1) Who is the bride? Church - followers of God. What is the bride wearing? White linen. What does the clothing represent? Righteousness. Key word - GIVEN. The saints are given righteousness by God. It is not anything we earn on our own.
2) In verse 9, what does the angel tell John to write? a Beatitude. Who were meant to read/hear these words? Those invited to the marriage supper. Where did these words originate? From God
Who are invited to attend the marriage supper? Believers. Not only invited, but blessed!!! On whose authority? God! Not John. Not the angel. Not 4 beasts. Not 24 elders. God!
3) In verse 10, what did John do? Fell down on his knees before the angel. Why?
John is in awe of God’s word. He hears angel say “These are true words of God”. John realized this angel was in the presence of God. The words He was to write came directly from the lips of God. Have you ever been in awe of the word of God?
4) What did the angel mean when he said “the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy”?Testimony - evidence. The very essence of prophecy is Jesus. He was the fulfillment of prophecy both OT and NT. Evidence that prophecy is true. Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Malachi, Elijah, Elisha, Ezekiel, Amos, etc.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Revelation 17 – The Great Prostitute and the Scarlet Beast pt. 2
II. Notes on the Scarlet Beast
John sees woman/prostitute sitting on a beast.
Why does John see a woman/prostitute and a ferocious beast and not a city and a man? Why the imagery?
John’s vision is being focused through the prism of the Holy Spirit. He sees the city as God sees the city. Not a place of buildings and streets. God sees a prostitute who is seducing rulers and peoples to sin/to commit abominable, detestable acts. John sees the man as God sees the man. Not a powerful ruler. God sees a beast.
Today, God sees our nation through the prism of His Spirit. How does He see us? A huge cave. In center of cave is a small lit candle. Light of candle is struggling against the darkness to bring light to the cave. Darkness is winning the battle. Pushing the light further and further back towards the candle.
Angel’s description of the beast:
Scarlet in color - Blood red
Beast - Dark, ferocious, savage, strong
Full of blasphemous names - Define blasphemous - slanderous, abusive, evil, hurtful speech
Seven heads & ten horns
After seeing the vision, John wonders greatly. Verse 7 - Angel explains vision.
Focus on the beast:
vs. 8 - Angel says that “he was, is not, and is about to come up out of the abyss”
What does that mean?
“He was…” - He has been on the earth before.
“ … is not …” - He is not on the earth during John’s day. Where is he?
Could be that he is in the Abyss.
“ ….is about to come …” - In the future, he will appear. Come up out of the
Abyss. What is his final fate? Destruction
When he does show himself, who are the ones who will not recognize him for what he really is? People whose names are not written in the book of life (non-believers). Who is this guy?
Seven heads - begin with verse 9.
Seven heads = seven mountains - What do mountains symbolize? Strength/power, majesty, authority.
Seven mountains = seven kings (Strong, powerful, majesty, authority)
Where does the woman sit? On the mountains/on the kings. What does that tell you about the power/might of this city? See vs. 18. Where does that political power originate? The 7. You remove the throne (mountains), where would the political authority come from?
Economically powerful city; has tremendous influence in the world (Economics)
+
Confederation of Seven rulers (Political) -equal in power
=
City is the dominant power in the world
This city, along with rest of the world, experiences a crisis of historic proportions: Revelation 5: Wars, famine, pestilence, disease, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions …
These myriad of crises has hurt this powerful city, economically - Hard to gain wealth during a time of world-wide crisis.
Read verse 10 - the other has not yet come; and when he comes, he must remain a little while. What does that tell you about this ruler? His staying power?
Politically - Five rulers have fallen. One remains. A seventh ruler joins the confederation. As we’re going to see, he’s only going to be a part of the group for a short time. Loss of five rulers has greatly weakened the political authority of the city/confederation. A power vacuum.
Greg’s speculation -
Read vs. 11-13 -
The beast makes his appearance. He is an eighth ruler. Distinct/separate from the others. Somehow, he manages to become one of the seven. In my opinion, he replaces one of the 7. The one that remains a little while.
The Beast becomes a part of the confederation that is the basis of this city’s political power. He does so at a time when the world is in chaos. The confederation … the world, are longing for a strong leader who can bring stability to the world … bring food, jobs, shelter, protection, wealth, prosperity, peace. A savior riding a white horse. The Beast takes advantage of the situation. Uses his charisma, sweet talk, lies … to attain great power in order to carry out HIS agenda (see vs. 14). He tells leaders of confederation - Our confederation has been weakened. We have lost five nations. Let’s add 10 more nations to our confederation. Give the rulers of these nations the same authority within the confederation that I have. We’ll be strong enough to restore stability to the world. The other confederation ruler and city leaders are like “I’m not sure ….” They are nations the city/confederation have little respect for. The 10 are perhaps rivals of the city/confederation on the world stage. Beast – “I know the rulers of these nations. They are allies of mine. They can be trusted” Still reluctance by the city/confederation. Beast - “We won’t have to give them power permanently. Just long enough to restore world stability.” Confederation agrees. Soon after the ten received authority, what did they do? Verse 13. Hand over their power to the Beast. He is in complete control.
With backing of ten, the Beast gains control over the confederation and the city. He attains greater political power in the world. He uses his newly won power in conjunction with the city’s wealth and influence in the world to carry out his agenda. Which is what? See vs. 14.
Historical precedence - Ancient Rome - Julius Caesar; France – Napoleon; Germany - Adolf Hitler. All rose to power in times of crises. They won support of the masses. They promised stability, peace, prosperity which was a cover for their hidden agenda. They were given power supposedly for a brief period of time. They used the instruments of government to attain greater power. They put trusted people in certain positions. Before you know it, they became dictators for life.
Vs. 16 -18
What happens? Beast and the 10 destroy the great city. Lover (beast) turns on prostitute (Babylon). The Beast got what he wanted out of this city
Why? God’s purpose - The 10 and the beast are instruments of God’s wrath/judgment. He used them to execute His judgment.
What was the common purpose of the ten? What united them? Hatred for this city/confederation. Economic/political rivals. Cut a deal with the beast. We help you gain power, you help us destroy this city.
Precedence: God used immoral/pagan nations to execute judgment - Assyria, Babylon, Egypt …. Eventually, he executes judgment on them.
John sees woman/prostitute sitting on a beast.
Why does John see a woman/prostitute and a ferocious beast and not a city and a man? Why the imagery?
John’s vision is being focused through the prism of the Holy Spirit. He sees the city as God sees the city. Not a place of buildings and streets. God sees a prostitute who is seducing rulers and peoples to sin/to commit abominable, detestable acts. John sees the man as God sees the man. Not a powerful ruler. God sees a beast.
Today, God sees our nation through the prism of His Spirit. How does He see us? A huge cave. In center of cave is a small lit candle. Light of candle is struggling against the darkness to bring light to the cave. Darkness is winning the battle. Pushing the light further and further back towards the candle.
Angel’s description of the beast:
Scarlet in color - Blood red
Beast - Dark, ferocious, savage, strong
Full of blasphemous names - Define blasphemous - slanderous, abusive, evil, hurtful speech
Seven heads & ten horns
After seeing the vision, John wonders greatly. Verse 7 - Angel explains vision.
Focus on the beast:
vs. 8 - Angel says that “he was, is not, and is about to come up out of the abyss”
What does that mean?
“He was…” - He has been on the earth before.
“ … is not …” - He is not on the earth during John’s day. Where is he?
Could be that he is in the Abyss.
“ ….is about to come …” - In the future, he will appear. Come up out of the
Abyss. What is his final fate? Destruction
When he does show himself, who are the ones who will not recognize him for what he really is? People whose names are not written in the book of life (non-believers). Who is this guy?
Seven heads - begin with verse 9.
Seven heads = seven mountains - What do mountains symbolize? Strength/power, majesty, authority.
Seven mountains = seven kings (Strong, powerful, majesty, authority)
Where does the woman sit? On the mountains/on the kings. What does that tell you about the power/might of this city? See vs. 18. Where does that political power originate? The 7. You remove the throne (mountains), where would the political authority come from?
Economically powerful city; has tremendous influence in the world (Economics)
+
Confederation of Seven rulers (Political) -equal in power
=
City is the dominant power in the world
This city, along with rest of the world, experiences a crisis of historic proportions: Revelation 5: Wars, famine, pestilence, disease, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions …
These myriad of crises has hurt this powerful city, economically - Hard to gain wealth during a time of world-wide crisis.
Read verse 10 - the other has not yet come; and when he comes, he must remain a little while. What does that tell you about this ruler? His staying power?
Politically - Five rulers have fallen. One remains. A seventh ruler joins the confederation. As we’re going to see, he’s only going to be a part of the group for a short time. Loss of five rulers has greatly weakened the political authority of the city/confederation. A power vacuum.
Greg’s speculation -
Read vs. 11-13 -
The beast makes his appearance. He is an eighth ruler. Distinct/separate from the others. Somehow, he manages to become one of the seven. In my opinion, he replaces one of the 7. The one that remains a little while.
The Beast becomes a part of the confederation that is the basis of this city’s political power. He does so at a time when the world is in chaos. The confederation … the world, are longing for a strong leader who can bring stability to the world … bring food, jobs, shelter, protection, wealth, prosperity, peace. A savior riding a white horse. The Beast takes advantage of the situation. Uses his charisma, sweet talk, lies … to attain great power in order to carry out HIS agenda (see vs. 14). He tells leaders of confederation - Our confederation has been weakened. We have lost five nations. Let’s add 10 more nations to our confederation. Give the rulers of these nations the same authority within the confederation that I have. We’ll be strong enough to restore stability to the world. The other confederation ruler and city leaders are like “I’m not sure ….” They are nations the city/confederation have little respect for. The 10 are perhaps rivals of the city/confederation on the world stage. Beast – “I know the rulers of these nations. They are allies of mine. They can be trusted” Still reluctance by the city/confederation. Beast - “We won’t have to give them power permanently. Just long enough to restore world stability.” Confederation agrees. Soon after the ten received authority, what did they do? Verse 13. Hand over their power to the Beast. He is in complete control.
With backing of ten, the Beast gains control over the confederation and the city. He attains greater political power in the world. He uses his newly won power in conjunction with the city’s wealth and influence in the world to carry out his agenda. Which is what? See vs. 14.
Historical precedence - Ancient Rome - Julius Caesar; France – Napoleon; Germany - Adolf Hitler. All rose to power in times of crises. They won support of the masses. They promised stability, peace, prosperity which was a cover for their hidden agenda. They were given power supposedly for a brief period of time. They used the instruments of government to attain greater power. They put trusted people in certain positions. Before you know it, they became dictators for life.
Vs. 16 -18
What happens? Beast and the 10 destroy the great city. Lover (beast) turns on prostitute (Babylon). The Beast got what he wanted out of this city
Why? God’s purpose - The 10 and the beast are instruments of God’s wrath/judgment. He used them to execute His judgment.
What was the common purpose of the ten? What united them? Hatred for this city/confederation. Economic/political rivals. Cut a deal with the beast. We help you gain power, you help us destroy this city.
Precedence: God used immoral/pagan nations to execute judgment - Assyria, Babylon, Egypt …. Eventually, he executes judgment on them.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Revelation 17 – The Great Prostitute and the Scarlet Beast pt. 1
I. The Great Prostitute
Angel’s description of the Great Prostitute.
1) The Great Prostitute sits on many waters (vs.1).
b) Prostitute/Woman - the great city that reigns (has a kingdom, lit.) over the kings of the earth (vs.18)
c) Waters - peoples, nations, multitudes, nations, and tongues (vs. 15)
Knowing that, what does that tell you about what the Prostitute is?
Powerful city rules over the earth.
2) a. The rulers of the earth committed sinful, immoral acts with her.
Seduced by her (vs. 2)
b. People of the earth drink her immorality/sin . Seduced by her (vs.2)
John is taken by the Spirit into a wilderness where he sees the Great Prostitute for himself.
What does John see?
A woman sitting on a scarlet beast. Beast has seven heads and ten horns.
Focus on Prostitute:
vs. 4 What description does John give of the woman/harlot?
The woman is clothed in purple and scarlet and wearing gold, precious stones, and pearls. Holding a gold cup full of sin. On her forehead is written, as John put it a mystery, her name - Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and of the Abominations of the Earth. John saw that she was drunk with the blood of the saints and witnesses of Jesus.
John (like us) could not figure out what the vision meant. Scratching his head. The angel - “why don’t you understand?” He proceeds to explain the vision to John.
The woman/prostitute -
According to the angel, the woman symbolizes a city. (Revel. 17: 18). It is the city that reigns over the rulers of the earth.
Her clothing has symbolic meaning:
a) Purple - symbolizes royalty/government authority
b) Scarlet - symbolizes blood city shed to attain power/authority
c) Gold, precious stones, pearls - symbolizes city’s wealth
d) Gold cup symbolizes seduction (beautiful on outside; ugly on inside) - filled with numerous, awful sins. Not for her to drink. Offering it to the kings and peoples of the world to drink. (vs.
2) Get them drunk. Part of the seduction.
What was she drinking? drunk with the blood of the saints and witnesses of Jesus.
The Woman’s name -
a) Babylon - Babylon was a city in ancient world. Its beginning traced back to the Tower of Babel in Genesis. Babylon was the capital of a couple of empires. In Scripture, the city is associated with tyranny and brutality (Babylonian captivity - Jews sent into exile to Babylon; fiery furnace) and SIN - Babylon set standard for sin - Committed many abominations (idolatry, astrology, sexual immorality, drunkenness, you name it, they did it). The peoples they ruled over followed Babylon’s example including the Jewish people. Early church referred to Rome as Babylon.
b) the Great - what do associate with this word?
c) Mother of Prostitutes - what do you associate with this name? What does a mother do? Gives birth. What does this city give birth to? Prostitutes who seduce people to sin.
d) Mother of the Abominations of the Earth - what do associate with this name? (Abomination - something detestable). Gives birth to detestable things. Source of sin in the world.
Here in Revelation, God identifies this powerful city with immoral Babylon of the ancient world and a prostitute. Why? Like Babylon, this city will be the capital of a great empire, a wealthy city, the source of tyranny (persecution of believers) and SIN. Like a prostitute, this city will SEDUCE peoples of the world to commit acts of immorality that God finds abominable. SEDUCE peoples of the world to oppose God and all He stands for.
City will have tremendous influence in the world. How?
Economic power - great wealth. See in Chapter 18. This city will dominate banking, investing, trade. In turn, economic power gives the city political power in the world. “Don’t support our policies, we won’t do business with you.”
So you are the anti-Christ, goal is to take over the world. Sway peoples of the world to oppose God. To commit every sin in the book. To worship him as god. Where do you start? Become the leader of this city. City/Prostitute accepts him. Makes himself a god. City accepts him as a god. Christians are to be persecuted. City persecutes Christians. Uses city’s status in the world to sway world opinion in his favor. Rest of the world follows suit. Anti-Christ’s agenda goes worldwide Why? The city’s economic, political, cultural power. And now add religion. The city is the home of their god.
Angel’s description of the Great Prostitute.
1) The Great Prostitute sits on many waters (vs.1).
b) Prostitute/Woman - the great city that reigns (has a kingdom, lit.) over the kings of the earth (vs.18)
c) Waters - peoples, nations, multitudes, nations, and tongues (vs. 15)
Knowing that, what does that tell you about what the Prostitute is?
Powerful city rules over the earth.
2) a. The rulers of the earth committed sinful, immoral acts with her.
Seduced by her (vs. 2)
b. People of the earth drink her immorality/sin . Seduced by her (vs.2)
John is taken by the Spirit into a wilderness where he sees the Great Prostitute for himself.
What does John see?
A woman sitting on a scarlet beast. Beast has seven heads and ten horns.
Focus on Prostitute:
vs. 4 What description does John give of the woman/harlot?
The woman is clothed in purple and scarlet and wearing gold, precious stones, and pearls. Holding a gold cup full of sin. On her forehead is written, as John put it a mystery, her name - Babylon the Great, Mother of Prostitutes and of the Abominations of the Earth. John saw that she was drunk with the blood of the saints and witnesses of Jesus.
John (like us) could not figure out what the vision meant. Scratching his head. The angel - “why don’t you understand?” He proceeds to explain the vision to John.
The woman/prostitute -
According to the angel, the woman symbolizes a city. (Revel. 17: 18). It is the city that reigns over the rulers of the earth.
Her clothing has symbolic meaning:
a) Purple - symbolizes royalty/government authority
b) Scarlet - symbolizes blood city shed to attain power/authority
c) Gold, precious stones, pearls - symbolizes city’s wealth
d) Gold cup symbolizes seduction (beautiful on outside; ugly on inside) - filled with numerous, awful sins. Not for her to drink. Offering it to the kings and peoples of the world to drink. (vs.
2) Get them drunk. Part of the seduction.
What was she drinking? drunk with the blood of the saints and witnesses of Jesus.
The Woman’s name -
a) Babylon - Babylon was a city in ancient world. Its beginning traced back to the Tower of Babel in Genesis. Babylon was the capital of a couple of empires. In Scripture, the city is associated with tyranny and brutality (Babylonian captivity - Jews sent into exile to Babylon; fiery furnace) and SIN - Babylon set standard for sin - Committed many abominations (idolatry, astrology, sexual immorality, drunkenness, you name it, they did it). The peoples they ruled over followed Babylon’s example including the Jewish people. Early church referred to Rome as Babylon.
b) the Great - what do associate with this word?
c) Mother of Prostitutes - what do you associate with this name? What does a mother do? Gives birth. What does this city give birth to? Prostitutes who seduce people to sin.
d) Mother of the Abominations of the Earth - what do associate with this name? (Abomination - something detestable). Gives birth to detestable things. Source of sin in the world.
Here in Revelation, God identifies this powerful city with immoral Babylon of the ancient world and a prostitute. Why? Like Babylon, this city will be the capital of a great empire, a wealthy city, the source of tyranny (persecution of believers) and SIN. Like a prostitute, this city will SEDUCE peoples of the world to commit acts of immorality that God finds abominable. SEDUCE peoples of the world to oppose God and all He stands for.
City will have tremendous influence in the world. How?
Economic power - great wealth. See in Chapter 18. This city will dominate banking, investing, trade. In turn, economic power gives the city political power in the world. “Don’t support our policies, we won’t do business with you.”
So you are the anti-Christ, goal is to take over the world. Sway peoples of the world to oppose God. To commit every sin in the book. To worship him as god. Where do you start? Become the leader of this city. City/Prostitute accepts him. Makes himself a god. City accepts him as a god. Christians are to be persecuted. City persecutes Christians. Uses city’s status in the world to sway world opinion in his favor. Rest of the world follows suit. Anti-Christ’s agenda goes worldwide Why? The city’s economic, political, cultural power. And now add religion. The city is the home of their god.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Revelation chapter 14
Revelation 14:1-5
1) The Beast/Anti-Christ is triumphant on earth. He is in total control. In the midst of this evil/destruction/persecution/fear/anxiety/pain/death happening on earth, what’s going on top of Mt. Zion? The Lamb, Jesus, and the 144,000 are holding a worship service. Mount Zion – reference to the heavenly dwelling of God. End time commentators believe the events in verses 1-5 will take place in Heaven. References to the throne of God, the four living creatures, and 24 elders seen in Revelation chapters 4 and 5.
2) How would you describe the atmosphere surrounding the event in chapter 14:1-5?
Celebration. Joyful worship. 144,000 are worshipping the Lamb. The world is coming to an end and they are worshipping Jesus.
3) What did the 144,000 have stamped on their foreheads? The names of the Lamb and his Father. Jesus and God. What did it signify? They were servants God. Protection from God’s wrath being poured out on the world.
4) What kind of song were the 144,000 singing? A new song. In Scripture, a new song is associated with a major event … a turning point in one’s life. Person’s response to mark the occasion by singing a new song. Major event – The 144,000 had been redeemed from the earth. Redeem – to purchase for a price. They will not experience the terrible events to come.
5) Why were the 144,000 the only ones singing? Why couldn't the four living creatures and 24 elders?
The four living creatures and the 24 elders could not relate to the unique experience of the 144,000. Redemption experience. None of the heavenly creatures know what it means to be redeemed/saved. Only those redeemed by the Lamb do.
6) How did John describe the 144,000 in verses 4-5? Give a description of 144,000 using your own words.
Virgin, holy, righteous, dedicated followers of Christ, chosen by God, the best of the best of humanity. One can look at this description through a spiritual eyes. In Scripture, a person or group of people who pursue wickedness/sin are often referred to as prostitutes. They have abandoned their husband, God, to pursue adultery with other gods. Their bodies are polluted. A person/group of people who pursue righteousness/holiness are referred to as a virgin. They have kept themselves pure for their husband, God. Their bodies are not tainted. The 144,000 have gone through Hell on earth. They have been walking through a world where evil and immorality reign. Through it all the 1440,000 have maintained their purity. They refused to worship the Beast or take his mark. If one refused to worship the beast, they were slain. Here in chapter 14, the 144,000 receive the reward for their faithfulness.
Revelation 14:6-13
7) In 14:6-12, what are the messages of the three angels and to whom are they proclaiming them?
First angel - the gospel (Greek – good news): What was the news? Fear God - Give him glory - judgment is near – worship God. Who was it good for? Followers of God. The end is near. God is about to pass judgment on the wicked.
Second angel - Proclaims fall of Babylon - What is Babylon? City in ancient world. Capital of a couple of empires. Associated with tyranny (Babylonian captivity) and SIN - set standard for sin - (idolatry, astrology, sexual immorality, drunkenness, you name it, they did it). A city that led the world to sin including the Jewish people. For early Christians, the word Babylon had the same connotation as Jezebel. Hear the name immediately awful things come to mind. Early church referred to Rome as Babylon. Here in Revelation Babylon is believed to refer to the capital of the Anti-Christ’s kingdom. God identifies that city with immoral Babylon of the ancient world. This city will lead the world to sin/encourage immorality. This city is portrayed as a prostitute. Opposite of the 144,000.
Name a city today that you would connote with Babylon.
Third angel - Words of warning for anyone who receives the mark of the Beast. They will receive the full measure of God’s wrath. It will not be pretty. Imagery is similar to how God poured out His wrath upon Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis chapter 19)
8) What does verse 12 mean to you? These verses give credence to commentators who teach that the Church will go through at least half of the 7 year Great Tribulation. Hang in there a little while longer.
9) In verse 13, what was John told to write? What do you think it means?
Read verses 14-20
John sees a preview of God’s judgment upon the just and unjust.
Man on white cloud (Jesus) - Harvest of the followers of God.
Second angel – Harvest of the wicked who will experience the wrath of God.
1600 = about 185 miles
1) The Beast/Anti-Christ is triumphant on earth. He is in total control. In the midst of this evil/destruction/persecution/fear/anxiety/pain/death happening on earth, what’s going on top of Mt. Zion? The Lamb, Jesus, and the 144,000 are holding a worship service. Mount Zion – reference to the heavenly dwelling of God. End time commentators believe the events in verses 1-5 will take place in Heaven. References to the throne of God, the four living creatures, and 24 elders seen in Revelation chapters 4 and 5.
2) How would you describe the atmosphere surrounding the event in chapter 14:1-5?
Celebration. Joyful worship. 144,000 are worshipping the Lamb. The world is coming to an end and they are worshipping Jesus.
3) What did the 144,000 have stamped on their foreheads? The names of the Lamb and his Father. Jesus and God. What did it signify? They were servants God. Protection from God’s wrath being poured out on the world.
4) What kind of song were the 144,000 singing? A new song. In Scripture, a new song is associated with a major event … a turning point in one’s life. Person’s response to mark the occasion by singing a new song. Major event – The 144,000 had been redeemed from the earth. Redeem – to purchase for a price. They will not experience the terrible events to come.
5) Why were the 144,000 the only ones singing? Why couldn't the four living creatures and 24 elders?
The four living creatures and the 24 elders could not relate to the unique experience of the 144,000. Redemption experience. None of the heavenly creatures know what it means to be redeemed/saved. Only those redeemed by the Lamb do.
6) How did John describe the 144,000 in verses 4-5? Give a description of 144,000 using your own words.
Virgin, holy, righteous, dedicated followers of Christ, chosen by God, the best of the best of humanity. One can look at this description through a spiritual eyes. In Scripture, a person or group of people who pursue wickedness/sin are often referred to as prostitutes. They have abandoned their husband, God, to pursue adultery with other gods. Their bodies are polluted. A person/group of people who pursue righteousness/holiness are referred to as a virgin. They have kept themselves pure for their husband, God. Their bodies are not tainted. The 144,000 have gone through Hell on earth. They have been walking through a world where evil and immorality reign. Through it all the 1440,000 have maintained their purity. They refused to worship the Beast or take his mark. If one refused to worship the beast, they were slain. Here in chapter 14, the 144,000 receive the reward for their faithfulness.
Revelation 14:6-13
7) In 14:6-12, what are the messages of the three angels and to whom are they proclaiming them?
First angel - the gospel (Greek – good news): What was the news? Fear God - Give him glory - judgment is near – worship God. Who was it good for? Followers of God. The end is near. God is about to pass judgment on the wicked.
Second angel - Proclaims fall of Babylon - What is Babylon? City in ancient world. Capital of a couple of empires. Associated with tyranny (Babylonian captivity) and SIN - set standard for sin - (idolatry, astrology, sexual immorality, drunkenness, you name it, they did it). A city that led the world to sin including the Jewish people. For early Christians, the word Babylon had the same connotation as Jezebel. Hear the name immediately awful things come to mind. Early church referred to Rome as Babylon. Here in Revelation Babylon is believed to refer to the capital of the Anti-Christ’s kingdom. God identifies that city with immoral Babylon of the ancient world. This city will lead the world to sin/encourage immorality. This city is portrayed as a prostitute. Opposite of the 144,000.
Name a city today that you would connote with Babylon.
Third angel - Words of warning for anyone who receives the mark of the Beast. They will receive the full measure of God’s wrath. It will not be pretty. Imagery is similar to how God poured out His wrath upon Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis chapter 19)
8) What does verse 12 mean to you? These verses give credence to commentators who teach that the Church will go through at least half of the 7 year Great Tribulation. Hang in there a little while longer.
9) In verse 13, what was John told to write? What do you think it means?
Read verses 14-20
John sees a preview of God’s judgment upon the just and unjust.
Man on white cloud (Jesus) - Harvest of the followers of God.
Second angel – Harvest of the wicked who will experience the wrath of God.
1600 = about 185 miles
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Revelation 13 – The Rise of the Beast a.k.a the AntiChrist
Revelation 13:1-10
1) What comes to mind when you hear the word “beast?”
2) How did John describe the beast? Description John uses were familiar to his readers living in the first century A.D. and not necessarily to us living in the 21st century A.D.
He has ten horns and seven heads – multiple horns on an animal commonly refers to successive nations (See Daniel 7). Seven heads possibly refers to rulers. All, nations and rulers, under the authority of the beast.
The beast wore ten diadems on its horns – Diadem is an ornamental headband. The Greeks differentiated between crown (stephanos) and diadem (diadema). The diadem was superior to a crown. The diadem represented absolute power. The diadems over the horns perhaps symbolize the beast’s authority over nations and rulers.
Blasphemous names written on its heads – Blasphemy – insulting, sacrilegious, irreverent, offensive words directed against God. example – Roman emperors often assumed titles of deity because they claimed to be gods. Roman emperor Domitian is said to have given himself the title “Our lord and god.” That was how people were to refer to him. In the same way, the beast will adopt titles/names that Christians will regard to be blasphemous.
The beast looked like a leopard with feet a bear, and mouth like a lion. Leopard – speed; Feet of bear – strength, power, ferocity; Mouth of a lion – a resounding roar that is intimidating. The beast rise to power is as swift as a leopard through ferocious tactics and intimidation.3) What did the dragon give the beast? Power, throne, and authority over this world system. The beast accepted from Satan what Jesus refused. Read Matthew 4:8-10.
4) What happened to one of the beast’s heads? Mortally wounded but was healed. The beast will nearly die from an attack but will miraculously recover. Sound familiar? A facsimile of Jesus’ death and resurrection experience.
5) How will people react to what happened the beast? People will be astounded by the beast’s “resurrection” from death. The event will lead people to worship the dragon (Satan) and the beast (AntiChrist).
6) vs. 4. What question did people ask and in what mind-set do you think they asked it? Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it? Mind-set – Confidence; arrogance. Unlike the mind-set people had in Revelation 6:16 … one of fear and uncertainty. In Revelation 13, the people have found a savior who is powerful and fearsome … who will stand up to God.
7) What was given/allowed to the beast? A) A mouth that uttered blasphemous and arrogant words. Directed against who? God and His followers. The beast will trash talk against God. Tear God down. For what purpose? To build himself up (example of arrogance). The beast will play on people’s fears/uncertainties/anger that stem from the chaotic events going on in the world (Revelation 6-9). In a very insulting/sacrilegious manner, the beast will make God and his followers the bad guys. God is to blame for all the bad things going on in the world which is true because God is pouring out His wrath upon the world. Rather than lead the people in repentance, the beast is taking advantage of events for his own ungodly goals. B) Allowed to rule for three and a half years over every nation on the planet. How will people respond to the beast? They will worship him. Give him ultimate reverence. C) Allowed to make war against the saints (followers of God) and conquer them. This act will gain the beast greater love from people in the world. The saints and their God are to blame for all the bad things happening in the world. Beast makes the saints scapegoats similar to what Hitler did to the Jews. Description of what the beast will do sounds very similar to the rider of the white horse found in Revelation 6.
8) What do verses 9-10 mean to you? These verses give credence to commentators who teach that the Church will go through at least half of the 7 year Great Tribulation.
Revelation 13:9-18
9) How did John describe the second beast? Two horns like a lamb – horns referred to nations. Second beast is powerful but not as powerful as the first beast. Lamb – non-threatening animal unlike a leopard, bear, or lion. However, it has the voice of a dragon – extremely intimidating.10) What role does the second beast play in end times events? Make people worship the first beast. He is the anti-Holy Spirit. The role of the Holy Spirit is to lead people to become followers of God. The role of the second beast, or false prophet as he is also referred to, is to lead people to become followers of the AntiChrist.
11) How will he be able to carry out that role? Through great signs such as causing fire to rain down from the sky. Similar miracle performed by Elijah in I Kings 18 in the contest to determine who in Israel is the one true God – Yahweh or Baal? Another sign – Second beast convinced people to create an image of the first beast. He enabled the image to speak. Convinced many to worship the first beast. Those who didn’t were put to death.12) What did the second beast require of every person on earth? To be marked on right hand or forehead with the name of the beast or his number. For what purpose? To acknowledge their loyalty to the first beast/AntiChrist. Just as God marked the 144,000 which identified them as His servants, the second beast has people marked to identify them as followers of the Antichrist.
13) How does he convince people to receive this mark? A person will not be able to buy or sell without the mark. A person will not be able to buy food, clothing, and shelter without the mark. A person will not be able make a wage without the mark. A person will not be able to do business without the mark. The AntiChrist will have absolute control over the world economy.
14) Verse 18 - John writes, “Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast ….” How does knowing the number of the beast (666) give wisdom concerning WHO/WHAT the beast is? There has been much speculation and commentary concerning the meaning the mark of the beast and 666. John perhaps using a secret code that only his readers would know to identify the AntiChrist. Other commentators assigned the numbers to letters, a practice called numerology, which was not uncommon in John’s day. Using numerology, commentators believe 666 spells “Neron” or “Nero.” John was warning his readers that the coming AntiChrist would be like Nero.
Greg’s commentary on the mark of the beast/666 -
Verse 18 is huge/significant in understanding who the beast is or I should say who he is NOT!!!!!!!! The beast is not a god, not an archangel, not an angel, not a demon, not an animal (referred to as a beast to describe not outer appearance but inner appearance), not a superior being. He is a MAN AND ONLY A MAN!!!!
How does such understanding give us today and people living at this time understanding/wisdom? Yes, the AntiChrist will have tremendous authority and power - political, economic, military, and spiritual. But those qualities do not make him a god to be worshipped or an angel or demon to be feared. Stripped of all these “superior” qualities he is only a man. Should a man be feared? Even one as evil as he? Who bears the sword and foments persecution, famine, nakedness, and peril?
Should a man be worshipped as a god? Even one who performs signs and wonders, comes back from death or the brink of death? Does all this make him a god?
Pharoah of Egypt (his priests could perform miracles), Nebuchadnezzer, Alexander the Great, Antiochus Epiphanes (forced Greek culture upon Jews - abomination of desolation - died of appendicitis), Domitian, Diocletian – all claimed to be gods.
Question - Did true followers of God fear the power and might of these? Did they worship them as god? NO!!! Why? True followers of God saw them for who they really were - MEN. Man is not to be feared only God. Men are not to be worshipped only God.
Coming back from dead? Is coming back from the dead a prerequisite for making one a god. Been done before (a widow’s son, a Shunammite boy, Moabite man thrown onto Elisha’s bones, Jairus’ daughter, Lazarus, Tabitha) What’s the big deal? Should returning from death astonish and amaze the true followers of God? It’s the foundation of our faith!!! It should only astonish and amaze those who do not know the WORD.
So again here in verse 18 what is John telling us and those who will be living at this time about the beast? The AntiChrist will be a man not a god. Read Romans 8:35-39. The words in these verses are a promise true followers of God in the past (three Hebrew children, Moses, Daniel, the Maccabbees, the early church) and those during this time can stand on. Why they can refuse the mark. Why they can endure tribulation and death. They know there enemy is a man and only a man.
1) What comes to mind when you hear the word “beast?”
2) How did John describe the beast? Description John uses were familiar to his readers living in the first century A.D. and not necessarily to us living in the 21st century A.D.
He has ten horns and seven heads – multiple horns on an animal commonly refers to successive nations (See Daniel 7). Seven heads possibly refers to rulers. All, nations and rulers, under the authority of the beast.
The beast wore ten diadems on its horns – Diadem is an ornamental headband. The Greeks differentiated between crown (stephanos) and diadem (diadema). The diadem was superior to a crown. The diadem represented absolute power. The diadems over the horns perhaps symbolize the beast’s authority over nations and rulers.
Blasphemous names written on its heads – Blasphemy – insulting, sacrilegious, irreverent, offensive words directed against God. example – Roman emperors often assumed titles of deity because they claimed to be gods. Roman emperor Domitian is said to have given himself the title “Our lord and god.” That was how people were to refer to him. In the same way, the beast will adopt titles/names that Christians will regard to be blasphemous.
The beast looked like a leopard with feet a bear, and mouth like a lion. Leopard – speed; Feet of bear – strength, power, ferocity; Mouth of a lion – a resounding roar that is intimidating. The beast rise to power is as swift as a leopard through ferocious tactics and intimidation.3) What did the dragon give the beast? Power, throne, and authority over this world system. The beast accepted from Satan what Jesus refused. Read Matthew 4:8-10.
4) What happened to one of the beast’s heads? Mortally wounded but was healed. The beast will nearly die from an attack but will miraculously recover. Sound familiar? A facsimile of Jesus’ death and resurrection experience.
5) How will people react to what happened the beast? People will be astounded by the beast’s “resurrection” from death. The event will lead people to worship the dragon (Satan) and the beast (AntiChrist).
6) vs. 4. What question did people ask and in what mind-set do you think they asked it? Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it? Mind-set – Confidence; arrogance. Unlike the mind-set people had in Revelation 6:16 … one of fear and uncertainty. In Revelation 13, the people have found a savior who is powerful and fearsome … who will stand up to God.
7) What was given/allowed to the beast? A) A mouth that uttered blasphemous and arrogant words. Directed against who? God and His followers. The beast will trash talk against God. Tear God down. For what purpose? To build himself up (example of arrogance). The beast will play on people’s fears/uncertainties/anger that stem from the chaotic events going on in the world (Revelation 6-9). In a very insulting/sacrilegious manner, the beast will make God and his followers the bad guys. God is to blame for all the bad things going on in the world which is true because God is pouring out His wrath upon the world. Rather than lead the people in repentance, the beast is taking advantage of events for his own ungodly goals. B) Allowed to rule for three and a half years over every nation on the planet. How will people respond to the beast? They will worship him. Give him ultimate reverence. C) Allowed to make war against the saints (followers of God) and conquer them. This act will gain the beast greater love from people in the world. The saints and their God are to blame for all the bad things happening in the world. Beast makes the saints scapegoats similar to what Hitler did to the Jews. Description of what the beast will do sounds very similar to the rider of the white horse found in Revelation 6.
8) What do verses 9-10 mean to you? These verses give credence to commentators who teach that the Church will go through at least half of the 7 year Great Tribulation.
Revelation 13:9-18
9) How did John describe the second beast? Two horns like a lamb – horns referred to nations. Second beast is powerful but not as powerful as the first beast. Lamb – non-threatening animal unlike a leopard, bear, or lion. However, it has the voice of a dragon – extremely intimidating.10) What role does the second beast play in end times events? Make people worship the first beast. He is the anti-Holy Spirit. The role of the Holy Spirit is to lead people to become followers of God. The role of the second beast, or false prophet as he is also referred to, is to lead people to become followers of the AntiChrist.
11) How will he be able to carry out that role? Through great signs such as causing fire to rain down from the sky. Similar miracle performed by Elijah in I Kings 18 in the contest to determine who in Israel is the one true God – Yahweh or Baal? Another sign – Second beast convinced people to create an image of the first beast. He enabled the image to speak. Convinced many to worship the first beast. Those who didn’t were put to death.12) What did the second beast require of every person on earth? To be marked on right hand or forehead with the name of the beast or his number. For what purpose? To acknowledge their loyalty to the first beast/AntiChrist. Just as God marked the 144,000 which identified them as His servants, the second beast has people marked to identify them as followers of the Antichrist.
13) How does he convince people to receive this mark? A person will not be able to buy or sell without the mark. A person will not be able to buy food, clothing, and shelter without the mark. A person will not be able make a wage without the mark. A person will not be able to do business without the mark. The AntiChrist will have absolute control over the world economy.
14) Verse 18 - John writes, “Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast ….” How does knowing the number of the beast (666) give wisdom concerning WHO/WHAT the beast is? There has been much speculation and commentary concerning the meaning the mark of the beast and 666. John perhaps using a secret code that only his readers would know to identify the AntiChrist. Other commentators assigned the numbers to letters, a practice called numerology, which was not uncommon in John’s day. Using numerology, commentators believe 666 spells “Neron” or “Nero.” John was warning his readers that the coming AntiChrist would be like Nero.
Greg’s commentary on the mark of the beast/666 -
Verse 18 is huge/significant in understanding who the beast is or I should say who he is NOT!!!!!!!! The beast is not a god, not an archangel, not an angel, not a demon, not an animal (referred to as a beast to describe not outer appearance but inner appearance), not a superior being. He is a MAN AND ONLY A MAN!!!!
How does such understanding give us today and people living at this time understanding/wisdom? Yes, the AntiChrist will have tremendous authority and power - political, economic, military, and spiritual. But those qualities do not make him a god to be worshipped or an angel or demon to be feared. Stripped of all these “superior” qualities he is only a man. Should a man be feared? Even one as evil as he? Who bears the sword and foments persecution, famine, nakedness, and peril?
Should a man be worshipped as a god? Even one who performs signs and wonders, comes back from death or the brink of death? Does all this make him a god?
Pharoah of Egypt (his priests could perform miracles), Nebuchadnezzer, Alexander the Great, Antiochus Epiphanes (forced Greek culture upon Jews - abomination of desolation - died of appendicitis), Domitian, Diocletian – all claimed to be gods.
Question - Did true followers of God fear the power and might of these? Did they worship them as god? NO!!! Why? True followers of God saw them for who they really were - MEN. Man is not to be feared only God. Men are not to be worshipped only God.
Coming back from dead? Is coming back from the dead a prerequisite for making one a god. Been done before (a widow’s son, a Shunammite boy, Moabite man thrown onto Elisha’s bones, Jairus’ daughter, Lazarus, Tabitha) What’s the big deal? Should returning from death astonish and amaze the true followers of God? It’s the foundation of our faith!!! It should only astonish and amaze those who do not know the WORD.
So again here in verse 18 what is John telling us and those who will be living at this time about the beast? The AntiChrist will be a man not a god. Read Romans 8:35-39. The words in these verses are a promise true followers of God in the past (three Hebrew children, Moses, Daniel, the Maccabbees, the early church) and those during this time can stand on. Why they can refuse the mark. Why they can endure tribulation and death. They know there enemy is a man and only a man.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Revelation 7-12 pt. 2
Revelation chapter 12:1-6
6) What does John see and hear? A pregnant woman crying out in pain because she is about to give birth. A red dragon with seven heads wearing seven crowns and also having ten horns. Seven diadems on each horn.
7) Who is the pregnant woman? Common teaching is she symbolizes the nation of Israel. Twelve stars=Twelve tribes of Israel. Also based on who she gave birth to – a male child who will rule with a rod of iron. Who do you suppose he symbolizes? Jesus Christ – see Revelation 19:15. Jesus is a Jew.
8) Who is the red dragon? Satan. What words do you associate with description? Red – danger, blood. Dragon – large, powerful, evil
9) What do you think the first sentence in verse 4 is in reference to? Predominant teaching – Satan convinced one third of the angels to follow him in his rebellion against God.
10) What did the red dragon plan to do? Devour/kill the child. Why? He perceived Jesus to be a threat and was determined to remove that threat. Was he successful? No. The woman fled to safety where she was cared for by God.
Revelation 12:7-17
11) What images come to mind when you read the first sentence in verse 7?
12) What did Satan and his allies lose? Access to heaven. Up to those point, Satan was permitted entry into Heaven where he carried out his role as accuser of the followers of God. See Job chapters 1-2 and Zechariah chapter 3.
13) What names are associated with Satan in this chapter and what does each tell you about him? Great dragon – see answer to question 8; Ancient serpent – reference to Genesis. Satan entered the serpent, the craftiest creature in the Garden of Eden, in order to tempt Adam and Eve; devil and Satan – both mean Adversary/Accuser. Legal terms. A prosecutorial role; Deceiver of the whole world - Liar
14) What was Heaven’s reaction to Satan's defeat? Extreme joy. Great celebration.
15) What did Satan’s defeat mean for earth? Not good. He is mad and is going to take it out on earth. Why is he so upset? His time on earth is short.16) After his defeat, what did Satan do? Pursued after the woman (Israel.) He attempted to destroy her. Was he successful? No. She escaped him.
17) What was his next objective? Attack the woman’s offspring. Those who were loyal to God. Followed His commands faithfully and believed the words of Jesus.
Chapter 12 ends with Satan standing on the sand of the sea. He’s waiting for someone. We’ll meet that someone in two weeks.
6) What does John see and hear? A pregnant woman crying out in pain because she is about to give birth. A red dragon with seven heads wearing seven crowns and also having ten horns. Seven diadems on each horn.
7) Who is the pregnant woman? Common teaching is she symbolizes the nation of Israel. Twelve stars=Twelve tribes of Israel. Also based on who she gave birth to – a male child who will rule with a rod of iron. Who do you suppose he symbolizes? Jesus Christ – see Revelation 19:15. Jesus is a Jew.
8) Who is the red dragon? Satan. What words do you associate with description? Red – danger, blood. Dragon – large, powerful, evil
9) What do you think the first sentence in verse 4 is in reference to? Predominant teaching – Satan convinced one third of the angels to follow him in his rebellion against God.
10) What did the red dragon plan to do? Devour/kill the child. Why? He perceived Jesus to be a threat and was determined to remove that threat. Was he successful? No. The woman fled to safety where she was cared for by God.
Revelation 12:7-17
11) What images come to mind when you read the first sentence in verse 7?
12) What did Satan and his allies lose? Access to heaven. Up to those point, Satan was permitted entry into Heaven where he carried out his role as accuser of the followers of God. See Job chapters 1-2 and Zechariah chapter 3.
13) What names are associated with Satan in this chapter and what does each tell you about him? Great dragon – see answer to question 8; Ancient serpent – reference to Genesis. Satan entered the serpent, the craftiest creature in the Garden of Eden, in order to tempt Adam and Eve; devil and Satan – both mean Adversary/Accuser. Legal terms. A prosecutorial role; Deceiver of the whole world - Liar
14) What was Heaven’s reaction to Satan's defeat? Extreme joy. Great celebration.
15) What did Satan’s defeat mean for earth? Not good. He is mad and is going to take it out on earth. Why is he so upset? His time on earth is short.16) After his defeat, what did Satan do? Pursued after the woman (Israel.) He attempted to destroy her. Was he successful? No. She escaped him.
17) What was his next objective? Attack the woman’s offspring. Those who were loyal to God. Followed His commands faithfully and believed the words of Jesus.
Chapter 12 ends with Satan standing on the sand of the sea. He’s waiting for someone. We’ll meet that someone in two weeks.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Revelation 7-12 pt. 1
The Great Tribulation and the Seventh Seal
Read Revelation 7:1-8
1. What are the four angels told not to do until what happens? Do not harm the earth, seas, or trees until the 144,000 are sealed.
2. Why are the 144,000 sealed? For their protection. Read Ezekiel 9:1-10. In these verses, God is passing judgment on the Jews in Jerusalem for their many sins. He is pouring out His wrath upon them. Everyone in Jerusalem was to be killed except for those who had a mark upon their forehead. They were the few who were found righteous. The mark was the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet, taw, which originally looked like an “X.” When the men God sent to execute His wrath saw the seal upon a person’s forehead they were not to harm that person. What God did to Jerusalem in Ezekiel chapter nine He will do to the entire world in Revelation. He is about to pass judgment on humanity. God is going to pour out His wrath on the world. Before He does, He places his mark (taw) upon the foreheads of 144,000 people so that they would be spared his wrath.
3. From where did the 144,000 come from? The Twelve Tribes of Israel. Some commentators on Revelation teach that the 144,000 are Jews who are believers. They acknowledge Jesus as their Savior/Messiah. Others teach that the 144,000 represent a remnant, a minority of people, who come to know Jesus and reject the Antichrist during the Great Tribulation.
Revelation 7:9-17
4. What does John see and hear in verses 9-12? People from different nations, races, and languages clothed in white robes and holding palm branches (symbol of victory) worshipping Jesus.
5. Who are these people? They are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They came out of the tribulation with their robes washed clean and made white by the blood of Jesus. They have been cleansed of their unrighteousness and made righteous by the blood of Jesus. Define tribulation – a period of severe trial or suffering, oppression, persecution, affliction. Traditional teaching of the Great Tribulation – a seven year period when God pours out His wrath upon the world. The Antichrist uses the chaos that arises from God’s wrath to his advantage. He rises to power and proceeds to make war against everything that is of God. People who choose to follow the true Christ and reject the Antichrist are persecuted to the point of death. In, chapter 7:9-17 we see these martyrs receiving their reward. Questions: Will Jesus return before the Tribulation to take His followers so that they will not experience it? OR will Christians experience the Great Tribulation? The predominant teaching is that Christians will not experience the Great Tribulation. Jesus will return to earth prior to the Great Tribulation in an event known as the Rapture. This belief is based on verses found in I and II Thessalonians. Unbelievers who remain on earth will go through the Great Tribulation and be ruled by the Antichrist. However, a small remnant will choose to follow after Jesus and reject the Antichrist. They will be persecuted by the Antichrist to the point of death and enter heaven to receive their reward.
Summary of Revelation chapters 8-11
The seventh seal is opened. Seven trumpets are blown. After each is blown, various calamities afflict the earth bringing death and destruction. Point out verses of interest: Revelation 9:4 – people sealed by God were not to be harmed. Who were they? 144,000. Revelation 9:20-21 – Despite the calamities, what did people refuse to do? Repent. Revelation chapter 11, two men appear in Jerusalem and for three and a half years they speak the word of God. They perform miracles similar to those done by Moses and Elijah. They are put to death and their bodies are put on display like trophies. The world celebrates their death because the two were viewed as tormentors. After three and a half days God breathes life into the two and brings them to Heaven.
Read Revelation 7:1-8
1. What are the four angels told not to do until what happens? Do not harm the earth, seas, or trees until the 144,000 are sealed.
2. Why are the 144,000 sealed? For their protection. Read Ezekiel 9:1-10. In these verses, God is passing judgment on the Jews in Jerusalem for their many sins. He is pouring out His wrath upon them. Everyone in Jerusalem was to be killed except for those who had a mark upon their forehead. They were the few who were found righteous. The mark was the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet, taw, which originally looked like an “X.” When the men God sent to execute His wrath saw the seal upon a person’s forehead they were not to harm that person. What God did to Jerusalem in Ezekiel chapter nine He will do to the entire world in Revelation. He is about to pass judgment on humanity. God is going to pour out His wrath on the world. Before He does, He places his mark (taw) upon the foreheads of 144,000 people so that they would be spared his wrath.
3. From where did the 144,000 come from? The Twelve Tribes of Israel. Some commentators on Revelation teach that the 144,000 are Jews who are believers. They acknowledge Jesus as their Savior/Messiah. Others teach that the 144,000 represent a remnant, a minority of people, who come to know Jesus and reject the Antichrist during the Great Tribulation.
Revelation 7:9-17
4. What does John see and hear in verses 9-12? People from different nations, races, and languages clothed in white robes and holding palm branches (symbol of victory) worshipping Jesus.
5. Who are these people? They are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They came out of the tribulation with their robes washed clean and made white by the blood of Jesus. They have been cleansed of their unrighteousness and made righteous by the blood of Jesus. Define tribulation – a period of severe trial or suffering, oppression, persecution, affliction. Traditional teaching of the Great Tribulation – a seven year period when God pours out His wrath upon the world. The Antichrist uses the chaos that arises from God’s wrath to his advantage. He rises to power and proceeds to make war against everything that is of God. People who choose to follow the true Christ and reject the Antichrist are persecuted to the point of death. In, chapter 7:9-17 we see these martyrs receiving their reward. Questions: Will Jesus return before the Tribulation to take His followers so that they will not experience it? OR will Christians experience the Great Tribulation? The predominant teaching is that Christians will not experience the Great Tribulation. Jesus will return to earth prior to the Great Tribulation in an event known as the Rapture. This belief is based on verses found in I and II Thessalonians. Unbelievers who remain on earth will go through the Great Tribulation and be ruled by the Antichrist. However, a small remnant will choose to follow after Jesus and reject the Antichrist. They will be persecuted by the Antichrist to the point of death and enter heaven to receive their reward.
Summary of Revelation chapters 8-11
The seventh seal is opened. Seven trumpets are blown. After each is blown, various calamities afflict the earth bringing death and destruction. Point out verses of interest: Revelation 9:4 – people sealed by God were not to be harmed. Who were they? 144,000. Revelation 9:20-21 – Despite the calamities, what did people refuse to do? Repent. Revelation chapter 11, two men appear in Jerusalem and for three and a half years they speak the word of God. They perform miracles similar to those done by Moses and Elijah. They are put to death and their bodies are put on display like trophies. The world celebrates their death because the two were viewed as tormentors. After three and a half days God breathes life into the two and brings them to Heaven.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)