is not always clear. However, it is my opinion that the beginning of the Great Tribulation begins around the time of the 1st woe, due to the severity of the judgment of God.
SUMMARY SO FAR -- In the first 3 ½ years since the rapture of the church…
· The church has been removed and the world is given over to Satan
· War is rampant on the earth
· The economy is virtually destroyed
· War and death, famine and beasts takes out 1 out of every 4 people on the earth
· Sun became black and the moon blood
· Stars have fallen from the heavens to earth
· Every mountain and island were moved out of their place
· A great multitude of saints have been martyred
· 1/3 of all sea becomes blood, 1/3 of all sea creatures die, 1/3 of all ships destroyed
· 1/3 of all rivers and fountains become bitter
· 1/3 part of sun and 1/3 of moon and 1/3 of the stars become dark and 1/3 of day and night not shown
· World population down to at least 3.5 billion, maybe less
Now the Great Tribulation is about to start!!!
And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!
The 5th trumpet, the first woe,
The judgment of Locusts
§ A star fall from heaven – Satan most likely () but it could have been another important angel.
And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,
§ Christ gives this key to the angel
I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
§ Smoke of a great furnace – darkens the sun – another proof that hell is a place of fire
§ Locust – (2-11)
- “These are not ordinary locust, but demons, released at this time to let people know a holy God demands judgment on sin.”
- “They are called locust, not because of their appearance, but because of their nature to devour and destroy” Complete Biblical Library on Revelation pg 137
They were ordered not to hurt grass, nor any green thing or tree, but only those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads (4)
This shows God is ultimately in control. Satan can only do what he is allowed to do by God
And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD.
And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.
- Only the 144,000 have the seal of God on their foreheads ()
Some believe that the converts of the 144,000 would be included. They would have been raptured, martyred, or sealed with the same sealing on the forehead Complete Biblical Libray Revelation, pg 137
- They should not kill but torment for five months
– “This will be literal yet these creatures will be invisible” Swaggart Expositor Study Bible
However, the Bible is not clear as to whether they are visible or invisible
- Scorpion sting is painful and swells (5)
- After 5 months they probably sent back to the bottomless pit
- Death will flee from the people for 5 months – apparently pain killers will not work Swaggart, Expositors Study Bible
- APPEARANCE OF THE LOCUST – (7-10)
-like horses prepared for battle – large in size
-head “as it were” crowns of gold – probably not real
-faces as the faces of man – appearance of intelligent humans
-hair like women
-teeth like lion
-breastplate as iron
-wings sounded like chariots of many horses running to battle
-tails like scorpions
“Some believe that since these are demons from the pit of the abyss, their strange appearance is a special creation of God for the purpose of using them for judgment.” Complete Biblical Library on Revelation pg 141
Whether visible or invisible these locust speak of the horror the people without the seal of God will have to endure.
- The locust’s have a king – Abaddon (Hebrew) Apollyon (Greek)
-one of only four angels mentioned by name in the Bible
Gabriel, Michael, Lucifer, and Apollyon – two good, two bad
-Apollyon means “the Destroyer”
§ One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter.
- “…Apparently, it seems that the increase in the severity of the judgments matches the increase in the stubborn rebelliousness of mankind against God.” Complete Biblical Library on Revelation pg 143
The 6th trumpet, the second woe,
The Judgment of 4 angels at Euphrates
§ Voice from the four horns of the Golden altar which is before God (13)
- Greek – “One from the four horns of the golden altar…” not the altar speaking
- Probably that of the same Angel who came and stood at the Altar and had much incense (, )
§ Loose the four angels bound at the Euphrates (14)
- “bound” angels speaks of evil angels
- Euphrates – Where all began, and where all will end ()
§ Angels loosed to slay another 1/3 of mankind (15)
- (Population down to less than 2 Billion)
- This attack could be in response to the voices of the souls at the altar found in .
And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?
- NOTE: God used the kings of Assyria and Babylon, both situated on the Euphrates to bring judgment to God’s people.
§ The army of demon horseman (16)
- 200 million
- Not likely a human army but an army of the demonic world, possibly invisible
§ DESCRIPTION of army (17-19)
- Breastplates of fire and jacinth (redish blue or deep purple color) and brimstone (a hard, brittle, lemon yellow color sulphur which has no smell unless heated.)
- Heads of lions and attacked with fire, smoke, brimstone from their mouths
- They had heads like serpents on their tails – to torture and kill
- The weapons of these 200 million is by fire, (burned by flames) smoke, (suffocated by smoke) and brimstone (poisoned by the sulfur dioxide gas) which came out of their mouths until 1/3 of mankind was killed (18)
§ Men still did not repent (20)
- Greek word for “men” is Anthropon which means all mankind or the human being in general
- Repented not of
- The works of their hands
- Worshiping of devils, and idols
- Murders, sorceries (drugs), fornications (all immorality), thefts
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
The Angel, the Book and the Witnesses
LESSON 8
Time frame: Covers the last 3 ½ years – the Great Tribulation!!!
· John sees the angel coming down from heaven (10:1) – sees the revelation from the perspective of those on the earth.
THE MIGHTY ANGEL (10:1-7)
A. Who is this mighty [strong, powerful] angel (10:1)
1. Some say it could be Jesus Christ
Description is similar to Christ
- And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
-Size is great – most likely greater than that of an angel some would suppose
2. Some say it could be an angel
- Greek – “aggelos” – same word used for angel elsewhere
-No one worships this angel
-The manner in which he makes an oath by God in 10:6 would be appropriate for an angel but not for Jesus Christ
-The description of the angel simply draws attention to his heavenly glory
Cloud and Rainbow signify God’s faithfulness to His promises [Noah]
Cloud also speaks of the glory of God upon him
“Face were as it were the sun” concerns the degree of glory
Pillars of fire speaks of judgment
-Thought: God is a very big God. He can make very big angels!
B. He had a little book (booklet in GK) in his left hand (not same as book (scroll GK) in 5:1) (10:2)
C. Right foot on sea, left foot on earth – speaks of dominion – meaning righteousness will ultimately prevail on the earth! (10:2)
D. “…and cried with a loud voice as when a lions roars.” (10:3) speaks of power and victory
E. Seven thunders uttered their voices (10:3-4)
The voice of the LORD is upon the waters: the God of glory thundereth: the LORD is upon many waters.
John told not to write down what the voices said --- there are some things that will happen during this great tribulation that are surprises!
F. The oath of the Angel (10:6)
1. Swear by Him who lives forever and ever
a. Who created heaven, and the things therein
b. Who created the earth and the things therein
c. Who created the sea and the things therein
2. “…that there should be time no longer” – that there should be delay no longer
a. The prayer of Christ – “thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven”
3. “…but in the days of the voice of the seventh angel (11:15) when he shall begin to sound the mystery of God should be finished AS He ehas declared to His servants the prophets”.
a. MYSTERY - This speaks of the reason God has allowed Satan to continue to reign over this earth
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
b. Declared to the prophets
i. How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! …
ii.
THE LITTLE BOOK (10:8-11)
A. Voice of heaven (10:8) See also 4:1, 10:4
a. When God speaks, things happen…
We must realize that God directs all earth action. For the Believer we should understand these truths: (From Jimmy Swaggart Commentary on Revelation pg 266) -- see handout
1. First of all, God is guiding and directing all events
2. He has nothing but good for those who love Him
3. We as Believers should ardently seek His face about all things asking His leading and Guidance, even down the minute details.
4. We also must understand that while the Lord definitely does chastise all who serve Him, at the same time, it’s all done for our profit. In all chastisement, we should seek to know and understand the lesson that the Holy Spirit is attempting to teach us.
5. In all of this, we must understand that God is a “Blesser/” He longs to bless His children, and seek ardently to do so.
6. We should have Faith in Him at all times, knowing that He is working everything out for our good.
7. We must understand that every single thing that God does for us or through us is all done exclusively through the Cross of Christ.
8. Consequently, our Faith must be anchored in the Cross, not allowing it to be moved to other things.
9. Understanding and doing this, we can expect the help of the Holy Spirit, Who is God, and Who can do anything.
10. We must understand that having proper Faith in Christ, which refers to having Faith in His great Sacrifice, means that we cannot fail. God has never failed in anything that He has set out to do, and if He has never failed, then we cannot fail as well!
11. We must realize, and understand that at this very moment, God is planning great and beautiful things for us.
12. We must seek everything with the eye of Faith. This means that we are not deterred by our present circumstances, whatever they may be, but were standing on the promises of God.
13. We must know and understand that the Jordan River, even though at flood tide, only present an opportunity for God to perform a miracle. Obstacles are not road blocks; they are only opportunities. God is a miracle-working God!
14. If we ask and don’t receive, we’re not to stop, but keep asking (). He has promised that ultimately He will answer.
B. John interacts with God’s revelation! (10:9)
a. “Give me the book” as God commanded in 10:8
C. John eats the little booklet (10:9-10)
a. Makes your belly bitter – speaks of judgment
b. Tastes sweet like honey in mouth – the Word of God is sweet
c. This speaks of the last half of the Tribulation – which is the worst of all
Ezekiel had a similar experience
But thou, son of man, hear what I say unto thee; Be not thou rebellious like that rebellious house: open thy mouth, and eat that I give thee. And when I looked, behold, an hand was sent unto me; and, lo, a roll of a book was therein; And he spread it before me; and it was written within and without: and there was written therein lamentations, and mourning, and woe. Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, eat that thou findest; eat this roll, and go speak unto the house of Israel. So I opened my mouth, and he caused me to eat that roll. And he said unto me, Son of man, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness.
Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
D. John must prophesy again…
a. John is not finished with the revelation…
THE TWO WITNESSES (11:1-13)
A. A literal temple will be rebuilt in Jerusalem (11:1)
Daniel also prophesied of a temple being rebuilt
And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
B. Outer court for Gentiles – tread under foot for 42 months 3 ½ years
And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
AntiChrist will exalt himself as God in temple
Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
C. 3 ½ years, 42 months 1230 days are not exactly same periods of time, but these things will happen at about the half way point of the tribulation.
D. The Two Witnesses (11:3-13)
a. Possibly Elijah and Moses or Elijah and Enoch – nobody knows
b. Be given power
c. Clothes in sackcloth – sign of mourning, preaching repentance much like the prophets of old – not vindictive but with broken hearts
d. Olive trees, two candlesticks – Described in
Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof?
Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.
e. If anyone try to hurt them, fire proceeds out of their mouths
i. Not necessarily literal, but by their judgment
f. The Lord protects them (there will probably be many attempts on their lives)
g. They will have power to shut up the heavens (as in the days of Elijah)
h. They will have power to turn water into blood (as in the days of Moses)
i. They will have power to smite the earth will ALL plagues (like in Egypt)
j. After 42 months (at the end of the Tribulation) the Beast (see ) will ascend out of the bottomless pit and kill them – this will be allowed by God
k. Their bodies will lie in the street of Jerusalem (where Jesus was crucified) 3 days.
i. City called spiritually Sodom (immoral)
ii. City called spiritually Egypt (worldly)
l. People will celebrate over their deaths
m. The Witnesses will come back to life after 3 days
i. Great fear will fall upon them that saw them alive again
n. “Come up hither” – they will be ascend up to heaven before their enemies eyes!
o. A great earthquake – refers to the seventh vial (bowls), last of God’s judgments (see ) immediately before the 2nd coming of Christ
p. 1/10 of Jerusalem fell, 7,000 men
q. “…and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of Heaven.” --Some indication in Greek that they repented.
The Beginning of the Third Woe
LESSON 9
KJV
Of the seven trumpets, the last three are woes
First Woe (fifth trumpet) ()
· judgment of locust
· they devour and destroy
· tormented for five months (cannot die)
Second Woe (sixth trumpet) ()
· Four evil angels loosed at Euphrates
· 1/3 of mankind killed
· The Mighty Angel the little book and the two witnesses
Third Woe (seventh trumpet) () – includes seven vials and fall of Babylon
It marks the beginning of the second half of the tribulation known as the Great tribulation
· Third woe comes quickly – refers to Satan being cast our (11:14)(see )
· The 24 elders represents the entirety of humanity in relation to redemption – the word “elder” suggest these are prophets, apostles, or preachers. (11:16)
· Elders sit on thrones – NOTE: None of the angels or cherubim have thrones, only God and man! This suggests that man is God’s highest creation
For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels [HB God], and hast crowned him with glory and honour.
· The elders speak of the future as if it were a fact (by faith) as they believed it would be (17-18)
· “…and the time of the dead, that they should be judged…” refers to Judgment seat of Christ – seems to indicate that Judgment seat of Christ may take place during millennium. (18)
· “…And the Temple of God was opened in Heaven and there was seen in His temple the Ark of His Testament…” (19) Ark represents not the Old Covenant ark but New Covenant (Jesus is the New Covenant)
-Williams says “The ark containing God’s Covenant with His anointed (Christ) is here disclosed as a demonstration not only of God’s faithfulness to this Covenant made with Christ promising Him the ends of the Earth for His possession, as well as the House of Israel, but also as evidence that the sovereignty of the world is really His. This Ark in the Heavenly Temple is a pledge of God’s Covenant with Christ, as the Ark in its earthly counterpart was a pledge of God’s Covenant with Israel.”
· Lightnings, voices, thundering, and earthquake, and great hail – symbolic of the awful mighty presence of God and of His majesty and glory.
A great sign in Heaven (12:1-2)
· The Woman –represents Israel
§ Sun – speaks of her glory
§ Moon under her feet – represents the apostate church during the Great tribulation
§ Moon reflect light – Israel produces Messiah – Apostate church fights Israel
Another theory – refers to Josephs second dream ()
§ Sun and moon all in submission to Jesus (of which Joseph is a type)
§ Crown with twelve stars – speaks of dominion regained and Israel restored
· Child – speaks of 144,000 sealed by God
§ Child – some see it as Christ Jesus
§ “Travailing in birth…” – Israel
Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child. Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.
Another wonder in heaven (12:3-4)
· Great red dragon – “denotes Satan and his murderous purpose, typified by the color “red” Swaggart Expositors Bible
· Seven heads – Satan’s cunning, and major empires that persecuted Israel:
§ Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece,
§ (some also make comparisons to the empires of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream ()
§ Ten horns – Revive roman empire ()
§ 1-3 of Stars of heaven – stars represent angels (see 12:9) These are those who followed Satan in the rebellion
§ Stood before the woman “…to devour her child” – just before the 144,000 to be raptured
§ “…rule nations with a rod of iron…” (The Overcomers of Thyatira were also to rule with a rod of iron the nations (see ). Also Israel will rule with Christ during the Milinnial Reign of Christ
§ Child – “caught up to God…” – speaks of rapture of 144,000
§ Woman (Israel) flees into wilderness to a place prepared by God (see ) Refers to ‘Petra” in Jordan
§ 1260 days = 3 ½ years – last half of Tribulation
War in Heaven
§ God instigates the war!
§ “Neither was their place found any more in heaven.” – soon it will also be that way on earth until the only place for Satan and his angels will be the lake of fire!
§ Satan cast out (8-9)
§ Great dragon – because of his propensity to “steal, kill and destroy ()
§ Old Serpent – because in his first that is how he first appeared to man, (subtle and treacherously)
§ Deceives – the greatest weapon Satan has
§ Accuser of the brethren – See (10)
§ Overcame him by the Blood of the Lamb – Sacrifice of Calvary
§ Overcame him by the word of their testimony – Proper place faith in Calvary
§ Loved not their lives unto death…all for Christ!
§ Devil has great wrath…he knows his time is short (12)
Persecution
§ Breaks the covenant () - Attacks Israel (13)
§ “Women given two wings of a great eagle…” The Lord will help her to Petra (14)
§ Satan attack – God protects – dragon attacks remnant (those saved after 144,000 raptured) [undoubtably there will be a great impact on the testimony 144,000) (15-17)
o They keep the commandments of God
o They have the testimony of Jesus Christ
What do we learn
1. God is in control
2. God times everything exactly
3. We can depend on Him
The Rise of the Antichrist
Pt 1
LESSON 10
KJV
Beast – “Therion” (GK) which means a dangerous animal, venomous, wild. Different from which is “zoon” (GK) or living thing
The Antichrist (first beast) (13:1-10)
1. His Background (1-3)
a. He comes from a sea of people
b. Seven heads
i. Speaks of the seven major empires that have persecuted Israel
1. Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, and the ten nations
c. Ten Horns
i. Represents ten nations in the future coming out of the Roman Empire
ii. Also represents the seventh head
iii. Also represents clay and iron feet in
d. Ten crowns
i. Represents ten nations given power
After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, [antichrist] before whom there were three of the first horns [kingdoms] plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.
e. Name of Blasphemy
i. “The word “blasphemy” here seems to be used in the sense that titles and attributes were claimed by it which belonged only to God”. Barnes
ii. “Blasphemy, in Scripture, signifies impious speaking when applied to God, and injurious speaking when directed against our neighbor. A name of blasphemy is the prostitution of a sacred name to an unholy purpose”. Clark
iii. Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme:
But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation: Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.
f. LEOPARD – Greece and Alexander the Great
i. Speaks of swiftness and unparallel speed
After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.
g. BEAR – Medo-Persian Empire
i. Portrays the ferociousness the Persian empire (Iraq & Iran)
And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh.
h. MOUTH OF LION – Babylonian Empire ()
i. Portrays the finesse, grandeur, and pomp of the Babylonian Empire Swaggart
The first was like a lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given to it.
i. DRAGON – Satan (,,,,)
Out of the Sea (see vs.1)– “the sea is a symbol of the violent, chaotic masses of humanity in a day of crisis and revolution. For instance, out of the chaos of the blood and mass of the French Revolution, Napoleon was born. Out of the vast chaotic conditions of the great Depression, Lenin was born. Out of the confusion of inflation and the chaos of unemployment, Hitler was born. Always out of the raging turmoil of social chaos, these anti-christs come”. Swaggart Consider the confusion and chaos of this world after the rapture!!!
The Rise of the Antichrist
Pt 2
LESSON 11
KJV
The Antichrist (1-10)
1. His Background (1-3) Continued from last week…
j. Head was wounded (3) head speaks of empires in bible prophecy, not people
a. See verse 1
b. NOTE: Greece as well as other nations is on the verge of economic collapse. Could it be that the healed wound could be a startling economic prosperity?
k. Deadly wound healed – refers to fallen angel release form bottomless pit
The beast that thou sawest was, [Alexander] and is not;[bottomless pit] and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition:[lake of fire] and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder,[like they did with Alexander] whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.[Alexander a picture in part of Anitchrist]
After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and dominion was given to it.
Summary of
1. He goat – speaks of Grecian Empire (5)
2. “the fury of his power” (6) – speed of his conquests and ferociousness of his attack, plus military strategy that completely overwhelmed the much larger force of the Medes and the Persians
3. “great horn broken” (8) untimely death of Alexander the Great at 32 in 323 BC
4. “Four notable ones” (8) four generals split Alexander’s kingdom
5. “Little horn” (9) the antichrist
a. South – Egypt
b. East – Syria, Iraq, and Iran
c. Pleasant land - Israel
6. “some of the host of heaven” (10) – refers to Israel being defeated for a time (mid-way during the tribulation) ()
7. “daily sacrifices was taken away…sanctuary cast down” (11) refers to Antichrist usurping authority over the High Priest. Sanctuary = temple that is rebuilt
8. “and it practiced, and prospered” (12) – world applaud Antichrist for his actions
9. “2300 days” (14) – actually refers to mornings and evenings (sacrifices) so with the Jewish year being 12 months of 30 days, it becomes three years, two months ten days (see )
10. “Great horn” (21) –Alexander the Great
11. “latter times” (23) – end of the last days or middle of Tribulation
12. “…he shall wonderfully destroy…” (24) – refers to [black - famine and pale - death horse, 3rd and 4th seal]
13. “craft shall prosper” (25) – “mirmah” HB meaning “deceit” The Antichrist shall be the master of deceit
1. “Falling away” (3) ap-os-tas-ee'-ah GK – apostate -which is feminine from root “ap-os-tas'-ee-on” which means separative or divorced
a. In other words falling away can be seen as departure [rapture]
2. “man of sin” (3) the Antichrist
3. “exalts himself above all that is called God” (4) – proclaims himself deity
Several other things about the beast are mentioned in Scripture (from Swaggart Revelation commentary pg 318)
A. He will not be a kingdom or a fallen angel, he will be a man ()
B. He will demand and will receive worship as God (; )
C. The power and authority held by the Antichrist will be derived from Satan
(; ))
D. The world will be in awe of him
E. He will take over the entirety of the territory of the seven kingdoms symbolized by the seven heads ()
F. There will be ten nations formed inside the old Roman Empire territory, of which he will become ruler ()
G. He will be a blasphemer ()
H. omitted
I. The false Prophet will be his religious leader (; )
J. All of his followers must have his mark or the number of his name branded on their right hand or forehead (; ; )
K. He will no doubt demand the people to worship the image of himself (; )
L. He will be given power and success for 42 months (; )
M. He will defy God and claim to be God himself (; )
2. His Power (4-10)
A. Dragon (Satan) gives power to the beast
B. Beast is used interchangeably for Anti-Christ and False Prophet
C. Anti-Christ will be so powerful that none will want to make war with him (4)
a. I considered the horns, [Old Roman Empire] and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, [Anti-Christ comes out of the old Roman Empire] before whom there were three of the first horns plucked [Little horn conquers three countries quickly] up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.
D. Powerful claims will be made – backed up by miraculous signs done by the False Prophet (5)
E. Power given to Anti-Christ for 42 months (3 ½ Jewish years – each month 30 days) (5)
F. He will mock God, His Name, His Tabernacle (heaven) and those who dwell there (all believers and 144,000 who were recently raptured there (6)
G. God allows the Anti-Christ power to overcome the Saints – Jews and Christians (7)
H. Anti-Christ given power over all kindreds, tongues and nations ( 7)
a. Some teach only over his territory
b. I believe all means all
I. “whose name is not written in the Lambs book of Life.” Suggest that believers will not worship the Anti-Christ (8)
J. “if any man have an ear…” (9) Jesus used this phrase many times. It speaks of the ability to hear spiritually and properly
K. “He who leads into captivity…who kills with the sword…” speaks of man will do what man will do. God gives man the choice followed by the consequences of his choice. God will not interfere with free will. (10)
L. “Here is the patience and the faith of the Saints.” Basically referring to Israel…Tough times will come but keep the faith!!!
The Rise of the False Prophet
LESSON 12
KJV
The False Prophet (second beast) (11-18)
1. His Background (11)
a. “from the earth” – not from above, but from the people
b. “two horns like a lamb” – religious, intend to deceive
c. “spoke as a dragon” – his anointing will be from the Satan
2. His Power (12-18)
a. “exercised all the power of the first beast” (12)– refers to the fact that his power will come directly from Satan, like the Anti-Christ’s
b. “Cause earth AND them which dwell” – he will promote earth and not heaven (environmentalism). He will promote heaven on earth and it will be tied to the worship of the Anti-Christ
c. “deadly wound healed” – refers to the fallen angel from bottomless pit (, ; ) not an assassination attempt
i. People will be amazed at the ability of the Anti-Christ because of his support by the fallen angel
d. “fire down from heaven” (13) – will be literal – remember Elijah in
i. () – fire comes down from heaven and consumes all that is on the altar of the Lord
ii. ()— fire consumed 50 men and captain twice
e. “deceives them who dwell on the Earth by means of those miracles” (14)
i. Beast is used interchangeably for Anti-Christ and False prophet and Fallen Angel
ii. “image to the beast” – probably build in temple with purpose to have all worship beast as god
iii. Wound by the sword – this refers to Anti-Christ somehow being wounded that should have taken his life (probably healed by the false prophet)
f. “…had power to give life to the image of the beast” (15) -- or give spirit to the image – life is the prerogative of God, not Satan!
Pneuma (GK) a current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively a spirit,
Greek word for “life” is Zoe
g. Speak…cause killings… -- probably by demon spirits
h. “receive a mark” (16) – will be a literal mark –
The word here rendered “mark” - χάραγμα charagma - occurs only in one place in the New Testament except in the Book of Revelation Act_17:29, where it is rendered “graven.”
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.
“In all the other places where it is found Rev_13:16-17; Rev_14:9, Rev_14:11; Rev_15:2; Rev_16:2; Rev_19:20; Rev_20:4, it is rendered “mark,” and is applied to the same thing - the “mark of the beast.” The word properly means “something graven or sculptured”; hence:
(a) a graving, sculpture, sculptured work, as images or idols;
(b) a mark cut in or stamped - as the stamp on a coin. Barnes Notes
Interesting note: Tattoo’s are very popular now days…it speaks of peoples individuality…or what they believe in
i. “right hand”
i. “Right hand in Scripture language, when used figuratively, represents the physical power of the person of whom it is spoken; and when applied to God designates a signal manifestation of Divine power against his enemies, and in behalf of his people.” Clark
1. Shew thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in thee from those that rise up against them.
j. “forhead”
i. “By anything being impressed upon the forehead, is meant the public profession of whatever is inscribed or marked upon it.” Clark
1. And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
k. Vss. 11-13 the False prophet will be religious
l. Vss. 16-17 the False prophet will be economic
i. Most likely refers to Anti-Christ’s Empire which will include North Africa, Middle East, modern Europe
m. MARK, NAME, OR NUMBER OF BEAST
n. It is a number that represents man, not Jehovah God, 666. Six is the number of man. One number short of 7 or perfection.
Preparation for Armageddon
LESSON 13
KJV
The 144,000 (14:1-5)
📷 Stands with the Lamb
📷 Have the Father’s Name written IN their foreheads
📷 They play harps
📷 They ‘as it were’ a new song before the four Living Creatures and the Elders (See4)
§ Possibly
§ “not so much that the song itself is new but that what is says can only be carried out by those represented by the 144,000” Swaggart
📷 No man could learn that song
📷 They are virgins – speaks of spiritually pure – not polluted with idolatry
📷 They follow the Lamb wherever he goes
📷 They are the first-fruits unto God and the Lamb
📷 No guile (hypocrisy) in their mouth
📷 Without fault before the Throne of God
First Angel: (14:6-7) PREACHES THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL
📷 Preaches to everyone who dwells on the earth
§ To every nation
§ To every kindred and tongue and people
📷 Saying
§ Fear God
§ Give glory to Him
§ Hour of His judgment is come
§ Worship Him
· Who made Heaven, Earth, sea, fountains of waters
Second Angel (14:8) PREACHES THE FALL OF BABYLON
📷 Babylon is fallen, that great city
§ “Because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication”
Third Angel (14:9-13) PROCLAIMS WARNING FOR TAKING THE MARK OF THE BEAST
📷 “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark IN his forehead, or IN his hand…” (repeats it twice!!)
§ “Worship is what we are, praise is what we do. While all praise is worship, all worship isn’t praise.” Swaggart
§ “…shall drink of the wine of the Wrath of God” (reference to wine-vat and judgment found in )
§ “…he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone”
· In the presence of the Lamb and Holy Angels (rev 20:11-15 – Great white throne judgment)
📷 Saints:
§ Keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus
· Blessed are the dead [in Christ] which die [physically]
· They will rest from their labours
· Their works will follow them
LORD JESUS SITTING ON (14:14)
A white [denotes purity]
Cloud [denotes glory]
As the “son of man” [references his humanity]
Having a golden crown [stephanos GK] – which means crown of victory]
A sharp sickle in his hand [speaks of reaping about to take place]
These last three angels will perform their duties just Prior to the Second Coming of Christ
Fourth Angel (14:15-16) ANNOUNCES THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON
– This will take place about 3 years later
📷 Comes out of the temple (in heaven)
§ Cries with a loud voice to the Son of Man to reap the harvest of the earth
Fifth Angel (14:17)
📷 Also comes out of temple (in heaven)
📷 Also has sharp sickle
Sixth Angel (14:18-20)
📷 Comes out from the Altar
📷 Has power over fire of the Altar
📷 Cry to him who has sickle to use it
📷 God’s wrath comes against the Anti-Christ’s army and 5/6 of army destroyed 2)
📷 NOTE: a wine press is used to squeeze the grapes till they become juice
📷 Blood came up to horse bridles at some points for about 175 -200 miles
Most likely mixed with water and blood (God will use the natural elements to fight)
And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.
📷 NOTE: The Anti-Christ/False Prophet will claim sovereignty over the elements, for example calling fire down from heaven
What do we learn?
- Everything God does on Earth He starts in heaven.
- Our tests and tribulations are orchestrated by God do draw us to Himself.
The Vials of God’s Anger
LESSON 14
KJV
Chapter 15
1. THE PREPARATION OF THE VIALS OF GOD’S ANGER
a. In the Greek, “Wrath of God” should have been translated “Anger of God”
b. The sign, great and marvelous, seven angels having seven plagues (1)
i. Fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel
And he said, Behold, I make a covenant: before all thy people I will do marvels, such as have not been done in all the earth, nor in any nation: and all the people among which thou art shall see the work of the LORD: for it is a terrible [to reverence HB] thing that I will do with thee.
c. Them that had gotten victory over the beast (2)
i. Over his image
ii. Over his mark
iii. Over the number of his name
iv. Purpose for God’s wrath…justice
d. Sang the song of Moses (3)
i. Found in &
ii. Why is this important? The Deliverance of Israel and God’s people were just as miraculous as the deliverance from Egypt and God again will use plagues to deliver Israel out from the hands of the Anti-christ
e. Sang the song of the Lamb (3b-4) (The following is part of the song)
i. Saying Great and marvelous are thy works
ii. Just and true are thy ways
iii. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord
iv. Who shall glorify thy name?
v. Thou art holy
vi. All nations shall come and worship before thee
1. And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.
vii. Thy judgments are made manifest
f. The temple of the tabernacle was opened (5-8)
i. Speaks of the holy of holies where the Ark of the Covenant (10 Commandments) were kept. This speaks of the essence of God’s covenant with man. The veil was torn when Christ died for the sinner so that all may enter into the presence of God. But now we see the judgment of God for those who had rejected His gift
ii. Seven angels came out of the temple
1. Having seven plagues
2. Clothed in pure and white linen
3. Having their breast girded with golden girdles
iii. One of the four beast (living creatures from the throne of God – )
1. Gives vials to each of the seven angels
2. Vials full of the wrath of God
a. Vials – phialē GK --“broad, shallow cup.”
b. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
c. Some see a connection that the last plagues are a response to the prayers of the saints
iv. Temple filled with smoke from the glory of God and His power
1. No man was able to enter till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled
2. It means that since no one could enter the sanctuary, no intersession could be made to stop God’s judgments on unrepentant man.
Chapter 16
2. THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE VIALS OF GOD’S ANGER
| The Vials or “bowls” are “broad, shallow cup”
| These judgments seem to be the outflow of the judgment of the seventh trumpet in 11:15
| Voice is most likely Christ since no one else could enter the temple.
| “The Greek word order also seems to emphasize the power and authority of the voice” Complete Biblical Library, Revelation pg 233
| The succession of the seven Angels is deliberated quickly, in a short period of time in the Greek. Like 1,2,3,4…
a. First Angel – grievous sores upon men (2)
i. Who had taken the mark of the beast
ii. And upon them which worshipped his image
iii. The Egyptians () and Job both experience boils and sores. The Septuagint (Greek translation of OT) uses the same word for boils
iv. Noisome – “Offensive to the smell or other senses; disgusting.” Webster 1828 Dictionary
v. Most likely it will be worst than imaginable
b. Second Angel – Sea becomes blood of a dead man (3)
i. Could mean Mediterranean or all the seas. Mediterranean sea is the primary sea of the Anti-Christ.
ii. Every living soul died in the sea
iii. Similar but a lot more wide-spread to that which happened in Egypt () where the fish in the river died
c. Third Angel --- Rivers and fountains of water become blood (4-7)
i. The Angel says
1. Thou righteous O Lord..because thou has judged thus
2. They [beast] have shed the blood of saints and prophets
a. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?
ii. Out of the Altar
1. Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments
d. Fourth Angel -- Sun scorch men with fire (8-9)
i. Scorch with a great heat – means to burn
ii. This nullifies the effectiveness of the false prophet. It is almost as if God was saying “You wanted fire from Heaven, so I will give you fire from Heaven!” Swaggart
iii. Some scholars reference which could speak of ice caps melting and massive flooding.
iv. They blasphemed the name of God
v. They repented not to give Him glory
e. Fifth Angel – Darkness on the seat of the beast (10-11)
i. The beast’s kingdom full of darkness
ii. They gnawed their tongues for pain
1. And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness which may be felt. And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven; and there was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days:
iii. They blasphemed God of heaven because of their pains and sores
f. Sixth Angel – Waters of the Euphrates dried up (12-16)
i. For the way of the kings of the east
1. In the Greek “kings of the sun-rising”
2. Why? – for easy to the battle of Armageddon
ii. Three unclean spirits like frogs come out of mouth of
1. Dragon (Satan)
2. Beast (Anti-Christ)
3. False prophet
4. Mouths speak of lying and deceptive words are implied
5. Frogs – unclean animals under the law.
6. “Spirits of Devils” – refers to a flood of demon spirits working in conjunction with the tree unclean spirits.
7. Purpose: to gather the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty
a. NOTE: It is God’s battle!!!
8. To a place called Armageddon
iii. Jesus gives a warning: “I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth [required of all believers] and keepeth his garments, [avoiding the stains of sin] lest he walk naked [without outer garments, without proper covering or Christ’s righteousness] and they see his shame”
g. Seventh Angel – Great Earthquake (17-21)
i. A Great Voice out the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying “It is Done” – means “…to come into being, come to pass. GK”
ii. “not since men were upon the earth…” greater than Noah’s flood
1. Great city [Jerusalem] divided into three parts
2. Cities of the nations fell
3. Great Babylon came in remembrance – does not mean God forgot it but that the time has come for God to do something about the situation. (Babylon will be dealt with more next session)
4. Every island fled away – “Some believe it means a restoration to conditions before the worldwide flood of Noah’s day.” Complete Biblical Library Revelation pg 249.
5. Mountains not found
6. Hail out of heaven weighing about 75-100lbs each
a. Men blasphemed God
b. Plague exceeding great
What can we learn from this?
1. God is in full control of the natural
2. There comes a time when God must judge sin and rebellion
3. God give man every opportunity before judgment to repent.
The fall of Babylon
LESSON 15
KJV
The Fall of Babylon is announced in and 16:19
Babylon is identified with Rome, Jerusalem, or another ancient city
Babylon may also symbolize the entire world system which opposes God similar to the world system presented to Nebuchadnezzar in
This may be a continuation of the message the angel gave in
1. The Description of the Whore (17:1-6)
a. Judgment – Decision in Greek
b. Whore – pornē idolater GK
c. Many waters – speaks of multitudes of people, nations and tongues (17:15)
d. Fornication –porneuō Practice idolatry or indulge in unlawful lust (with either sex) GK
e. “Inhabitants of the earth made drunk” – people usually follow the actions of their leaders
f. THE WOMAN This is the same beast found in
i. This woman is a storng contrast to the woman of (Israel)
ii. Scarlet colored – crimson
1. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
iii. Names of blasphemy -- slander, detraction, speech injurious, to another’s good name GK
iv. Seven heads – seven mountains (vs. 9)
v. Ten horns – “…ten kings which have received no kingdoms as of yet but will receive power as kings one hour with the beast” (vs. 12)
vi. Woman – “…that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.” (Vs. 18)
vii. Purple, scarlet, gold, precious stones, pearl, golden cup – speaks of luxury and royalty (a different cup that that of our Lord at the last supper)
viii. Abominations –detestation GK (Extreme hatred; abhorrence; with of. – especially concerning idolatry)
ix. Filthiness – moral impurity GK
x. Mystery -- a secret (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites) GK
xi. Babylon – in its plural form “gate of the gods.” But came to symbolize false religion, sorcery, astrology, the occult, human pride, and rebellion against the one true God.
2. The backing of the Whore (17:7-13)
---Blood of the saints (Israel) and blood of the martyrs of Jesus
a. Fallen Angel -- “…was, is not, and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit” – speaks of the beast (wild animal) which is the fallen angel that assisted Alexander the Great
b. Only those whose names were not written in the Lambs book of life marveled! – the people of the world will support the whore
c. Mountain (vs. 9) oros GK --mountain (as lifting itself above the plain):
i. Could speak of seven foundations or organizations which built the city
ii. Some see it as Rome or Jerusalem, both surrounded by seven mountains
d. Seven kings – Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persians, Greeks, Romans, ten nations
i. (seven major empires that have persecuted Israel)
e. The beast (Anti-Christ) becomes the eight empire (is of the seven)
f. Ten horns – kings that are given a kingdom for one hour (vs. 12)
g. “These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast” (17:13)
3. The troubles of the Whore (17:14-18)
a. THESE SHALL MAKE WAR WITH THE LAMB
i. BUT THE LAMB SHALL OVERCOME THEM!!!! (vs. 14)
b. Ten horns/kings shall hate the whore (17;16)
i. Shall make her desolate
ii. Shall make her naked
iii. Shall eat her flesh
iv. Shall burn her with fire
v. “The language here is like that of . They will make her desolate, without property or buildings. They will make her naked. That is, they will strip her of the purple and scarlet, the gold, jewels and pearls. All the outward signs of power, wealth, beauty, and influence will be gone. Then they will eat her flesh, that is, consume and destroy the religious organizations with their priests and all their functionaries. Finally, whatever is left they will destroy with fire. The one who was drunk with the blood of martyrs will herself become a victim.”
Complete Biblical Library, Revelation pg 263.
vi. “God hath put in their hearts to fulfill his will…until the words of God shall be fulfilled.” (17:17)
4. The prophecy against Babylon (18:1-19)
a. Babylon the Great is Fallen
i. It’s become a habitation of devils
ii. All nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication
iii. Merchants of the earth are waxed rich
b. “Come out of her, my people” (18:4)
i. Lot in Sodom
c. Sins have reached heaven (18:6)
d. Reward her double according to her works
e. “She saith in her heart, I sit a queen” – PRIDE
f. Kings of the earth have committed fornication (sexual idolatry)
i. And, behold, here cometh a chariot of men, with a couple of horsemen. And he answered and said, Babylon is fallen, is fallen; and all the graven images of her gods he hath broken unto the ground.
g. The merchants mourn because of financial loss (18:11-19)
i. Material things
ii. Souls of men – slavery – treating men like merchandise (13)
5. The total victory over Babylon pictured (18:20-24)
a. God has avenged on behalf of the apostles and prophets
b. Great millstone cast into the sea – refers to , )
c. 18:22-23 refers to fallen Babylon
d. God reminds us of the reason for Babylon’s fall – the blood of prophets, saints and all that were slain upon the earth (24)
The Beginning of the Earthly Reign of Christ
LESSON 16
KJV
A. The Victory celebration of God (19:1-10)
1. People of heaven (1-3)
i. Say “Alleluia, Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God”
ii. God has judged the great whore
iii. God has avenged the blood of his servants
iv. Again “Alleluia” – means “praise ye ‘jah’” or Jehovah HB
2. Twenty four elders (4)
i. Fell down and Worshiped
ii. Saying “Alleluia”
3. A voice came out of the throne (5)
i. Saying “Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great.”
4. As it were the voice of a great multitude, voice of many waters, and of mighty thundering (6-8)
i. Saying “Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth
ii. “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him
iii. Marriage supper of the Lamb is come
iv. Wife has made herself ready
1. Arrayed in fine linen
2. Clean and white
a. For the fine linen is the righteousness of saints
5. Angel says
i. Write blessed are those who are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb
ii. These are the true sayings of God
iii. I am a fellow-servant
iv. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy
B. The Second Coming of Christ (19:11-21)
1. READ , )
2. Description of Christ (11-13)
i. Riding on a white horse
ii. Called Faithful and True
iii. In righteousness he doth judge and make war
iv. Eyes were as a flame of fire
v. On his head were many crowns
vi. A name written that nobody knew
vii. Vesture dipped in blood (vesture – a decorative robe like that of Levite priests)
viii. His name is the “”Word of God”
3. Armies with Him (14)
i. Followed Him on white horses
ii. Fine linen, white and clean
4. The Action of Christ (15-17)
i. A sharp sword out of his mouth to smite the nations
– Symbolic of Christ speaking the word and it coming into existence
ii. Shall rule them with a rod of iron
iii. He treads the winepress of the fierceness and anger of the Almighty God (Rules justly)
iv. Written on his vesture and thigh “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS”
5. Words of the angel standing in the sun (17-18)
i. Saying all the fowls “come and gather yourselves together to the supper of the great God”
ii. Eat the flesh of kings “great and small”
6. Narration (19-21)
i. The beast AND the kings of the earth, AND their armies gather together to make war against Christ and His army
ii. Beast and False Prophet taken alive cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone
iii. Remnant were slain with the sword of Christ
1. Armies of God do nothing but watch!
2. Sword comes out of his mouth
3. Fowls were filled with their flesh (see 18)
C. The bounding of Satan (20:1-3)
1. An angel comes down from heaven with a key and great chain
2. He captures the Dragon,
i. Old serpent, Devil, Satan
3. Cast him into bottomless pit
i. Shut him up
ii. Set a seal upon him
1. That he should deceive the nations no more
iii. For 1000 years
D. The beheaded (4-5)
1. For the witness of Jesus Christ
2. For the Word of God
3. For not worshiping the beast
4. Not worshiping his image
5. Not receiving his mark upon their foreheads or IN their hands
6. They lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years
7. This concludes the first resurrection:
i. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
ii. First Resurrection includes all who have died in the faith
iii. The Second Resurrection includes those who appear before the Great White Throne Judgment (unbelievers)
iv. Those believers who are alive during the tribulation will continue to live into the Millennium.
v. Those who are resurrected will have new bodies.
vi. Those who were not resurrected will continue to live but will have access to the tree of life. (see )
vii. Blessed are those who take part in the first Resurrection
1. The second death hath no power (first death spiritual – Adam – redemption offered, Second death eternal – no redemption)
see .
2. They will be priests of God and of Christ
3. They shall reign with him a thousand years
viii. READ
ix. READ
E. The Release of Satan (20:7-10)
1. Satan is intentionally set free after 1000 years
2. He will deceive the nations
i. Gog and Magog READ ,
ii. For battle against Christ
iii. The number of whom is as the sand of the sea
1. Speaks of the intent of the heart of man – to serve self rather than God)
iv. They compassed the beloved city – Jerusalem (just like 1000 years earlier)
v. Fire comes out of heaven to devour them all
3. Devil that deceived, cast into the lake of fire and brimstone
i. Shall be tormented day and night forever and ever
F. The Great White Throne Judgment (20:11-15)
1. Earth and heaven fled away (could be the time of the new heaven’s and earth)
2. All non-believers resurrected to be judged
i. Two books
1. Book of works – “according to their works” see also vs. 13
2. Book of life – to see if their name was in it (15)
ii. Sea gives up dead
iii. Death (the grave) and hell delivered up the dead in them
iv. Death and hell cast into the lake of fire
1. Death refers to everything sinful “..the wages of sin…
2. Hell is thrown in so that the only place in the universe where there is torment is the lake of fire. (Some believe that hell is at the center of the earth, therefore, in order for God to make a new heaven’s and earth hell must be disposed of)
3. The Second death – in which there is no redemption – it is eternal!
What can we learn from this?
1. Satan is limited by what God commands
2. Man will be judged by their works and belief
3. Those who follow Jesus will be rewarded.
The New Heaven & Earth
Part 1
LESSON 17
KJV
1. New heaven and earth…why? (1)
a. Corruption of sin
b. Heaven speaks of natural universe around us NOT Heaven where God Dwells
c. No more sea
i. See speaks of Noah’s flood – the curse of God
ii. Also the entire earth will be inhabitable
d. Specifies 1st earth and heaven passed away – does not mean annihilation
i. The earth will be recreated
For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.
ii. could refer to Noah’s flood or
iii. Either way the picture speaks of passing from one state to another.
2. The New Jerusalem
a. Prepared as a Bride: (2)
i. Pure
ii. Beautiful
iii. Virginal
b. The Tabernacle of God is with Men (3)
i. We are the temple of God
1. Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
ii. This is a temporary tabernacle but…
1. For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
iii. Abraham looked for the city of God
1. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
c. Wipe away all tears (4)
i. Tears of sorrow
1. No more death, sorrow, crying, pain
a. And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles [pain] shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; In the sweat of thy face [crying] shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. [death]
2. Former things are passed away
d. All things new (5)
i. This means without any curse
1. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
ii. These are true and faithful
1. You can depend on God to keep His Word!
e. The desire of God (6-7)
i. Alpha and Omega – nothing exists outside the parameters of Christ
ii. To give to them that thirst
1. This is a plea from God to us now
2. He gives this water of life FREELY
iii. He that overcomes shall inherit all things
1. He that overcomes --See
2. Inheritance
a. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
iv. He will be our God, we his son
1. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
v. How do you live an overcoming life? Learn what it means to be “in Christ” – to have total dependence on Christ and know who you are.
f. The Unbelieving (8)
i. Notice the similarities to – the works of the flesh
ii. All Liars – Satan is the father of lies
iii. Second death – the lake of fire and brimstone
g. The angel shows the Jewel of God – the Lamb’s wife (9-27)
THE LAMB AS REDEMPTION 9-13
Lamb mentioned 27 times in Revelation
Lamb mentioned 7 times in
The Revelation of Christ is enveloped by the Sacrifice of Christ
i. Could be same angel in 17:1. Contrast: Babylon & Lamb’s Wife, New Jerusalem
ii. Great and High mountain – enables the apostle to see the big picture (10)
iii. Descending out of heaven from God (10)
1. All good things come from God
iv. Having the glory of God (11)
1. We are nothing. God is everything a Christian should be
2. Her light “was like” unto a stone most precious…
a. This is a picture of us when we let Jesus shine though us
3. Twelve gates, twelve angels twelve tribes (12)
a. Twelve is the number of God’s government
b. gives possible order of gates/tribes
i. (This is of course, if it parallels the Millennium temple)
THE LAMB AS FOUNDATION
v. Twelve foundations, with apostles of the Lamb’s names in them (14)
1. And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
vi. Size is literal
1. Notice the variables of 12 – God’s number of government (15-17)
2. The foundations of the wall were precious stones – symbolic of the preciousness of the saints of God (18-20)
3. Gates of pearls (probably made up of thousands of small pearls) – some of them of one pearl (21)
a. “There is a sermon in the fact that the gates are pearl. Heaven is entered through suffering and travail, through Redemption and Blood, through the agony of the Cross. A pearl is a jewel made by a little animal that is wounded. Without the wound, the pearl is never formed. We enter Heaven through gates of pearl” Griswell, famous Baptist pastor
b. “As well, the pearl is the only precious stone which the art and skill of man cannot improve. The tools of the craftsman and artificier may give fresh luster to the emerald and the sapphire; but he must life no tool upon the pearl.” Ellicott
THE LAMB AS TEMPLE
vii. God is the temple – no need for a temple (22)
1. Purpose of the temple:
a. A place for God to dwell with man
b. A place where sacrifices could be made for man’s redemption
c. Both are no longer needed
viii. God is light – no need for sun, or moon (23)
ix. “Nations of them which are saved…” (24)
1. Kings: leaders
2. There will be four groups of beings on earth at this time:
a. Deity – Father, Son, Holy Spirit
b. Angels, as well as Cherubim and Seraphim
c. Glorified Saints – Those who has their part in the first resurrection – All Saints from Able to end of Tribulation
d. Natural People – Those saved during the Millennial Reign made up of most Jews and some Gentiles
3. The “Natural people” will glory and honor to the New Jerusalem
x. No night in the New Jerusalem (25)
1. But in the rest of the earth there shall be…
a. While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.
2. Nations: (26)
a. People will still go on living, eternally under the government of God centered at the new Jerusalem
xi. Only those whose name is written in the Lambs book of life will enter
a. IMAGINE HOW DIFFERENT IT WILL BE!!!!
The New Heaven & Earth
Part 2
LESSON 18
KJV
1. Everything from God is pure (1-6)
a. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
b. Water of Life clear as crystal – no impurities
c. Throne of God AND the Lamb
i. Both necessary: God – pure
ii. Lamb – redemption
d. Tree of Life – permits people to live forever
i. And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:
ii. Twelve fruits signifies the government of God – order
e. Healing of the Nations
i. Water of Life, Tree of Life provides eternal life to natural people
f. No more curse: anything related to death and destruction
g. Servants shall serve (worship) Him
i. Service to God is a form of worship
ii. “This speaks of servants in a Hebrew household. Some who were set free loved their Master to such an extent, and appreciated their place and position to such an extent that instead of leaving, they desired to stay”. Swaggart on
1. And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free: Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the door, or unto the door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever.
iii.
h. We shall see God’s face – Adam hid himself from God. We will see him!!
i. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
i. His name shall be in their foreheads – refers to ownership (see )
j. No night – refers to the city New Jerusalem because Jesus illuminates the city
k. Servants shall reign forever –Servants don’t reign like kings but God exalts the least to great heights!!
l. Faithful and True – speaks of God’s dependability and reliability
2. Reminder –
a. Jesus is coming back quickly! (7)
b. Blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book
c. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.
d. Blessed is he that reads and keeps
3. “I am thy fellow-servant and of thy brethren the prophets (8-9)
a. – suggest it was one of the OT prophets such as Isaiah, Ezekiel or Daniel
b. Does not say he was a prophet
c. Genuine prophets always point worship to God – it should be the same with us
4. “…the time is at hand…” (10) – the end times started around 100 AD
5. Unjust = Righteous…filthy = holy -- notice the contrast sin verses holiness (11)
6. Another Reminder:
a. Behold I come quickly
b. My reward is with me – all men will be judged according to their works
i. Sinners: And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
ii. Saints: For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
c. Jesus is the Alpha and Omega
i. 4x in Revelation (only Revelation)
ii. 2x in first chapter 2x in last two chapters
d. Blessed are they that do his commands
i. Right to the tree of life
ii. Enter through gates of New Jerusalem ()
iii. This is the 7th and final beatitude in Revelation (14)
1. 1:3 –Blessed is he that reads
2. 14:13 – Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord…
3. 16:15 – Blessed is he that watches
4. 19:9 – Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb
5. 20:6 –Blessed is he that has part in the first resurrection
6. 22:7 – Blessed is he that keeps the saying of the prophecy of this book
7. 22:14 – Blessed are they that do his commandments
e. Without are dogs, sorcerers, whoremongers, murders, idolaters and liars
7. Jesus confirms the message the angel gives as being from Him (16)
a. “I, Jesus” is only found in this passage emphasizing it’s importance
b. “In” the churches speaks of pastors being messengers to teach the Revelation of Jesus Christ
c. Root and offspring of David – refers to the incarnation and the King who will sit on David’s throne
8. Morning Star – refers to Christ making everything new.
9. THE INVITATION (17
a. The Spirit is the Holy Spirit – “Come”.
b. The Bride says – “Come”.
c. He that hears – “Come”.
d. He that thirsts – “Come”.
e. He that testifies these things says “surely I come quickly”. (20)
10. Warning to not add or take away from the prophecy of Christ (18-19)
11. Grace of the Lord Jesus
a. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.