REVELATION - Digging Deeper Still ...

            In this writing John tells us that “The seven heads of the beast are seven mountains” ^{[Rev. 17:9],} scholars say this is a reference to the famous seven hills of Rome. Chapter 13 tells us that the dragon, who is Satan, gave authority to the beast (Rome) to draw worship from the people. The 1^st Roman emperor to demand that the people refer to him as “Lord and God” on an empire-wide basis was Domitian. It was under Domitian that the apostle John was sent to the Isle of Patmos. The 1^st Commandment told those who believe that they couldn’t worship false gods, so John sounded the alarm regarding Domitian’s challenge.

 

THE GRAND THEME

 

            It is that of two warring powers, both God and Satan, and of God’s ultimate victory over evil. These two great powers are NOT equal in strength, for God is much stronger than Satan. In spite of Satan knowing his eventual demise, he continues to scheme and plot to trip of the brethren of God. This is only because God allows him to do so for his own purposes. When the final battle takes place we find that it is NO contest, as Satan and his demons are utterly destroyed, without a contest, by fire from above (Rev. 20:7-10).

            The apostle John displays God’s majesty and power thru two key words. The first word is found in the image of the THRONE. Elsewhere in the NT the word ‘throne’ is found a total of 15 times; however, in Revelation it occurs a whopping 42 times. The ‘throne’ stands for the rightful reign of God over the course of history. Angelic choruses bow before the ‘throne’ of God and chanting, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty” (Rev. 4:8).

            The second key word is ALMIGHTY. Outside Revelation this word only shows up once in the NT (2 Cor. 6:18) but occurs nine times in this book. Once it shows up as the word “OMNIPOTENT” in Rev. 19:6. ‘Almighty’ means essentially “without contenders”. No matter how fierce and evil Satan may be, he cannot defeat ‘Almighty’ God. He will fulfill his promises and accomplish his divine, sovereign purpose in history in HIS time and in HIS way. 

            Jesus Christ is the central figure in God’s army. Revelation isn’t a book of multiple revelations, but rather ONE revelation; that being Jesus Christ himself. John’s first vision was of Christ standing in the midst of the seven candlesticks, which represent his churches, with eyes blazing like fire, which stands for the “all-seeing” nature of our Lord. He had feet like fine brass which speaks of his being “all-powerful”. His hair was like snow white wool which tells the reader that he is “eternal and all-knowing”.  Finally, he had a sharp two-edged sword coming from his mouth which is the “word of truth”. [“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints, and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” - Hebrews 4:12] 

Christ is the “first and the last” (Rev. 1:11; 22:13), whose final promise was and is “Surely I am coming quickly” (Rev. 22:20). As a side note I’d like to point out what 2 Peter 3:8 has to say: “But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day.” So for Jesus to say “quickly” obviously means a lot different that our definition of that word. God isn’t constrained by time as we are. He does whatever he does in his own time, for he knows the perfect time for such things to take place. That’s largely why we must exercise our faith and trust in God. He never fails. His plans are inscrutable; nothing or no one can stop what God has coming for us all.

Next we’re going to continue our deep dive into this all important book. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Thomas Nelson Publishing, 1995.

REVELATION - Digging Deeper

            Apocalypsis, the title of this book in the original Greek, means ‘unveiling’ or ‘disclosure’ of hidden things known only to God. This book is the only APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE found in the NT. Other examples of this type of literature can be found in the following OT writings: Daniel, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Zechariah.

            The Revelation of Jesus Christ depicts the end of this present age and the coming of God’s future kingdom thru symbols, images, and numbers. The question is why would so much imagery be used? One reason is that it was written during very dangerous times when it was much safer to hide one’s message in images than to speak plainly. Symbolism also served as an element of mystery regarding the details, such as time and place. It was not meant to confuse the reader, but to inform and strengthen believers during the difficulties of persecution. 

            Although some of the keys to the symbols have been lost over time, the overall message remains clear: we serve an ALL-POWERFUL GOD. Nothing the devil can concoct and throw at us can thwart the plans of God for his purposes are righteous. God cannot be defeated. 

 

The Seven Visions

 

            The Book of Revelation contains seven visions. The 1^st vision, seen in Chapters 1-3, tells of Christ encouraging his earthly church to remain totally loyal to him against all hostile attacks from the enemy.

            The 2^nd vision is found in Chapters 4-7, where Christ the Lamb stands with a sealed scroll before God in heaven. There are seven seals which symbolize knowledge of the destinies of individuals and nations and a series of disasters that befall the earth. It is then that the Lamb opens each of the seals.

            A series of seven angels blowing seven trumpets forms vision number three (Ch. 8-11). At the sound of these trumpets more disaster occur.  

            The 4^th vision (Ch. 12-14) consists of the persecution of the church by Satan and the beast. The church in this vision is seen as a woman with two witnesses (Moses and Elijah).

            The 5^th vision (Ch. 15-16) is another series of seven: seven bowls that are pouring out God’s wrath. The judgment of Babylon, which is a symbol of Rome, forms the 6^th vision found in Chapters 17:1 - 19:10. The final victory of God over Satan, God’s final judgment, and the final blessedness form the 7^th and final vision (Ch. 19:11-21). 

            The fulfillment of God’s eternal kingdom finds its expression in the word ‘new’. Christ comes with a promise to make all things new: a new heaven, a new earth, and a new Jerusalem (Ch. 21). The book closed with the longing of all Christians, “Come, Lord Jesus!”

 

            Next we will continue digging a little deeper into the historical setting. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Thomas Nelson Publishing, 1995.

REVELATION - The Beginning & the End

            The Bible tells the story of the beginning of the world in Genesis and the end of the world in Revelation. It’s the story of man from beginning to end; from the fall into sin to redemption to God’s ultimate victory over evil. It’s all found in the pages of the Bible.

 

GENESIS -                                                       REVELATION -

 

The sun is created                                                     The sun is no longer needed

 

Satan wins                                                                 Satan loses

 

Sin enters the human race                                         Sin is banished from existence

 

People run & hide from God                                     People are invited to live with God 

 

People are cursed                                                      The curse is lifted

 

Tears are shed with sorrow for sin                            No more sin, no more tears or sorrow

 

The garden of Eden & earth are cursed                    God’s city is glorified; earth is made new

 

Paradise is lost                                                          Paradise is regained

 

People are doomed to death                                     Death defeated; believers live forever 

 

ANGELS

 

            Angels are spiritual beings created by God to help accomplish his work on earth. Angels act as messengers, protect God’s people, offer encouragement, give guidance, bring punishment, patrol the earth, and fight the forces of evil. There are both good and bad angels. The bad angels, who are otherwise known as demons, are allied with Satan. They have considerably less power and authority than good angels. Once evil is eradicated the good angels main role with be to offer continuous praise to Almighty God.

 

            Next continues our look at Revelation. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: The Life Application Study Bible.

REVELATION - The Seven Churches

           “The seven churches of Revelation were real churches in Asia Minor during the first century, but their messages are also relevant to the church throughout history and today. Each message addressed the particular spiritual condition of the church and urged the believers to overcome their challenges and grow in faith and love.

The seven churches of Revelation offer a powerful and sobering picture of the spiritual condition of the church and the individual believer. Through a comprehensive chart study, we can gain a deeper understanding of their historical and spiritual significance and apply their timeless lessons to our own lives and ministries. May we heed the words of Jesus to the seven churches, and strive to grow in faith, love, and obedience, as we eagerly await His return and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom.” ^[1]

 

CHURCH	BIBLE REF	PRAISE	REBUKE	ACTION NEEDED
Ephesus	Rev. 2:1-7	Hard working, great endurance	They do not love as they first did.	Remember & repent; regain their 1st love
Smyrna	Rev. 2:8-11	They suffered persecution & poverty	None	Do not fear; endure & be faithful
Pergamum	Rev. 2:12-17	They remained loyal to God	They tolerated compromise with the world	They must repent & separate from the world.
Thyatira	Rev. 2:18-19	They exhibited love, faith, service & endurance.	They tolerated immorality & false teachings.	They must learn to discern truth from lies & repent.
Sardis	Rev. 3:1-6	They were somewhat effective.	Yet they were spiritually dead; superficial in their faith.	They needed to wake up; revive & remain in faithful obedience.
Philadelphia	Rev. 3:7-13	They were faithful.	None	Hold on; persevere.
Laodicea	Rev. 3:14-22	None	Their faith was lukewarm; self-sufficient.	They needed to repent and rekindle their dependence on God.

 

 

                  This summary of the letters to the seven churches in Revelation shows us the qualities our churches today should seek & those we should avoid.

            Next we will continue our journey thru the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: The Life Application Study Bible.

^[1] https://isvbible.com/blog/the-seven-churches-of-revelation-a-chart-study-on-church-history

REVELATION - The Mega Themes (part 2)

JUDGMENT - There is a day coming, a time no man knows, when God’s avenging anger shall be fully and completely released. At that time there will be neither any place to run, nor any place to hide from his divine wrath. Satan and his demons will be thoroughly defeated and cast into the Lake of Fire reserved for them. False religions shall be destroyed. Those faithful servants who followed the Lord shall be rewarded with eternal life, but all who have refused to believe in God will face eternal separation from God with no hope of redemption. There will be no end to the punishment that will be inflicted upon them for all eternity.

            Evil and injustice will not triumph forever, for God’s final judgment will stop it in its tracks. It is imperative that all followers of Christ are absolutely certain that their commitment to Christ is unwavering so as to escape the great final judgment of God. No one who rejects Christ will escape God’s punishment.

            I’d like to address a certain thought process that exists with many casual believers. That being that “God is a god of love; surely he wouldn’t send anyone to hell.” Let’s get something very clear; God has never SENT anyone to hell, nor WILL he ever send anyone to hell. “The Lord does not delay [as though He were unable to act] and is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is [extraordinarily] patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” _{[2 Peter 3:9 AMP]} Does that sound like someone who intends to ship anyone to hell? No, it doesn’t. People, by their own decision, have decided to sidestep what they believe is a restrictive lifestyle to “enjoy” a life filled with temporal pleasures. They are unaware of what awaits them as the end of life as we know it arrives. At that time there will be no clemency, nothing but sorrow and remorse for a life that has been wasted. Life with God is filled with wonderful blessings and an eternal home where we will never want for anything ever again. Not believing in what scripture details for us is very human, but on the final day no excuses will be accepted. All hope of reversal regarding the sentence that has been pronounced against those who ignored Jesus’ teachings are gone. So don’t think that God won’t send anyone to hell, because that is something man does all by himself thru stubborn, arrogant ignorance.

 

HOPE - There is a day coming when God will create a new heaven and a new earth. At that time all believers will live with him forever in perfect peace and security. The dead in Christ will be raised to life. These promises for our future bring us hope.

            Our great hope is that what Christ promised will actually come true. Having confidence in our final destination will allow us to follow Christ with unshakeable dedication, no matter what we are confronted with in this life. We can be encouraged by hoping in Christ’s return.

            Next we will continue on with our look at the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His blessing,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life ministries

Source: The Life Application Study Bible.

REVELATION - The Mega Themes

            The book of Revelation is FROM Jesus Christ, CONCERNING Jesus Christ and OF Jesus Christ. The Father gave the revelation of his plan to his Son, who, in turn, revealed it to the Apostle John. It reveals Christ’s full identity and God’s plan for the end of the world as we know it.  It also focuses on Christ’s 2^nd Coming, his victory over all evil and the establishment of his Kingdom on earth. As you read thru Revelation, take note of the main message within the text; that being the infinite love, power, and justice of the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY - Being sovereign is to have SUPREME AUTHORITY. What would God have supreme authority over? Since we believe Almighty God created all living things, as well as the planet we live on, then I’d say God has supreme authority over EVERYTHING in existence. He is greater than ANY power in the universe. God cannot be compared to any leader, government, or religion for they are so far inferior to him that it would be a joke to even attempt such a comparison. Even though man was given a free will to choose how he would live, God knew he would never make it on his own. 

                  Satan is powerful on this earth, which God allowed him to have dominion over for a time, so we must be careful NOT to be led astray from the truth. God is all-powerful, and in complete control. If we are redeemed then we are his family, and he will make sure that all true believers will remain safe into eternal life. Because God’s love for all his children is unmatched, we must know that we can trust him with our very lives.

 

CHRIST’S RETURN - Jesus Christ came to earth as a ‘lamb’, which is the symbol of his perfect sacrifice for all sin. When he returns a 2^nd time it will be as a triumphant ‘Lion’, who will be the rightful ruler and conqueror. Christ will defeat Satan, settle accounts with all those who rejected him, and bring his faithful people with him into eternity.

                  Knowing in our heart that Christ will absolutely return for us gives those suffering for their faith the strength to endure. We all can look forward to his return as both King and Judge. Since we have no idea when he will return, it behooves us to always be ready by keeping our faith strong. 

 

GOD’S FAITHFUL PEOPLE - John wrote Revelation to encourage the church to resist the demands to worship the Roman emperor. He warns all God’s people to remain devoted only to Jesus Christ. Revelation identifies those who are faithful and what they ought to be doing while waiting for Christ to return.

                  Believing in Christ and seeking to live your new life according to God’s statutes will secure victory for all who adhere to the Word. Those loyal followers of Christ will be able, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to resist temptation. Our main focus in life is to be the risen Christ, for he is the essence of love, compassion, forgiveness, and truth. 

                  Next we will continue looking at the remainder of the Mega Themes found in Revelation. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: The Life Application Study Bible.

REVELATION

            Revelation is the only book that within its’ text reveals its own title, which is, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ”. As a matter of fact they are the first five words of the book.  “Revelation” means “an uncovering”, “an unveiling” or “a disclosure”. In this case what is being uncovered is SPIRITUAL TRUTH. This truth was relayed to John, referred to as God’s “bond-servant”, by an angel sent to John by the Lord.   

          Shortly after the book begins, John saw a vision of Jesus standing among seven golden lampstands that had materialized in the cave. In the midst of the lampstands was “one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and hair were white like white wool; His eyes were like a flame of fire. His feet were like burnished bronze, and his voice was like the sound of many waters. 

In his right hand the Lord held seven stars and out of his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and his face was like the shining sun ...” ^{(Rev. 1:12-16)}. How do we know it’s Jesus? Because in Rev. 1:8 it states, “I am the Alpha & the Omega”, says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” 

In his vision John receives instructions to write to the seven churches of Asia Minor. In those letters John both commends them for their strengths and warns them about their flaws. Each letter was sent to an existing church where they were told to constantly fight against the temptation to become listless, loveless, immoral, lenient, compromising, lifeless and/or too casual about their faith. The letters point out to the readers just how the Lord feels about those qualities. 

The book proceeds with John addressing the seven churches in Asia Minor (today it would be Turkey) in Revelation 1:4. The seven churches were in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. These churches had begun to spiritually decline in faithfulness and were found by the Lord to be wanting. Because of this scholars reason that the decline probably took place in the 90’s, since there is no mention of such a decline in the AD 50 thru 60 years when Nero raged with his horrific persecution of the church. 

This book is both a warning to believers who have become apathetic and an encouragement to those who are faithfully enduring the struggles of this world. God’s entire family, past, present, and future, learn from this book that though we face difficult times, evil really does lose in the end and that gives hope to those believers in the 1^st Century and today. 

Next we will look over the Mega Themes that Revelation offers. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Sources: The Life Application Study Bible; The John MacArthur Study Bible, The Notes & Outline of Revelation.