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Essay The Revelation (The NASV is used unless otherwise stated) PART I: The Revelation in Four Divisions (An
Outline)
(The Revelation by division, an introduction to “The Apocalypse,”
Part II)
As an introduction to the Apocalypse (Part I), it is not my purpose to
interpret that which the angel of the Lord unveiled to John in the apocalyptic
portion of the book of the Revelation (Chapter 4: 1- 22:8), but to examine the
context of Chapter One and Chapter Twenty-two as the foundation for such a
study. To me, if one does not give careful heed to the details contained in the
introduction and the conclusion of the book of the Revelation, he is as one lost
in a forest without a compass. The
Book of the Revelation for my purpose logically falls into four divisions: The
first division is the introduction (Chapter 1: 1-20). The second division is the
admonition to the seven churches (Chapters 2 and 3). The third division is the
unveiling, or the “Revelation” called the “Apocalypse” (Chapters 4:1,
through 22: 8), and also the conclusion of the book is the fourth division,
written after John has returned back to this earth. (Chapter 22: 8-21) Allow
me a personal word: I am not a scholar. I make no pretence of having any special
insights into the Book of the Revelation. However, in my studies of this great
work, I have come to see the importance of the introduction and the conclusion
as the framework for such a study. I repeat, it is so very, very important that the
introduction, along with the conclusion, be understood as the very foundation
for any comprehensive study of the message that God gave to these seven
churches; not only did our Lord tell John to record that which he saw and heard,
but to send the message to the seven churches (Chapters 1: 11; 22: 16). These
churches are the focus of the Revelation (Chapters 1: 4, 11; 3: 11; 22:1).
It must be understood that the “Book of the Revelation” means “the
book as a whole;” whereas, The “Revelation” is only that portion that is
called “the Apocalypse,” wherein the veil is lifted and John records that
which he sees and hears as given to him by the angel of the Lord (Chapter 1: 1b;
22: 16) It is important for us to remember that the
“Revelation” was written first and foremost for the churches to which it was
addressed. [That does not mean that it did not include us today], but it was
written to them to inform them, to enlighten them, and to encourage them in
their time of tribulation (Chapter 1: 9); it was surely not meant to hide
something from them. The portion of the book of the Revelation that was written
in symbolic language (signified) could have been written in symbols for the
purpose of hiding the truth from their enemies [Persecutors]. These churches
hold the key that unlocks the mysteries, as was demonstrated in chapter 1: 12.
[I repeat, It was “unveiled” truth for them, but was truly mysteries for
their enemies]. It was Jesus who
sent His angel (Messenger) to John to record these things for the churches
(Chapter 1: 4, 11; Chapters 2 and 3; Chapter 3: 13; chapter 22: 16).
“He who has ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit say to the
churches” (Chapter 3:22). [These
churches are named in chapter 1: 11]. This truth does not, in any way, change
the importance of the message contained in this treatise. We, today, would be
wise to give diligence study to this great “Revelation;” therefore, I
suggest that first of all we seek to understand the importance to of the
introduction, and in the conclusion, as the foundation for such a study. 1st
Division of
the book of the Revelation (Chapter
One) “The Revelation
of Jesus Christ which
(Revelation) God gave to His to show
His bondservants things which must shortly take place:
And
He sent and communicated (Signified it)
by His
angel (messenger): (chapter 22:9) to His
bond-servant John who
bore
witness to the word of God. And to the testimony of Jesus Christ,even all that he saw.Blessed is he who reads,and those who hear the words of this prophecy,and heed the things which are written in it;for the time is near,” (that is, upon us: 1; 1-3) [See: Revelation 22:6]Every word, every phrase, every sentence of the introduction is vital to our understanding of that which our Lord gave to John in the unveiling of what is called the “Apocalypse.”(1) It is to inform His “bondservants” (1: 1) in the “seven churches,” and to them it is addressed (Chapters1: 4, 11, and 22: 16).(2) It is about “things,” which must “shortly take place” (Revelation 1:1b; 1: 3, and 22:6), as we will see, these churches are in the tribulation).(3) It was about the method of communication: “Signified” meaning by “Signs and Symbols” as described by DR. W. A. Criswell, Expository Sermon (on Revelation, chapter 19).(4) It will be helpful to remember that the portion of the “Book of the Revelation” which is written in signs and symbols “signified” is the portion which is called the “Apocalypse,” or, “Revelation.” The Introduction (Chapter 1: 1-11 and Conclusion (22: 6-21) are not “signified;” that is, they are not communicated in signs and symbols, but are the bare facts about that which is give in signs and symbols; that is, the apocalyptic portion of the book.(4) It is about the messenger (Angel) of communication, who said to John, “…do not worship me,” (the messenger): “I am a fellow servant of your brethren and prophets and of those who heed the words of this book, worship God” (Chapter 22: 9).(5) It is about the Scribe, “His
bond-servant” John, who wrote it all down, “Even all that he saw” (Chapter
22: 8).
Notice the urgency of the message, chapter 1: 3
“Blessed is he who reads, and those who hear the words of this prophecy. Then
He said, “and heeds the things, which are written in it, for
the time is near.” The admonition, “The time is near” is a factual
statement, and when coupled with chapters 1:1 and 22: 6 it takes on great
significance. I do not know why there was such emphasis upon the timing of the Revelation except to say this: It must be terribly
important, otherwise it would not have been repeated three times. Remember,
these churches were then in the tribulation: “I, John, your brother and fellow
partaker in the tribulation…” (Chapter 1:9). This is the only time in
the book portion of the Revelation that the churches are identified as being in
the tribulation; however, it is important to remembered that the only time the
word “tribulation” is referenced in the apocalyptic portion of the book is
in chapter 7 where it is said: “... , and
he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have
washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb…”
(Revelation 7:13, KJV). All other references to sufferings are in reference to
the judgments of God upon the unrighteous. “Tribulations” in the Revelation
references the trials of God’s people, whereas, the unbeliever awaits the
judgments of God both now and forever. In
Chapter 1: 4-6, John addresses the churches:
“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. And from Jesus Christ, the faithful
witness, the first born 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, priest to God and Father, to Him be the glory and the dominion
forever and ever. Amen. (The number “seven” usually means “complete, or
wholeness,” etc.. It is now, in the tribulation, that John gives this
encouragement to the churches: (Chapter
1: 4-11) “…Behold, He is coming
with the clouds, [just as He went away] and every eye will see Him, even those
who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him, Even so,
Amen. I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and who was and
who is to come, the Almighty.” John, in the midst of his trials, says to his fellow
believers also in tribulation: Keep your eyes focused; He’s coming, just as he
went away. Otherwise, why would he, so early in this treatise, have given such
an admonition. The old song says, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full into
His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the
light of His glory and grace.” John, in the tribulation: (Chapter 1: 9) The word “tribulation” has reference only to the saints. Jesus said, “In the world you have tribulation, but take courage, I have overcome the world” (John 16: 33). The Christian is tried; whereas, the unbeliever is judged. The unbeliever is never said to be the focus of tribulation, though they may live in the time of tribulations. (Read Revelation 7:14-17 as an example.) “I, John, your brother and fellow
partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance, which are in
Jesus, was on the island called Patmos, because of the word of God and the
testimony of Jesus” (Chapter 1: 9). John,
in the Spirit: Records God’s
message for the churches: “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I
heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, saying, write in a
book what you see, and send it to the seven churches; to Ephesus and to Smyrna
and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to
Laodicea” (Chapter 1: 9-11). Those churches are said to be the recipient of that
which was “unveiled” by the angel of the Lord, called the “Revelation,”
(Chapter 22: 16). In other words the Revelation is about that which was soon to
be unveiled and communicated in symbolic language “Signified” as referenced
in Chapter 1: 1b. The fact that these great symbolic manifestations were given
to them in short order does not mean that they have no meaning for us today, far
from it; however, I would surmise that the hope given them in their tribulations
added much to their comfort in that day. A point
of fact: There are four references to “tribulation,” found in the Book
of the Revelation. These four references are in chapter 1: 9; chapters 2: 9, 10,
21, but the only reference to “tribulation” referenced in the portion that
is called, the “Apocalypse,” reads as follows:
“These who are clothed in white robes, who are they, and from where
have they come?” (Past tense) And I said to him, “My lord, you know.” And
he said to me, “These are the ones who came out of the great tribulation, and
they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb (Past
tense). For this reason they are before the throne of God…” This is the last
reference to a “tribulation” as such, found in the book of the Revelation.
However, other martyred saints of the ages are mentioned in chapters 6: 9-11, 7:
14-17, and 20: 4-6. These are all the saints of God who gave their lives for the
cause of Christ. Chapter
1: 12-20. This is where Jesus is
standing in the midst of His churches in all of His majestic glory. It is now
that He introduces us to the churches, etc., in beautiful symbolic language. “And I turned”, says John, “to see the voice that was speaking. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands one like a Son of man, clothed in a robe….” This marvelous personification of our Lord, standing with the seven stars in His right hand (his angels –the messengers (pastors) to the churches, and this is what He said, “Do not be afraid”--- my, my, my, the comfort in those words?] “Do not be afraid; I have the keys…. I have the keys of death…” Here is Jesus who had triumphed
over the grave, saying to John: I’ve been there, it’s ok; victory is mine,
“don’t be afraid,” Oh, there is much more, read the verses 11-20) I now
call your attention to verse 19, which reads as follows: “’Write’
therefore the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the
things which shall take place after these things.” [“After these things” =
Gk. “Meta tauta,” meaning, I believe, “the New Heaven and the New
Earth”]. (Chapter 21:1-5) After all the judgments of God upon sinful man are
but a token of the eternal blessings promised to the “Israel of God,” (Jew
and Gentile believers). Welcome home, children, welcome home! (Revelation
21:1-5) 2nd
Division of the Book of the Revelation:
(Chapters 3 and 4) The second division is an admonition to each of the seven churches: “He who has ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches;” indicating that each message would be meaningful for all these churches. Jesus said, “Behold I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Chapters 3:13). This is, interestingly, the last time the churches,
as churches, are mentioned until after John finishes receiving the
“Revelation” (Chapter 22: 8,16). 3rd Division of the
Book of the Revelation
(Chapters 4: 1 – 22: 8) “The Revelation.” or the unveiling called the
“Apocalypse” (Apokalupsis in the Greek), meaning: “to take away the
covering.” The portion of the book of the Revelation includes chapters 4: 1
through 22: 8. It begins with John’s call to “come up here” in Chapter
4:1,2, and ends with John saying, “And I, John am the one who heard and saw
these things…” (22: 8a). The Apocalypse includes the Past, present and
future tense. John is instructed to “Write therefore the things, which you
have seen, and the things that are, and the things, which shall take place after
these things.” (Chapter 1: 19). The first thing that John sees as the veil is lifted
is a panoramic view of heaven with the heavenly host giving eternal praise to
the Lord Jesus Christ. It is not
my purpose to discuss the contents of this third division in part one of this
Essay; however, I do give an overview in part two, called, “The Apocalypse,”
in Part II, that follows this portion of the Essay. 4th Division is the conclusion of the Revelation (Chapter 22: 9-21) The conclusion of the book of the Revelation, to me,
should be considered a continuation of the introduction. It all ties together.
The churches that are so often referenced before
the recording of the Apocalypse, though the churches are not referred in the
Apocalypse; they are still on the earth waiting the return of Christ when John
completes the record. (Chapter 22: 8. Verse
16 is a key verse in that it revealed the recorded for them, “I, Jesus, have
sent my angel (Remember His angel in chapter 1:1) to testify to you (John) these
things for (or, in) the churches. I am the root and offspring of David, the
bright and morning star” (Revelation 22: 16). Let us
look as the promise of His coming as recorded in chapter 1: 7. This is a picture
of how it will be at His coming, (Chapter 22:12, 20). They are waiting; just as
we are waiting for that last trumpet! Then
he writes, “He who testifies to these things says, I am coming quickly.” And
John says, “Amen, come Lord
Jesus.” Then John concludes with these final words, “The grace of the Lord
Jesus be with you all. Amen!
(Though the Book of the Revelation climaxes without His
promised coming; I would remind the saints of God, “Lift up your eyes, for
your salvation draws nigh!) Summation of the Above: Central to our understanding of the book of the
Revelation is the place the seven churches occupy in this treatise. It was
addressed to them and for them (chapter 1:4,11; 3: 22 and 22:16). Surely, it is
of great importance to us today as we wait the Second Coming of our Lord. Therefore,
I believe that Jesus will come for his church, judge the world, and call His
Bride home: The Apostle Paul makes this point very clear in 2 Thessalonians 1:
7-10, when he wrote, “when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with
His mighty angels in flaming fire, dealing out retribution to those who do not
know God and to those who obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus. And these will
pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and
from the glory of His power, when He
comes to be glorified in His saints on
that day…” I also believe that Revelation chapter 20: 11-15 through
chapter 21: 1-5, called the “Great white throne judgment,” confirms this
same truth from a different perspective because the “heaven and the earth at
said to be no more (Revelation 20: 11) The Apostle Peter writes, “But the day of the Lord will come
as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise,
and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that
are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be disolved,
what manner of persons ought we to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for
the hastening of the coming of the day of
God, because of which the heavens will be disolved, being on fire, and the
elements will melt with fervent heat, the earth also will be burned up, Nevertheless we, according
to His promise, look for new
heavens and a new earth in which
righteousness dwells.” (2 Peter 3: 10-13). (See: Isaiah 55: 17, 25; 66: 22,23;
and Revelation 21: 1) PART
II “The Apocalypse”
(An overview, chapters 4:1-22:8) As we study the Apocalypse (Chapter 4:1 – 22: 8),
it will be helpful if we briefly review the outline the Book of the Revelation,
called: “The Revelation by Division” in order to be able to see the big
picture as to the layout in Part
I. 1st,
The introduction, (the foundation to the Apocalypse) recorded in chapter 1:
1-12, where Jesus is standing in the midst of the seven churches. (Chapter
1:13-20). 2nd,
The seven churches admonished: (Chapter 2&3) 3rd,
The apocalypse: (Chapter 4: 1 through chapter 22: 8) 4th,
The conclusion: (Chapter 22: 10-21) The conclusion should be looked upon as a
continuation of the introduction.
(Although I enjoy sharing my points of view, I make no claim to biblical
scholarship. I can only hope that I might, at best, raise some questions that
would demand of the reader a further research). The “Apocalypse,” is the “Unveiling” of the
things, which the angel of the Lord gave to John to record: It is the unveiling
of the “Revelation,” of that which was first referenced in introduction, and
from which the Book is named. (Revelation 1: 1) The “Revelation,” the
“Unveiling,” the “Apocalypse.” as it is called; is said to be that which
must shortly come to pass.” (Chapter 1: 1) The recording of the
“Revelation,” is that portion of the book that took place after John was
called to “come up here” (chapter 4:1). Thus John writes, “After these
things I (John) looked, and behold, a door standing was open in heaven, and the
first voice which I (John)
heard, like the sound of many trumpets speaking with me (John), said,
‘come up here’ and I will show you (John)
what must take place after these things. Immediately,
I (John) was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne was standing in heaven and One
siting on the throne.” John’s call to write the Apocalypse: “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which (Revelation) God gave to Him to show to His bondservants, the things which must shortly come to pass…” (Chapter 1:1). In other words, “the things, which much shortly come to pass,” is the “Unveiling”of that which the Father gave to Him (Jesus) to show His bondservant John. John, being “in the Spirit,” (Chapter 4:1,2) writes down all that he saw and heard, as delivered to him by the angel [Messenger] of the Lord beginning in chapter 4: 2. When the Apocalypse, known as the “Revelation” is complete, Jesus again tells John again that it was “for the churches,” (Chapter 22: 16, 20) Chapter
4, the
“Unveiling” of that which is called, the “Apocalypse:”
The Apocalypse begins with our
Lord Jesus Christ seated upon The Throne in heaven in all of His majestic glory.
Seated with Him are the twenty-four Elders. These twenty-four Elders could
signify, I think, the Old and New Testament saints, but we do not know this.
Anyway, it was a glorious sight to behold! Always present were the four living
creatures. The four living creatures are always praising our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Chapter 4: 2-11) Who are the four living creatures? I do not know; however,
some believe they symbolize to whole of God’s creation. (Number four is often
said to represent creation) Chapter
5: Recorded
in chapter 5 through chapter 8 is a “Book” sealed with seven seals). What do we know about the history of the “book?” How old is it, Ages? We are told only that they were waiting for the “Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David” (chapter 5: 1-5). The one who would be worthy to open the book. How long had they been waiting? Is it a picture of the whole history of God’s people? Several things suggest an historical significance of the Apocalypse. For example: We are told of the “birth of the male child who is to rule the nations;” signifying the hope and promises to Israel fulfilled in Jesus Christ who was born many years before the Revelation was unveiled; again, “the war in heaven” when Satan was cast out with all of his angels, etc. This took place before the world was created. We know that these are historical references. What could they signify as given to John? (Chapter 1:1) The twelve tribes of Israel, signified by the 144,000, who were “purchased from among men as the “first fruits” of God and of the lamb,” (chapter 14: 4b). It is a fact that the twelve tribes, as a nation, had not existed for hundreds of years when the Revelation was recorded, “So the Lord was very angry with Israel, and removed them from His sight; none was left except the tribe of Judah” (2 Kings 17: 18).
(It is of interest that 2 Kings also records the prophecy of the demise
of Judah that took place when they rejected the Messiah. [2 Kings 23: 27]),
“And the Lord said, I will remove Judah also from My sight, as I have removed
Israel. And I will cast off Jerusalem, this city which I have chosen, and the
temple of which I said, ‘My name shall be there.’” [See Essays on my
website: www.geoccities.com/hnelson704
We might ask, why did God bring all this
to pass? We must remember that God always had a larger purpose than the
“remnant” from Israel (Romans 9: 27), and that purpose was the salvation,
not only of Jacob’s seed, but the eternal “Israel of God” (Galatians 6:
14-16); including all Gentile believers. (Romans 9: 8; 11: 25,26)
The Apostle Paul, in Romans 9: 23,24 says, “And He did so in order that He might make known the riches
of His glory upon (the) vessels of mercy, which He prepared beforehand for
glory, even us whom He also called, not from the Jews only, but also from among
the Gentiles.” Continuing in chapter 10: 12,13
“For there is no distinction between the Jew and the Greeks (Gentiles);
for the same Lord is Lord of all who call upon Him; for whoever will call upon
the name of the Lord will be saved.”
If we are interested in the salvation of the Jews; our only opportunity
to reach them is now, “Today is the day of salvation, now is the accepted
time.” (Also see: 2 Thessalonians 1: 5-8) The victory song of the saint, both OT and NT. (Now
that the “book” is finally opened; we hear the victory song, led by the four
living creatures, with myriads and myriads, and thousands of thousands who were
saved by the Promise given to Abraham in ages passed; they are before the throne
of our Lord, with the twenty-four elders seated before Him! This is a beautiful
picture of Jesus, with His glorified saints in His heavenly glory): “And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy art
thou to take the ‘book’ and break the seals; for Thou was slain, and did
purchase for God with Thy blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and
nation. And thou did make them (that is: all the saved people of the ages) to be
a kingdom of priests to our God; and to reign upon the earth...” (Revelation
5: 9-11) [It is a privilege to be a part of such a company of believers; may God
fulfill His eternal purposes through us, even in our day!] Chapter
6
& 7: The seals and the trumpets: (Chapter 6 - 8 are the seven seals).
(The seventh seal has the seven trumpets that follow).
The first living creature breaks the first seal, and
the announcement concerning the eternal victory of our Lord, symbolized by the
white horse is revealed. (Chapter 19: 11)
The second seal is broken. A war-torn world of great proportions is
announced, signified by the red horse; announced by the second living creature The third seal is broken. The third living creature announces the harvest of sinful men, signified by the black horse. The fourth seal is broken. Death and Hades, by sword
and famine and by wild beast, destroy a fourth of the earth’s population,
signified by the ashen horse, is announced by the four living creatures. The fifth seal is broken. Here the saints of God are
crying out, “how long, oh Lord,” and God answers, not yet, there are many
more to be saved. Just rest a little longer, then victory! (Chapter 20: 3-6) The sixth seal is broken. God has heard the cry of
His children, and begins to bring judgment, like “unripe figs,” shaken with
the wind, upon this old sinful world. Yet He calls to His angels, who have the
power to destroy this world, to withhold the final judgment until the last soul
is saved, from His elect, Israel, to the last person, tribe, and people
(Gentiles) are one in Him. Then victory comes, no more sorrow, but joy and
praise before His throne forevermore! (Read chapters 4-6 for a review) The seventh
seal is broken (8th chapter), signified by the seven Trumpets.
(Remember that the “trumpets” are the conclusions of the “book” that was
opened at the beginning of the fifth chapter. This, I believe, could be the
seven years of judgment as God being His wrath upon the unsaved people of the
world. The wonder is that God’s people have nothing to worry about, for the
“Battle is the Lord’s).
(Remember, there are three things that John was commanded to write, and
that is this: “Therefore write the things
which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take
place after these things” (Chapter 1: 19). What ever is recorded as the
“Apocalypse” is about these three things: (1) The things
which are historical; (2) The judgments upon a wicked world, and (3), “the
things which shall be after these things” refer, I believe, to the New Heaven
and the New Earth, “wherein righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3: 13b).
Chapters
8- 10: The
Trumpets Before the trumpets begin to sound, the prayers of all the saints of God are brought before God. The golden censer, containing all the prayers of the saints of God is poured out upon the earth in divine judgments. These trumpets have, no doubt, been echoing across the ages of time, as God has brought judgment after judgment upon this earth. This series of judgments ends with these words: “But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he was about to sound; then the mystery of God is finished, (See Essay: The Hope of Israel] “as he preached to His servants the prophets” (Chapter 10:7). It concludes with the “little book” wherein it is announced the message of salvation that is yet to be preached to many peoples and nations of the world. The Old Testament Saints are sealed. It is interesting to remember that John, in chapter 1: 9 says to the seven churches, “I John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos…” Now, in the 7th chapter, John refers to the tribulation for the last time, and this is what he says, “And one of the Elders answered saying to me, These who are robed with white robes, who are they? And from where did they come? And I said to him, “My Lord, you know.” And he said to me. “These are the ones who came out of the great tribulation and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, for this reason, they are before the throne of God, and they serve Him day and night in His temple…They shall hunger no more, neither shall they thirst…, For the Lamb in the center of the throne shall be their shepherd, and shall guide them to springs of water of life; and God shall wipe every tear from their eyes.” The rest of the Revelation signifies God’s providence over all of His redeemed people as He judges the world and brings all things to a final victory in Revelation 22:21. Chapter 11: The two Witnesses
With the understanding that the Apocalypse was given in signs and symbols
(“Signified,” Revelation 1:1”) It seems to me that these two witnesses are
historical references because of the two olive trees and the two lampstands
(signified). (Chapter 11: 4) as, “…the two olive trees and the two
lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth.”
Historically, what could best represent the two olive trees: Could it be
Israel, through whom God had given to us the Scriptures, and Judah, through whom
God gave us the Messiah? (Romans 11: 26) Secondly, who [or what] could best represent the two
lampstands: Could it be the Apostolic Church, which at first was made up of the
Jews, and now the church, made up of the mystery that had so long been kept
secret, both Jew and Gentile, through whom God has now called to salvation, and
as a witness to the world? Another
interesting point is this: When the two witnesses are killed, they were not
buried, but lay in open shame before the world. I do not know what the three and
one half days signified, (Unlimited time maybe), but I do know that it was long
enough for the peoples of the world to send gifts to one another. “And they of the people and kindred’s and tongues and nations shall
see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead
bodies to be put in graves. And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice
over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these
two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.” (Revelation 11:9,10 Victory
at last: The eternal gospel is preached to the nations. The seventh angel
proclaimed with a loud voice, “ The Kingdom of the world has become the
kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.”
(Chapter 11: 15; Isaiah 65: 17,25; Revelation 21: 1): Note that this is an
eternal kingdom so often referenced by the prophets. Though His kingdom is now spiritual, that is, it is
not of this world, yet we are now, as the body of Christ, in the Kingdom. (Matt.
4: 23) So much of the teaching of Jesus is about the kingdom
of which Israel and Judah were the foundation. We enter the kingdom by
repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The “gospel of the
kingdom” is the same gospel preached by Paul when he said, “I am not ashamed
of the gospel, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that
believe, to the Jews first, and also to the Greeks” Romans 1: 16. It is
always, “to the Jews first,” They truly were given the first opportunity to
receive the promise; yea, also to the Gentiles.” (Ephesians 2:13-22)
[This brings us to a portion in the apocalypse where “angels fear to
tread,” to use an old expression. Concerning the beast, etc., I share some
interesting materials about the differing positions taken by various persuasions
as to meanings set before us as to the beast, etc.
Chapters 13 through 14: (The beast, the victorious gospel, divine judgments, etc)
The
number of a man: “666”
When we look at the seventh week of Daniel’s prophecy, we are
confronted with the question: Did it follow in order from the sixty-ninth week,
or is it delayed to an undetermined time in the future?
As we examine the Book of the Revelation, we face three main questions about the timing of the events: The Preterists; the Historicists, or the Futurists? (There are others)
The Preterisist would say that
since the Apocalypse was addressed “to” and “for” the churches (Chapters
1: 11 and 22:16) that for the most part, the Revelation was significantly
fulfilled in the life of the seven churches. However, all three positions
believe that in the end-time the Lord will come. [The New Heaven and the New
Earth] It must
be remembered that Jesus commanded John to write, “that which you have seen,
the things which are, and the things that will take place after these things”
(Chapter 1: 19). As I have ready stated, I believe “after these things” refer to the New Heaven and the New
Earth that is recorded in Isaiah. (Isaiah 65: 17; Revelation 21:1-5) Dr. Kenneth R. Gentry, Jr., “HE SHALL HAVE DEMINION,”
Institute for Christian Economics, Tyler, Texas, writes on the subject of:
“Who is the beast?” make some interesting observations: (For lack of space, I will edit the article and try
to preserve the intent): Dr. Gentry said, “it is surely no accident that Nero
was the sixth emperor of Rome:” Julious Caesar was the first, followed by
Augustus, Tiberius, Caius, Claudius, and the sixth was Nero Caesar. The text of Revelation says that of the seven kings
“five are fallen,” “one is” “the other is not yet come, and when he
comes, he must continue for a short space.” “Thus, the seventh: Galba, who
reigned for only six months. John wrote of the sixth emperor ruling on a
Seven-Hilled-City; Nero
ruled in Rome.” “The mystery of chapter 17: 7 is the fact that the
seven heads had a double meaning: Geographical and Political. The purpose was
not to confuse, but to clarify.” “Now, as to the Beast? The Hebrew name for
Nero Caesar was “Nrwn Qsr” = “The number of a man,” = “666.”
“The atrocities of this man called,
‘the Beast,’ and the suffering that he afflicted upon Christians in recorded
history, is unequalled.”
The Historicists: Dr. W. A.
Criswell, in his introduction to the historicists position,
(Expository Sermons on Revelation, pages 24) says,
“…They believe that the Revelation is a panorama of the history of
the church…form the apostolic days until the consummation of the world. This
position portrays in great detail the conflicts, and sufferings in the church
age: The Apostolic Church, The Roman Catholic Church, The Reformation, The
Protestant Movement, etc. with all the conflicts within and without as
representative of all the symbolic vision given in the Apocalypse.” The Futurist:
(I think it needs to be said with great emphasis, that most Christians are
looking forward to the coming of our blessed Lord, and in that sense we are all
“futurists”). There are many views; however, as to the end-time
happenings, but for the sake of time and space, I will consider only one of the
pre-millennial systems, known generally as the “Pre-Rapture-Tribulation”
view: I tried very hard to reconcile this view with the Scriptures in my years
of ministry. Before I entered the ministry, I knew nothing about the
pre-millennial position. I believed
then, that when death comes, or when the Lord comes, we would go to heaven or
hell, depending upon our personal relation with Jesus Christ. So, I struggled between two opinions. I wanted to believe that this “system” agreed with the Scriptures. (Most of my studies were from this system of theology), And when I would read a book on the subject, I could see a pattern set forth; (a system), yet something, for me, was lacking. I will now try to give some Scripture references as to why I have not, in my years of study, been reconciled with this system: 1). The “Rapture of the Church,” as being referenced in chapter 4 of the book of the Revelation; or, for that matter, anywhere else in the scriptures. Revelation 4: 1 records the time when God called John to “come up here,” to receive the unveiling of what is called the “Apocalypse,” or “Revelation;” Paul, in 1 Thessalonians 4: 13 is not addressing the pre-tribulation rapture of the church, but about the resurrection of those who have “fallen asleep” at the second coming of our Lord. 2). Neither could I find any reference to a millennial earthly reign of Christ upon this earth where multitudes of Jews would be saved, supposedly found in Revelation 20: 3-6. (This to me represents only the resurrected martyred saints in heaven reigning with Christ for what was signified as a thousand years. (Chapter 20: 6) 3). Another thing I have not been able to reconcile
is the concept of many resurrections and judgments as required for this system.
Recorded in 2 Thessalonians. 1: 5-10 is the most complete rendering of the
end-time judgment: Paul said, “dealing out retribution to those who
obey not the gospel…when he comes
to be glorified in His saints
on that day…” (See my Essay: “On that Day”).
I believe that “on that day” God will bring all things to an end. Though
there are many different references (Glimpses) of the end-time, that, I believe,
are addressing certain phases of “that day”, I believe it will all be
fulfilled “one that day.” (For example: as the “day” in which we live). 4). I have
come to believe that there is no delay between the 69th and the 70th
week of Daniel’s prophecy. I believe that the seventy weeks were decreed as a
unit Chapter 9: 24-27 “Seventy weeks (years) have been decreed…,”
(Authorizing the Jews to return from Babylon to Jerusalem to rebuild the city,
etc. as prophesied by Jeremiah the prophet), “for the people (the Jews) and
your holy city (Jerusalem) “to finish the transgression” (the work decreed
for Judah), “and to make an end for sin” (redemption) “to make atonement
for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness…” [Messiah], “and to
seal up (confirm) the vision and prophecy, “and to anoint the most holy
place….” (Jerusalem), [9: 24])
“So you (Judah) are to know and discern that from the issuing of a
decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until (Messiah-Jesus) the prince there
will be seven weeks (years), “and sixty two weeks…” (years, equaling 69
years since they received the decree) “It will be built again, (finished) with
plaza and moat, even in times of distress.” (Distress brought by their
enemies, [9: 25]) “Then after the sixty-two (plus the seven) weeks (years) the Messiah (Jesus) will be cut off (crucified), and the people of the prince (The prince supposedly is Rome) who is to come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And the end will come with a flood (fast); even the end (of this period in history of the Jews) (2 Kings 23:27) there will be war; desolation are determined. (Fixed by God, 9: 26) And he will make a firm covenant with many for one week (seven years). This is a historical fact, the Jews were scattered, their city left in shambles, but in the middle of the week (seven years) He will put a stop to sacrifices. The “Type” fulfilled in Christ, symbolized in animal sacrifice across the ages, is now and forever finished, “and on the wing of abomination will come one who makes desolate; even until a complete destruction (Jerusalem) one that is decreed, (Jesus) is poured out on the one who makes desolate.” (9: 27)
My point is this: If Daniel prophesied of the crucifixion of Christ, Who
is the fulfillment of the “type,” as symbolized in the Old Testament
sacrifices, why then would we not expect that the call to end the animal
sacrifice would follow immediately after the offering of the real sacrifice at
the Cross where Jesus cried out, “It is finished.” To me, the 70th
week is the transition between the Old Covenant and
the New Covenant; between the old animal sacrifice and the Messiah,
“cut off,” (Crucified). Daniel saw (vision) the Cross, but he did not see
(vision) the Church because the make-up of the Church was hidden (kept secret),
until God’s purposes were revealed in Christ at the last days; therefore
Daniel’s prophecy was incomplete. (Not hidden form Judah for whom it was
addressed), but because there was more to come, and that was when God’s people
became one in Christ, Jew and Gentile: “The hope of Israel,” fulfilled.”
(Galatians 3: 16) Daniel’s prophecy was not sealed because there was something to hide, but because there was more to come, and that something was that the Jew and the Gentile would be one in Christ as the “Israel of God” (Galatians 6: 16) called “the church” (Ephesians 2: 14; 3: 3, 5, 9-11). 5). And finally, the eternal reign of Christ
(in the new heavens and the New earth) as prophesied both by the OT and the NT
writers. Compare this to the one reference recorded in Revelation, (chapter 20:
3-6), wherein there is no reference to the earth, either to the Jews, nor for
that matter, to Israel, but only to the resurrected souls of the saints, many of
whom were martyred for their faith. Chapter
14 The Harvest Reapers: The
“great wine press of the wrath of God was trodden out side the city, and the
blood came out of the wine press, up to the horse’ bridles for a distance of
two hundreds miles.” (14: 14-20) I believe that the harvest reapers and the
Battle of Armageddon are two separate happenings. The battle of Armageddon is a
bloodless battle against Satan and his hordes; whereas, the “Reapers” is the
harvest of the multitudes of the peoples of this earth who rejected Christ.
Chapters
15 and 16 is the record of the Old and New Testament resurrected saints,
singing the songs of Moses, waiting for the final judgments of God as the final
bowls of His wrath are poured out, declaring that God’s judgments are true and
righteous. Chapters 17
through 19: 2, etc. is often called, “the judgment of the apostate church;” for the
great harlot who has committed “fornication” with the kings of the earth,”
It’s judgment time. It is also victory for the saints of God! Chapter 19 records the judgment of the great harlot, who had slain the prophets and saints of God upon this earth, is destroyed, and it is now praise time! The victory had been won! The Bride is ready! He is coming, with His white robe, “dipped in blood” as a symbol of victory! The Beast and the false prophets are assigned to their eternal doom, “And the rest were killed with the sword, which came from the mouth of Him who sat upon the white horse, the “King of Kings and Lord of Lords,” Then all the birds of the air were filled with their flesh. The earthly battles are all over! (There is a key
to our understanding of the Old Testament prophecy given in Revelation 19: 10b.
“For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
This is not in reference to the Holy Spirit, but to the intent, purpose, and
fulfillment of all prophecy, in Jesus Christ). Jesus said to the disciples on the road to Emmaus,
“O foolish men and slow of heart to believe in all the prophets have spoken.
Was it not necessary for Christ to suffer these things and to enter into His
glory? And beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He explained to them
the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures.” One must understand that
there is no prophecy that does not have its final fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
(Luke 24: 25-27) Chapter 20:
1-3; 7-10:
is where Satan is chained for a thousand years, and when he is then released, he
then brings his army to the final battle against the camp of the saints, and the
beloved city. It is now that he is destroyed by fire from heaven, and eternally
cast into hell. This seems to me that this passage of Scripture is (signified) a picture of the total conflict between God’s people and the work of Satan across the years of time; yea, it is another picture of God’s victory! Like
a parenthesis, following the chaining of Satan in chapter 20- 1-3, is a record
of the special favor given to God’s martyred saints whose souls were
resurrected and lived with Christ a thousand years. The thousand year
signification; (like the “cattle on a thousand hills,” when there are
millions and millions of hills upon which there are cattle), symbolically
speaking of God’s ownership of all things, or when Peter said, “remember this
one thing, a day is with the Lord a thousand years” (2 Peter 3: 8). Peter
was then speaking on the subject of last things. I do not know the meaning to
this statement, “a thousand years.” I do believe, however, that it does not
have any reference to this earth, or the Jews, or any things that would bring to
mind a thousand-year kingdom upon this earth. As we began this study in chapter 1: 1, we were
reminded that the unveiling of the Revelation, called the Apocalypse, was to be
given to John by the angel of the Lord in signs and symbols; that is,
“signified (communicated) by His angel.”
If this is true, then all of the “Revelation”
revealed to John by the angel of the Lord while “up” there, was revealed to
him by signs and symbols. (Chapter 4: 2 through 22: 8). We must also conclude,
therefore, that the Chapter 1: 1-11; Chapters 2 and 3, and the conclusion,
chapter 22: 6-21 are literal facts; whereas the entire Apocalyptic portion of
the Revelation must be regarded as symbolic). As to the first resurrection, it is said, in verse
six, “Blessed and holy is the one who has part in the first resurrection, over
these the second death (eternal separation from God) has no power.” So we see that the martyred saints, because of their
faith, shared in what is called, “the first resurrection.” What is the first
resurrection? Or, who said, “I am the resurrection and the life;” Jesus is
the first begotten of the dead.” It is with Him that these martyred saints
share this blessing. These martyred
saints, who seem to have some special place in heaven because of their personal
sacrifice; are gloriously taking part with Christ in what is called, “the
first resurrection.” This does not mean that all other believers must wait for
a different resurrection. There is no reference to a second resurrection found
in the Scriptures, only a second death. (Eternal death) It is a fact that Israel believed in a “this”
world kingdom, which would be established at the coming of the Messiah. In this,
they were not wrong. God did not change His mind at this time in history. The
eternal promise, given to Abraham, was not made void because they rejected their
Messiah. What they failed to see was that their purpose, as a nation, was
fulfilled. “And the LORD said, I will
remove Judah also out of my sight, as I have removed Israel, and will cast off
this city Jerusalem which I have chosen, and the house of which I said, My name
shall be there” (2 Kings 23: 27). What they failed to understand was that the
mystery, kept secret in ages past, is now the eternal kingdom established.
(Isaiah 65: 17) The promise given to Abraham is now complete in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3: 29); Judah has finished her course: All the seed of Jacob who believe in the promise; are now, along with the Gentile believers, “one in Christ.” (Read Acts chapter 10 and 11 for the transition) [It is obvious that neither the Apostle Peter, nor the prophets of old, understood God’s plan for His kingdom to include both Jew and Gentile]. The mystery hidden [kept secret] in ages past was not the church, but the makeup of the church. The church, like Israel in past ages, was not the focus, but the “promise” was the focus. The church, like Israel, is the messenger of the Promise consisting of both Jew and Gentile as the “Israel of God.” (Romans 11: 25,26; Galatians 3: 28,29: 6: 15,16; Ephesians 2: 14-22; 3: 3-6 and 9-11). I repeat again for emphasis: The church is not the mystery hid from the prophets [or the angels], but the makeup of the church is the mystery; this mystery is the marvel of the ages. It is that God’s Kingdom would be made up of the Jew and the Gentile as one body in Christ. The “wall” has forever fallen. There is no more Jew or Gentile, but Jew and Gentile as one body in Christ Jesus. It is through the church that this great mystery is to be made known to the world. (Ephesians 3:10) The promise, made to Abraham, was not to his seed, but that through his seed all the nations of the world would be blessed. (Genesis 12: 3)
We might ask, “but what about the second-coming?
Aren’t we promised an eternal reign with Christ that is sometimes
referred to as an earthly kingdom, as well as a heavenly kingdom? The Apostle
Peter answers our question when he said (in effect, I’m glad you asked) This
is his answer in 2 Peter 3: 12,13 “Looking for and hastening the coming of the
day of God, because of which the heavens will be devolved being on fire, and the
elements will melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless
we, according to His promise,
look for new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells” (nkjv): The
question is: Where can we find such a promise? Read Isaiah 65: 17, 25;
Revelation 21:1…, etc. Chapter
21 (continued) the new heaven and the new earth. (Please read chapter 21:1;
2 Peter 3: 6-13; Isaiah 65: 17,25 and 66: 22,23) wherein this Old World is
destroyed; nevertheless, waiting for the New Heaven and the New Earth where
righteousness dwells.
In Revelation 21: 22-27 it is recorded: “I
saw no temple in it, for the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.
And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine on it, for the glory
of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb. The nations will walk by its
light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. And in the day
(for there shall be no night there), its gates shall never be closed; and they
will bring the glory and the honor of the nations into it; and nothing unclean,
and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but
only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. Chapter 22: 1-7
is the
conclusion of John’s visions; whereas, chapter 22: 9-21 is the conclusion of
the book of the Revelation. [For example: Some beautiful pictorial reflections as
found in chapter 22 (The New Heaven and the New Earth): “The river of
water,” “The throne of God, and of the Lamb,” “The streets of gold,”
The tree of life,” “twelve kinds of fruit,” “healing of the nations,”
(Peoples of the nations), “Bond-servants shall serve Him,” “We will see
His face,” and, “He will reign for ever and ever]. This brings us to the end of that glorious Revelation that John saw and heard while he was up there with the angel of the Lord, chapter 4:1 until chapter 22: 8. And this is what he says, “And I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. Chapter 22:10-15, John is now back on this evil earth. (22:15). And Jesus says to him, “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you (John), these things for the (seven) churches. I am the root and offspring of David, the bright and morning star.” Then John concludes: “And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes, take the water of life without cost.” (Read verses 18,19). (Come, come, this was God’s call then, and this is
God’s call today!) Now John says, “And he who testifies to these things
says, I am coming quickly,” and John says, “Amen, Come, Lord Jesus. Then
John gives this blessing: “The
grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all. Amen! And so we wait for that final
day, “When the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord, and of
His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever” (Revelation 11: 15). “In the
new heaven and the new earth” (Chapter 21:1, etc.) |