Table of Contents

- The Book Of Revelation An Overview

- “Foundations for Study” (Revelation 1:1-3)

- “May I Introduce Myself?” (Revelation 1:4-8)

- “Awesome and Awestruck” (Revelation 1:9-20)

- “You’ve Lost that Loving Feeling” (Revelation 2:1-7)

- “To the Death!” (Revelation 2:8-11)

- “Slip Sliding Away” (Revelation 2:12-17)

- “To Reign or to Wane?” (Revelation 2:18-29)

- “The Living Dead” (Revelation 3:1-6)

- “Decide and Conquer” (Revelation 3:7-13)

- “How to Make Jesus Sick” (Revelation 3:14-22)

- “A Glimpse into Glory” (Revelation 4:1-11)

- “When All Heaven Breaks Loose!” (Revelation 5:1-14)

- “Buckle Your Seatbelts!” (Revelation 6:1-17)

- “A Way Out of No Way” (Revelation 7:1-17)

- “The Worst is Yet to Come” (Revelation 8:1-13)

- “All Hell Breaks Loose!” (Revelation 9:1-21)

- “The Bittersweet Book” (Revelation 10:1-11)

- “The Rise and Fall of God’s Witnesses” (Revelation 11:1-19)

- “This Means War!” (Revelation 12:1-17)

- “Here Comes the Beast” (Revelation 13:1-18)

- “The Grim Reaper and the Grapes of Wrath” (Revelation 14:1-20)

- “The End is in Sight” (Revelation 15:1-8)

- “The Super Bowls” (16:1-21)

- “Use It or Lose It!” (Revelation 17-18)

- “Eater or Eaten?”[1] (Revelation 19:1-21)

- “Pay Day Some Day” (Revelation 20:1-15)

- “It Just Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This!” (Revelation 21:1-22:5)

- “Famous Last Words” (Revelation 22:6-21)

- “A Rave Review” (Revelation 1-22)

- In Focus Study Questions #1

The Book Of Revelation
An Overview

Title:[1]

“Revelation” is from the Greek word apokalupsis which means, “a disclosure, an unveiling.” The book of Revelation is an unveiling of the character and program of God.

Author:

The author of Revelation called himself “John” (1:4, 9; 22:8). He was a prophet (22:9) and a leader who was known in the churches of Asia Minor to whom he writes (1:4). Revelation indicates a similarity with the Gospel of John, employing words that are common to both: word, lamb, witness, true, overcome, dwell, fountain of living waters and others. Most Bible students believe that the Holy Spirit used John, Christ’s beloved disciple, to give us three kinds of inspired literature: the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the book of Revelation. Warren Wiersbe has outlined the purposes of each as follows:

Gospel of John

Epistles (1-3 John)

Revelation

Believe (20:31)

Fellowship (1:3)

Preparation (22:20)

Life received

Life revealed

Life rewarded

Salvation

Sanctification

Sovereignty

The Prophet

The Priest

The King

The Purpose:

The stated purpose of Revelation is to reveal Jesus Christ (1:1): His person, His power and His plan for the future.

The Theme:

Central to the book is the existence, power, sovereignty, justice, wisdom and goodness of God the Father and Jesus Christ.

Date And Origin:

The traditional view for the date of Revelation is during the reign of emperor Domitian (A.D. 81-96). The early church fathers affirmed this and most scholars since have agreed. The date has been traditionally set at between A.D. 94-96 (during the final and most severe years of Domitian’s reign). It is likely that John wrote Revelation during his exile on the island of Patmos.

Key Ideas:

The book opens and closes with similar ideas and phrases, among them are the words of Jesus, “I am coming soon” (1:1-8; 22:12-21). In between, the book deals with vivid descriptions of God’s judgments on sin.

Key Verses:

Revelation 1:7: “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen” (cf. Revelation 19:11-16). Revelation 1:19: “Therefore write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these things.”

Key Words:

Two key words are repeated throughout the whole letter. They are “lamb” (29 times) and “throne” (47 times). The duel ideas of sacrificial atonement and God’s sovereignty and judgment dominate the letter. Four numbers also play a significant role throughout Revelation: “seven” (55 times), “four” (29 times), “twelve” (23 times) and “ten” (9 times).

Key Note:

There are no formal quotations from the Old Testament, however there are many allusions. Bible students have found between 250-550 Old Testament allusions in the book of Revelation.

Nutshell Outline:

1.      Introduction (1:1-20)

2.      Letters to the seven churches in Asia (2:1-3:22)

3.      Visions of the end of this age and the new heaven and earth (4:1-22:5)

4.      Conclusion (22:6-21)

Importance:

1.      Revelation, like all Scripture, is “profitable” (2 Timothy 3:16).

2.      Revelation reveals Jesus Christ like no other book (Revelation 1-22).

3.      Revelation deals with “things, which must soon take place” (Revelation 1:1).

4.      Revelation is the one book that promises a blessing to all who will read it (Revelation 1:3).

5.      Revelation contains unique warnings and challenges to the church (Revelation 2:1-3:22).

6.      Revelation discloses conditions that will be present in the end-times (Revelation 6:1-19:21).

7.      Revelation is NOT to be sealed up (Revelation 22:10)

Christ In Revelation:

Since Revelation is “The Revelation of Jesus Christ” it demonstrates His glory, wisdom and power (1:1-20), and portrays His authority over the church (2:1-3:21) and His power and right to judge the world (5:1-19:21). But as the revelation of Christ, it is loaded with descriptive titles. In particular, it describes Jesus Christ (1:1) as:

·         The faithful witness (1:5)

·         The firstborn from the dead (1:5)

·         The ruler over the kings of the earth (1:5)

·         The Son of Man (1:13)

·         The first and the last (1:17)

·         The living One (1:18)

·         The Son of God (2:18)

·         He who is holy, who is true (3:7)

·         The Amen (3:14)

·         The Beginning of the creation of God (3:14)

·         The Lion that is from the tribe of Judah (5:5)

·         The Root of David (5:5)

·         A Lamb (5:6)

·         The Word of God (19:13)

·         King of Kings and Lord of Lords (19:16)

·         The Alpha and the Omega (22:13)

·         The beginning and the end (22:13)

·         The bright morning Star (22:16)

·         The Lord Jesus (22:21).

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

“Foundations for Study” (Revelation 1:1-3)

You are “End Times” Impressionable” if…[1]

1.      You don’t shop at Costco because you don’t think you’ll be around long enough to eat a 37-pound box of cornflakes.

2.      You are afraid to get money from the automated teller machine because the bank assigned you the PIN number of 666.

3.      After watching one of those global-disaster movies, you boldly proclaim: “That could never really happen,” and then you quickly glance around to see if anyone is nodding in agreement.

4.      You freaked out when you went to church and found no one there (only to realize later that you showed up an hour early because you forgot to change the clock for daylight savings time).

5.      An earthquake had you scrambling to find that Bible you haven’t read since eighth grade.

You are “End Times” Insensitive” if…

1.      You think the “Apocalypse” is a car manufactured by Toyota.

2.      All of the talk about the “Doomsday Event” has you baffled. You can’t figure out why everyone is making such a fuss about a WWF wrestling match.

3.      You ignore people when they fret about the political turmoil in the Middle East because you don’t vote in New York.

4.      The increasing frequency of flood, earthquakes, droughts, and other environmental disasters is of no concern to you (except for ruining the coffee bean harvests and raising the cost of a Starbuck’s latte).[2]

The Purposes

1.      Revelation exalts Jesus Christ. The prophetic portrayal of Christ in Revelation is different than that of the Gospels, which tell the wonderful story of His humiliation, including His birth, suffering, and death. It reveals Him as the Lamb of God and King of Kings who, in the consummation of His program of salvation, restores to man what was lost by the fall and much more.

2.      Revelation reveals the power and wisdom of God. Revelation conclusively demonstrates how God continues to control the affairs of this world in spite of the great and constant opposition of both Satan and man to the purposes of God.

3.      Revelation manifests the plan and purposes of God. Without the book of Revelation, the Scriptures would leave us hanging. Yet Revelation tells us that there will come a day when Christ will wipe away every tear. Eventually, there will be no death. Every wrong will be righted and every right will be rewarded.

4.      Revelation validates the accuracy of the Bible. The book of Revelation has been called “The Grand Central Station of the Bible” because it’s where all the trains of thought from the whole Bible meet. It confirms and completes the other 65 books. This is demonstrated in the follow chart.[3]

1.      Revelation promotes holiness. It is no secret that we live in an unholy age. Unfortunately, much of this godlessness is found in the church. Yet the book of Revelation provides a wake-up call for all of us. Many Christians, myself included, have in a moment of temptation, thought, “Do I want to be doing this when Christ returns?” When the answer is a resounding, “NO!” it is easier to reject the temptation. Instead, we are challenged to so love that when He comes we will be found doing the things that earn His praise, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” (Matthew 25:21) rather than the rebuke that will be extended to those who are ashamed at His coming (1 John 2:28).

2.      Revelation encourages evangelism. If time is short and hell is hot, we need to be telling others about Jesus. Revelation should motivate us to share with others the answers to life’s questions: What’s going to happen to the world? Are we in the last days? Is Jesus really coming back? Will the human race survive? Is there life after death? Are heaven and hell real?

3.      Revelation comforts believers. When we hear of wars, rumors of wars, and natural disasters, the knowledge of Revelation can give comfort by reminding us of God’s plan and that He is still on the throne, in control, and carrying out His purposes and plans.

4.      Revelation protects believers from Satan’s counterfeits. Jesus predicted that many “false christs and prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24).[4] Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, David Koresh, the Heaven’s Gate cult and countless others have propagated bizarre end-times scenarios. They have also been successful at deceiving many, as a result. If a Christian doesn’t have a biblical understanding of the end times, he/she is susceptible to deception.

The Dangers

1.      The danger of sensationalism (Acts 17:21; 2 Timothy 4:3). We must not become mere specialists in the unusual and fanciful.

2.      The danger of dogmatism (1 Corinthians 8:1). We must be careful not to become proud and divisive.

3.      The danger of escapism. We must love and serve our community instead of running to the hills and forming our own Christian militia (i.e., stockpiling food, water, and guns).

4.      The danger of pessimism. We must be full of joy and hope instead of buried in hopelessness and discouragement.

The Solutions

1.      Major on the majors, not the minors. In essence, this book says: “Jesus is going to win!”

2.      Determine to understand opposing views better and why they are held.

3.      Hold beliefs and convictions in love.

4.      Worship the God of Revelation. If you have all the “end-times” knowledge in the world but it hasn’t led to an increased desire to worship God, it is worthless.

The Certainties

1.      Life as we know it will come to an end…and there is such a thing as life after death.

2.      Jesus is coming again. More than ¼ of the Bible consists of prophecy. In the Old Testament there are over 1,800 references to the return of Christ. Of the 260 chapters in the New Testament, there are more than 300 references to the Lord’s return—one out of every 30 verses. Twenty-three of the 27 New Testament books give prominence to this subject. For every prophecy in Scripture concerning Christ’s first coming, there are eight prophecies about Christ’s second coming.

3.      God will judge all people. Unbelievers at the great white throne judgment (Revelation 20:11-15) and believers at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10).

4.      Believers will live forever. Unbelievers will suffer eternal separation from God.

5.      Evil will be punished. Every wrong will be made right.

6.      There will be a new heaven and a new earth. God will return the world to its original creation.

1:1a: I hope you are convinced that Revelation is relevant. Now, let us begin our study with the first three verses of Revelation. The Apostle John wrote these opening verses to introduce the main subject, the purpose, and the theme dealt with in this book. This is all found in the following phrase: “The revelation of Jesus Christ” (1:1a), which informs us that this Revelation is directly from Jesus Christ and about Him.[5] Revelation is relevant! Our greatest spiritual need is to know Jesus Christ…and NO book reveals His majesty, as does Revelation.

“Revelation”[6] is the translation of the Greek noun, apokalupsis, meaning “a disclosure, an unveiling.” The term “revelation” itself is derived from the Latin word revelatiro (from revelare, “to reveal or unveil that which has previously been hidden”). This was the title given to the book in the Latin Vulgate (a Latin translation of the New Testament by Jerome in A.D. 400). The Greek title is Apocalypse, taken directly from the first word in the Greek text, apokalupsis.[7]

Apokalupsis means “to expose to full view what was before unknown, hidden, and secret.” In its first appearance in the New Testament (Luke 2:32), it is used of Simeon who, taking the baby Jesus in his arms, blessed Him and spoke of Him as “a light of revelation (apokalupsin) to the Gentiles and the glory of Your people Israel.” John’s choice of this particular word assures us that God intends for this book to bring light and be understood by its readers. This means we must understand, from the very beginning, that the book of Revelation is NOT a riddle; it’s a revelation.

I have something hidden under this veil and we cannot clearly see it! I can tell you about it: this object is pink, white, and brown. It is bearded. One last hint, it is considered blameless (Genesis 6:9). You may be able to guess what it is but until I unveil it completely you cannot understand everything about it. Take off the veil and it’s…Noah. This is what the book of Revelation does for us. It takes off the veil and reveals more than any other book in the Bible—Jesus Christ.

1:1b-2: In the next verse-and-a-half, John describes how the book of Revelation was communicated. This section can be properly understood as God’s chain of communication. First, God’s message proceeds from the Father to the Son. Second, the communication proceeds from the Son through an angel. Third, the communication comes from the angel, as the Lord’s messenger, to John. Finally, the communication of the book is from John to the body of Christ. This can be easily understood as a simple hierarchy. Although all three members of the Godhead are equal, each has His own role and various responsibilities. While on earth, Christ submitted to God and the Holy Spirit submitted to Christ. Now if this is true with the Godhead, how much more should it be true of us?[8]

John is called “a bond-servant” (doulos = “a slave”). The word doulos is a significant term when it is applied to believers. The doulos was the one who was owned by his master, lock, stock, and barrel. He was totally under the authority and power of his master and dependent on him for everything—his responsibilities, his daily food, housing and supplies, and his purposes in life. Ironically though, only when we become slaves to Christ do we ever find true freedom from sin, self, Satan, and the world. The simple truth is: everyone is a slave to someone or something. The only question is, who is your master? It was Bob Dylan who sang the well-known song, “You Gotta Serve Somebody!” The chorus of this song was simple: “It may be the Devil, it may be the Lord, but you gotta serve somebody!” I’d like to say something very important as we inaugurate this study: You will not understand or fully appreciate this study unless you are a “bond-servant.” Revelation was written to “bond-servants.” So let us surrender ourselves to Jesus Christ as His slaves.

Before we move on, it is important to observe that in 1:1b, John wrote that this book was unveiled or disclosed and given to Jesus Christ and then to John “to show His [Jesus’] bondservants the things which must shortly take place.” The word “show”[9] means “to exhibit, disclose, or point out.”

Once again, the meaning of the word apokalupsis (“Revelation”) is brought to bear. God could not be clearer: He intends for the book of Revelation to be understood by His bond-servants! His desire is for us to understand His overarching plan. That is why He has given us this book.

John stresses the events that the Lord wants to show us must “soon take place.” In this context, the word “soon” (en tachei) means imminent.[10] The term imminent points to an event that could occur any day. Of course, many raise the question: If these events were supposed to happen soon and they haven’t occurred in over 1,900 years, what in the world is going on? When speaking about the end of the world in 2 Peter 3:8, Peter reminds us that “with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day.” He also says, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). If God is to be considered “slow,” it is as a result of His patience and mercy.

The manner of communication is brought out in 1:1c. The word “communicated” (esemanen) means “to show, signify, reveal by signs or symbols.” But this word can also mean to reveal by words without the use of signs or symbols. John was communicated to by both the spoken word and by visions in which he saw things that were full of symbolic meaning, as in 1:10-12, but these symbols are designed to be understood according to the normal meaning of the symbols. The key message is delivered in the visuals, not the spoken word—it will be in what John sees and only second in what he hears.

1:2: That which was communicated was “testified” by John (1:2). The word “testified” comes from a root word that means “to be a witness, act as a witness, testify or bear witness.” It carries the idea of “attestation, verification, and validation” and stresses that John was bearing testimony as a witness of what he received. That witness is defined and described in a three-fold way which shows its importance and why we need to pay attention to its message: (1) “The Word of God”[11]: this book with its visions is called the Word of God and provides us with an inspired conclusion to the Bible; (2) “The testimony of Jesus Christ”: the words directly from Jesus to John; (3) “And of all the things which he saw”: the many events and persons that John observed. Note the parallelism here. John is not speaking of three different things, but rather one thing, described in three different ways.

1:3: John begins 1:3 with the word “blessed” (makairos, Matthew 5:13). This is the first of seven usages of “blessed” in Revelation.[12] This is a promise of the happiness, spiritual blessing, and joy that will come from knowing and obeying the truth of this book. This is an amazing verse.  No other book of the Bible promises us a blessing for reading, hearing, and heeding its contents.

This blessing is given to “he who reads.” Note that this is singular while the next clause, “those who hear” is plural. This reflects the early form of taking in the Word. In the early church Christians did not have their own copy of God’s Word. They were not as fortunate as we are today. Rather, the Scripture was publicly read and expounded to the congregation by an elder or qualified teacher.[13]

Today, we can be blessed by simply reading through the book of Revelation AND hearing and heeding its contents. The words “hear” and “heed”[14] are linked together by the word “and.” These two terms form one concept, not two. The person who “hears” in the biblical sense of the word “heeds.” Hearing MUST be combined with obedience.[15]

In this context, the main idea is that of obeying “the words of this prophecy” and “the things which are written.” Notice that both “words” and “things” are plural. These two words point us to the importance of perceiving and obeying all the contents of this book (i.e., the person of Christ, the church, the saints, the tribulation, witnessing, faithfulness, overcoming, angelic warfare, Israel, Satan, demons, judgments, the millennium, the resurrection, the eternal state, etc.).

Again, it is important at this point to recognize that Revelation must be clearly understood. A “blessing” can be promised to those who read, hear, and heed because of two truths: The book of Revelation is a “revelation” (apocalypse), which means an unveiling (contrast an apocryphal book which is hidden). Second, Revelation is not a sealed book (22:10).

The knowledge and application of this book is so urgent because “the time is near.” The Greek word translated “time” (kairos) describes a period of time rather than a point in time. The time in mind is the time of Christ’s return marked out by all that will happen just before, during, and after (1:19). The time when God will fulfill these prophecies was “near” when John wrote this book. “Near” (engus) means “at hand.”[16] Or if you prefer “NEXT!” It means relatively near in God’s timetable in which a thousand years are as a day (2 Peter 3:8).

It is said that Satan once called his demons and said he wanted to send one of them to earth to aid women and men in the ruination of their souls. He asked which one would want to go. One creature came forward and said, “I will go.” Satan said, “If I send you, what will you tell the children of men?” He said, “I will tell the children of men that there is no heaven.” Satan said, “They will not believe you, for there is a bit of heaven in every human heart. In the end, everyone knows that right and good must have the victory. You may not go.”

Then another came forward, darker and fouler than the first. Satan said, “If I send you, what will you tell the children of men?” He said, “I will tell them that there is no hell.” Satan looked at him and said, “Oh, no; they will not believe you, for in every human heart there’s a thing called conscience, an inner voice which testifies to the truth that not only will good be triumphant, but that evil will be defeated. You may not go.”

Then one last creature came forward, this one from the darkest place of all. Satan said to him, “And if I send you, what will you say to women and men to aid them in the destruction of their souls?” He said, “I will tell them that there is no hurry.” Satan said, “Go at once!”

Satan has successfully duped the church and the world into believing that there is really no hurry. He has robbed us of a sense of urgency. As believers we assume that we can get serious about Christ once we have grandkids and retire. Unbelievers have been led to believe that, if they need to, they will be able to trust Christ at will, when they are old and decrepit and in some rest home. What a mistake! We must realize that our day of reckoning with the Lord Jesus Christ is imminent. Final accountability is on the horizon. We must urge believers and unbelievers to prepare to face the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. There is a hurry. Revelation is relevant. Prepare for eternity TODAY.

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Bruce Bickel and Stan Jantz, Bruce & Stan’s Guide to the End of the World (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 1999), 7-8.

[3] This helpful chart is found in the following book: Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 16.

[4] In 2 Thess 2, Paul corrected a false teaching that the day of the Lord, or the tribulation period, had already come. As a result of this false teaching, Paul also had to correct errant action. In chapter 3, he commanded some of the people to go back to work and quit sponging off of other believers. Apparently, they had applied the false teaching about the tribulation period to their lives and quit working since Christ’s coming was very soon.

[5] This phrase is what Greek grammarians call either a genitive of object meaning a revelation “about Jesus Christ,” or a genitive of subject meaning a revelation “from Jesus Christ.” Grammatically, it is likely that this phrase includes both concepts.

[6] It is not “Revelations,” but “Revelation.” It’s singular, not plural. It’s “The Revelation of Jesus Christ.”

[7] In this noun form the word is not found anywhere else in Greek literature, but as a verb it is continually used in the Gospels and the Epistles.

[8] The apostle Paul certainly understood this. In the first verse of Paul’s message to the Romans he identified himself as a “bondservant of Jesus Christ” and then as one “called to be an apostle” (Rom 1:1). Paul was awesome in his effectiveness as a preacher/teacher because he understood that he was first and foremost a doulos! Paul was utterly surrendered to Christ, who also came as a doulos. Though being God, He became a bondslave when He took on the form of humanity and humbled Himself to die in our place, that we might have life (Phil 2:6-8). In Mark 10:45 we read, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Jesus came to earth to show us who God was and to die. That is the reason He came. If the Lord Jesus Christ was able to become a doulos, what is keeping us from the following His example?

[9] Gk. deiknumi: Rev 1:1; 4:1; 17:1; 21:9-10; 22:1, 6, 8.

[10] Gk. en tachei can also mean “rapidly, quickly, speedily.” Throughout the Scriptures, en tachei frequently refers to events that will occur rapidly (Luke 18:8; Acts 12:7; 22:18; 25:4; Rom 16:20). This leads some to understand this phrase to mean that when the events of Revelation do begin, they will run their course very quickly. John uses a similar word, tacus, in Revelation, which is translated six times as “quickly” (2:16; 3:11; 11:14; 22:7, 12, 20). However, in view of the phrase, “the time is near” in 1:3 (cf. 22:10) it may be best to take en tachei as “soon” and understand it to refer to the imminent return of Christ. A major thrust of Revelation is its emphasis upon the shortness of time before the fulfillment. In the midst of persecution God’s people do not have long to wait for relief to come. To say that the relief will come “suddenly” offers no encouragement, but to say that it will come “soon” does.

[11] Rev 1:9; 3:8, 10; 6:9; 12:11; 17:17; 19:9; 20:4.

[12] Rev 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14.

[13] Keep in mind; in order to be counted among “those who hear,” one must be present in the home church gathering. In biblical times, there was no Christian radio, television, or books, every Christian was expected to be present every Sunday!

[14] Gk. terountes: “to guard, watch over, preserve” or “observe, apply, obey.”

[15] We find this theme throughout Jesus’ messages to the seven churches: “He who has an ear, let him hear.”

[16] The “nearness” of the Lord’s return is used frequently in the New Testament to call believers to live responsibly toward God (e.g., Rom 13:12; Heb 10:25; Jas 5:8; 1 Pet 4:7).

“May I Introduce Myself?” (Revelation 1:4-8)

Good morning, I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Keith Krell. I am your speaker today. Walk off the stage into the audience with a hand-held microphone and randomly ask people to introduce themselves. Then pose one of the following questions: (1) What is your mother’s maiden name? (2) What time did you get up? (3) What did you have for breakfast this morning? (4) What is your address? (5) What are the last four digits of your social security number?[1]

Now how well do you know any of the individuals I introduced you to? You don’t know them very well, do you? I didn’t ask helpful questions, did I? It was an exercise in futility, wasn’t it? Today I’m going to attempt to do a better job at introducing you to God. This is no small challenge. Nonetheless, this is what we have been created for. As individuals, we have been called to “know Christ.” As a church, our mission is to “know Christ and to make Him known.” Therefore, this passage is an incredibly significant passage. Let’s read Revelation 1:4-8.

In these five verses, John gives us his greeting.[2] John identifies himself as the writer (1:4a).[3] His recipients were “the seven churches[4] in Asia” (1:4a). The whole book is addressed to seven historical churches in Asia. However, in the New Testament, the term “Asia” never means the continent, as it does for us today. Rather, it is the western part of Asia Minor (modern Turkey). Why does John choose “seven churches”? Why not six or eight? The answer is clear: In the Bible, numbers often have a significant meaning other than quantity. Seven frequently represents completeness, as there are seven days in a complete week.[5] Examples abound: The Israelites marched around Jericho seven times. Naaman was instructed to dip in the river Jordan seven times. In Joseph’s time there were seven years of plenty and seven years of famine. There were seven petitions in the Lord’s Prayer. Jesus spoke seven times from the cross. Since seven represents completion, the churches that John addresses are all representative of churches that have existed in the past 2,000 years.

John’s opening words are “Grace and peace” (1:4b). The word “grace” (charis) is a Greek greeting, while the word “peace” (shalom) is a Hebrew greeting. The authors of Scripture often used this form of salutation to include both their Gentile and Jewish readership. But the message here goes deeper than a mere greeting. First, we should note the order of God’s blessings: grace, then peace. Peace is always the product of knowing and appropriating the grace of God in Christ. This order can never be changed. Ignore the grace of God and you forfeit the peace of God. Peace is always the product of grace. Though the message of Revelation is primarily one of judgment (chapters 6-18), this greeting of grace and peace is noteworthy. God here seeks to comfort and strengthen His people.

We will discover in 1:4-5, the words “grace” and “peace” come from the distinct ministries of the Trinity. This is the only place in the entire New Testament where this is the case.[6] The Trinity refers to the Christian belief that there is one God, manifested in three persons. Now you may say, “I don’t understand that.” Well, I don’t either.

Several years ago, my oldest child, Joshua, and I were spending some time together. While I was sitting in my glider, Joshua went over to his toy bag and grabbed a tennis ball and brought it to me. He then went back to the bag and got a small nerf ball and returned to me with it. Lastly, he went and picked up a mini basketball. He then tried to take all three of them out of my lap and hold them, but no matter how hard he tried, he just couldn’t hold all three. He wasn’t capable of handling all three because he wasn’t big enough. The Trinity is just like that—three-in-one is just more than our small, finite minds can grasp.

The Trinity is above reason. It cannot be explained by logic; it is a teaching that we must grasp only by faith. And that’s okay! Let’s look into the Godhead.

The first member of the Trinity is God the Father, “who is and who was and who is to come.”[7] This title occurs nowhere else in the Bible except in Revelation.[8] It clearly points to the truth that God is eternal. “The One who is” points to the “I Am who I am” of the Old Testament (Exod 3:14). This is not a Popeye expression; it ascribes the unique fact and quality of God’s eternality.

This past week, I asked my two-year-old daughter, Jena, “What do you like most about Daddy?” Do you know what she said? She said, “Daddy?” I replied, “What you like most about Daddy is ‘Daddy?’” She nodded her little head and said again, “Daddy!” In her own adorable way, Jena was saying, “I like the fact that Daddy is Daddy!” In the same way, the most profound thought we can ever have about God is that He is.

Yet, not only does He tell us that He is but He also tells us that He was. “The One who was” refers to God’s continual existence in time past. It stresses that the Father has always been. That means before you were born, He was. Before creation, before time began, before Satan and the angels existed, God was. He has always existed; He is eternal.

Lastly, our Father is “the One who is to come” literally, “the One coming” or “the coming One.” This speaks of the future coming of God to take control of all things in a world that has been in rebellion to Him. He is coming to put down His enemies and to establish His reign through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 15:20-28). It also reminds us that after our lives are over, after the judgment, and after we have been in eternity for a million years, He is to come. God is eternal.

Before we move on, we must ask why John orders God’s description the way he does. The answer is: John wants us to know that we can trust God in the present because He’s been faithful in the past and will be so in the future. This is intended to be a great source of comfort to believers.[9] I don’t know what your struggle is today. Maybe your marriage is on the brink of divorce. Or your kids are rebelling against your authority. Maybe you’re attempting to care for your aging parents but you’re going crazy in the process. Or you’re single and you’re having a difficult time waiting for God’s man or woman for you. Whatever your struggle, God is your comfort!

As we read further in 1:4, we discover that the Holy Spirit also provides “grace and peace.” He is identified by the phrase “the seven Spirits who are before His throne.” Although “the seven spirits” could refer to the angels before the throne,[10] it seems best to understand this as a reference to the Holy Spirit and the perfection and fullness of His actions and the manifold nature of His ministry. Also, when we parallel this verse with Isaiah 11:2, we find a sevenfold ministry of the Holy Spirit:

1.      The Spirit of the Lord

2.      The Spirit of Wisdom

3.      The Spirit of Understanding

4.      The Spirit of Counseling

5.      The Spirit of Might

6.      The Spirit of Knowledge

7.      The Spirit of the Fear of the Lord

The final member of the Trinity is the Lord Jesus Christ (1:5a-7b). In these verses, there is a three-fold emphasis on Christ’s person and work, to draw attention to who He is, what He has done, and what He will do.[11] First, He is called “the faithful witness.”[12] The Greek word we translate “witness” (martus) is where we get our English word martyr. Apart from this passage and 3:14, Jesus is never referred to as a “witness.” The meaning of this title can be seen in the use John makes of this word elsewhere in his book. The word “witness” then, as John uses it, denotes one who loses his life for the sake of Christ in evangelistic service. Christ can be called “the faithful witness” because He proclaimed His message and died in the course of that witness. The title “witness” that John gives to Jesus, then, represents His earthly work of giving His life for many. Are you willing to be a faithful witness? Are you willing to pay the ultimate price?

The second title that John gives to Jesus is “the first-born of the dead.”[13] This title is often correctly associated with Christ’s resurrection, yet it also includes the notion of Christ’s lordship over all of creation. This sense of firstborn can be seen in Genesis 49:3, where Rueben, the firstborn, is “preeminent in dignity and preeminent in power.” Also in Colossians 1:18, Christ, the firstborn from the dead, is also the Head of the body, the church. So Christ is over all. This is an encouraging word to John’s original readers and to us. The resurrected Christ now is Lord over the church, and reigns now, at the right hand of the Father.

Finally, Jesus is called, “the ruler of the kings of the earth.” This phrase is a characteristic phrase from the Old Testament and, in the book of Revelation, denotes the enemies of Christ and His people (6:15; 17:2, 18; 18:3; 19:19). Throughout the book, it is these “kings of the earth” who align themselves with the Beast and with the prostitute of Babylon to oppose God and His people. Thus, John here designates Christ as the One who has authority over all these powers and who has destroyed the power of the “rulers of this age” (1 Cor 2:8). The comforting element of this final phrase is that it can be literally rendered “the One who rules” or “the ruling One.” Even now, Jesus Christ is ruling! The world that is in rebellion is still under His sovereign authority and power (Dan 2:20-21; 4:17; 5:18).

Not only is Jesus given three titles (as the Father was), His ministries are also praised. First, His present ministry: “To Him who loves us.” This is the only verse where “love” is in the present tense in the Bible. He loves us right now. It was Jesus Christ’s love for us that enabled Him to go to the cross and die for our sins.

Second, this love points us to His past ministry, “who released us.” The word “released” looks at a past historic fact. It looks at an accomplished fact! Christ is classified as the Releaser, the One who has accomplished what is necessary to release men from the penalty and power of sin. The object of the releasing is “us,” a reference to believers in Christ, but it is available to any who will put their trust in Christ (John 3:16). The verb “released” (luo) means “to untie, set free, release.” It stresses that apart from Jesus Christ and His work on the cross, man is in bondage, chained to his sin problem: both its penalty (physical, spiritual, and eternal death) and its power (weakness and domination by a sinful nature). But this verse tells us that the “blood of Christ” dealt with our sin problem. What a wonderful reality: We have been once-for-all released from our sins. We do not have to be separated from God, we can believe the good news of Jesus Christ; that He died and rose for us so that we could live forever in God’s presence. Have you done that? If not, why not do so today?

Verse 6 goes on to inform us that another aspect of Christ’s past ministry is: “He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father.” It is important to note that Jesus Christ has made us a kingdom (corporately) and priests (individually) (cf. 5:10; 20:6; Exod 19:6; Isa 61:6; 1 Pet 2:5, 9).

Note also, the word “kingdom” is singular and the word “priests” is plural. The reason for this is there is only one King, Jesus Christ, but there is a collective priesthood. A kingdom is a place of rule. So we are currently in a kingdom position, under King Jesus, to carry out our individual responsibilities for the purpose of advancing His kingdom on this earth. Repeat after me, I am a priest in the kingdom of God. Introduce yourself to the person next to you by saying, “Hello, I am priest so-and-so.” How does that feel? Does it feel congruent with how you see yourself?

Like the other authors of Scripture, John gets overwhelmed with the awesome practical realities of these theological truths. He immediately breaks into unabashed praise, “To Him be the glory and the dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” This sentence of Scripture is called a doxology (i.e., an ascription of praise or glory to God or the persons of the Trinity, usually found at the end of a literary section).[14] The word “doxology” comes from the Greek word doxa, which means “glory.” This is the first of seven doxologies in Revelation (4:9, 11; 5:12, 13; 7:12; 19:1).[15] This doxology also happens to be the shortest of all seven. Yet it is quite powerful! Let’s unpack the theology in this brief ascription.

This doxology is to the “Him” of 1:5-6: Jesus Christ. The word “glory” (doxa) refers to that which should accrue to Christ, the praise, the adoration, and worship, because of who He is and what He has done. “Dominion” (kratos) means “power, might, rule, and sovereignty.” These will be Christ’s forever and ever, amen (which means “so be it”!).

This excursion to adore Christ should point us to the priority of meditating on the Bible’s words. The ultimate purpose of the book of Revelation is for us to fall in deeper love with Jesus Christ. We should constantly be responding to Him with a heart of praise and adoration for who He is and all that He has done! The apostle John was called the “Beloved Disciple,” and if he could get excited about the truths that he was writing, how much more should we? John was the one who laid his head on Jesus’ chest. He was the only one of the twelve disciples who made it to Jesus’ crucifixion. He was Jesus’ closest, most intimate earthly friend. . .and yet, he still (like Paul) took theology to heart. The great theological truths of the Bible are not meant to cause us to become dry, dull, and intellectually staunch; these truths are intended to draw us closer to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Finally, we move to another ministry of Jesus Christ (1:7). The word “Behold”[16] means “pay attention” or “listen carefully.” The word is designed to arrest our attention and get us to focus on this as the great theme of Revelation. The words “He is coming” (ercomai) denotes an event which has not yet occurred, but is regarded as so certain that, in thought, it is viewed as already accomplished. Jesus’ coming is said to be “with the clouds.” This should remind us of Acts 1:9ff and the promise of the angels at the ascension of the Lord Jesus. There will be clouds of the glory of God manifesting the coming glory of the Lord to rule and take up the reigns of the government over the earth in a visible way (Matt 24:30). Our text says that “every eye” will see Jesus. When He ascended, only the disciples watched Him leave, but when He returns, all mankind will see Him in all His glory! Even those who “pierced Him.” This refers primarily to the Jews who asked for Jesus’ death (Zech 12:10), but it could also refer to the Romans who carried out the sentence. Ultimately, we all caused His death because of our sin. Regardless, “all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him,” literally, they shall “wail over Him.” The word “mourn” means “to beat the breast in wailing and mourning”! For some it will be a mourning of repentance. For others it will be the mourning over the judgments that He will pour out on sinners.

1:7c-8: The benediction to the greeting begins with the words of 1:7, “even so, amen.” There is a combination of two languages here. A Greek and Hebrew word are put together.

“Even so” (nai) is the Greek affirmation “yes.” “Amen” is the Hebrew. The double affirmation puts upon this prophecy the seal of certainty.[17] It confirms the sure return of the Lord and the statements made about Him. “Amen” means “to be firm, sure, true.” It is a further affirmation of the promise of the verse. Although we cannot be certain, it seems best to understand 1:8 as God the Father speaking.[18] God the Father is called the “Alpha and the Omega” in 1:8 and 21:6 but the name is also applied to Jesus in 1:17 and 22:13. This is a strong argument for the deity of Christ. Likewise, the title, “the first and the last” goes back to Isaiah and is another proof that Jesus is God.

The “Alpha and the Omega” are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. It is the equivalent to our A and Z. “The Almighty” is the Greek pantokrator from pas “all” and kratos “might, power.” It stresses God’s omnipotence and sovereign authority over all the universe! “Almighty” is a key name for God in Revelation (Rev 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7, 14; 19:6, 15; 21:22). The backdrop to understanding this title is the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 44:6, God Almighty affirms: “I am the first and I am the last; apart from Me there is no God.” Again in Isaiah 48:12, God said: “I am He; I am the first and I am the last,” and God said this right after His pronouncement that, “I will not yield My glory to another” (verse 11b). Christ’s use of this title in Revelation 22:12-13 was thus, undoubtedly, intended to be taken as a claim to be God Almighty. No other conclusion is acceptable.

Notice, especially in Revelation 1:11, that He announces that He is the Alpha and the Omega. This title comes when used of God (or Christ), the first and last letters express eternality and omnipotence. Christ’s claim to be the Alpha and the Omega—like God Almighty’s claim in the Old Testament—is an affirmation that He is the all-powerful One of eternity past and eternity future.

I’ve introduced several people to you. But now I want to know who will volunteer to introduce GOD? This is a pop quiz but you can keep your Bible open. Which ascription is meaningful to you? Speak it forth. Now that the Lord has introduced Himself, will you give Him a rousing round of applause?

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Although the predominant genre of literature is apocalyptic, this salutation bears the definite form of an epistle (see especially Galatians, 1 & 2 Corinthians, and 1 & 2 Thessalonians).

[3] As my overview indicated, I believe that the apostle John is indeed the author of this book. Every New Testament book was written by an apostle or by one who was closely associated with an apostle. This was one of the marks of inspiration that was necessary for recognition of a book into the canon of Scripture.

[4] Galatians, James and 1 & 2 Peter are also written to multiple churches.

[5] The number seven is used 55 times in the book of Revelation.

[6] Elsewhere, the greeting is from God the Father and Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit excluded.

[7] It is interesting to note that this designation of God corresponds to the division of the book given in 1:19. This should comfort and encourage us. The sovereign God of the Bible is the One who is behind all that will happen in the future.

[8] Rev 4:8; cf. Rev 11:17; 16:5; Exod 3:14-15.

[9] For additional support of this view see Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: BECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 61.

[10] This view argues that the Holy Spirit’s present ministry in this book is to indwell His people, speak through His prophets, and not to manifest Himself in heaven. In Rev 3:1 it seems clear that the seven spirits are indeed seven stars that we know as a symbol for angels.

[11] The faithful witness (in his death and life); firstborn of the dead (Resurrection) and ruler of the kings (future). Another form of who was, is, and is to come.

[12] The Greek text is emphatic. Literally, it reads, “the witness, the faithful One.” This stresses the character of His witness as faithful.

[13] Cf. Ps 89:27; Acts 2:29-32; 4:2; 26:23; Rom 1:4; 1 Cor 15:23.

[14] F.B. Huey, Jr. & Bruce Corley, A Student’s Dictionary for Biblical & Theological Studies (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1983), 66.

[15] Steve Gregg, ed. Revelation: Four Views: A Parallel Commentary (Nashville: Nelson, 1997), 56.

[16] The Greek word idou (“behold”) is used 26 times in Revelation. Five of these usages are used in conjunction with the verb erchomai (“I come”). Three of these five usages are in reference to the return of Christ (16:15; 22:7, 12).

[17] Donald Grey Barnhouse, Revelation (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1971), 25.

[18] The following reasons support this: first, the title “Lord God” is used of God the Father throughout the OT. Second, the Oone “who is and who was and who is to come” is used of God the Father in Rev 1:4. Third, in the Greek

OT (LXX), the term “Almighty” renders the Hebrew expression “Lord of Host” (e.g., 2 Sam 5:10; Jer 5:14; Amos 3:13). Interestingly, this term is used nine times in Rev and always in reference to God the Father (see 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7, 14; 19:6, 15; 21:22). Fourthly, the phrase “Alpha and the Omega” is applied to God the Father in both 1:8 and 21:6. Finally, John is stressing the unity that exists between the Father and Son. He does this by referring to the Father as the “Alpha and Omega” (1:8) and Jesus as “the first and the last” (1:17) and once again the Father as the “Alpha and Omega” (21:6) and the Son as the “Alpha and Omega” (22:13). This is intentional parallelism.

“Awesome and Awestruck” (Revelation 1:9-20)

“It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood…a beautiful day in the neighborhood. Won’t you be mine? Won’t you be mine? Won’t you be my neighbor?” Most people are familiar with this song. It is the theme song of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. I grew up watching Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Fred Rogers was a Christian gentleman who epitomized gentleness, patience, and love. He was amazing! Even more astounding is that Fred Rogers lived out his Mister Rogers character when the film crews weren’t taping. Most of us don’t know another man quite like Fred Rogers.[1]

That is, with the exception of Jesus. Be honest. Most of us have always thought of Jesus as a deified Mister Rogers with a beard. Our minds picture Jesus as a baby born in a Bethlehem manger, a carpenter who worked with His father in Nazareth, a teaching rabbi who walked the streets of Jerusalem, a lover of children, a beaten and wounded prophet who died on a cross.

Of course, this describes Jesus. Yet this describes Him incompletely. This is not the Jesus of Revelation. The Jesus of Revelation is the God of all the ages who sits in judgment.[2] Many of us don’t like this Jesus. We only like a Jesus that manifests grace, compassion, and mercy. We’re much like children going through a buffet line. We pick and choose what to include and exclude. Most children select desserts and other appetizing foods and bypass vegetables, salads, and fruits. We too can be guilty of picking and choosing what attributes of Jesus we find appetizing and neglecting the rest.

There are two extremes: one that sees Jesus only as King and Judge; the other that only sees Jesus as Savior and Servant. What happens if you only see Jesus as King and Judge? It’s easy to corrupt Him into a distant or capricious or even abusive authority figure to be afraid of and keep your distance from. Some of you come from a family or church background in which this corrupted picture predominated. If so, you need to realize that this same Jesus who is so powerful and holy also loves you deeply, and is far more interested in what He can do for you and give you than in what you can do for or give to Him. He wants to have a love relationship with you that is full of security and goodness.

What happens if you only see Jesus as Savior and Servant? It’s easy to corrupt Him into your domesticated pet who entertains you instead of a Lion who awes you, your emasculated Servant who facilitates your agenda instead of a mighty Ruler who calls you to give your life to His agenda, your personal therapist who helps you manage your sin instead of an authoritative Leader who calls you to healing through repentance. I think this is the more common error in our culture which wants a spirituality that leaves us firmly in control of our lives. Yet, after studying Revelation 1:9-20, I’m convinced that you will conclude that this is not an option. Let’s study these 12 verses and get prepared to be awestruck by the awesome, Lord Jesus Christ.

1:9: John[3] begins this section by calling himself “your brother and fellow-partaker.”[4] The word “brother” stresses the family relationship that we have when we are born into God’s spiritual family. The word “fellow partaker”[5] means “to share jointly, to have in common with others.” The uniting factor and the basis for our fellowship is the phrase “in Jesus.” John lists three things that he had in common with the seven churches. These three nouns are linked together as three related things that often come simultaneously to believers in Christ.[6] (1) John speaks of himself as “a fellow partaker in tribulation.” The word “tribulation” refers to “trouble, affliction, and distress.”[7] It refers to the general tribulations that all Christians experience. Jesus Himself said, “In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).[8]

So many of us cry, “Why me?” when problems pile one upon another. Yet the question should be, “Why not me?” Why should I be exempt from trials? (2) John also spoke of a “kingdom.” This word refers to Christ’s rule[9] and assures us that even though we will suffer tribulation, we are members of Christ’s present and future kingdom. (3) John then referred to “perseverance” (hupomone) as the final common thing we share in Jesus.[10] The word carries the idea of “endurance, the ability to abide under pressure, regardless of the intensity or length of time.” This is an empowerment from God that is not guaranteed but must be accomplished through rigorous discipline. The discipline required is a walk of faith with eyes fixed on Christ. Are you striving to persevere in your faith? Is this your joy?

Before moving on to describe the visions he was able to witness, John tells us he was “on the island called Patmos.”[11] John was exiled to Patmos, “because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.”[12] John’s faithful stand is an example for each one of us. This points to the source of his affliction and endurance as a partaker of Christ’s rule and reign in his life.

When did John receive the Revelation of Jesus Christ? It was at the end of his life, undergoing persecution on a forsaken island. John was a man who practiced the Scripture, “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps 46:10). Moses wrote the Pentateuch in the wilderness. David wrote many psalms while being pursued by Saul. Isaiah lived in difficult days and died a martyr’s death. Ezekiel wrote in exile. Jeremiah’s life was one of trial and persecution. Peter wrote his two letters shortly before martyrdom. Paul wrote several letters from prison. When do we hear best from God? Often, it is in the midst of a crisis. If you are going through a severe time of testing, be still and know that God is God. Let Him speak to you. Let Him reveal Himself to you in a fuller way.

1:10-11: John writes that he was “in the Spirit” (1:10).[13] This refers to an entrance into an unusual state.[14] This vision took place “on the Lord’s day.” This is a reference to Sunday, the first day of the week.[15] Although this is the only reference to Sunday as being called the Lord’s day, the following does support this interpretation: the same adjective is used this way (similar grammatical construction) when speaking of “the Lord’s Supper” in 1 Corinthians 11:20. Early Christians found this to be an appropriate title for Sunday since Christ’s resurrection was on a Sunday.[16] This phrase was commonly used by the second century to refer to Sunday. This term came to be used in Asia Minor shortly after the time of the writing of Revelation.[17]

John was commanded to “Write in a book what you see” (1:11). This is one of 12 times John was told to write in a book what he saw.[18] This indicates that John was to write after seeing each vision.[19] The phrase “and send it to the seven churches,” shows us again that God intends for the church to have and to know the contents of the book of Revelation (cf. 1:4).[20]

Before we look at 1:12-13, I am going to do something I normally don’t do. I’m going to ask you to skip down to 1:19. If we look at this verse now, it will help us better understand how 1:12-20 fits in the whole of the book. This verse serves as the outline of the book and provides the key to unlock Revelation. In this verse, John writes, “Therefore write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these things.” As far as interpretation goes, this is the single most important verse of Revelation. This outline is God’s intended outline for the book and shows us that we should have a futuristic approach to the great majority of Revelation. The simple three-point outline is as follows: (1) “The things which you have seen” (the things past). The past things refer to those things which John had seen from 1:9-19 including 1:20, which is an explanation of part of the vision of the glorified Christ (1:9-20). (2) “The things which are” (the things present). The things present deal with the message to the seven churches and the state of the church, of the church age (2:1-3:22).

(3) “The things which will take place after these things” (the future things). This dominant section looks at the events that will occur after the church age: the tribulation, the millennium, and the eternal state (4:1-22:21).

Although not all interpreters subscribe to this particular outline, it is this writer’s choice for the following reasons: First, the use of the phrase “after these things” (meta tauta) points to the purpose of the tribulation. The predominant purpose of the tribulation is to bring the nation of Israel to the realization that Jesus Christ (whom they crucified) is their promised Messiah. If the above outline is correct, what will take place “after these things” relates to what happens after the church age is complete, when the tribulation begins. Second, the phrase “after these things” is used twice in 4:1. This phrase seems to be borrowed from the book of Daniel (surprise!). In Daniel 2:29, Daniel is told that Nebuchadnezzer’s dream is intended to reveal “what will take place.” Whenever this phrase is used, a future fulfillment is always anticipated. Third, this outline is the most logical. It is clear and consistent with the book. James has provided a similar three-point outline in James 1:19: “But let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.” These three points coincide quite nicely with the purpose of James’ book. Without a God-inspired outline, both of these books would otherwise be rather difficult to outline. This is especially true of the book of Revelation, which definitely needs to have some clear structure and direction.

1:12-13a: After hearing the voice of the Lord, John turned and saw seven golden lampstands (1:12).[21] At this point, we don’t know if these lampstands are to depict something or if they are to be taken as literal lampstands. If we were to guess, it could be that the lampstands are a reference to the seven churches that were just mentioned by name in the previous verse. In 1:20, we learn that this is indeed accurate.[22]

The lampstands are the churches portraying their function in the world and the stars are the angels of the seven churches. The churches were to emit light as a lampstand and the angels were to project light as stars. It is important to note that the churches are no more than “lampstands.” The light is Christ, and they are to show Him forth.[23]

The reason John sees the lampstands first is because Christianity is the church. Throughout the New Testament, Christianity and the church are practically synonymous. It is inconceivable that you could have one and not the other. It is also important to note that the focus of this section is on the risen Lord Jesus Christ who is “in the middle” of these lampstands (1:13a). This demonstrates that He has a direct relationship with each church. He is in the midst to minister to us, to search us, and to enable us. Bear in mind, the purpose of the lampstand was not the light itself. It was to bear the light. The church is to bear the light of Jesus Christ to a dark world (see Matt 5:14; Phil 2:15; Eph 5:8-13). Sadly, many churches today are known for great worship, great preaching, great facilities, or great programs. Yet, this is not the true measure of success. Ultimately, we are successful to the degree that we reflect Christ.

1:13b-16: The following verses describe the Lord Jesus for us in incredibly intense detail.[24] The description shows who Jesus is and reveals how His qualifications will enable Him to carry out the events that we will study in the following chapters. But before the vivid description begins, note how Jesus is defined: as “one like a son of man.”[25] This title points to His true humanity and messianic character. Though portrayed in all the glory of His deity in the similes that follow, He is still the Son of Man, One made like His brethren that He might be a faithful High Priest and reclaim what Adam lost in the fall (cf. Heb 2:9). Note also as the Son of Man, He is seen “clothed in a robe reaching His feet, and girded across His breast with a golden sash.” In many weddings the bride has a long train that sweeps across the white runner of the church aisle.[26] This is meant to be impressive and beautiful. Likewise, in biblical times a long robe was a sign of greatness. Either a priest or judge wore a long robe. However, a priest would wear his girdle around his waist, signifying service. He would often lift the hem of his garment and tuck it under his girdle as he went about some of his priestly duties.

By contrast, a judge wore the girdle over one shoulder and across his chest as an insignia of the magisterial office he held.[27] This description makes it clear that Jesus is to be understood as a Judge. During His first coming, Christ looked like an average Palestinian Jew (Isa 53:2; Luke 2:52; Phil 2:5-8). His glory was veiled. He, for a time sacrificially gave up His “rights.” Since His first coming, Jesus looks like God in human form (Dan 7:13; Mark 8:31). His glory is unveiled!

1. His head and hair (1:14a): “were white like white wool, like snow.” This is intended to remind us of the vision in Daniel of “the Ancient of Days” (Dan 7:9).[28] The double emphasis of “white” is symbolic of Jesus Christ’s absolute purity. It also refers to Jesus’ wisdom.[29] A quick side note: in the Old Testament, white hair was the emblem of age, honor, and wisdom. It symbolized the respect due to the aged for the wisdom of their advanced years.[30] Sadly, in American culture today, we respect the process of aging less and less. A person is admired if he can keep looking young, not if he has the dignity of age. Yet, with age comes wisdom. We need those who are wise in our midst. Without them we have an incomplete body.[31]

2. His eyes (1:14b): “were like a flame of fire.” Fire is used often in Scripture of God’s judgment. This phrase looks to that day when every man’s works will be tested by fire (1 Cor 3:13). Christ’s eyes will be searching, penetrating, and revealing (Hab 1:13; Heb 4:12-13). This is reminiscent of when Jesus looked upon Peter after his predicted denial. After Peter denied his Lord three times, Jesus turned and looked upon Peter, awakening him to the stark reality of what he had done (Luke 22:61). The Lord’s look, at this time, was far more than just a brief glance. The Greek word used (emblepo) points to Christ fixing His eyes upon Peter in an intently searching sense. Peter came under scrutiny for his actions, causing him to remember that which had previously occurred. This resulted in Peter going out and weeping bitterly (Luke 22:62). When we stand before Jesus Christ and see those same eyes described here as a “flame of fire,” we too may weep in shame.

3. His feet (1:15a): “were like burnished bronze.” The word “bronze” is only used here and in Revelation 2:18, in the New Testament. However, in the Old Testament, bronze stands for divine judgment as seen in the brazen altar and other items of brass used in connection with sacrifice for sin (Exod 38:30). The picture of Christ’s feet is verification that He is holy from his head to His feet.[32] Indeed, He is the awesome One. It also refers to His trampling down of sin and wickedness. There’s no need to ever moan, “I just don’t know what this world is coming to!” This phrase teaches that one day Jesus will put all His enemies and every evil power under His feet. The foes of Jesus will be utterly crushed!

4. His voice (1:15c): “was like the sound of many waters.” His voice, as John heard it, was “like the sound of many waters.”[33] On a vacation with my family, I experienced the all-encompassing sound of Niagara Falls. If you have ever been to Niagara Falls you will quickly discover that this momentous waterfall is so loud that it silences everything and everyone in its vicinity. About 35 million gallons per minute roar over the brink of the two Niagara Falls.[34] In the same way, it is Christ’s voice of absolute authority to which all humanity must bow.

Do you remember the old E.F. Hutton TV commercials? The setting was typically a busy restaurant or other public place. Two people would be talking about financial matters, and the first person would repeat something his broker had said concerning a certain investment. The second person would say, “Well, my broker is E.F. Hutton, and E.F. Hutton says…” At that point, every single person in the bustling restaurant would stop dead in his tracks, turn, and listen to what the man was about to say. “When E.F. Hutton speaks, people listen,” was their motto. So it would be if Jesus Christ were to give His evaluation of the church. If Christ were to speak, the churches would listen.

5. His right hand (1:16a): “And in His right hand He held seven stars.” The “right hand” is a symbol of strength, power, and honor. Again, the mystery of the seven stars in the right hand of the Savior is found in 1:20. It is symbolic of the “angels.” The word “angel” (angelos) means “messenger.” In Scripture it is used of both men[35] and angelic beings.[36] So the question is, in this context, which meaning is intended?[37] Is this a reference to angelic beings that function somewhat like guardian angels? Or, do we take it as a reference to human messengers who are leaders of the seven churches? It seems to me that John is referring to spirit beings.[38]

The evidence is as follows: First, the normal New Testament meaning of the word “angel” is of spirit beings that minister to believers. Second, the Greek word angelos appears 176 times in the New Testament. In the NASB, the word angelos is only translated “messenger(s)” 7 times. So obviously, the vast majority of these occurrences refer to spirit beings. Third, interpreting the book of Revelation depends heavily on an understanding of the book of Daniel. In Daniel, there is precedence for understanding these angels as possible guardian angels for each congregation (Dan 10:13). Fourth, the author of Hebrews asks the rhetorical question: “Are they (angels) not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?” Fifth, it would be unlikely for John to interpret one symbol by using another. Although angelos can definitely refer to human messengers, would Jesus have chosen that particular word in this context when he was making a rather concise interpretation? Finally, the figure of the lampstands is not used elsewhere in the Scriptures. However, the stars, as symbols of angels, are used elsewhere. Wherever the word star is used symbolically, it is always used of an angel. This is true in both the Old and New Testaments.[39]

In this present age, angels seem to have authority over and responsibility for churches. The situation will be reversed in the kingdom of God. In 1 Corinthians 6:2-3, Paul informs us that believers will judge angels.

6. His sword (1:16b): “and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword.” A “sword” in Scripture is symbolic of God’s Word (Eph 6:17; Heb 4:12). In these two contexts, the word refers to a short dagger. However, in 1:16b, a different Greek word is used that describes a long, heavy, broad sword used for the purpose of executing justice and wrath on the unbelieving world (see 19:15, 21). It symbolizes the irresistible authority and devastating force of the Lord’s judgment. Interestingly, this word is also used with reference to believers. In Christ’s message to the church at Pergamos, the church was warned that unless those in the church repented, Christ would come quickly and “war against them with the sword of His mouth” (2:16).[40] The principle is this: Christ will judge every person by the standard of His holy Word. On that day, there will be no debate or discussion.

7. His face (1:16c): “and His face was like the sun shinning in its strength.” The energy of the sun is so great that it gives off 40,000 watts of light from every square inch of its surface. Yet, only half-a- billionth of this energy reaches the earth. The rest is lost in space.[41] In the beginning of the world the Lord made the sun to rule the day.[42] Christ is to the world more than the sun is to the earth. This is a clear reference to the deity and holiness of Christ. Jesus Christ is the sun (Son) shining in the midst of the church. In Christ alone is our source of light and righteousness.

1:17-18: After seeing a vision as awesome as John witnessed, there can be only one response and that is to fall prostrate before the glory and majesty of God. Our text says that John fell at Jesus’ feet “as a dead man.” Now keep in mind, this is John. The one who laid his head on Jesus’ chest, the one called the  “Beloved Disciple.” The one who saw Jesus at the transfiguration (Matt 17:2). Yet, when John saw the unveiled glory of Jesus he was utterly overwhelmed.[43] What is interesting is Jesus immediately placed His right hand upon John. Throughout the Scriptures, when men caught a glimpse of God’s glory and naturally bowed low, God always spoke or touched them or both (Dan 10:8-10, 15-16; Matt. 17:6-7). This is a wonderful expression of the grace of God.

Although the holiness and awesomeness of God is beyond our wildest imagination, God grants His children comfort and protection from His wrath. But for those who reject Christ, there will be no such thing! Indeed, this is a frightening reality. This knowledge should motivate us to do all that we can to prevent those who are outside of Christ from dying apart from the grace of God.

After touching John, Jesus comforts him with these words, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and Hades.” The basis for having no fear is Jesus’ words, “I am the first and the last.” The phrase “I am” recalls Jesus’ claims in the Gospels (cf. Matt 14:27; Mark 6:50; John 6:20; 8:58) and connects Him with God the Father (Exod 3:14; Isa 48:12). The title “the first and the last” is essentially the same as “the Alpha and the Omega” (1:8) and “the beginning and the end” (22:13).[44] This is similar to 1:8 and both of these statements are applied to Christ later in the book (2:8; 22:13). This passage helps us to grapple with God’s independent, self-existence, and self-sufficiency as the transcendent God of the universe. He stands independent of all creation.

Jesus also informs us that He is “the living One” (cf. Dan 6:26-27; Rev 4:9; 10:6; 15:7) who became dead and is alive forevermore! This is the bedrock for our salvation and assurance. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is the guarantee that we will live forever with Him. But Jesus does not stop there. He goes on to explain that He has “the keys of death and Hades.” Death is the state or condition, while hades is the place of the dead. In the Bible a key is a sign of access and authority. Jesus Christ has the authority to decide who dies and who lives; He controls life and death.

If you’ve ever been asked to watch a neighbor or friend’s home, you understand this principle. You are responsible to feed pets, water the lawn, pick up the mail, and keep an eye on the home. You are in turn given a house key. Although a key is just a mere piece of metal it represents all authority and power. You have access and authority to everything that your neighbor or friend owns. What Jesus is saying, is that His resurrection granted Him preeminence over death, hades, and the grave. He alone is in complete control of the eternal state/realm (Heb 2:14-15). All of the above descriptions and truths validate the deity and majesty of Jesus Christ.

Imagine with me for a moment that we are at a zoo. As we are looking at the animals, you reach down and pet the head of a small lamb. As you do the lamb lifts its head and licks your hand. You think, “That’s nice,” but move on to the other animals. Suddenly, someone yells, “Look out!” and you turn around to see what the commotion is about. But it’s too late. Standing right in front of you is the biggest, fiercest lion you have ever seen. He has just escaped his cage and you are his lunch if he chooses. There is no way to escape. Slowly he moves toward you opening his jaws wider and wider. Then he gets right up to you, he reaches out and licks your hand and stands peacefully at your side. You breathe a huge sigh of relief. Let me ask you a question: Which lick would mean more to you, the lick of the lion or the lick of the lamb? Obviously, it would be the lion. Why? Because the lion could crush you in his jaws just as easily as lick your hand, but the lamb doesn’t have that option. The primary reason people are not astonished and exuberant at the Lamb of God’s forgiveness of their sins is that they have little or no sense of the Lion’s raging fury against their sins. Until we have trembled on death row we will not dance at the granting of our pardon.[45]

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] “…He judges the churches (2:1-3:22), the whole earth (4:1-16:21), the evil world system (17:1-18:24), world rulers at Armageddon (19:19-21), and Satan (20:1-3, 10). He also judges the earth during the millennium (20:4-6), the rebellious earth at the end of the millennium (20:7-9), and all the unsaved dead (20:11-15). The first 20 chapters of the book deal with judgment and the last two with the new creation.” Dr. Thomas L. Constable, Notes on Revelation, 2003 Edition, 20. http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf

[3] Since John was well known by the churches of Asia Minor, he could simply identify himself as “John” (1:1, 4) or “I John” (1:9; 22:8).

[4] In his epistles, John described himself as an elder (2 John 1; 3 John 1), but in this verse he simply calls himself “a brother and fellow partaker.”

[5] Gk. sunkoinonos, from the word koinonia (“fellowship”).

[6] The Greek has the article with the word “tribulation,” but it is joined with all three nouns.

[7] The root of this word means, “to crush, press hard.”

[8] See also Acts 14:22 “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”

Romans 5:3-5 “And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 “Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

Ephesians 3:13 “Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory.”

1 Thessalonians 1:6 “You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit.”

2 Thessalonians 1:4 “Therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure.”

[9] Cf. Rev 20; Luke 12:32; 22:29; 1 Thess 2:12; 2 Thess 1:5; Jas 2:5.

[10] E.g., 1 Thess 1:6; 1 Pet 2:21; 4:13; cf. also 2 Cor 1:7; Phil 3:10; 1 Pet 5:1.

[11] Church tradition indicates that John was banished to Patmos by the emperor. Rulers used banishment to an island as a means to rid themselves of influential troublemakers, without having to kill them. See Steve Gregg, ed., Revelation: Four Views (Nashville: Nelson, 1997), 58.

[12] Apparently, Patmos was a place where prisoners and undesirables were banished and forced to work in the mines. According to early church fathers (e.g., Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, and Eusebius), John was sent here and forced to work in the mines though way up in years.

[13] The word “in” (ginomai) means, “to come to be, become.” A literal translation would be, “I came to be in the Spirit.”

[14] Such was the experience of Ezekiel (Ezek 2:2; 3:12, 14, etc.), Peter (Acts 10:10-11; 11:15), and Paul (Acts 22:17-18).

[15] Elsewhere in the New Testament, Sunday is called “the first day of the week” (Mark 16:2, 9; Luke 24:1; John 20:1, 19; Acts 20:7; 1 Cor 16:2).

[16] Jesus was in the grave on the Jewish Sabbath; He rose on Sunday morning.

[17] Some have suggested that this term became popular to the counterpart term used by the Roman Empire in which they would refer to the first day of the week as “Emperor’s day.”

[18] Cf. Rev 1:19; 2:1, 8, 12, 18; 3:1, 7, 14; 14:13; 19:9; 21:5.

[19] In Rev 10:4, John was told not to write, but to seal up what was spoken.

[20] This was before denominations came about. There was no Baptist, Nazarene, Methodist, Lutheran or Assemblies of God church. This is just as well because there aren’t going to be any Baptists, Nazarenes, Methodists, Lutherans or Assemblies of God in heaven. There’s just going to be Christians. Jesus is concerned about communicating to Christians everywhere. I don’t think He is principally worried about what kind of stripes and spots you have. He is looking for doctrinal purity and devotion of heart.

[21] This recalls the seven-branched lamp, by whose light the priests offered their incense in the tabernacle (Exod 25:31-37).

[22] The lampstands and stars (1:20) are called a “mystery.” However, it is important to note that in Scripture, “mystery” refers to that which was before unknown, but then is revealed by revelation from God (i.e., the inclusion of the Gentiles). It is not something mysterious, but previously unknown.

[23] Leon Morris, The Revelation of St. John (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1976 [c. 1969]), 57.

[24] Thomas writes, “The titles of Jesus Christ found in the introductions to six of the seven messages in chapters 2 and 3 are drawn largely from this vision of 1:12-20 and its descriptive phrases. Only the message to Laodicea (3:14-22) is devoid of one of these. One of the titles is used in two messages (cf. 2:1 and 3:1)…It is apparent that the appearance of Christ in this vision is designed to emphasize the aspects of His nature that are most relevant to the needs and circumstances of the seven churches who are the primary recipients of this book.” Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 1-7 (Chicago: Moody, 1992), 97.

[25] Bible students agree that this description of Christ agrees, to a great extent, with that of the messenger who brought the information to Daniel in his final vision (cf. Dan 10:5-6) with the following exceptions: (1) Daniel’s messenger had His golden band around His waist, whereas Jesus here has His about His chest (1:13). (2) His voice in Daniel was like that of a multitude. Here it is compared with the sound of many waters (1:15). (3) The countenance in Daniel had the appearance of lightning, but in Revelation it is as the sun shinning in full strength (1:16). (4) The following particulars in John’s vision are not found in Daniel: white head and hair (1:14), a sword coming from the mouth (1:16), and the seven stars in His right hand (1:16). Gregg, Revelation: Four Views, 60.

[26] David Jeremiah, Escape the Coming Night (Dallas: Word, 1997 c. 1990]), 46.

[27] Arlen L. Chitwood, In the Lord’s Day: Book 1 (Norman, OK: The Lamp Broadcast, 1991), 18.

[28] In Dan 7:9, for example, the person with the white hair is God, but the white hair symbolizes wisdom. It may be improper to conclude that God meant John to understand that the person with the white hair in Rev 1:14 is God. He definitely meant him to understand that the person with the white hair is wise.

[29] Micah prophesied, “His [The Messiah’s] goings forth are from old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2).

[30] Prov 16:31 “A gray heads is the crown of glory.”

[31] It is worth noting that in the Law God commanded, “You will rise up before the white head, and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God; I am the Lord” (Lev 19:32).

[32] When Moses had an encounter with the Angel of the Lord and the burning bush, the Lord spoke out of the bush, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet for the place where you stand is holy ground” (Exod 3:5). Now, if the mere ground that God abides near is holy, how much more so is He?

[33] Cf. Rev 14:2; 19:6; Ps 93:4; Isa 17:13; Ezek 1:24; 43:2.

[34] Niagara Falls Face and Information, http://www.personaltours.toronto.on.ca/niagara-info.html.

[35] See Matt 11:10; Mark 1:2; Luke 7:24, 27; 9:52; 2 Cor 8:23; Jas 2:25.

[36] In the book of Revelation, the Greek word angelos is used 77 times. In each case it is used of super natural beings (with the possible exception of the eight usage’s within 1:20-3:22).

[37] For the most thorough treatment see David E. Aune, Revelation 1-5: WBC (Dallas: Word, 1997), 108-112.

[38] In the past, I’ve leaned toward the human messenger view, but after further study, there seems to be more evidence for the spirit beings view.

[39] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Footsteps of the Messiah (Tustin: CA, Arial, 1999 [c. 1983]), 15.

[40] It must be kept in mind that this vision of Christ introduces the letters addressed to the seven churches. See G.R. Beasley-Murray, The New Century Bible Commentary: Revelation (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1992 [c. 1974]), 67.

[41] NASA’s Observatorium, “How the Sun Works,” http://observe.arc.nasa.gov/nasa/exhibits/sun/sun_5.html

[42] Donald Grey Barnhouse, Revelation (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1971), 30.

[43] God’s glory is so awesome that no mortal on earth can see it and live (Exod 33:20; 1 Tim 6:16). Just a glimpse of His glory overwhelmed Job (42:1-6), Ezekiel (1:28), and Daniel (7:28; 8:27). Herb Vander Lugt, Knowing God Through Revelation (Grand Rapids: Radio Bible Class, 1995), 5.

[44] What is the significance of this title? The prophet Isaiah helps us here. Isaiah writes, “Who has performed and accomplished it, calling forth generation from the beginning? ‘I, the Lord, and the first, and with the last. I am He. Listen to Me, O Jacob, even Israel whom I called; I am He, I am the first, I am also the last. Surely My hand founded the earth, and My right hand spread out the heavens; when I call them, they stand together’” (41:4, 12-13).

[45] Dwight Edwards, Revolution Within (Colorado Springs: Water Brook, 2001), 68.

“You’ve Lost that Loving Feeling” (Revelation 2:1-7)

How many of you like to get mail? If the truth were told, all of us enjoy receiving mail…with the exception of bills. There is something exhilarating about receiving a special note or card from someone. When I was experiencing homesickness in college, I used to love going to the campus mailroom and checking my mailbox. Just the sight of a piece of mail brought a smile to my face.[1]

Now most of us have email, which allows us to receive mail throughout the day. For many of us, checking our email is the highlight of our day! Be honest. When you’re feeling discouraged and depressed, the course of your day can be altered by an encouraging email. Mail can be a great thing!

What if Jesus Christ sent you and your church some mail? Would you be excited to read it? You bet you would! Well, Jesus has sent you some mail. In fact, He has written you seven different letters. They are addressed to “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”[2] The first of these seven letters is written to the church in Ephesus. Let’s read the contents of this letter.

1. The Commission (2:1a). “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write.” All seven churches are addressed “to the angel of the church in.” The term “angel”[3] refers to one of God’s angelic creatures. Some find it strange that angels are the recipients of these seven letters. Yet Eph 3:10 informs us that what is taking place in the church is for the benefit of teaching the angels.[4]

This particular letter is written “to the angel of the church in Ephesus.” The church in Ephesus was founded by the apostle Paul,[5] the believers were discipled by Aquila and Priscilla, taught by Apollos,[6] pastored by Timothy (1 Tim 1:3), and instructed by the apostle Paul. Either directly or indirectly, Ephesus had been the recipient of eight New Testament books: the gospel of John, Ephesians,[7] 1 and 2 Timothy, 1, 2, and 3 John, and Revelation.[8] Ephesus was an influential city in the early church.

2. The Character (2:1b). John records the words of “The One who holds the seven stars in His right hand.” This phrase is a reference to the sovereign authority and control of Jesus Christ.[9] Jesus holds His angels in His right hand (i.e., the place of honor and power). This phrase about Jesus’ character and the others contained in the seven letters are all taken from John’s vision of the glorified Christ (Rev 1:12-20).

The phrase which completes this verse, “The One who walks among the seven golden lampstands” is a reference to the intimate presence of Christ. The word “walks” is a word of comfort and warning. It is a startling reminder that Jesus not only stands “in the middle of the lampstands” (see Rev 1:13), He also actively pursues His desire to have deep fellowship with us. This reminds us that Jesus loves us, cares for us, and has time for us. He is concerned with His church. Not just the church of China, Sudan, and India but even the church of America. Jesus loves His church.

The word “walks” is also equivalent to “exercise dominion over” (Lev 26:12). Jesus is saying that He is the One to whom the church is accountable. Jesus patrols the grounds of His churches and is on the spot when needed. What a sobering reality! Jesus is present with us: right here, right now. He is walking among us to comfort and to judge. Both of these realities ought to change the way we live.

3. The Commendation (2:2-3). Jesus is in the business of appraising His church and Jesus always commends His church first, if He can. Jesus commends the church in Ephesus with the words: “I know” (oida). In each message to the seven churches, Jesus states, “I know.”[10] Since this “I know” statement is present in each of Jesus’ messages, we should sense the significance of these words. Not only does this statement point to Jesus’ omniscience, it also shows us His interest in all that we do and experience. He is the great Evaluator and one day He will examine our deeds (1 Cor 3:12-15; 2 Cor 5:9-10).[11]

What about this church did Jesus know? Jesus recognized their “deeds, toil, and perseverance” (2:2a). These three words build upon one another. The word “deeds” (erga) refers to any action, task, or service. The word “toil” (kopos) is a word that means “to labor to the point of weariness.” In other words, “deeds done all out”! This word stresses the depth or degree of their labor for the Lord. The final word “perseverance” (hupomone) refers to the capacity or ability to endure, to remain under pressure or pain, over the long haul. This word stressed the extent of their labor (see 1 Cor 15:58).[12]

The Ephesian church was an extremely orthodox church. They were strong in both doctrine and the work of the ministry. In 2:2b, Jesus says, “you cannot endure evil men, and you put to the test those who call themselves apostles, and they are not, and you found them to be false.” The church at Ephesus refused to compromise their moral or doctrinal purity.[13] Apostles may be understood here as almost equivalent to our modern term missionaries. The church had “put to the test” (cf. 1 John 4:1) these visiting ministers and their doctrinal claims and had found them to be false.[14] They called a spade a spade. They could smell a heretic a mile off because they knew God’s Word.

It is interesting to note that the first four churches in this list of seven dealt with false teachers (2:2, 6, 9, 14-15, 20). This is why the Pastoral Epistles (1-2 Timothy and Titus) challenge pastors to “teach” their congregations. Ultimately, each one of us must know the truth so that we can protect our family and friends from unbiblical doctrine. How well do you think our church is doing in this area? As elders, pastors, small group leaders, and Sunday school teachers, are we guarding the flock from false teachers?

We are all responsible to “contend earnestly for the faith” (Jude 3). This can best be accomplished by systematically studying God’s Word. You don’t have to study up on all the major world religions and cults; you just need to read the truth! How does the FBI train its agents to recognize counterfeit bills? By having them study authentic bills so well that they immediately recognize a counterfeit. If you know God’s Word inside and out, you will be able to identify false teaching.

In 2:3, Jesus again declares, “and you have perseverance and have endured for My names sake, and have not grown weary.” Some 40 years had passed since this church was founded. Two generations had risen up in the history of this church. All the while Ephesus had remained faithful to Jesus Christ.

At the core of their greatness was their dynamic ministry. This was a hard working group of believers, constantly serving Christ. Christianity was no spectator sport here. They didn’t come to church to be entertained. They were actively involved in the work of ministry.

But this does beg the question: Why does Jesus again commend their perseverance? The natural answer is perseverance is not something that is guaranteed in the life of a church or an individual believer. God is sovereign and He will accomplish His will in the life of every church and believer. Yet, in both cases, God holds individual believers responsible for their obedience to Him. In the case of an individual believer, while God does not guarantee perseverance, He does grant preservation. Yet Jesus expects every believer to persevere in his/her faith. But this requires diligence, labor, and faithfulness.

The Ephesian church is commended for their persistence and their purity, their diligence and their doctrine. On the surface, they appear to be a phenomenal church—the epitome of what every church should be.

4. The Correction (2:4-5). After praising their strengths, Jesus told the Ephesians in 2:4, “But I have this against you.” This is a frightening statement. Most of us don’t like when we know someone has something against us. It makes us uncomfortable. It disturbs us. But how would you feel if you knew that Jesus Christ had something against you? YIKES! This should prompt us to ask, “Jesus, do you have something against me? Have I grieved you?”

What was Jesus so upset about? The church had left their “first love.”[15] This statement does not suggest that they no longer had any love for Christ at all.[16] Rather, it means that the quality of their love for Him had weakened.[17] The phrase “first love” holds two meanings: “as you loved me at first” and “my first love.” The first has to do with chronology; the second has to do with priority. These two meanings overlap and are complementary.

The Greek word translated “left” (aphiemi) means “to depart, leave alone, forsake, and neglect.” It can also be used of divorce,[18] so the imagery here is very strong. When you lose your car keys, where are they? When you lose your sun glasses, where are they? If you think real hard about it, when you lose your car keys or your sunglasses, they’re right where you left them! And that’s the way it is with your first love for God. If you’ve lost it, guess where it is. It’s wherever you left it. Jesus says, go back and find it. Wherever it is, it’s still there because God hasn’t moved! He’s waiting for you to come back.

A couple was driving home from church. The wife was sitting in the front seat on the far right side. Her husband was in his usual place behind the steering wheel. Seemingly, a large gulf separated them. With lonely eyes, she looked at him and said, “Honey, do you remember when we first met, how close we used to sit to each other? You used to put your arm around me. What happened to those days?” With one hand firmly attached to the steering wheel, and the other resting on the empty seat between them, he said, “Well, I haven’t moved.” The distance was not because he had moved. A separation resulted because she had moved away. She had left her first love.

The Ephesians distanced themselves from their first love. They no longer loved the Lord Jesus as they did when they first came to Christ. They not only took their eyes off the Lord but they lost fellowship with Him. The principle is that regardless of how much of the Bible we may know, how much we serve Him, or how many past victories we have, we cannot walk with the Lord without loving Him. It is significant that of all the sins Jesus points out in these seven, the first sin He names is the one that grieves Him most: a loss of affection for Him. Our God is a jealous lover.

I remember attending my final Dean’s Chapel before graduating from Multnomah Bible College. The male Resident Director, Duncan Sprague, asked us, “Can you honestly say that you love Jesus Christ more today than you did when you first came to Multnomah?” This question haunted me. I thought long and hard about it. I immediately assumed I loved God more because I now knew Inductive Bible Study, Greek, Theology, and had studied through all 66 books of the Bible. Yet, I was flooded with memories from the summer before I enrolled at MBC. During those summer months, I prayerfully studied the Word on my knees with greater fervor and diligence. Now on the verge of graduating, I finally had to conclude that in many ways, I probably loved Jesus more before entering college. As a result, I’ve determined to do everything I know how to ensure that my love for Christ never leaves.

Ladies, imagine that your husband came home and said, “I don’t love you anymore. But nothing will change. I’ll still earn a living and pay the bills. We’ll still sit together and sleep together. I’ll still father our children. I just don’t love you anymore. Would that be good enough for you? No way. You would be devastated. Yet we say that to the Lord. “Jesus, I don’t love You like I once did. But I’ll still come to church. I’ll still serve You. I’ll still witness for You. I just don’t love You.

That’s not good enough for Jesus either! He wants a relationship, not a performance. Jesus says, “You’ve lost that loving feeling.” Is this serious? Absolutely: Jesus said that the greatest commandment is to love God (Matt 22:37-39). We must love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. If we fail to love Him, we disobey the greatest commandment. It doesn’t matter what else we obey, if we fail to keep the highest commandment. We have struck out! Leaving our first love is the greatest sin!

If our love for Christ is cold, it doesn’t matter how faithfully we serve Him; or how rightly we believe; or how strongly we stand. If you miss first base, it doesn’t matter how far you hit the ball, or how many bases you touch. If you miss first base, you’re out! O-U-T! If you leave your first love, you’re out of His favor.[19] Service and orthodoxy are important but Jesus Christ wants our love too. “Beware of anything that competes with loyalty to Jesus Christ. The greatest competitor of devotion to Jesus is service for him.”[20] Therefore, we must always be wary of drying up.

·         Spend time worshipping the Lord. Like the Ephesian Christians, if you are strong in the Scriptures, you may need to practice the presence of God by singing to Him. Since you’ll be doing this for all eternity, it would be wise to begin to develop this discipline this side of eternity.

·         Maximize time with godly people. Find people who are on fire for God and get with them so that they can inspire you and rub off on you. Don’t allow negative people to pull you down. Pretty soon, you’ll find yourself starting to think like them. Hang with those who are contagious for Christ.

·         Repent from the pride of busyness. Some people think if they are doing a lot, they’ll look busy, and if they look busy, they’ll be valuable. Don’t stay busy just for busyness’ sake. Get away for the purpose of cultivating your love relationship with Christ in prayer and the Word. Remember, God never meant for your duty for Him to replace your love for Him. Duty and devotion must always go hand in hand.

·         Set an appointment with God. It’s easy to say “no” to God on a daily basis. We often presume that He’s the One who will understand if we skip our time with Him. He’s a gentleman and won’t necessarily become irritated with you. Yet, God is not to be slighted—He’s a jealous lover! Why not schedule an appointment with God in your day timer or palm pilot. Then see if you can say no to “God” when you see His name on your calendar.

Three Steps to Return to Your First Love (2:5): “Therefore remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the deeds you did at first; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place—unless you repent.”

Step 1: Remember. Jesus says, “Therefore remember from where you have fallen.” The word “therefore” refers back to a loss of love for the Lord Jesus (2:4). They fell from a deep love for the Lord. They fell from fellowship with Him. They fell from all heart to all head. They lost warm love for the Lord. The Greek word translated “fallen”[21] means that they were in a state of spiritual decline. This was more than an occasional slip. Jesus exhorts the Ephesians to “remember” from where they have fallen. This is critical. If we remember the love we initially had for God’s Word, prayer, fellowship, and witnessing, we will be inspired to action.

Step 2: Repent. The second step to return to your first love is to “repent.” The English word “repent” conveys the idea of sorrow or contrition. The Greek word does not carry that idea; it is more a total change of thought and behavior. It conveys both ideas of attitude and behavior depending on the context. “Repent” means to change one’s thinking. It is clearly connected with changed behavior, as seen in the following phrase “and do the deeds you did at first.”

In high school, I used to wear pink shirts. Don’t ask me why. I just liked pink at that time. I would often say, “Real men can wear pink” (modestly implying that I was a “real man”). Over the course of time, I changed my mind regarding my pink preference. This led me to no longer purchase pink shirts. In this case, the meaning of “repent” is clear: change your attitude toward your love for Christ (2:4). Reverse your lackluster love into a burning love for the Lord Jesus. Think about the depth of love you have for Him. Change your apathetic love to an appreciating love for Him.

Step 3: Redo. Jesus urges the Ephesians to “do the deeds you did at first.” The context indicates that by first works Jesus wants this church to get back to their “first love” for Him, the love they had when they first became Christians (2:4). James 4:8 expresses this thought in his epistle when he writes, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”

If the church does not remember, repent, and redo, Jesus gives an “or else” warning…“or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place—unless you repent.” Jesus is not afraid to give an “or else” to His church. He states that He will come in judgment to discipline His church for having a cold heart toward Him. Jesus always disciplines those He loves (Heb 12:4-11; 1 Pet 4:17). He would not love His church if He did not discipline it. To discipline is to care about the people you discipline. In this case this is a collective discipline of the entire church.

Jesus says that He will “remove”[22] the church from a sphere of effectiveness or possibly out of existence totally. The removal of the lampstand is clearly figurative language. Does it refer to eternal damnation? Absolutely not! Nothing in the context supports this. Rather, what is in view is temporal in nature. If the church did not repent the Lord would remove the church’s ability to bear witness for Him.[23] When this occurs, the light of the church goes out and results in the church no longer having an impact on its neighborhood or its world.

This eventually happened to the church in Ephesus when Islam invaded Turkey and wiped out Christianity in Ephesus. There is no church at Ephesus today, nor much of one in the modern city of Kushadesi, nearby. The country of Turkey, where all seven of these churches were located, is more than 98% Muslim today, a Mecca of false religion and a vast spiritual desert.

What is true in Turkey is also true elsewhere. Thousands of churches disappear every year throughout the world. Christ has removed many, many lampstands over the centuries. This is serious—no love, no light! The church that loses its love will soon lose its light, no matter how doctrinally sound it may be.

Jesus returns with another word of praise: “Yet this you do have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate” (2:6). Though they had left their first love they had not left their former hatred for evil. Jesus concludes by telling them to remain in the battle against sin. They are to remain true to the faith and resist false teaching. Note how sensitive Jesus’ heart is toward His church. He guards against deflating them by concluding with a note of praise. “You hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.” In essence, Jesus is saying, “We’re on the same team. We are a lot alike. We both hate the deeds of the Nicolatians. Keep at it!”

While we know next to nothing about their doctrine, we can be more certain of their practices.[24] The key is the practices linked with Balaam (2:14-15) and Jezebel (2:20-23). The two sins found in both are idolatry and immorality.[25] The Nicolaitans were a sect of loose-living believers who had perverted and compromised the faith and were bad witnesses to the truth of the Gospel. They probably justified themselves with arguments about being “saved by grace” while they flagrantly lived in sin. The church at Ephesus took a stand against these men and their teachings and was commended for doing so.

It is immediately worth noting that the Ephesian church hates “the deeds” of the Nicolaitans. This is important. They don’t hate the individuals themselves but their wicked behavior. We do not often think of Jesus as hating someone. This is because we characterize Him as a glorified wimp. Obviously, Jesus is neither prissy nor weak. Jesus hates that which hurts. If we love people then we appreciate principles that help people. If we love passionately then we must hate passionately the principles that hurt people. We must distinguish between hating a concept and hating a person. The concept of the Nicolaitans was unrestrained indulgence. Jesus hates unrestrained indulgence because He knows that it will hurt people.

True love for the Lord involves hate. Our society does not hesitate to lower its standards. It does not hesitate to indulge in unvarnished sin. Society has no sense of shame or rebuke of such sin. Christians move in this society. If we buy into the values of our society we compromise Christ and Christianity. Christians must differentiate themselves from this society and its values. It is not enough to dislike the sins of society. We must “hate” those sins. We hate that which distorts and counterfeits the truth.

This principle flies in the face of the central value of North American society—tolerance. Jesus bears no compromise with the values of this world. Our society is rigorously non-judgmental but Jesus asserts that we are to be judgmental [not in the sense of judging motives]. “Live-and-let-live” is no biblical value. We all make judgments; we are just afraid to admit that we do. Jesus calls for open criticism of the behavior of this world. Even more, He calls for us to “hate” the values of this world. How is your “hate” doing? Are you exercising it?

5. The call (2:7a). Jesus says, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”[26] Note the change from an appeal to the individual, “he who has an ear,” to the plural, “what the Spirit says to the churches.” This change broadens the appeal of each message to all the churches because the messages are representative and applicable to all of us. Here, the Spirit of God, who is the Spirit of truth and the author and teacher of Scripture, is calling on us to evaluate our openness to respond to the things that need to be learned and applied in these messages. In other words, He is saying, “It is not enough to have good intentions. You must follow through!” To “hear what the Spirit says” means to really listen and respond to what the Spirit says.[27]

6. The Challenge (2:7b). Jesus declares, “To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.” Before we go any further we must determine who is this one who “overcomes.” Many assume that the overcomer is a reference to all Christians.[28] Interpreters who hold this view appeal to 1 John 2:13; 4:4; and 5:4-5 where John referred to his readers as overcomers. However, in 1 John 2:13 and 4:4, John said his readers had overcome the world, not that all Christians are overcomers. In 1 John 5:4-5, he wrote that only believers in Christ can overcome the world, not that every believer in Christ does overcome the world. In this context, it is clear that John is using this term differently. In each of the seven usages, there is a conditional aspect attached to overcoming.

In this context, the one who overcomes by maintaining his first love is able to “eat of the tree of life.” Eating with someone implies fellowship; the one who overcomes, then, will fellowship with his Savior. It refers to experiencing the joy of reward in heaven for overcoming in spiritual battles and remaining intimate with Christ through it all. The term “tree of life” is mentioned 11 times in three books of the Bible. The first time is in Genesis 2:9 where we are told that God planted in the garden of Eden, the Tree of Life, next to the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. After they sinned by eating from the second tree, Adam and Eve were banished from the Tree of Life, lest they live forever in their fallen state. The term is used in a figurative sense in the book of Proverbs.[29] But in Revelation 22:2, the reference seems to revert to a literal tree,[30] or better, a number of trees,[31] in the New Jerusalem, bearing 12 crops of fruit, one each month, bringing healing to the nations.

The Tree of Life was in the garden of Eden, the original Paradise. It was where Adam was supposed to enjoy intimacy with God. Adam, in his unfallen state, had access to this tree but when he fell God kept him from it (Gen 1:26-28; 3:22). In the future, overcomers will have access to it again (cf. Rev 22:14). God is going to provide the overcomers with intimate fellowship with Christ in a place called the “Paradise of God.” “Paradise” is a Persian word meaning “a pleasure park, or garden.” The Greek Old Testament uses it to translate the garden of Eden in Genesis 2:8-10. To the oriental mind it meant the sum of blessedness. Christ, as the “last Adam,” is the restorer of Paradise lost (Rev 22:1-4, and 14).

There is a connection between the Tree of Life and man’s rule over the earth. The Tree of Life is reserved for overcomers who will rule and reign as co-heirs with Christ; and viewing Adam’s position in the Genesis account—created to rule and reign, in possession of life, with the fruit of the tree at his disposal—the same would hold true. The fruit of this tree was in Genesis, and will be in Revelation, a provision for the rulers in the kingdom.

Are you an overcomer? In summary, an overcomer is a Christian who does not lose devotion to the Savior while carrying out duty for the Savior.

In 1964, Coach Bill Bowerman from the University of Oregon, and one of his former students, Phil Knight, formed a company called Blue Ribbon Sports. Eight years later, with Knight at the helm as President and CEO, Blue Ribbon Sports became Nike, Inc., named after the Greek goddess of victory. The Nike swoosh has come to symbolize victory. For Nike, doing one’s best is victory. The word “overcomes” is translated from the Greek verb nikao, the noun form of the word nike. The verb and noun refer to winning, being victorious, and overcoming an opponent.

The same should be true of every Christian; we are winners if we do our best for Jesus Christ. Whenever you see the Nike name or emblem, I hope you will call to mind its meaning—overcomer.[32] May this remind you to ensure that Christ is your first love so that you will persevere as an overcomer.

Addendum: The Seven Churches Of Revelation 2-3

The apostle John wrote seven letters to seven historical churches. Each dealt with actual conditions of church life in John’s day. Yet, while these letters may be historic, they are nonetheless contemporary commentaries on the state of today’s church. Any reader of Revelation 2-3 immediately notices the prophetic similarities between the church of the first century and the church of the 21st century. This has led some interpreters to suggest that these seven churches are representative of the whole of church history. The following is an example:

1.      Message to Ephesus (2:1-7) – The Early Church (33-100 AD)

2.      Message to Smyrna (2:8-11) – The Persecuted Church (100-313 AD)

3.      Message to Pergamum (2:12-17) – The State Church (313-800 AD)

4.      Message to Thyatira (2:18-29) – The Immoral Church (800-1290 AD)

5.      Message to Sardis (3:1-6) – The Dead Church (1000-1517 AD)

6.      Message to Philadelphia (3:7-13) – The Revived Church (1517-1860 AD)

7.      Message to Laodecia (3:14-22) – The Materialistic Church (1860-Present)

Although this interpretation is indeed interesting, it has several weaknesses. First, there has never been any consensus on which church represents which period in church history. Second, this prophetic scheme doesn’t fit every category of church history in every period. Third, this view is very subjective, making it rather unlikely even as a secondary interpretation. Fourth, though the Bible teaches imminence (i.e., Christ could return at any moment), we really do not know when Christ is returning. Therefore, the church at Laodicea may not characterize the church when Christ returns. Finally, while this view may characterize the history of our country, it does not necessarily hold true for the rest of the world.

Fast Facts

1.      The seven churches did exist in John’s day in Asia Minor (what is now Turkey). “Seven” is the number of completeness, perfection, and fulfillment. These seven churches perfectly represent the strengths and weaknesses that have been and will be characteristic of various churches throughout history.

2.      The warnings and exhortations given to the above churches apply to us today. Though each letter is written to a specific church, all seven letters close with the words, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” It is important to note, the word “churches” (ekklesiais) is plural. John is writing for all who will listen!

The Literary Structure

1.      The commission (“To the angel of the church in…”)

2.      The character (Christ’s self-description in Rev 1:12-20)

3.      The commendation (Laodicea lacks this)

4.      The correction (Smyrna and Philadelphia lack this)

5.      The call (“He who has an ear, let him hear…”)

6.      The challenge (“To him who overcomes…”)

Addendum: This sermon series will not delve into extra biblical sources, historical research, or archeological findings. Although these sciences can be of great importance (and can add considerable pizzazz to a sermon), they are not necessary to a proper understanding of a given passage. It is also difficult to discern fact from fiction when consulting extra-biblical tools. Our study of the seven churches will attempt to focus on what we can know from the biblical text itself.

Addendum: The Overcomer Promises In Revelation 2-3

The identity of the “overcomer” has troubled Bible students throughout church history (Rev 2:7; 11, 17, 26-28; 3:5, 12, 21). This has led to four views. View #1: The one who fails to overcome loses his/her salvation (Rev 2:11; 3:5). This view must be dismissed because it contradicts the clear teaching of Scripture (e.g., John 5:24; 10:28-29; Rom 8:38-39; Eph 2:8-9). Paul also writes to the believers at Thessalonica: “whether we wake or sleep [i.e., whether we are morally alert or spiritually slothful], we should live together with Him” (1 Thess 5:10). This unconditional promise further solidifies the believer’s security.

View #2: The overcomer is equivalent to a special name for believers because of the ultimate triumph of their faith. According to this view all “genuine” believers persevere and overcome the world by living godly and obedient lives (1 John 5:5; Rev 21:7). Overcoming is equivalent to faithfulness or obedience, which proves the genuineness of salvation. Unfortunately, the Bible does not guarantee that all believers will live victorious, holy lives. On the contrary, it is sadly possible for believers to backslide terribly and to remain in that backslidden state until death (1 Cor 11:29-32; Jas 5:19-20; and 1 John 5:16). Fuller says it well, “A command that everyone keeps is superfluous, and a reward that everyone receives is nonsense.” See J. William Fuller, “I Will Not Erase His Name From The Book of Life: Revelation 3:5,” Journal of Evangelical Society 26:3 (Sept 1983), 299.

View #3: The overcomer is a title for all believers because of initial faith in Christ. According to this view, all believers become overcomers the moment they believe in Jesus Christ (1 John 2:13; 4:4; 5:4-5). Faith, not faithfulness is the primary focus point in this position. However, in 1 John 2:13 and 4:4, John wrote that his readers had overcome the world, not that all Christians are overcomers. In 1 John 5:4-5, he wrote that only believers in Christ can overcome the world, not that every believer in Christ does overcome the world. Moreover, the letters in Revelation 2 and 3 present very different contexts than that of 1 John 5. In each of the seven usages, there is a conditional aspect attached to overcoming (esp. 2:26).

View #4: The overcomer refers to faithful believers rewarded for their perseverance. According to this view, the promises of rewards are given to believers to encourage them to overcome trials through faithfulness (Luke 19:11-26; Rom 14:10-12; 1 Cor 3:11-15; 9:27; 2 Cor 5:10). The word translated “overcome” (nikao) means “to be victorious in a contest or conflict.” Hence, “overcomers” are conquerors or victors. The context of Revelation 2-3 restricts the meaning of the overcomer from all believers (“them”) to a faithful believer (“he”) who overcomes specific conflicts (see John 16:33). The primary weakness with this view is that some of the rewards can be difficult to interpret as something other than salvation. Nonetheless, this view is the most convincing and will be presented throughout this series.

Overcomer Promises

1.      To him who overcomes, I will grant to eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God (2:7).

2.      He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death (2:11).

3.      To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it (2:17).

4.      He who overcomes, and he who keeps my deeds until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations; and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter are broken to pieces, as I also have received authority from my father; and I will give him the morning star (2:26-28).

5.      He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels (3:5).

6.      He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name (3:12).

7.      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 (3:21).

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22.

[3] Other views include (1) human messengers i.e., pastor/teachers or elders; (2) human delegates; (3) a personification of the prevailing spirit of the church.

[4] This also explains why elsewhere angels are looking on with such interest at what God is doing in His church (1 Cor 11:10; cf. 1 Pet 1:12).

[5] He stayed in Ephesus longer than any other city (Acts 20:31). Paul had evangelized it and used it as a base of operations for at least three years (Acts 18:19-21; 19; 1 Cor 16:8). He was so successful in his ministry there that his ministry turned the city upside down (Acts 19:11-41). The silversmiths launched a riot because they lost their business of making shrines of Artemis.

[6] See Acts 18:18-26.

[7] Paul wrote the book of the Bible to the Ephesians fifteen years after he founded the church there.

[8] Likewise, Paul was in Ephesus when he wrote 1 Corinthians.

[9] The word “holds” (krateo) means, “to be strong, mighty, to prevail.” When it comes to the church, Jesus is strong. He holds sway over and is sovereign over the church. He is Commander in Chief.

[10] To five of the seven churches, Jesus says, “I know your deeds” (2:2, 19; 3:1, 8, 15). To the church of Smyrna, Jesus says, “I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the blasphemy. . .” (2:9). To the church of Pergamum, Jesus says, “I know where you dwell. . .” (2:13).

[11] Do you live in the knowledge that Christ is always with you—reading your every thought, perceiving your every motive, hearing your every word, and watching your every action? Do you rely on Him, rest in Him, and respond to Him in obedience to His Word? Do you realize that one day you will have to give an answer to Him for the way that you have lived?

[12] It is interesting to note what Jesus thinks is important. What we deem important may not be the same as what He thinks is important. Jesus commends the church for hard work. Many people today do not value a healthy work ethic, but denounce it as unworthy of a “balanced” Christian. However, the Bible never advocates a “balanced” life in the sense of being lazy or compromising our devotion to God. It declares the importance of a “sober” life, a dedicated life and a life yielded to God. Relying on His grace and strength, we serve Him with our whole heart.

[13] On his last visit to Ephesus, about forty years before the writing of Revelation, Paul addressed the problem of false teachers. He called the elders throughout Ephesus to come to a meeting in Miletus. In his farewell message, he challenged them with some important issues (Acts 20:29-31).

[14] The false teachers undoubtedly claimed to be functional apostles (cf. 2 Cor 11:13) rather than official apostles (Acts 1:15-26).

[15] In the Greek, the phrase “your first love” precedes the phrase “you have left” making the first phrase very emphatic.

[16] A generation earlier, the church at Ephesus was commended for its love (Eph 1:15, 16; 6:24). They became more task oriented than person oriented.

[17] Some commentators understand the phrase “first love” as a “failure to maintain the commitment once made to help and serve one another” (i.e., a lack of love for fellow believers). See J. Ramsey Michaels, Revelation (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1997), 71.

[18] See Louw & Nida, Electronic Ed.

[19] Lawson, Final Call, 82-83.

[20] Preaching Today Citation: Oswald Chambers, Leadership, Vol. 4, no. 3.

[21] Gk. peptokas: perfect active indicative from pipto.

[22] The word “remove” (kineo) means to set in motion, to move. We get our English words “kinetic” and “cinema” from this Greek word.

[23] Five of the seven churches must repent if they are to be counted among those who overcome. See Rev 2:5 (Ephesus); 2:16 (Pergamum); 2:21–22 (Thyatira); 3:3 (Sardis); 3:19 (Laodicea).

[24] Scholars differ on their understanding of this group. Some think they were the followers of Nicolas according to early church Fathers (cf. Acts 6:5). Since their heresy seems to be associated with the doctrine of Balaam in Rev 2:14-15, some believe this was an antinomian sect that advocated license in matters of Christian conduct, including free love.

[25] Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 120.

[26] See Matt 11:15; Mark 4:9, 23; Luke 8:8; 14:35; cf. Matt 24:15; Mark 8:18.

[27] “He who has an ear (This is a figure of speech where “ears” are put for the “willingness to obey”), let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches…” This is normally the introduction of an Old Testament prophetic judgment oracle.

[28] Some argue that the seven letters are written to churches that have a mixture of both Christians and non-Christians. However, in a biblical sense churches never contain unbelievers. Churches are not buildings or social gatherings. Churches are assemblies of believers. Since the Lord was writing to churches, He was writing exclusively to believers. The word faith only occurs twice in these letters (Rev 2:13, 19) and in both cases it is affirming the fact that the readers already have faith, not calling them to believe. Surely if these seven letters were addressed to unbelievers, we would find repeated calls to trust in Christ. Instead, we find none.

[29] The Tree of Life appears four times in the book of Proverbs and its use there helps us understand its presence in Genesis and Revelation. Solomon referred to wisdom (Prov 3:18), righteousness (Prov 11:30), satisfied hope (Prov 13:12), and controlled speech (Prov 15:4) as a tree of life. These are all the fruits that would have provided Adam and will provide the overcomers with what they will need to rule effectively in the millennial kingdom and beyond.

[30] In the book of Rev, the Tree of Life is literal. It is not just a symbol for eternal life or for the person of Christ. In Rev 21:1-22:5, John is describing the eternal state, which includes the new heaven and the new earth with the New Jerusalem, a literal place with some 25 verses devoted to its description. It is not a symbol. The Tree of Life in Eden and the Tree of Life in the New Jerusalem (Rev 22:2, 14, 19) appear to be literal trees.

[31] It is probably not just one tree, but a collective term referring to a whole row of trees that exist between the river and the avenue described in Rev 22. This is all a part of the beautiful park or paradise of God.

[32] See Robert N. Wilkin, The Road to Reward (Irving, TX: Grace Evangelical Society, 2003), 57-58.

“To the Death!” (Revelation 2:8-11)

This morning, I’d like to talk to you about some important topics. How many of you watched game three of the American League Championship series yesterday? It was an amazing game, wasn’t it? Roger Clemons versus Pedro Martinez. These two pitchers are future Hall of Famers. It was an incredible match up and certainly one of the most entertaining games of the year.[1]

Enough about baseball. How many of you received this mailing? An invitation to the JC Penny VIP One Night Only Sale! Yes, tonight from 6:30-9:30, you can save 30% on all regular prices, an extra 40% on all red-ticket clearance prices storewide, and an extra 15% on the already reduced sale prices storewide! What a sale!

Now, these two special events may have their place but if I attempted to talk with a dying person about sports or shopping, he or she is no longer interested. Such a person now sees other things as more important. People who are dying recognize what we often forget, that we are standing on the brink of another world.

I want to tell you a secret: you are going to die. You entered into life with an impending death sentence. As a result of sin’s curse, you will one day die. Now you may live to be a 100, but you will still die. And in light of eternity, 100 years will seem like a blink. But dying of old age is not our concern today. Rather, in Rev 2:8-11, Jesus challenges you and me to lay down our lives, being “faithful until death.”

1. The Commission (2:8a). “And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write.” This letter is sent to the church in Smyrna. Smyrna represents every persecuted church in every age, and every persecuted believer in every cultural setting. The Greek word “Smyrna” means “bitter.”[2] It’s been said, “The trials of life can make one bitter or better.” For the Smyrna believers their trials were making them better. Can you say the same?

2. The Character (2:8b). Jesus states that He is “the first and the last.”[3] This title is a quotation from Isaiah 41:4; 44:6; and 48:12. In Isaiah 44, the Lord exhorted Israel to not be afraid of her enemies but to be faithful witnesses (44:8) because the Lord is “the first and the last” (44:6).[4] Here in Revelation, this title refers to Jesus’ eternal existence. He is the One who creates and consummates history. He is timeless. He is the last chapter. We know time does not end with suffering. It ends with Him. This reality would have encouraged the church in Smyrna to bear up under suffering.

Jesus also states that He is the One “who was dead, and has come to life.”[5] This phrase means that Jesus Christ passed into death, through death, and out of death. He triumphed over pain, the cross, the Devil, sin, and death. He is the Conqueror! No matter what might happen to the Smyrna Christians or to us, our Savior has gone through the worst life can bring. He is the One who empathizes with us in our suffering (Heb 2:15-18; 4:15). His words to the church in Smyrna are: “I have faced like you are doing and I have come to life as you will. Death is not the end because of Me.”

3. The Commendation (2:9). Smyrna and Philadelphia are the only two churches that receive no criticism or call to repentance.[6] In spite of their trials they had remained pure in belief and behavior.[7] Nonetheless, suffering was to be their “lot in life.” Not only were they presently suffering; Jesus tells them that they would continue to suffer in the future. In 2:9-10, Jesus addresses four different levels of suffering or persecution.[8] First, He discusses government persecution. Jesus says, “I know your tribulation” (2:9a). The word “tribulation” (thlipsin) is a very graphic word. It conveys intense and constant pressure that often leads to death.[9] Jesus was aware that the Christians in Smyrna were literally having the life squeezed out of them by the oppression and restrictions of the government.

The Christian faces the dilemma of having to submit to human authority (Rom 13:1-7; 1 Pet 2:13-17), but not at the expense of disobeying God (Acts 5:29). There is a constant tension between those two relationships. Christians are asked to submit to unbelieving authorities, but not to obey that which violates the clearly revealed will of God.

Second, Christ addresses economic persecution. Christ goes on to state “I know your poverty (but you are rich).” Materially, the Christians in Smyrna were destitute, probably because they insisted on worshipping Christ. Evidently their persecutors were cutting off some of their incomes or making it hard for them to find jobs.

Now some of today’s television preachers would have us believe that these Christians were out of God’s will. They were living beneath their privileges. All they had to do was “name it and claim it.” Or as some have said, “God wants Christians wealthy but many lack the faith to believe God for it.” This is a terribly heretical doctrine. It grieves me that so many Christians fall for such grossly selfish teaching. The church in Smyrna was suffering because they were in the will of God. Financial prosperity is not God’s will for everyone. Sometimes it costs to be a Christian. It may even cost you financially.[10]

Notwithstanding their physical poverty, the Christians in Smyrna were rich spiritually: positionally (Eph 1:3f.) and practically (1 Pet 3:14-17; 4:13-14).[11] Like the church in India—poor on the outside but rich in spiritual things. As Mother Teresa used to say, “There are different kinds of poverty.” What she meant by this statement is poverty of heart or spirit is far worse than poverty of the pocket book.

Economic persecution can and will happen today. It’s possible that you could lose your job because your faith will not allow you to lie, cheat, or manipulate. Yet we must always remember this important principle: persecution has never been fatal to Christianity but prosperity often has.

Third, Jesus examines religious persecution. The Lord also says that He knows “the blasphemy by those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.” The word “blasphemy” means slander or speaking against. The slander that the Smyrna Christians were enduring came from unsaved Jews[12] who were particularly antagonistic toward Christians.[13] In the local situation this may refer to a particular incident for which we lack historical confirmation. We do know from the book of Acts that the Jews began persecuting the Christian community right from the very beginning. This word occurs several times in Acts to refer to the Jewish slanders against Paul and the Gospel he preached (Acts 13:45; 18:6). So enraged were the Jewish leaders against the Gospel, they often tried to stir up opposition among the Gentiles, specifically inciting the Roman authorities to use their civil authority to persecute Christians (Acts 13:50; 14:2-7; 17:5-9).[14] They would create a mob of Gentiles and have the Christians dragged before the civil magistrate on the charge that these Christians were political enemies of Caesar, since they confessed that Jesus alone is Lord.[15]

This type of hostile treatment leads Jesus to call these people “a synagogue of Satan.”[16] When we were children most of our mothers told us not to call names. In recent years, the academy, the media, and the church have taken our mothers’ places by urging us to always be polite and politically correct in the language we use.[17] Yet the Bible is far from politically correct. Jesus was very forthright when He dealt with false teachers. In this case, He calls this sect “a gathering of Satan”! [18]

We should also note that elsewhere in Revelation the term “blasphemy” is only used of slander against God (Rev 13:1, 5, 6; 17:3). This reminds us that slander against man and God is closely connected. Slandering the people of God is a form of slandering God.[19] We had best think twice about slandering a fellow believer in Christ. You know how you feel when someone says something negative about your kids, right? Well, imagine how God feels when someone is critical of one of His kids.

In a recent article on the suffering church, FaithWorks listed the degrees of persecution one could face for practice of religious faith[20]:

1.      Disapproval

2.      Ridicule

3.      Pressure to conform

4.      Loss of educational opportunities

5.      Economic sanctions

6.      Shunning

7.      Alienation from community

8.      Loss of employment

9.      Loss of property

10.  Physical abuse

11.  Mob violence

12.  Harassment by officials

13.  Kidnapping

14.  Forced labor

15.  Imprisonment

16.  Physical torture

17.  Murder or execution

4. The Challenge (2:10-11). Fourth, Jesus tackles physical persecution. In 2:10, Jesus says, “Do not fear what you are about to suffer.” “Do not fear” is literally “fear nothing” (Luke 12:4; 1 Pet 3:14).[21] Elsewhere Jesus says, “And do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matt 10:28; cf. Ps 46:1-3). God doesn’t want us to fear people or persecution—He wants us to fear Him! Fear can be a debilitating sin! Just as procrastination is the thief of time, so fear is the thief of peace. Therefore, the church in Smyrna could cast their burden on the Lord. So should we! I don’t know what worries and stresses you are carrying today but God would have you give them up to Him (Isa 41:10; Phil 4:6-8; 1 Pet 5:7). If you have not suffered as of yet, cheer up…you will! 2 Timothy 3:12 says, “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (cf. John 15:18-20). So if you’re not experiencing severe persecution, you are to do three things: (1) thank God for your religious freedom, (2) recognize that it is abnormal for followers of Christ, and (3) make the most of today. Memorize Scripture and spiritually prepare for the time when we will face persecution for our faith.

Jesus continues His theme of suffering with the following words: “Behold,[22] the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, so that you will be tested, and you will have tribulation for ten days.” This persecution is attributed to the Devil. It is a continuation of the Serpent’s battle with the Lord Jesus Christ and those who belong to Him (Gen 3:15; John 15:18-21). Human means and men are those we see persecuting the church of Jesus Christ, but invariably, behind the scenes is the old archenemy, the prince of the power of the air. But never fear, the binder of believers in prison shall be bound, he is a defeated foe (Rev. 20:1-3; Rom. 16:20; Col. 2:15; Heb. 2:14-15). The Devil would incite their foes to imprison some of them shortly having received permission from God to do so (cf. Job 1). This would be a trial (Gk. peirasthete) that Satan would use to try to entice them to depart from the Lord. Satan’s desire is that you renounce your faith in Christ. He will go to any lengths to accomplish this goal. It was Satan’s first sin and he has been leading people to commit that sin for countless years.

In this context, Satan will cast believers into prison for ten days. Roman prisons were ghastly places. Unlike today’s prisons where you have a private room, work on a college degree, and be fed three meals a day, nobody wanted to check into a Roman prison cell. In most prisons, you are either put to death or slapped around and thrown back on the street. Either way, you don’t stay in those prisons very long.[23]

John probably intended us to interpret this period as 10 literal 24-hour days that lay in the near future of the original recipients of this letter.[24] There is nothing in the text that provides a clue that we should take this number in a figurative sense.[25] However, it would seem that the emphasis falls on the fact that the Lord limits the testing. Just as Satan was given permission to test Job, within limits (Job 1-2), so Satan is allowed to tests the saints of Smyrna, but for a specific period of time (whatever the length may be).

Principles from 2:9-10:

·         God is in complete control of your circumstances. He always knows what’s happening. Yet, He does refrain from intervening in certain circumstances[26] because He has a purpose in tribulation, poverty, and slander that comes against Christians (see Matt 5:11-12; Rom 5:3-5; Jas 1:2-4; 1 Pet 1:6-7). God uses trials to fine-tune your character for His glory. He uses trials either as a barbell (to steadily strengthen) or a blowtorch (to burn away). They are for your profit! When you face trials and problems is your immediate response a plea for instant relief? Or is your overriding realization a recognition that God has sovereignly designed these circumstances as a means to deepen your relationship with Him.

·         God views human weakness as strength. It is sad that the three strengths that Jesus refers to (tribulation, poverty, and slander) are considered weaknesses in the American church. This is because the church today has forgotten the centrality of “the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings” (Phil 3:10) for the early church. Suffering for Christ was a privilege, not just a sorrow. It was certainly “painful” (Heb 12:11) but was also considered a participation with Christ, at a deeper level.[27]

·         God sets a limit on what Satan can do to believers (1 Cor 10:13). Although your trials may seem severe at the time, know that God’s grace is sufficient to carry you through any trial (2 Cor 12:9).

·         “The greatest criticism of the American church today is that no one wants to persecute it: because there is nothing very much to persecute it about.”[28]

Jesus’ primary exhortation is found in the final phrase of 2:10: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Verse 10 closes with a command and an attached promise. Jesus commands us to be “faithful until death.” The emphasis is upon the word “faithful.” Jesus is saying, “I do not require you to be successful; I require you to be faithful” (Jas 1:12). Is your life characterized by faithfulness? Or do you lack perseverance? Paul writes in 2 Tim 1:7 that “God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” You and I have “discipline” within us. We can exercise faithfulness if we simply appropriate it.

Jesus goes on to say that we must exercise this supernatural faithfulness “until death.” This means there is no end to our faithfulness to Christ. We are to exercise it until we die. We can’t go too far. We can’t give too much. This mentality ensures that you will experience abundant life. It has been well said, “A person is not prepared to live until he is prepared to die.” Are you ready to die for Christ? If He privileged you to suffer to that extent, would you be willing?

The crown of life appears to be a victor’s crown (Gk. stephanos), given for enduring the trials and tests of life, even to the point of death, without denying Christ.[29] Please note that this is not a promise of life but the crown of life. Life is not a reward for faithfulness. Life is a gift of grace.[30] The crown is a special reward for endurance under persecution. Jesus is speaking of reward, not salvation! The person who endures trials will receive the crown of life after Jesus Christ has approved him or her.[31]

As He does in each of the seven letters, Jesus exhorts the individual believer (“he,” “him”) to hear and heed His words, given by the Spirit. He then says, “He who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death” (2:11).[32] The verb “overcomes” is derived from a Greek word nikao, which means to be victorious or to win. This term was used with a legal nuance, meaning to win a case. It was employed in the field of athletics, meaning to win a contest. It was used in a military sense, meaning to win a war. In the New Testament this word is almost always employed in a context of spiritual conflict.

A faithful Christian who overcomes “will not be hurt by the second death.” There is a double negative in Greek (ou me), which can be translated, “no way,” “never”![33] It is the strongest way to negate something in Greek. This expression is a figure of speech “litotes” (pronounced, lie'-tuh-tease'). Litotes is a way of stating a positive by an emphatic negative. It is a deliberate understatement. For example, if someone says to me, “His request presented me with no small problem,” I know exactly what he means. The person who made the request of him had presented him a BIG problem! In the phrase “no small problem” we have a very common figure of speech. The phrase “no small problem” negates the opposite idea. The person is saying, “The problem is very large.”[34] Two great biblical examples demonstrate this figure of speech. When Paul says, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel…” (Rom 1:16), we immediately recognize that he is in reality quite proud of the Gospel because of what it can do. In Heb 6:10, the Hebrew writes states, “God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown…” This means God’s character guarantees He will remember.

The same idea is operating in Rev 2:11. Since the “second death” is explained later to be “the lake of fire” (Rev 20:14), we can be clear about what is being promised. The overcomer will in no way be hurt by the second death. He will not even appear at the great white throne judgment because he will have been raised before the thousand years and be ruling and reigning with the Messiah. Instead of the second death, the overcomer will be “crowned” with the enjoyment of life “more abundant” (see John 10:10). That is

to say, this conquering Christian is as far above the experience-level of eternal death as it is possible to be. In a masterly understatement, the Lord Jesus says in effect: “The first death may “hurt” you briefly, the second not at all! I like this principle: death may alarm us, but it cannot harm us.

But perhaps there is something else here. The word “hurt” (adikethe) means “to injure, to hurt, or do harm” (cf. Rev 6:6; 7:2-3; 9:4, 10, 19; 11:5). It may also be used in a broader sense of “do wrong” (cf. Rev 22:11). Therefore, it seems that there is a way in which an unfaithful believer can be hurt by the second death. Unbelievers who persecute believers and who seek to get them to recant or renounce their faith in Christ are, in some ways, the personification of the second death and are not only acting out of their spiritual death against the believer, but are themselves, headed for the second death. So when a believer fails to overcome the trial and recants because of the pain of the persecution, he is hurt by the second death because he will have lost his reward (2:11). The lesson is this: Don’t let sinners, on their way to the second death, be responsible for causing you to lose your reward. Don’t let people going to hell keep you from enjoying maximum blessing in heaven. If you can endure everything sinners throw at you and remain faithful to Christ, your reward is great. You are storing up crowns. I like what Tony Evans says, “When I find out people hate me because I’m committed to Jesus Christ, I say, ‘Praise God, give me another crown.’”

What if I told you that you only had the rest of this year to live? How would your life change? What would your priorities be? Would they need to radically change?

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] The Greek word smyrna translates the Hebrew word for myrrh. Myrrh was a fragrant spice used to make perfume, which was used in embalming dead bodies (cf. Matt 2:11; John 19:39).  Myrrh becomes very fragrant when someone crushes it. For many of us, it is only when we are crushed and broken that we give off the aroma of Christ (2 Cor 2:14-16).

[3] This title is only used of Christ in Revelation (1:17; 2:8; 22:13). However, it is connected with God the Father (the Alpha and Omega) in 1:8; 21:6; and 22:13.

[4] Several chapters later in Isaiah, the Lord repeats this argument and reminds Israel that she need not be afraid of man or of the accuser, that old Serpent (Isa 50:8-9; 51:7-9). Thus, the first and the last is Jesus Christ Himself. It is He who crushed Rahab, who pierced the Dragon. Paul quotes this passage from Isaiah in Romans 8:33-34, to remind us that our Advocate is the risen Lord Jesus who pleads our case before the divine tribunal.

[5] A literal Greek rendering would be: “He came to be dead and began to live or came to life again.” This is an obvious reference to the cross and the resurrection.

[6] It is probably not safe to say that the church at Smyrna was free from faults. It is more likely that the faults they did have were not critical. This persecuted church was in need of encouragement, not rebuke.

[7] “Churches 1 and 7 are in grave danger; churches 2 and 6 are in excellent shape, churches 3, 4, and 5 are middling, neither very good nor very bad.” Leon Morris, The Revelation of St. John: TNTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1969), 58.

[8] I have adopted four of the five different levels described in Steven J. Lawson, Final Call (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 1994), 97-106.

[9] Literally, it means to crush an object in a vise grip by tightening the screws. It pictures crushing a victim and squeezing out his life’s blood. In Classical Greek, it was used of one who was mashed to death by an enormous boulder.

[10] See also Lawson, Final Call, 100.

[11] The opposite was true of the church of Laodicea (see Rev 3:17-18; see also Matt 6:19-21; 19:21; Luke 6:20; 12:21; 2 Cor 6:10; 1 Tim 6:17; Jas 2:5.

[12] Evidently some of the persecutors were Jews who slandered the Christians (cf. Acts 18:12-17) and cursed Jesus Christ (cf. Acts 26:11). They apparently claimed to be committed to God but were not. They came out of Satan’s camp (cf. Acts 14:19; 17:5-8, 13).

[13] The persecution of Christians by Jews of physical descent is well known in the New Testament (cf. Acts 13:50; 14:2, 5, 19; 17:5; 26:2; 1 Thess 2:14-15).

[14] Why were the Jews so enraged against the Gospel? One reason the Jews were opposed to the Christians was because they allowed Gentiles to become a part of the church. In the early stages of the historical development of Christianity, the majority of Christians were of Jewish heritage. Thus Christianity was viewed at first as a sect of Judaism. Yet, Gentiles quickly began to be added to the church. As Gentiles believed in Jesus they were then considered to be equal members of the church. Non-Christian Jews could not tolerate this. They could not allow Gentiles to be considered a part of Judaism. Judaism had to be kept pure from Gentile influence.

[15] In 1 Thess 2:16 Paul complains that the Jews continually tried to hinder him from preaching to the Gentiles that they might be saved.

[16] In Numbers 16:3, Israel was called the congregation of the Lord, but here Christ calls these unbelieving Jews, the congregation of Satan (cf. John 8:33 with 8:44).

[17] J. Ramsey Michaels, Revelation: IVPNTC (Downers Grove, IL: InterVaristy, 1997), 73.

[18] Satan is a Hebrew word that means “adversary or accuser.” Its first occurrence as a proper name for the Devil occurs in 1 Chron 21:1. Notice in that text “Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number Israel.” The very first occurrence of “Satan” in the OT is a text in which the enemy is standing up in the heavenly court, as it were, against Israel, against the people of God. That is Satan’s fundamental character - he is the one who stands up and attacks God’s people. He attacked Job and accused him of having a faith founded on earthly prosperity rather than a hope in the heavenly reward (Job 1:6-12; 2:1-6). He stood at the right hand of Joshua the priest, who was clothed in filthy garments, to accuse him before God (Zech 3:1). Thus, later in Revelation, the heavenly choir calls Satan, “the accuser of the brethren” (Rev 12:9-10).

[19] Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 131.

[20] Preaching Today Citation: Andrew Black and Craig Bird, “The Risk of Faith,” FaithWorks (July/August 1999), 17-20; source: Robert Garret, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

[21] In Revelation, whenever the word “fear” (phobou) is used of the saints, it refers to reverence for God (e.g., 11:8; 14:7; 15:4; 19:5). In the midst of terrible tribulation, God’s people are called to “fearless” witness (1:2. 9; 6:9; 12:11, 17; 20:4) accompanied by “perseverance” (1:9; 2:2. 3, 19; 3:10; 13:10; 14:12) and “faith” (2:10, 13, 19; 13:10; 14:12; 17:14). See Osborne, Revelation, 132.

[22] “Behold,” (idou) signals an oracular declaration (cf. Rev 2:22; 3:8, 9, 20).

[23] Lawson, Final Call, 103.

[24] Three other views are held by commentators: (1) ten major Roman persecutions for the first 250 years of the church, (2) a ten year persecution through the Emperor Diocletian, (3) and ten years as a symbolic period of time.

[25] Such limited times of persecution are well known in biblical history (Gen 7:4; 40:12, 13, 20; Num 14:33; Esth 3:13; Ezek 4:1-8; Matt 12:40). Henry Barclay Swete, The Apocalypse of St. John (London: Macmillan, 1906), 32.

[26] G.R. Beasley-Murray, Revelation: the New Century Bible Commentary (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1981), 81.

[27] Osborne, Revelation, 129.

[28] Preaching Today Citation: George F. MacLeod, Leadership, Vol. 2, no. 4.

[29] Cf. 1 Cor 9:25; 1 Thess 2:19; 2 Tim 4:6-8; Heb 2:9; Jas 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4; Rev 4:4.

[30] See also Donald Grey Barnhouse, Revelation (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1971), 49.

[31] This approval will take place when the Lord evaluates that believer’s works at the judgment seat of Christ (1 Cor 3:13). He will award the crown at this judgment (1 Cor 3:14).

[32] Jesus tells us “the one who continually overcomes (reflecting the present participle) will not be hurt by the second death.”

[33] Gk. ou me is used 16 times in Revelation and is nearly always used with emphatic force (Rev 2:11; 3:3, 5, 12; 9:6; 15:4; 18:7, 14, 21, 22 [3x’s], 23 [2x’s]; 21:25, 27).

[34] Americans use litotes all the time in ordinary speech without being aware of it. Some additional examples might be: “You won’t go unrewarded” = “You’ll be repaid”; “That suit is no bargain” = “It’s expensive”; “The quiz wasn’t any snap” = “It was tough”; “He sure isn’t Santa Claus” = “He’s a Scrooge.” “Retailers are not saints” = “They’ll cheat you”; “Theologians are not given to simple language = “They’re hard to follow.” See Zane Hodges, The Gospel Under Siege (Dallas: Redencion Viva, 1992), 139. Note: all of these examples are not Hodges’.

“Slip Sliding Away” (Revelation 2:12-17)

When I was growing up in Bremerton, WA, down the street from our house was a hill called East 30th. East 30th overlooked Seattle and provided one of the most scenic views you could imagine. But for the neighborhood kids and me we could care less about the view. We appreciated this hill for the snow- sledding it afforded us.[1]

Whenever we had a good snow, my brother Tim and I would tromp to the top of East 30th and prepare to slide down. We would use sleds or what I call snow saucers. The interesting thing is: once we began our descent, we would travel rather slowly. Actually, it often took someone to push us so that we could get some momentum. But about a quarter of the way down we would always pick up steam and roar down the hill like a speeding bullet. Of course, we needed one of the neighborhood kids at the bottom of the hill so that we didn’t have a head-on collision with an oncoming car. We had enough trouble staying under control without worrying about being killed.

Sin is like East 30th. It is a very slippery slope. It all begins rather innocently and gradually but it can quickly lead the Christian into an out-of-control, slip sliding away experience. In Rev 2:12-17, we will see how to overcome the sin of compromise.

1. Commission (2:12a). As with the other letters in Rev 2-3, the letter to the church in Pergamum is addressed to the angel of the church (2:12a). “Pergamum” means marriage.[2] This church was married to Christ. However, in spite of their union, they were tolerating compromise in some of their members. Compromise is the cancer of the church.[3]

2. Character (2:12b). Christ says that He is “the One who has the sharp two-edged sword” (cf. Isa 11:4).[4] By using this description Jesus makes it especially difficult for us to ignore this letter.[5] In Rev 1:16 and 19:15, the “sword” (romfaia)[6] is described as proceeding out of the mouth of Christ. The mouth, an instrument of speech, portrays this as the Word of Christ. In Rev 19:13 Christ is called the Word of God and then, in 19:15, we have the statement about the sword that proceeds out of His mouth and by which He will slay the wicked.

Interestingly, John 5:24f and 12:48 teach us that Christ’s acts of judgment will be carried out on the basis of His Word. It seems clear the sword coming out of Christ’s mouth is a reference to the Word and is a symbol of its truth, penetrating power and authority, severity, and the fact that Christ judges men on the basis of the Word. Thus, the sword of God’s Word separates believers from the world and sinners from God. This is perhaps its double-edged quality.

3. Commendation (2:13). The exalted Christ knows three things about the church in Pergamum. First, Jesus knows that this church lives in Satan’s hometown. In the space of one verse Jesus acknowledges that Satan’s throne and his dwelling are in Pergamum. What a place to live! How would you like to be a realtor in Pergamum? Whew!

Apparently, Pergamum was the center of idolatry (i.e., emperor worship). It is important to recognize that idolatry is not only worshipping Satan or another false god. An idol is anything that takes the place of God. Therefore, whenever false worship occurs, Satan is involved (cf. 1 Cor 10:20; 12:2). This means that idolatry is really an expression of satanism.

How are you worshipping Satan? How have you erected an idol in your life that has distracted you? How has your affection toward God been stunted?

The second area of Christ’s knowledge centered on the faithful witness of the Pergamum believers. Jesus says that they continued to “hold fast My name.” The verb “hold fast” (krateo) means to “grasp forcibly” or, in this figurative use, “to remain firm.” In 2:1, Jesus “holds the seven stars” as He watches over the churches and here the believers “hold fast” to His name. “My name” points to their adherence to the deity of Christ. In the midst of a pluralist society the church refused to bow the knee to false gods.

Several years ago talk show host Larry King was asked: “If you could select any one person across all of history to interview, who would it be?” Mr. King’s answer was that he would like to interview Jesus Christ. When the questioner followed with, “And what would you like to ask Him?” King replied, “I would like to ask Him if He was indeed virgin-born. The answer to that question would define history for me.”[7]

Mr. King is right! Human history is defined by whether or not Jesus Christ is God. If you believe that Jesus Christ is indeed God, it will change your worldview and your actions. If He is not God then you might as well live for yourself and forget about eternal things.

The third area of Christ’s knowledge is their endurance under persecution.[8] The believers in Pergamum were suffering for Christ. As a result, Antipas (one of their own) was martyred. Yet, in spite of the grave danger of naming the name of Christ, Pergamum persevered in their faith, refusing to deny her Lord.

What an inspiration Anitpas must have been to this church. He would not cower to the political correctness of his day and was executed for his faith. Antipas means “against all.” This godly man lived up to his name. He stood against paganism. What a wonderful benediction is pronounced upon this martyr.[9] He is called “My witness, My faithful one.” This is especially encouraging for these are the same terms used of Jesus in Rev 1:5. In dying a martyr’s death Antipas was indeed Christ-like (cf. Acts 22:20). As such, he receives the designation “My witness, My faithful one.” Please notice the emphasis is upon being “faithful” in our witness. We are called to witness for Christ with our lives and our lips. Yet ultimately we are to leave the results up to Him. How would you like Jesus Christ to call you by that description?

4. Condemnation (2:14-15). The tone of praise for the church quickly disappeared, however, as Jesus moved on to speak of the state of the church (2:14-15). Jesus begins His rebuke the same way He did the church at Ephesus (see Rev 2:4). The only difference is instead of saying, “I have this against you”; Jesus says, “I have a few things against you.” This ought to send chills up our spine. It should grab us by the lapels and jerk us to attention.[10]

Jesus then goes on to say that the church has “some there who hold the teaching of Balaam who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit acts of immorality.” Jesus is saying that the problem was not external it was internal. A small group of people were teaching false doctrine. Typically, this is how it begins. Then rather quickly, the movement picks up some momentum and begins to spread. As Paul said, “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (1 Cor 5:6).

The teaching of Balaam was to encourage the eating of foods sacrificed to idols and sexual immorality (2:14). The story of Balaam is found in Num 22-25 and 31. Balaam was an Old Testament prophet, a Gentile who knew God. He was called to be a mouthpiece for God but often spoke for the Devil. During the time of Israel’s wilderness wanderings, God’s chosen people defeated the Ammonites, and Moab looked surely to be the next to fall. When Balak the king of Moab received a report that the Israelites were advancing his way, he knew there was no way his army could defeat Israel. In desperation Balak called on Balaam for help. The Moabite king said, “I’ve got an assignment for you. I want you to curse these people. And I’ll make it worth your while.”

Yielding to the temptation, Balaam sold his gift. He became a “gun for hire,” a “prophet for profit.” Three separate times he tried to curse the people of God. But each time, only blessings—not cursings—came out. Try as he may Balaam could not curse the people of God. So Balaam became frustrated. He tried to serve God and money at the same time but he discovered that he couldn’t serve two masters (Luke 16:13). Under mounting pressure, Balaam devised an ingenious plan. If he couldn’t curse them, his only hope was to get God to do so. So Balaam hatched an insidious plot.

The “prophet for profit” would teach Balak to put stumbling blocks[11] before the sons of Israel. He instructed the corrupt king to place sensuous women before the marching Israelite army. Let these beautiful women tempt and lure God’s people into sin. God would then judge them for their disobedience. Balak did as Balaam suggested, placing enticing Moabite women before the Israelite men. The sons of Israel were no match for this temptation. They wilted under the seductive power and decided to party with these pagan women. Soon they went to church with these heathen women and worshipped their idols. They even brought sacrifices to their pagan gods and ate meat offered to idols in pagan ceremonies. The result was devastating: Israel fell into this terrible sin and God went to war against them. In doing so, He slew 24,000 Israelite men![12]

What Balaam couldn’t do to harm Israel, sin did! Since Balaam’s plan was successful the prophet became a prototype of all corrupt teachers who betrayed believers into fatal compromise (see also 2 Pet 2:12-17; Jude 10-13). In the case of the church at Pergamum, deterioration began with their participation in the meals that were commonly held to honor heathen gods (2:14b). The food served at these celebrations was frequently the leftovers of pagan sacrifices. By eating this food the Christians were becoming “sharers in demons” (1 Cor 10:20). Furthermore, involvement in these pagan festivities made it easier to indulge in sexual intercourse with temple priestesses who prostituted themselves for the gods that they served (2:14b). In short, some of the Pergamum Christians had compromised their faith by allowing themselves to mix with pagan practices.

In 2:15, Jesus says, “So you also have some who in the same way hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans.” The word “so” (houtos) ties these two verses together. The adverb “you also”[13] points to the fact that the ancient “teaching of Balaam” and the contemporary teachings of the Nicolaitans were one in the same.[14] The repetition of the word “hold” in 2:14-15 also substantiates this. Jesus is saying, “In the same way that Balaam subverted the Israelites, these false teachers are trying to subvert you.”[15]

The two primary errors of the Nicolaitans had to do with eating things sacrificed to idols and immorality. Most likely the problem was not the buying of meat offered to idols, which was sold in the market place, but in joining pagan neighbors in a meal, which involved the sacrifice of the meat to idols (cf. 1 Cor 10:14-22). It may well be that immorality was also associated with these religious feasts. The pagans felt that they could have a relationship with the gods by having sexual relations with the religious cult prostitutes. What at first may have appeared to be merely accepting the hospitality of a neighbor resulted in the Christian being defiled morally and spiritually.

Notice that the church is not accused of holding to such doctrine and practice (here the term “doctrine” includes both) as a whole, but is condemned for tolerating it to be held by some. While “some” are guilty of moral and spiritual defilement, the rest are guilty of tolerating such sin. Just as the church at Corinth failed to deal with the immorality in its congregation (1 Cor 5), so the church at Pergamum was tolerating sin within its members. Bad “teaching” (2:14-15) always leads to bad living.[16]

The church in Pergamum stands in stark contrast to the church in Ephesus. Our Lord could commend the saints at Ephesus because they hated the deeds of the Nicolaitans (2:6), while the church at Pergamum was willing to let it go on unchallenged. They probably tolerated impurity in the name of love. Does this sound familiar?

Many churches are making this tragic mistake today. They refuse to uphold the standards of God’s Word. Rather, they believe that love, acceptance, and tolerance are more important than what God has declared. Now I’m a sensitive guy and I love people. In my sinful flesh I would join these ranks. But the new man in me loves God’s Word—it alone is truth! If that isn’t motivation enough, remember: He wields a sharp two-edged sword!

5. Correction (2:16). The word “therefore” (oun) refers back to the acts of idolatry and immorality. Jesus calls the church of Pergamum to “repent.” Five of the seven churches are called to repent (Smyrna and Philadelphia are exceptions). Biblical repentance involves changing one’s mind in a way that affects some change in the person. It is important to note that the call to repent is addressed to everyone in the church. We all bear responsibility for the sins of one or a few.[17] When sin takes place we are called to repent on behalf of the sin of our people (see Neh 1).

For Pergamum, or any other church that refuses to repent, Jesus follows up with an “or else” statement: “or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of My mouth.” This is intense! This is a threat and a promise. Jesus doesn’t wink at compromise. He doesn’t say, “That’s okay. I’ve got unlimited grace and unending forgiveness, so it doesn’t matter how you live.” He says, “I’m coming to you quickly.” Jesus isn’t referring to the rapture; He’s referring to a rupture.[18] Jesus will rumble with His church! He actually says so! He says, “I will make war against them with the sword of My mouth.” The change from “you” to “them” indicates that Jesus will not wage war on all Christians in a church marked by disobedience. Rather, He will severely judge those who are personally involved in tolerating theological or practical compromise (see 1 Cor 11:27-34).

The church MUST deal with its sin or else Jesus will come and deal with the church. Either the church will discipline its sinning members or else Jesus will come and make war with His sword. And no church wants to be on the short end of that sword. What a wake-up call! Being tolerant of doctrinal deviations makes the entire church, especially the leadership, as guilty as those who teach and hold to this false doctrine. Idolatry and immorality will not be tolerated in the church. Either the church will deal with the sin, or Jesus will. But it will be dealt with![19]

In what ways are you involved in compromise: doctrine, finances, marriage, honesty, business, morals? Keep in mind these two truths: first, the most deadly sins do not leap upon us; they creep up on us. Second, give sin an inch and it will take a mile. Compromise can be deadly!

6. Challenge (2:17). “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Jesus again appeals to the individual for spiritual change. This serves as a reminder that the spiritual caliber of a church begins with the individuals who make up the church. Stop and think about that for a moment. If the effectiveness of our church rested on you alone, how would our church fare?

Jesus closes with two important blessings to the overcomer. First, Jesus says, “To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna.”[20] In the Old Testament, manna stood for God’s faithfulness to provide and sustain His people through the wilderness wanderings.[21] In place of leeks, melons, garlic, and onions, Jesus rained down corn flakes from heaven. As a memorial to God’s faithfulness, a portion of the manna was placed and thus hidden in the Ark of the Covenant (Exod 16:32-34; Heb 9:4).[22] Israel took some of the manna, put it in a jar, and then put the jar inside the Holy of Holies in the Ark of the Covenant to remind them that God had supplied their needs in the wilderness. No one knows the site of God’s hidden supply of this special feast. But it’s only for the overcomers. It is an invitation to throne room intimacy.

Jesus continues His thought in 2:17, and says, “and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.” By repeating, “I will give,” there is an emphasis on the grace of the Savior and the second gift is highlighted as distinct from the first. Though rewards are promised for faithfulness they are still a matter of the grace of God, for it is by His grace and strength that we experience the capacity for faithfulness.

“A white stone” is perhaps the most difficult to interpret of all the rewards mentioned in chapters 2 and 3 because of the various uses of white stones and because no other passage tells us anything about white stones.[23] It seems best to understand this white stone like a personal gift. The word “stone” (psephos) may be used to designate a precious stone, like a diamond. This idea is supported in this verse by the “white” (leuke), which may mean more than just white and can be equivalent to “splendid, shining,” or even “glistening.”[24]

Many of you women have a beautiful, valuable stone on your left hand. In many cases, this rock hurt your fiancé’s pocketbook because he dug down deep to express his vast love for you. Yet now you have a symbol of his affection and love for you. Whenever you look down at your diamond you can remember your husband’s love for you. Well, Jesus our Bridegroom wants to express His love to members of His bride who have not compromised their love for Him. He wants to give them a precious stone that will be especially meaningful and will reveal His deep love and pleasure.

Jesus also says that a “new name”[25] will be written on this white stone which “no one knows but he who receives it.” Throughout Scripture a person’s name is significant. Names typically define a person. That’s why God changes peoples’ names so frequently. Abram’s name was changed to Abraham to portray the fact that he was to become the father of a multitude (Gen 17:1-8). Jacob, which means supplanter, was changed to Israel, the one over whom God would rule (Gen 32:27-29). Unstable Simon became Peter, the little rock (Matt 16:13-19). In the same vein, the overcoming believer is promised a new name, which demonstrates something of the character of the overcomer or something of his new responsibilities or both. This name shows something of what God has accomplished in his or her life through a walk of faith in faithfulness. The gift of this new name marks the believer’s entrance to a new and higher stage of responsibility symbolizing new and greater authority.[26]

I am called “Pastor” by many that know me. Friends call me “Keith.” My children call me “Daddy” or “Dad.” My parents call me “Son.” My brother calls me “Brother.” But Lori has a pet nickname for me that no one else knows. I will not share it with you. It’s reserved for us.

Jesus promises the overcomer a name like this. The Bridegroom will speak to His bride. He will have a tender name for her that shall not be known by anyone else.[27] Whatever rewards await the one who overcomes, I do know this: “things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Cor 2:9).

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Pergamum comes from the Greek word gamos (“marriage”).

[3] Evans writes, “Compromise is the cancer of the church and we must rid our Christ’s body of it. While Christians can compromise on preferences, they cannot compromise on principles. We can’t be one way on Sunday and another on Monday. This is a major problem among Christians in America today. We don’t take a stand. We don’t keep our standards. We merely shift to satisfy society.” Tony Evans, The Victorious Christian Life (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1994), 244.

[4] The “sword” draws from figurative language of the Old Testament in describing the power of the spoken word (see Ps 57:4; 64:3; Prov 12:18), in this case God’s Word. It also points forward to the time of Jesus’ future coming to planet earth as the conquering warrior of Rev 19:11-21 (see esp. 19:15).

[5] If Paul could say that Rome does not “bear the sword for nothing” (Rom 13:4) how much more should we fear the power of God?

[6] The word “sword” is mentioned a total of nine times in Revelation. Romfaia is mentioned five times and makaira, the short Roman two-edged sword, is mentioned four times. The romfaia was the long and heavy, broad sword used by the Thracians and other barbarous nations who often marched irresistibly over one country after another as God’s instruments of judgment. First of all, then, it symbolizes the irresistible authority and devastating force of our Lord’s judgment (cf. 19:15). Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (Biblical Studies Press, 1997),

[7] Preaching Today Citation: Ravi Zacharias, “Questions I Would Like to Ask God,” Just Thinking Winter (1998); submitted by Aaron Goerner, New Hartford, New York.

[8] The persecution that was yet future for Smyrna was already history for Pergamum.

[9] The word translated “witness” is the Greek word martus from which the English word “martyr” is derived. This is perhaps the earliest usage of “martyr” as denoting one who dies for his faith.

[10] Steven J. Lawson, Final Call (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 1994), 119.

[11] A stumbling block (skandalon) is a trap set with a bait. When the bait is touched—boom—the trap is triggered, and it closes shut on its victim. That’s what sin is like. It looks alluring, but when it is touched, it captures its unsuspecting prey.

[12] See Lawson, Final Call, 119-120.

[13] This is emphatic in the Greek text.

[14] Indeed, even the terms Nicolaitan and Balaam can mean the same thing (“conquer the people”).

[15] See Grant S. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 145.

[16] Heresy is a problem in the church. Not just in America but especially in the third world countries. That is one of China’s top prayer requests that heretical sects would not continue to raise up.

[17] This is a biblical principle that goes back to Achan (see Josh 7).

[18] Lawson, Final Call, 125.

[19] Lawson, Final Call, 125-126.

[20] The “hidden manna” is literally, “of the manna, the hidden.” It is a restrictive attributive, which defines the distinctive identity of the manna. With this construction, there is some emphasis on the hidden character of the manna. See Keathley III, Studies in Revelation, 69.

[21] Manna was also called, “food from heaven” (Ps 78:24). In John 6:48-51, the Lord spoke of Himself as the true bread from heaven that gives eternal life in contrast with the manna in the Old Testament. He said, “your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died” (John 6:49). While the manna sustained their physical life for a time, it was only a picture of the one who would come and who would give life and life abundant (John 10:10).

[22] Trench calls our attention to the fact that it was after this manna was laid up in the Ark that it obtained the name “hidden.” Richard Chenevix Trench, The Seven Churches (Minneapolis: Klock & Klock, 1978 [1897]), 143.

[23] Some seek to connect the “white stone” in some way to the promise of the hidden manna, the Ark of the Covenant, and the priesthood. Thus, it is seen as a diamond, which corresponds to the Urim and Thummim worn by the high priest, and would speak of special priestly prerogatives and access into the very presence of God. Others see an analogy to the stone awarded to victorious gladiators or warriors when they returned from battle. It would be much like a “well done” for service rendered. There was also a custom in John’s day in which special stones were given which entitled the bearer to special hospitality and friendship. There was also a Roman custom of awarding white stones to the victors in athletic contests. A white stone inscribed with the athlete’s name, served as his ticket to a special awards banquet. There were many customs and several possibilities for the meaning of the stone. Whatever, it clearly symbolized special blessing and privilege that will be given to those believers who overcome the influx of the world on their lives.

[24] Cf. Matt 17:2; Rev 3:4, 5; 6:11; 7:9, 13; 19:14.

[25] Some commentators hold that the “new name” is a name of God or Christ (cf. Rev 3:12; 19:12). Yet, this is unlikely. Osborne writes, “It is hard to see how the name of God or Christ would be known only to the overcomer.” Osborne, Revelation, 149.

[26] Perhaps God will elevate the overcomer to the position of ruler over the earth and will give him or her a new name, as He did Joseph (cf. Gen 41:39-45). Regardless of the meaning, for our day when an impersonal number often identifies us, it highlights the fact we are not just impersonal numbers, but those who are personally known and loved by God.

[27] See Donald Grey Barnhouse, Revelation (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1971), 57.

“To Reign or to Wane?” (Revelation 2:18-29)

If there is a watchword that describes the American mind-set today, it is the word tolerance. The thought behind tolerance is that right and wrong varies from situation to situation. What’s wrong for me may be right for you and vice versa. Tolerance teaches that all views are equally valid and there are no absolutes. The only absolute is that there are no absolutes. We tolerate everything except intolerance. As a result, we are killing truth and values have no value.[1]

But this is just society’s worldview, right? Wrong! Last year, the Los Angeles Times quoted Christian pollster George Barna’s research that only 44% of born-again adults are certain that absolute moral truth exists. Barna also discovered that only 9% of born-again teenagers believe in absolute moral truth.[2] This is frightening! God’s Word, the sharp, two-edged sword is being replaced with the Devil’s pitchfork. Our worldview is now defined with a Burger King philosophy, “Have it your way,” rather than by heaven’s King[3] who says, “Have it My way!”

So what can we do to remedy the situation that we find ourselves in? Hear the Word of the Lord. In Revelation 2:18-29, Jesus has some choice words to a church teetering on the edge of disaster.

1. The Character (2:18). The letter to the church in Thyatira is the longest of the seven letters. It may have been the lengthiest letter because Thyatira was the most corrupt of the churches. The title, “Son of God”[4] declares Christ’s absolute deity. He is equal with God the Father. He is the eternally existent One who has been designated to rule.[5] Jesus then refers to His eyes and His feet (head to toes). He says His eyes are like a “flame of fire,” indicating that He is able to see into the secret places of our hearts. The word “fire” also suggests discerning and severe judgment (cf. Rev 1:14). Everything yields to fire. Fire consumes all that it touches. Nothing escapes. Jesus moves from his head to his toes and says that His feet are like “burnished bronze,”[6] meaning that He will pursue evil and stamp it out.

Stop for just a moment and think back to a time when you sinned or unintentionally did something wrong and got in trouble. Do you remember that feeling when your parent, spouse, friend, or teacher stomped into your presence and stared you down with eyes of fire? It’s scary, isn’t it? In the same way, the glorious Jesus Christ is also to be taken seriously because He is the holy and righteous Judge. He is not “bro” or “the man upstairs.” He is the Son of God and our coming Judge.

2. The Commendation (2:19). These are the strongest words of commendation given to any of the churches. But before He confronted her weakness He affirmed her strengths. Jesus realizes something His people often do not: Christians need encouragement as much as they need rebuke. We should follow this practice: first affirm the positive and then rebuke the negative.[7]

Jesus begins His commendation with the phrase “I know your deeds” (Rev 2:2; 3:1, 8). He then affirms the church in four ways.

·          “Love” (agapen). Love is a sacrificial commitment to God and others. Of the seven churches, Thyatira is the only one singled out for their love.[8]

·         “Faith” (pistin).[9] Faith is a conviction or persuasion based upon hearing.

·         “Service” (diakonia). Service is a voluntary ministering to others.[10] Service is exhausting, and it’s very easy to become weary and even resentful because others may seem like they aren’t pulling their weight. Are you a servant? In what ministry context do you consistently serve? Whom do you sacrificially serve?

·          “Perseverance” (hupomonen): Perseverance is the ability to persist in doing well through time (cf. Rev 2:2). It is refusing to throw in the towel when things get tough. This requires fortitude and tenacity. Vance Havner once said, “Too many people go up like rockets and come down like rocks.”[11] Perseverance has to do with our understanding of God’s sovereignty. If we know that God is in control of our circumstances, then we keep at it for we know that God is working out the situation according to an eternal plan.

On a scale of 1 to 10 (with ten being the highest), how would you evaluate yourself in the areas of love, faith, service, and perseverance?

After giving out four straight A+ grades, Jesus includes a progress report that reads: “your deeds of late are greater than at first.” The church had been growing in her strengths. Most likely these deeds are greater both quantitatively and qualitatively.[12] However, some of us need to recognize that God is not asking us to take on more works for Him. Instead, He is calling us to do the works that we are currently doing, with greater excellence.

Unfortunately, the church at Thyatira was not an honor roll church. In fact, Jesus is about to flunk a number of people in this church.

3. The Condemnation (2:20-23). Jesus says in 2:20, “But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess,[13] and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.”[14] Jesus begins His scathing rebuke with the familiar words, “But[15] I have this against you.” Jesus spoke these very same words to the church in Ephesus (cf. Rev 2:4). Ephesus was strong in doctrine but weak in love. Thyatira was strong in love but weak in doctrine. It’s common for churches to be polarized in one of these two extremes. Either they will have full heads and empty hearts, or full hearts and empty minds. Either polarization is deadly. Balance is the key in any church. God demands both love and sound doctrine (see 1 Tim 1:5).

Doctrine and love are like the two chemical ingredients of salt. Interestingly, salt is composed of two poisons: sodium and chloride. If we ingest one without the other we would die. But if we combine them together properly we have sodium chloride which is common table salt. It gives flavor to food and life and health to our bodies. So too, doctrine and love must be bound together. One without the other leads to a deadly imbalance. Separately they can be deadly. But combined they provide health to the body of Christ. The church at Thyatira had gotten out of balance. They had all love but no doctrine. The result was devastating.[16]

The initial charge against Thyatira is: “You tolerate the woman Jezebel.” There is our word “tolerate” once again. Notice that Jesus’ rebuke is directed against the church of Thyatira, not Jezebel. Jesus was angry that these believers tolerated false teaching and sinful behavior rather than confronting and condemning it.

If you’re a student of the Old Testament you may remember that Jezebel was the notorious wife of Ahab, king of Israel. Queen Jezebel led King Ahab away from worshipping God to serve the false god Baal. Then, through intimidation and deception, she got Ahab to propagate her idolatrous teaching throughout Israel (1 Kgs 16:31-33; 2 Kgs 9:22). But that’s over 900 years before this letter is written to Thyatira. So obviously Jesus is talking about another Jezebel, a current leader in the church. I don’t believe, however, that her real name is Jezebel, for there are some names, like Judas and Jezebel that are completely out of bounds for anyone to give to their child. I think Jesus refers to this prophetess in Thyatira as “Jezebel” because that name had become synonymous with wickedness.

Jesus says that this Jezebel “calls herself a prophetess and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray, so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols” (2:20). This Jezebel called herself a prophetess but she did not serve the Lord. Instead, she misled believers—not by seducing them herself but “by her teaching.”[17] This could mean that she openly taught that free sex and idolatry was okay, but I doubt it. Even most nominal Christians wouldn’t tolerate that. It is more likely that her teaching was imbalanced and distorted to the point that her listeners were subtly enticed to engage in such behavior. This Jezebelian woman must have been persuasive, charismatic, and maybe even attractive because she was able to lead Jesus’ own “bond-servants” into a religion that was essentially a combination of idol worship and orgies. Most of us can hardly imagine worship and open sexual perversion together. Generally speaking, in our society nearly all religions make at least a pretense of teaching the values of marriage, family, and faithfulness. But that is changing. What God has called an abomination in His Word, many, even in the religious community, are now calling normal and holy. That was apparently happening in the church at Thyatira as well.

It goes without saying that Jesus didn’t appreciate this. So He declared, “I gave her time to repent, and she does not want to repent of her immorality” (2:21). We must note that Jesus “gave her time to repent.” It’s not clear how or when this opportunity for repentance came, but it indicates an important biblical principle: the Lord’s judgments are not hasty—He gives time for repentance.[18] But that time is limited. Unfortunately in this case, this woman refused to repent. She hardened her heart.[19] She became like a runaway truck going down a mountain—hard to stop.

Jezebel’s judgment was imminent and she was about to run smack into Jesus. Jesus’ warning is powerful: “Behold, I will throw her on a bed of sickness, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of her deeds. And I will kill her children with pestilence, and all the churches will know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts; and I will give to each one of you according to your deeds” (2:22-23). Three times in these two verses, the phrase “I will” appears. It is Jesus Himself who brings God’s discipline. He says that Jezebel will end up on a bed of suffering since her influence has led to the violation of the marriage bed. But she is not the only one who will suffer—so will those who commit adultery with her. This could refer to literal sexual immorality, but it is more likely a reference to the spiritual adultery that her followers engage in when they accept her false teaching. Note the change from “they” to “her.” This stresses that their deeds of immorality were really the product of her teaching, example, and error. Teaching is a very strong medium. We must never underestimate how a teacher can subtly influence his/her listeners. This should remind us of what a great responsibility those in places of leadership have (cf. Luke 6:40; Jas 3:1), but also of how we need to be sure that the lives and teaching of our leaders truly line up with the Word of God.

Jesus goes on to say, “I will kill her children (i.e., disciples)[20] with pestilence.” The result of this looming judgment is then “all the churches will know that I[21] am He who searches the minds[22] and hearts.” Discipline in the church has several purposes: one is correction in the sinning person’s life. Another purpose is restoration—always the goal of biblical discipline is to bring the person back to the Lord. But discipline also has the purpose of instilling a healthy respect for the Lord in the people of God.[23]

Jesus closes this condemnation by stating the biblical principle: “I will give to each of you according to your deeds.”[24] This is confusing to some people, for they are familiar with passages to the effect that God will not count our sins against us and will bury them in the deepest sea. But then they read passages like this which indicate that we will be held accountable for our deeds. I think both are true. Believers in Christ will never face the eternal judgment for their sins but they will be held accountable for their deeds when it comes to the handing out of eternal rewards. Unbelievers, though separated from God because they died without Christ, will also be punished in proportion to their deeds in this life.

It would be easy for us to think that we are far from the church at Thyatira. We don’t have any female heretics that I am aware of; much less one that might be called a Jezebel. We don’t take a casual corporate attitude toward sexual immorality, and we certainly don’t promote idolatry. But I think we might be congratulating ourselves too soon. One of the things you discover readily when you read the Old Testament is that adultery and fornication are often used as symbols of spiritual unfaithfulness. Israel is often accused of adultery even when no sexual immorality is involved. When God’s people put other things ahead of Him—whether it be success, prosperity, materialism, sports, fitness, financial security, or even ministry—he becomes jealous because we are being unfaithful to Him, the One who created us, loved us, died for us, and is one day coming again for us. He will tolerate no other lovers. The seductive teaching of Jezebel is a real danger in our church and every church today.

Every generation of Christians must face the question, “How far should I go in accepting and adopting the cultural standards and behaviors of my day?” Where does being contemporary cross over into compromise? If most people, even most Christians I know, watch whatever comes on TV, does that mean I have carte blanche to do the same? If they are going to R-rated movies, is that sufficient justification for me to go? If most are becoming tolerant of attitudes and practices that were routinely condemned 20 years ago, is that reason for me to change?

The problem you see, is that we Christians are caught between two worlds—citizens of two countries, and we cannot renounce either. We are citizens of earth and at the same time citizens of heaven. The cause of Christ is not served if Christians come across as dinosaurs trying to hide from the real world. The Amish, for example, are not winning the world to their faith; they are just a curiosity, and they are fortunate if they even keep their own children among the faithful. But by the same token, the cause of Christ is not advanced if we buy wholesale into the world’s values and become chameleon Christians indistinguishable from its permanent residents.[25]

Jesus now returns to the faithful remnant within the church at Thyatira. Thankfully, some had not bought into Jezebel’s bill of goods.

4. The Challenge (2:24-25). “But I say to you, the rest who are in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not known the deep things of Satan, as they call them—I place no other burden on you.” Apparently this woman claimed that her teaching (that Christians can indulge the flesh with impunity) was deeper than the apostles’ teaching, but it was of course the depths of satanic doctrine. Jezebel claimed to introduce her followers into the deep things of God (cp. 1 Cor 2:10), but in reality she was introducing them to the deep things of Satan. The faithful in Thyatira had dared to stand against the pressure exerted by Jezebel and her group. In return, Jesus promised not to add a further burden to the faithful beyond that of putting up with further ridicule and social ostracism brought on by their daring to label fornication and eating meat sacrificed to idols as sinful activities in which Christians should have no part (2:24). This group of loyal Christians valued their relationship to God more than their jobs, their families, and their very lives.

To these faithful believers, Jesus says, “Nevertheless what you have, hold fast until I come” (2:25). Jesus again returns to the faithful remnant and concludes with a call to “hold fast what you have”[26] until He returns. He doesn’t say leave the church; He says, “hold fast” (krateo) your integrity and your works. This is no minor warning. The tendency of believers is to lose ground rather than hold fast and move ahead. This warns against the universal principle that things always tend to degenerate rather regenerate. It’s much like the second law of thermodynamics, which simply put says life goes from order to disorder and not vice versa. Things naturally go downhill unless there is great effort against those forces that, like gravity, tend to pull us downward. So there is always the need to cling to the Lord and hold tightly through a close walk with Him in the Word.[27]

This verse also provides an important answer for some Christians who seem to have the notion that God is impossible to please. Some get this from parents or teachers or preachers or from books, not from God Himself. Here, Jesus says to those who have resisted this false prophetess, simply “hold on.” He’s not asking for anything else from us and He promises things won’t get any worse. Just hold on. There may be some of you this morning that are almost to the end of your rope. You’re discouraged, you’re depressed, you’re feeling like a failure, and life seems ready to crush you. Just hold on to what you have. Yes, holding on until Jesus comes may seem like a long time, for we don’t know when that will be. One thing is certain—it can’t be any further away than our own death because to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (Phil 1:21-23; 2 Cor 5:6-9).

5. The Call (2:26-29). After a sobering wake-up call the church at Thyatira is ready for some hope. So Jesus says, “He who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, TO HIM I WILL GIVE AUTHORITY OVER THE NATIONS; 27 AND HE SHALL RULE THEM WITH A ROD OF IRON, AS THE VESSELS OF THE POTTER ARE BROKEN TO PIECES, as I also have received authority from My Father; 28 and I will give him the morning star.” In 2:26, Jesus gives the clearest definition of an overcomer in these seven letters: “he who keeps My deeds until the end.” Most anyone can run, walk, or crawl a 100-yard dash. It doesn’t matter how much you weigh or how slow you are, you can travel 300 feet down a track. Obviously, not everyone will set a world record—at least not for speed. But most will eventually cross the line. But a marathon is another story. Here Jesus calls us to a marathon. This requires a determination to persevere and to finish well.

The reward for such faithfulness was the privilege of reigning with Christ in His earthly kingdom.[28] The Lord intended the prospect of this blessing to motivate the unfaithful in the church to return to God’s will for them and to encourage the faithful to persevere. Believers who are faithful will receive authority in heaven from Jesus Christ and will “rule” (lit. shepherd) others during the millennium.[29] It will be run like our world today, with prime ministers, governors, and mayors who will rule for and with Christ. Where you sit then depends on how you live now. You may not live in a position of power now, but if you serve the Lord faithfully, God will give you a position of power and prestige in His kingdom.

The Old Testament passage Jesus quotes here in 2:27, which comes from Psalm 2, seems like an odd choice in that it speaks of ruling in judgment on the wicked. But if you examine the psalm more closely, you note that the immediately preceding verse offers this promise, “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession” (Ps 2:8). The authority we receive from Jesus, He goes on to say in His letter to Thyatira, will be like the authority He Himself receives from His Father.

Jesus also says that He will give the overcomer the “morning star” (2:28).[30] Jesus is promising all overcomers His own eternal presence,[31] for at the end of Revelation He says, “I am…the bright morning star” (Rev 22:16).[32] The overcomer will experience great intimacy with His Lord.

But there also seems to be another emphasis. The text literally says, “the star, the morning one.” This means the brilliant or bright one, the brightest of all the stars. The star of the morning may be considered the brightest, and the symbolism here indicates the glory that the righteous will experience in the coming kingdom. Daniel the prophet says it best: “the righteous will shine like the stars forever and ever” (Dan 12:3).

Jesus closes this letter with the familiar call: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (2:29). All seven letters close with this statement. Yet, beginning with this letter, the last four letters place this call after the promises to the overcomer. Again, we see the personal and loving concern of the Spirit of God for His people and His desire that we all respond in faith and obedience.

A wealthy couple had a son that they dearly loved. Unfortunately, the mother died, leaving the care of the boy with the father. He knew that he needed help to raise the boy so he enlisted the aid of a housekeeper, who came to take care of the boy. She came to love him as if he were her own son.

The boy was stricken with a disease and died at a young age. Soon after, perhaps because of a broken heart, the father also died. Because no will was found, the decision was made to auction his personal belongings to the highest bidder.

The housekeeper attended the auction, not because she could afford the expensive furniture or the pricey antiques. She came because she wanted a picture of the boy that hung in the living room. When the auctioneer got to it, it sold for a few cents.

When the woman took the picture home, she noticed a piece of paper attached to the back. It was the father’s last will and testament, written in his own handwriting, which read simply; “I will all of my inheritance to the person who loved my son enough to buy this picture.”

God the Father loves His Son. And if we love Him, the Father will stop at nothing to bless us, even granting us the privilege of reigning and ruling with Him.[33]

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] William Lobdell, “Pollster Prods Christian Conservatives,” LA Times, 2002-SEP-14, at: http://www.latimes.com/features/religion/

[3] Steven J. Lawson, Final Call (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 1994), 132.

[4] The title “Son of God” is only used here in the book of Revelation though it is practically equivalent to “Messiah” (cf. Ps 2:12; Luke 4:41; John 1:34, 49; 3:18; 5:25; 10:36; 11:4, 27; 20:31).

[5] Sonship is a rulership term in the New Testament and used rather sparingly.

[6] Burnished (highly reflective) bronze feet in this context picture a warrior with protected feet (cf. Rev 1:15; Dan 10:6). Bronze is usually a symbol for judgment. Consider the brazen altar and the brazen laver in the Old Testament tabernacle. These were the pieces of furniture used in judging sin.

[7] Jesus sees the good and commends it in every area. It is this balance of truth that is so important to us for credibility. We meet people with whom it is right or it is wrong and there is no middle ground. They cannot tolerate that there may be a mixture. Yet, life and people usually contains a mixture of good and bad. It’s usually not black and white.

[8] The noun “love” (agape) only occurs twice in Revelation (2:4, 19). Three of the four times the verb agapao is used (1:5, 3:9; 20:9), it speaks of divine love, and the fourth (12:11) of the willing sacrifice of the martyrs.

[9] The word pistin can mean either “faith” or “faithfulness.” Some commentators prefer to translate pistin in this context as “faithfulness,” but this is nearly synonymous with “perseverance.” “Faith” seems to be the better option.

[10] D.L. Moody once said, “The measure of a man is not in how many servants he has, but how many servants he serves.” A businessman once asked Lorne Sanny, then president of the Navigators, how he could know when he had a servant like attitude. The answer was, “By how you act when you’re treated like one.” Lawson, Final Call, 137.

[11] Kent Crockett, Making Today Count for Eternity (Sisters, OR: Multnomah, 2001), 155.

[12] Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 155.

[13] This wicked woman claimed to be a prophetess and had a significant following. Prophets were very important in the early church, particularly prior to the completion of the New Testament. After the apostles had died off and before the church had a complete Scripture, prophets were relied on to proclaim the Word of God. These men and women were highly honored in the life of the church, but Paul warned in 1 Corinthians 14 about the potential for abuse of their influence. This woman is a case in point. I would assume she was a gifted speaker with a charismatic personality. Immature Christians were drawn to her.

[14] To commit sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols was expressly forbidden at the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15:29). It is also worth noting that in the Bible, idolatry and immorality almost always went together, and whenever God’s people toyed with false worship, immorality was not far behind.

[15] “But” (alla) is the same strong contrasting word Jesus used with the Ephesian church and the Pergamum church.

[16] Lawson, Final Call, 138

[17] The critical problem with Jezebel was that her leadership was causing people to go astray. She was propagating errors similar to the two committed by the Nicolaitans: eating meat sacrificed to idols and committing fornication (cp. Rev 2:20 with 2:14-15).

[18] In the same way, we should be patient with each other as God is patient with us.

[19] The Bible speaks frequently of the danger of a hard heart. It can destroy one in time and in eternity.

[20] Jezebel’s error was poison to the life of the church in which she operated. It was widely known in churches elsewhere and had prevailed long enough to allow her to attract a group of followers whom the Lord called “her children” (Rev 2:23).

[21] The word “I” (ego eimi) is very emphatic in the Greek text.

[22] The word “minds” (nephros) literally means kidney. The ancients viewed feelings and emotions as abiding in the kidneys.

[23] In Acts 5 we have the story of Ananias and Sapphira, two members of the earliest church in Jerusalem. Together they agreed to lie about a piece of property they sold, claiming they were giving all the proceeds to the church when they only gave some. Now the apostle Peter made clear that they had the perfect right to keep some of the money, in fact, all of it if they wanted to. But they did not have the right to lie to the Holy Spirit and to the Church. As a result, both were struck dead. Bam! Here is the final statement in the story: “Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.” I guess so! I think great fear would come also upon the church today if God disciplined us in the same way. I’m thankful He usually doesn’t, but that’s the point of God’s judgment on Jezebel and her cohorts: “Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds.”

[24] Cf. Ps 7:9; Prov 24:12; Jer 11:20; 17:10; 20:12.

[25] The question that ought to be asked is: how much do you love Jesus? You can always tell how much you love Jesus by how much you hate any trace of that which nailed Him to the cross. Do you hate the things God hates? In John 2:17 Jesus was “consumed” (katesthio) with zeal for God’s house. This word can mean, “eaten up” or “devoured.” Are you eaten up with such holy zeal or have you become complacent about the impurity and shallowness of today’s church?

[26] A parallel construction in Rev 3:11 says, “Hold fast so that your crown will not be taken away.” The believers there had accumulated some heavenly treasure according to their list of commendations mentioned earlier. However, continued faithfulness, perseverance, and diligence were required as well as separation from false teaching that immorality was permissible. If they would fall away into idolatry and immorality they would put themselves in danger of losing what they had.

[27] See Hampton Keathely III, Studies in Revelation (Dallas: Biblical Studies Foundation, 1997), 76.

[28] Cf. Rev 1:6; 12:5; 19:15; Ps 2:8-9; 2 Tim 2:12; Rev 20:4-6.

[29] Cf. Rev 3:21; Luke 19:11-27; 1 Cor 6:2-3; 2 Tim 2:12.

[30] More than likely, the key to the meaning of the morning star is found in Revelation 22:16, which says, “I am the root and offspring of David, the bright morning star.” This links Jesus with the throne of David and describes Christ as the star. Jesus is descended from the royal line of David and is the star, the King himself, who was prophesied in Numbers 24:14-19 as the star who would come out of Jacob and possess the scepter.

[31] The one who has put his or her faith in Jesus Christ has him right now. In the letter to the church at Laodicea, Jesus says, “If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me” (Rev 3:20). But the promise here is that we will enjoy Him in a new and intimate way, and for eternity, when we have overcome and done his will to the end.

[32] Peter also refers to the “morning star” (see 2 Pet 1:19). However, in that context, it seems to be a reference to the fuller understanding we will receive at the return of the Lord for the church when the Lord is personally present to enlighten us.

[33] Erwin W. Lutzer, Your Eternal Reward (Chicago: Moody, 1998), 159.

“The Living Dead” (Revelation 3:1-6)

Jumbo shrimp, ill health, good casserole, freezer burn, old news, and pretty ugly. What do all six of these phrases share in common? They are all oxymorons. An oxymoron is two words that seem to be contradictory, but are joined together. They are terms that shouldn’t fit together, but they do.[1]

But what about this one…a dead church? That has to be the ultimate oxymoron—the greatest of all contradictions. How can you have a dead church? How can a congregation be dead if the living Lord indwells it? You would think this would be impossible. Sadly, it’s not. Many churches are dead! Their sanctuary is a morgue with a steeple. They are congregations of corpses. They have undertakers for ushers, embalmers for elders, morticians for ministers, and the pastor graduated from the cemetery. Such churches lost vital signs years ago.[2]

So what, if anything, can be done about a dead church? How can a dead church be revived? How can we prevent our church from dying? Jesus will answer these questions and more in Revelation 3:1-6.

1. The Character (3:1a). Jesus describes Himself as the One who “has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars.” The word “has” (echon) conveys both ownership and control. Jesus holds or possesses the seven spirits and stars. The number “seven” is the number for perfection or fullness. This does not mean that there are seven Holy Spirits. There is only one Spirit of God. “The seven spirits of God” represent the fullness of the Holy Spirit sent to the seven churches (cf. Rev 1:7, see also Isa 11:2-5; Zech 4:2, 10).[3] It is through the Spirit that God brings revival to His church. This means that revival comes only by God’s choosing, not by man’s doing. This principle is recorded for us in Zechariah 4:6, “‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts.”

Jesus also has “the seven stars.” This speaks of His sovereign control of the angelic realm (cf. Rev 1:20). Through the angel responsible for each church, Jesus protects and controls His churches. The church in Sardis needs to be reminded of their spiritual resources. Not only do they have the full measure of the Holy Spirit; they have angels watching over each church. These angels are held in the palm of Jesus’ hand.

2. The Condemnation (3:1b). With each of the previous four churches, Jesus begins with a word of commendation. But when Jesus speaks to the church in Sardis, He starts with a word of condemnation. He does so because a dead church is deadly to the cause of Christ. Ironically, Jesus’ condemnation focused upon that which the church felt was their strength—her name. He says, “I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” Jesus’ knowledge about the church in Sardis pertained to their deeds, which were woefully inadequate. They had a name, but that was it.[4] From God’s perspective, they were as good as “dead.”[5] It is important to recognize that the church in Sardis doesn’t appear dead. This church has a reputation for being alive.[6] People are impressed. This church’s deadness is not man’s evaluation but God’s.

So why did Jesus consider this church dead? It would seem that to be “dead” is the opposite of possessing “unsoiled garments” in 3:4. In this sense, “dead” could be equated with “defiled” and “undefiled” could be equated with “living.”[7] Apparently, the church had probably begun not only to read but to believe their own press clippings. Such acclaim could have deadened their sensitivity to the spiritual warfare in which they were engaged. The result would have been to sense little need for prayer, little reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit, and great confidence in human wisdom, human effort, and human programs. While their doctrine had not changed, their dependence upon God had greatly diminished.

This is a warning. A church is in danger of death: when it begins to worship its own past or history, its reputation or name, or the names in the church, when it is more concerned with forms than with function and life, when it is more concerned with numbers and noses than with the spiritual quality of life it is producing in its people, when it is more involved with management than with ministry or with the physical over the spiritual. Interestingly, most churches do not die in one fell swoop. They die gradually. Almost all liberal churches today started as evangelical churches. Churches die by degree.

It is rather startling to realize that there can be such a contrast between what people say about a church and what Jesus might say about the same church. This truth is also relevant to every individual Christian. Friends may think that we are spiritually alive by what they see us do, but it is possible for us to be spiritually dead in the eyes of the Lord, no matter what others say. Here is a good lesson: don’t be too quick to judge outward appearances or performance. The important questions deal with the inward man, the realm of the unseen, the heart of the individual. Are we really in fellowship with the Lord in the innermost recesses of our hearts?[8]

3. The Correction (3:2-3). In life, identifying the problem is the first step toward solving it. The problem with the church in Sardis was that she was dead. But as hopeless as that sounds, all was not lost. Jesus saw the glow of embers among the ashes and exhorted the believers in Sardis to fan the flame with renewed commitment to Him. How could they do this? What steps were they to take? Christ gave them five directives that, if obeyed, would burn new life into their church.[9]

·         Wake up.[10] Every time the phrase “wake up” is used in the New Testament, it conveys the notion that God’s people are spiritually asleep when they should be awake. Jesus uses a very effective metaphor. In the physical realm, when we are asleep we are unconcerned, apathetic, and indifferent. Unfortunately, the same can be true in the spiritual realm. Many Christians have dozed off and they don’t even know it. They are in need of an abrupt wake-up call.
When I am at home, I use two alarm clocks to ensure that I will get up early each morning. One is on my nightstand and the other requires me to get out of bed and turn it off. They are set five minutes apart just in case I climb back into bed. In a spiritual sense, I like to envision my first alarm clock as the Word of God. It should always wake me up but if it doesn’t, I have a back up. My back up should be a brother or sister in Christ that will keep me from drifting into a deep sleep.
It is worth mentioning that the Greek word translated “wake up”[11] can also be translated “keep being watchful.” Jesus wants His church to be vigilant. Christians can decline into spiritual lethargy if they do not stay alert. Whenever we do not watch our spiritual condition, we begin to decline.
Have you taken a good look at your own spiritual condition lately? Do you do this often? I would encourage you to memorize Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.” This is a passage that is worth going through every morning. This will ensure that you wake up well and are spiritually watchful. Mark this well: there is very little difference between living in either a sinful condition or an apathetic condition.

·         Strengthen.[12] The word “strengthen” means “to establish or stabilize something.”[13] Jesus commands this church to “strengthen the things[14] that remain which were about to die.” This is likely a reference to various opportunities remaining for this church. Sardis is living on borrowed time. Yet, as long as a church remains, God still has a purpose for it.
Once the church loses its life God’s purpose for it is over. No matter how a church may have failed God still has a purpose for it, if it secures a right relationship with the Lord.

·         Remember. Jesus says, “Remember, what you have received and heard.” The word “remember”[15] means “to constantly call to mind.” The church at Sardis is to remember how they responded to the good news of the Gospel at the first. While the NASB renders it, “Remember therefore what you have received…” the marginal note indicates that “what” is literally “how” in the original text. The “what” (the doctrines of the faith) had not been forgotten or forsaken, but the “how” (their response, prompted by the power of the Holy Spirit) had been. The cure for this nearly dead church was to keep in mind the way that they had first responded to the truth of God and to once again respond in the same way, prompted and empowered by God’s Spirit. The key to the Christian life begins in the mind.
There is a reason (“for”) that Sardis is almost out of time. Jesus’ explains, “I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God.” Could they be good deeds done for the wrong reasons? Giving applause and recognition, serving out of guilt or obligation, loving in order to be loved—these are all incomplete deeds.
I’d like you to notice that Jesus knows what God has called us to do and if we fail, the deeds are not “finished.” Finishing works is very high on God’s value system (John 17:4; 19:30; Rev 21:6). God is after our perseverance. I can’t emphasize that enough. That theme dominates these seven letters.

·         Retain. Jesus says, “Keep it”[16] (1 John 2:3). God has called us to apply the truth of His Word. He’s not after information overload but transformation overload. Are you a different kind of spouse, parent, employee, or friend because of your faith? Do others see the difference in your life without being told that you’re a Christian?
I met with a pastor last week and he said that the most important thing in fellow staff pastors was loyalty. He then said that he is seeking that very same thing in his congregation. If loyalty is so important to this pastor, how much more important is it to God? He wants your unswerving loyalty to Him. He wants you to keep His commandments over the course of your lifetime.

·         Repent.[17] This last exhortation sets the previous four in motion. The New Testament uses of “repent”[18] (metanoeo) always mean a change of thinking for the better (except in Luke 17:3-4). Repentance implies a change of life because of a complete change of thought and attitude. While the emphasis in the English is on sorrow or contrition, the Greek word carries the idea of a total change in thinking and behavior with respect to both how we think and act. Whether the focus is on attitude or behavior depends on the context. Jesus wants the Christians at Sardis to completely change their thinking and orientation about their sin.

If the church in Sardis ignores these five commands, Jesus will deal with them. “Therefore if you do not wake up, I will come[19] like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come to you.” Our Lord Jesus is patient with our apathy and indifference. Yet even the Lord has limits. If they refused to repent, Jesus promised to come to the church as a thief.[20]

Thieves come when we do not expect them to come. Thieves do not make appointments to steal from us. They do not say they are going to come in two days or at two in the morning. No, Jesus will come unexpectedly. Christians out of fellowship will be totally unprepared.[21] Choose today that you will not be one who will be caught unaware.

4. The Call (3:4-6). Jesus gives a commendation after the condemnation in this letter. He commends a few spiritual giants that did not soil their garments. Jesus declares, “But you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled[22] their garments; and they will walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.” The worthiness here is linked to the fact that these were believers “who have not soiled [defiled] their garments.” Clearly Jesus isn’t praising them for using Tide on their togas! This is a figurative way of saying that there were a few who had not walked in disobedience (cp. Rev 22:14; Jas 1:27; Jude 23). Walking with Christ in white garments refers to a practical righteousness not a positional righteousness.[23] This must be seen as a reward.[24] Otherwise Christ is teaching salvation by works here!

Of course, we know from Jesus’ teachings and from the entire Bible that no one but Christ is worthy to be in God’s kingdom because of his or her deeds. Salvation is a gift given through faith in the finished work of Christ. It is based on His worthiness and record, not ours (Eph 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7). We are only worthy to enter God’s kingdom because we have trusted in the worthy One. Nevertheless, Jesus still exhorts us to, “walk in a manner worthy of our calling” (Eph 4:1). We could say that the worthier the walk, the whiter the garments.

This verse suggests that believers will not be clothed identically in the kingdom. Some will wear special white garments. These special garments will signify that the wearer is one who honored Christ until the end of his or her Christian experience. A comparison with Rev 16:15 makes this evident: “Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and men will not see his shame.” This verse contains all the same elements, the coming of the Lord as a thief, the need for watchfulness, the need to keep one’s spiritual garments clean, the prospect of walking with Christ in white garments or no garments, and the prospect of joy verses shame. Only the believer who is watchful will walk in white. A distracted believer will “walk naked” and others will “see his shame.” He doesn’t have the good works necessary to provide adequate spiritual clothing. The result is shame at the judgment seat of Christ.[25]

In 3:5, Jesus says, “He who overcomes[26] will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life,[27] and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” The individual who overcomes literally “shall clothe himself” (reflecting the future middle voice) in white garments.[28] These kinds of garments are only promised to Christ and church-age individuals. More than likely these are glory garments. In the Greek Old Testament (LXX), this word translates bridal garments in Psalm 45:8 and Jesus’ garments in Psalm 22:18.[29]

Now I acknowledge that Christlike character and action is not the dress of choice in the human scheme of life. Popular culture assembles lists of the Ten Best-Dressed, Worst-Dressed, and Sexiest people, but it is difficult to imagine widespread interest in people who spent time and money “clothing” themselves in actions that are pleasing to the eyes of God. Yet this is of eternal importance. Peter, James, and John caught a glimpse of what these glorious garments will be like. When Jesus was transfigured before them, “His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light” (Matt 17:2). It may well be that the brightness of an overcomer’s clothes will be proportional to how Christlike he or she was in this life (cf. 1 Pet 4:13).

Now we will look at the controversial phrase in 3:5: “I will not erase his name from the book of life.” The first question that enters many people’s mind is: does God have an eraser in heaven? Three things should be observed in relation to this expression. First, whatever it means, it can’t contradict other Scripture or the clear meaning of the rest of the passage or of other Scripture (e.g., John 10:28-29; Rom 8:38-39; 2 Tim 2:13).

Second, 3:5 does not say, “He who does not overcome I will erase his name from the book of life.” This is a very important point. This verse doesn’t say anything about the fate of those who don’t overcome. It certainly doesn’t say that God will erase the non-overcomer’s name out of the Book of Life. The focus here is on the overcomer, not on the non-overcomer.

If I said, “All fathers are men,” that wouldn’t mean that the opposite is true, that all men are fathers. There are plenty of men who aren’t fathers. In the same way, the corollary to our verse is not true. God will not erase the name of the non-overcoming believer from the Book of Life![30] Once a person has spiritual life, it can never be taken away (cf. John 10:28-29; 1 John 5:12). No Christian will have his name blotted from that book. His eternal identity rests on the fact that he is an individual whose name is written in heaven (Luke 10:20).

Before we move on we must understand some very important truths. If we did not become Christians by good works, then we cannot become non-Christians by bad works. God bases our salvation on the finished work of Christ, not on our works. A person can never have eternal security by what he does; he can only have eternal security based on what Christ did.

Third, there is a well-established figure of speech called litotes (lie-tuh-tease). This figure serves as an understatement in which a positive point is made by denying its opposite.[31] The secret of understanding any statement involving litotes is found in knowing that the negative idea is not the point. For example, this afternoon when my family sits down for our Sunday meal, I could say to my second child, Justin, “If you finish your meal today, I won’t make you eat brussel sprouts.” Now, let’s assume that I’ve previously guaranteed Justin that he will never eat brussel sprouts. Justin would thus know that even if he didn’t finish his meal, he would not eat brussel sprouts. In reality, what I’m promising him is a special dessert if he finishes his meal.[32] So too, when the Lord says that He won’t erase the name of the overcoming believer from the Book of Life, He means that your everlasting name is supremely secure.[33]

In the final stanza of 3:5 Jesus states, “I will confess his name [the overcomer’s name] before My Father and before His angels.” This is rewards language. The word “confess” (homologeo) means “to acknowledge, claim, profess, praise.”[34] Jesus will acknowledge faithful believers before the Father and before His angels (cp. Matt 10:32-33; Luke 19:11-19). He will say, “Well done, good slave” (Luke 19:17). This is a reward that faithful believers will receive. It is to have the Lord publicly approve of one’s character and service. Only those Christians who acknowledge Christ now will be acknowledged by Him then. Conversely, not having one’s name acknowledged is to forfeit the Master’s, “Well done!”[35]

Jesus closes this letter with the familiar words, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (3:6). We must heed the words of this letter.

A brilliant young pianist was giving his very first concert. As the final chord of his flawless performance reverberated in the hall, the audience rose to its feet and broke out in thunderous applause. Only one member of the audience remained seated, clapping politely, but without particular enthusiasm. Tears welled up in the young pianist’s eyes. His head dropped slightly as he left the stage in utter defeat.

The stage manager in the great hall was a sensitive and observant man who had noticed the lone gentleman and saw how this cool response affected the star performer. “Son,” he said, “you’re a hit! Everyone was overwhelmed. The critic from the Times was in tears. By morning you’ll be famous. Don’t let one guy get you down.” “You don’t understand,” the dejected young man replied. “That man was my piano teacher. It only matters what he thinks.”[36]

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] See Steven J. Lawson, Final Call (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 1994), 151.

[3] The Holy Spirit guides, guards, and governs the church (cf. John 16:7-15).

[4] Dr. Vance Havner is quoted as saying that spiritual ministries often go through four stages: a man, a movement, a machine, and then a monument.

[5] This word “dead” (nekros) is the same word used in referring to the prodigal son. Elsewhere, a different Greek word for “dead” (thnesko) refers to an unfaithful Christian (e.g., 1 Tim 5:6).

[6] Sardis is the only church thus far not troubled by persecution or false teaching. Ephesus, Pergamum, and Thyatira were all under tremendous attack from within by false teachers. Smyrna was under attack from without by unbelievable persecution. But neither heresy nor persecution is mentioned in the letter to Sardis. Why did the Jews and the Romans apparently leave this church undisturbed, unlike its neighboring churches? The answer may well be its impotence to impact the surrounding culture. In other words, Satan had nothing to fear in this comatose church and therefore had no reason to marshal his forces against it from either the inside or the outside.

[7] Arlen L. Chitwood, Judgment Seat of Christ (Norman, OK: The Lamp Broadcast, 1986), 86.

[8] David Hocking, The Coming World Leader (Portland: Multnomah, 1988), 80.

[9] Charles R. Swindoll, Letters to Churches Then and Now (Fullerton, CA: Insight for Living, 1986), 34.

[10] In 1 Thess 5:10, a context dealing with Christ’s return as “a thief in the night” (5:2), Paul wrote, “[Christ] died for us, that whether we wake or sleep we should live together with Him.” In this context, “waking” (gregoreo) was used metaphorically to mean walking in the light, being sober, faithful, and loving. On the other hand “sleeping” (katheudo) meant to walk in the darkness to be drunk, unfaithful, and unloving (5:4-8). Paul was saying that all believers will be raptured, whether they are morally alert or asleep, when Christ returns for them. The believer who is morally asleep when Christ returns is not overcoming. Yet he will live together with Him as well!

[11] Gk. gregoron is a present tense active participle.

[12] Gk. sterison, aorist active imperative.

[13] Jesus wanted Peter to establish his brothers in Christ (Luke 22:32). Paul visited Rome that the saints might be established (Rom 1:11; cf. 1 Thess 3:2, 13; 2 Thess 2:17; 1 Pet 5:10; 2 Pet 1:12).

[14] Gk. ta (“things”) is a neuter noun and does not refer to people, but to spiritual realities. They were to establish the church with new vitality so to arouse it from its sleeping death.

[15] Gk. mnemoneue, present active imperative (cf. 2 Tim 2:8; Rev 2:5).

[16] Gk. terei, present active imperative (cf. John 9:16; 14:24; 1 Tim 5:22; 1 John 5:18).

[17] Jesus orders four of the seven churches to repent (cf. 2:5 [twice], 16, 21 [twice], 22; 3:19).

[18] Gk. metanonson, aorist active imperative (cf. Acts 8:22; Rev 2:5, 16; 3:19). The aorist tense calls for urgent action. The only hope is for a radical reorientation, a paradigm shift!

[19] The verb for “come” (heko) means a solemn appearance of the deity.

[20] That repeats a comparison of His coming that He had used twice during His earthly ministry, that of the head of a house being caught by surprise when a thief comes (Matt 24:42- 43; Luke 12:39). Paul also used the comparison when speaking of the surprise beginning of judgment in the day of the Lord (1 Thess 5:2). Likewise, Peter spoke of the coming of the day of the Lord as a thief (2 Pet 3:10). The Lord makes the comparison later in Revelation as he continues His larger message to the seven churches (Rev 16:15). The comparison of a thief’s surprise visit was widespread in the first-century church to remind people of the imminence of Christ’s return.

[21] Before His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension Jesus had instructed His followers to watch for His return (Matt. 24:42) and to be prepared for it (Matt. 24:44; Luke 12:39-40).

[22] The word “soiled” (moluno) means, “to smear, to stain, to defile, or to pollute.”

[23] Gk. axios (“worthy”) is used in a good sense elsewhere in Revelation only of God and Christ (cf. 4:11; 5:9).

[24] The worthiness here is linked to the fact that these were believers “who have not defiled their garments.” This shows us that walking with Him in white is a reward for personal righteousness or deeds of righteousness. Note also how this fits with Revelation 19:8. Walking in white must refer to the white garment of fine linen mentioned in Rev 19:8. There we are told the bride of Christ (the church) is “…to clothe herself in fine linen, bright and clean.” This is then declared to be the righteous acts of the saints, a reference to deeds or acts of righteousness produced in the life of the believer by the Holy Spirit because only these deeds will stand the test of the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Cor 3:13).

[25] Robert N. Wilkin, Confident in Christ (Irving, TX: GES, 1999), 123.

[26] If every Christian is an overcomer, we have a bit of a problem. Fuller explains, “A command that everyone keeps is superfluous, and a reward that everyone receives for a virtue that everyone has is nonsense.” J. William Fuller, “‘I Will Not Erase His Name from the Book of life’ (Revelation 3:5),” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 26 (1983): 299.

[27] In addition to the Book of Life, there are other categories of records or books mentioned in Scripture. These are

(1) Book of Wars (Num 21:14). This was a collection of war songs celebrating the glorious acts of God on behalf of Israel. (2) The Book of Jasher (Josh 10:13; 2 Sam 1:18). This was an early chronicle of the history of Israel.

(3) Book of Remembrance (Mal 3:16-17; Ps 56:8). This was a book of remembrance for special blessings and rewards for faithfulness. (4) Book of those physically alive (a dooms day book, Exod 32:32-33). This refers to a register of the physically living. To be blotted out meant to experience physical death (cf. Exod 17:14; Deut 29:20; Ps 9:5-6). (5) The Book of Works (Rev 20:12-13). This consists of a record of the deeds of unbelievers as a basis of their judgment proving they all fall short of the righteousness of Jesus Christ (Dan 7:9-10; Rom 3:19-24). See Hampton Keathley III, Revelation (Dallas: Biblical Studies Foundation, 1997), 425.

[28] Wallace classifies this as a causative middle, which can be translated: “the one who conquers will cause himself to be clothed in white clothing” (author’s emphasis). Daniel B. Wallace, Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996), 424.

[29] It is worth noting that tribulation saints are awarded a different style of garment (Rev 7:13-14). This offering of different clothing to different groups should not be overlooked when studying the book.

[30] John’s choice of grammar rules this possibility out. The word translated “not” is the Greek construction ou me. This is the strongest way possible to negate something in the Greek language.

[31] Other biblical examples include John 6:37: “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out.” = Jesus will welcome those who come to Him. Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of the gospel.” = Paul is very proud of the Gospel. When Paul says of the rebellious wilderness generation, “Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased” (1 Cor 10:5), he means that God was extremely displeased with all of them but two! Hebrews 6:10: “For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and love.” = God’s character guarantees He will remember.”

[32] Americans use litotes all the time in ordinary speech without being aware of it. Some additional examples might be: “you won’t go unrewarded.” = “You’ll be repaid.” “That suit is no bargain.” = “It’s expensive.” “The quiz wasn’t a snap.” = “It was tough.” “He sure isn’t Santa Claus.” = “He’s a Scrooge.” “Retailers are not saints.” = “They’ll cheat you.” “Theologians are not given to simple language.” = “They’re hard to follow.”

[33] The great Calvinistic expositor, Martyn Lloyd-Jones, held to this understanding of Rev 3:5. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Romans 8:17-39: The Final Perseverance of the Saints (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1975), 314ff.

[34] BDAG, Electronic Ed. See Matt 7:23; John 9:22; 12:42; Rom 10:9; 1 Tim 6:12; Titus 1:16; Heb 13:15; 1 John 2:23; 4:2-3, 15; 2 John 7.

[35] See also Joseph C. Dillow, The Reign of the Servant Kings (Hayesville, NC: Schoettle, 1992), 486.

[36] Dr. Tony Evans, The Victorious Christian Life (Nashville: Nelson, 1994), 249-50.

“Decide and Conquer” (Revelation 3:7-13)

A daughter complained to her father about how hard things were for her. “As soon as I solve one problem,” she said, “another one comes up. I’m tired of struggling.” Her father, a chef, took her to the kitchen where he filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to a boil. In one he placed carrots, in the second, eggs, and in the last, ground coffee beans. He let them sit and boil without saying a word.[1]

The daughter impatiently waited wondering what he was doing. After awhile he went over and turned off the burners. He fished out the carrots and placed them in a bowl. He pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. He poured the coffee into a bowl. Turning to her he asked, “Darling, what do you see?” “Carrots, eggs, and coffee,” she replied. He brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. He then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, he asked her to sip the coffee. She smiled as she tasted its rich flavor.

She asked, “What does it mean, Father?” He explained that each of them had faced the same adversity—boiling water—but each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting, but after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg was fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. By being in the boiling water they changed the water. The father then asked his daughter, “When adversity strikes, which are you?”[2]

Far too many Christians discover that when adversity strikes they are more like carrots or eggs than coffee. This results in many Christians and many churches bringing about little or no change in society. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the case. We can learn from the church of Philadelphia[3]—a church that faithfully served God in the midst of great adversity. As we look at Revelation 3:7-13, we will be called to “decide and conquer” our afflictions through Christ.

1. The Character (3:7). Before we consider Christ’s character, it is important that we note that Philadelphia and Smyrna (2:8-11) are the only two churches with no rebuke. It is interesting that both churches were experiencing adversity in the form of severe persecution from unbelieving Jews. Yet the tribulation of these two churches actually strengthened their spiritual lives. This is a reminder that present tribulation is no obstacle to faithfulness. This is very important. We are often tempted to think that adversity and opposition is the reason for our present failures in our spiritual lives, when in reality the exact opposite is true. The final church that we will study, the church of Laodicea (Rev 3:14-22), was the one church that seemed to be relatively free of adversity, yet they were lukewarm and were vomited out of Christ’s mouth.

In light of the faithfulness of Philadelphia, Jesus picks three titles that would encourage and reassure these believers. In contrast to the previous five letters, Jesus does not identify Himself with language from Rev 1:12-18.[4] Instead Jesus refers to Himself as holy, true, and sovereign. The first two expressions “holy” and “true” underscore the two things most vigorously denied concerning the Lord Jesus.[5] The first term, “holy” (hagios) means “set apart” or “a cut above” (Isa 6:3; 40:25; 65:16; Hab 3:3).[6] In this context it means that Jesus has been set apart to God. The term stresses His deity.[7] During His earthly ministry, the Lord Jesus claimed to be God and was persistently accused of blasphemy when He did so by those who rejected Him as Messiah (cf. John 8:42-59; 10:29-33). Yet Jesus remains the perfect Son of God. Jesus is not only “holy”; He is “true.” The word “true” (alethinos) means “genuine” or “authentic.”[8] Jesus is the One who corresponds to reality. Many deny these two attributes as applied to Jesus, yet the Scriptures are our guide and they insist that Jesus is both holy and true.

The final description refers to Jesus as the One with “the key[9] of David” who can open and shut doors. The expressions “the key of David” and “the open door” originate in Isaiah 22 where God gave Eliakim the key to the house of David. Before Eliakim received this key, an incident occurred that gave Eliakim the rights to the “key of David.” King Hezekiah caught Shebna (the steward or governor in charge of the king’s palace) in a fraud. Apparently Shebna had used his position to allow only those favorable to him and to his ideology into the king’s presence. God sent Shebna in exile to Babylon. God then replaced him with Eliakim, giving him the “key of David.” This gave Eliakim access to all of David’s riches. In the same way, Jesus, as the heir of David’s covenant, has been given all authority to grant entrance into heaven and the New Jerusalem (Rev 3:12, 21-22; cf. 1:18).

Notice that this verse doesn’t say that Jesus has “a” key. Rather, Jesus says that He has “the” key. He has the master key! He possesses all of heaven’s resources and authority. This means that Jesus can get into everything. He can unlock all the doors in your life: health, employment, and relationships. Jesus Christ holds the key. Why do you and I need to know this? Because if you ever need something from heaven, you need someone who has the key that can unlock the door.  In order for you to have victory on earth, you need the resources of heaven. It may seem hard at times to break through to heaven. Could it be that you’re using the wrong key? The key is to know who Jesus is. That is really the most important thing we need to know in this life.

2. The Commendation (3:8-10). In 3:8, Jesus begins with the familiar words, “I know your deeds.”[10] He then says, “Behold,[11] I have put before you an open door which no one can shut.” In this context, Jesus states that He will open the door of heaven to the church in Philadelphia.[12] The mention that no one can shut this door likely means that the Jews in Philadelphia (cf. 3:9) sought to exclude Gentiles from God.[13] Yet, through His own death and resurrection, Jesus has given free access to both Jew and Gentile. This is a verse of comfort. Our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life; we have been granted security in Christ. He is sovereign over who is saved and ensures that all of His children remain saved.

In the NASB, the rest of 3:8 reads, “because you have a little power, and[14] have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” This phrase gives the impression that the church at Philadelphia was given the free gift of salvation because they had “a little power, had kept Jesus’ Word, and had not denied His name.” Yet this is not the case. If you look at various English versions (e.g., ESV, NIV, NRSV, NLT), you will find that there is a period after “Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut.” I believe that this is a better rendering of this verse, which should be staggered to distinguish what Jesus is saying. Jesus now says to Philadelphia, “Even though you have only ‘a little power,’[15] you have remained faithful to My Word and to My name. What perseverance!”

Two dogs were arguing about who could open a door the easiest. In their bow-wow language, they were going at it. The Great Dane said to the little Chihuahua, “Be quiet, you can’t do anything. You can’t even reach the knob. Just stand on your hind legs and see how high you can get. The Chihuahua said, “I know I can go faster than you can.” But the Dane said, “Stand back, and then he got up on his hind legs, got his paws around the knob and twisted and turned. After exerting much energy, in about five minutes the Dane was finally able to open the door. He then closed the door and began barking, “Five minutes! How are you going to beat that? The door is closed and you can’t even reach the knob. What are you going to do? I’m the big dog; you’re a little puppy!” The Chihuahua said, “Stand back. The one with the little power came up to the door, took his front paws and started scratching. After 40 seconds, the master of the house came and opened the door.

Some of you out there are big dogs. You think you can open your own door. You can make your own way. You can do it all by yourself. But there are those of you with little power. You know that you’re unable to reach that high. Just scratch the door. Heavenly Father, let me out. Heavenly Father, make a way out of no way. Please come and open the door for me.[16]

In 3:9-10a, Jesus says, “Behold, I will cause those of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and make them know that I have loved you because[17] you have kept the word of My perseverance.” The “synagogue of Satan” (cf. Rev 2:9) was a Jewish gathering that had rejected Jesus as their Messiah and which aggressively persecuted the church in their city. Although this group was made up of Jewish people, Jesus didn’t consider them spiritual Jews.[18]

Why did Jesus promise these Christians that one day He would make these Jews come and bow down at their feet and know that He loved them?[19] It is likely that these Jews were slandering these Christ- followers. They no doubt said, “How can you say you’re God’s people when you are hated and despised? Is that how God treats those he loves? We know we are God’s people and we are safe, secure, and prosperous. Just say Jesus is a prophet or a wise rabbi and you can worship with us and have peace and security.” You may be rejected at work, in your neighborhood, or by your family because you claim to have God’s unique approval and unique truth.

The Lord promised His church that He would make her enemies bow down, not that they would voluntarily and willingly do so. Also, they will bow down “at their feet,” an expression of defeat and humiliation (see Isa 60:14). The subjected enemies of the church are not said to acknowledge anything about the Lord here, but rather to acknowledge that the Lord has loved the saints at Philadelphia.[20] The message then would be that those who presently oppose the saints will be made to submit to them and to acknowledge God’s choice (as conveyed by the word “love,” cf. Rom. 9:13) of those who constitute the church.

In 3:10b, Jesus’ commendation continues. Jesus says to this church and to every church down throughout the ages, “I also will keep[21] you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world,[22] to test those[23] who dwell on the earth.” The “hour” about which Jesus spoke is what Jesus called “the great tribulation” (Matt 24:21; cf. Rev 7:14).[24] This part of world history will be unparalleled in its degree of human suffering because God’s wrath will punish rebellious mankind for its refusal to submit to Him. That is the period described in so much detail in Revelation 6-19. Fortunately, the Bible teaches that believers will be kept through this specific time of testing. Down throughout history, Jesus has kept His church from this period of tribulation through death, but for one generation, they will be kept from this period by the rapture.

3. The Challenge (3:11). “I am coming[25] quickly.” The word “quickly”[26] means “suddenly, unexpectedly, without announcement.” When Jesus comes the event will unfold rapidly.[27] It will happen with one fell swoop. Yet, it is important for us to recognize that it does not necessarily mean “soon.” Nevertheless, there are no prophecies that must occur before the rapture of the church takes place.[28] Jesus could return next year, next week, or before this day is over.

This doesn’t mean that we should quit our jobs, move to a commune, or max out our credit cards and go to Disney World. But it does mean that we should live each day with the realization that at any moment the trumpet could sound, the clouds could part, and the Lord could appear for His own.[29] The coming of Christ is an incentive for perseverance under pressure. The constant expectation of the imminent coming of Christ keeps us on the tiptoe of expectancy. He will not announce His coming. It will come when we least expect it. The New Testament teaching of the imminent return of Christ is the strongest possible motive. I don’t want to be ashamed before Him when He returns (1 John 2:28). The only way I can avoid the risk of being ashamed is to discharge my Christian responsibilities faithfully day by day, just as the Philadelphian Christians were doing. I can remain faithful with the anticipation of being transported to the Father’s house at any moment.

Let me ask you this: If you were conscious of the fact that Jesus could return in the next few minutes would you view pornography? Would you go turn on a CD that you know full well God wouldn’t listen to? Would you begin to slander that person who has irritated you?

Jesus’ challenge continues with the charge, “hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” To “hold fast” (Rev 2:13, 25; 3:3) is a warning against spiritual carelessness and carnality. Jesus is saying, “Don’t budge!” The warning reminds us to live in the light of His coming, to hold fast to Him in faith and service. For when He comes it will mean examination and rewards. He will not forget our service on His behalf, but we must hold fast to the hope and expectation of His coming for us or we will live carelessly, indifferent to our calling and purpose as believers. When that happens we lose our crowns, rewards for faithful service.

“That no one will take your crown”[30] is an interesting picture. To lose a crown is to be deprived of the honor or glory potentially available through faithful living. There are two possible ideas here: (1) It could refer to rewards, which are lost and given to others because we failed to hold fast (1 Cor 9:24). In the parable of the minas in Luke 19 the Lord says regarding the unfaithful servant, “Take the mina away from him, and give it to the one who has the ten minas” (19:24). (2) Or, it could refer to rewards lost because of the evil influences that we might allow to hinder us in the race of life.[31]

The loss of rewards is a great motivator. When Christian author, Bruce Wilkinson, was raising his children, he gave them an allowance. He then expected them to complete their chores. Often they would do so, but there were times that they would not. So he decided to begin to take away money when they did not fulfill their family responsibilities. This caused his children immense pain. Wilkinson concluded that the loss of rewards is a greater motivator than the prospect of gaining rewards. The judgment seat of Christ will be an occasion of either reward or regret (2 Cor 5:10). It is determined by our faithfulness here and now.

4. The Call (3:12-13). In 3:12, the believer who overcomes is promised three specific rewards. First, Jesus says, “I will make him a pillar in the temple[32] of My God.” The New Testament informs us that for the past 2,000 years a spiritual temple called “the church” has been in the process of being built.[33] Paul and Peter tell us that every believer is a living stone in this spiritual temple (Eph 2:19-22; 1 Pet 2:5). However, in Revelation 21:22, John records that in the eternal realm there will be no temple, “for the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.” Back in our context, Jesus tells us that the overcoming believer will be “a pillar in God’s temple.” A “pillar” (stulos) is a column supporting the weight of a building.[34] A pillar is a picture of strength.[35] Jesus will make the overcomer bear the weight of that temple. To be a pillar is a sign of special reward with a permanent and prominent position of honor and responsibilities in the millennium and eternal state (Isa 22:23; Luke 19:16-19).

The second reward promised is that “he who overcomes will not go out from it [the temple] anymore.” Once a builder puts a pillar in place it does not move from that building. Jesus assures these believers that they will never be removed from their place of preeminence in the eternal temple.[36] The overcomer has a fixed eternal place of honor in the sanctuary of God. There will be no more rejection and persecution, only approval and blessing.

The final reward Jesus promises the overcomer is that he will have three special names[37]: the name of God (signifying His ownership), the city of God, the New Jerusalem (signifying citizenship in the heavenly city, cf. Ps 87:5-6), and Christ’s new name[38] (the full revelation of His character and special intimacy with Christ in His kingdom (Rev 3:4, 21; 2:7, 17).[39]

If you’ve broken a bone and found yourself in a cast, you realize that the only redeeming benefit is having people write your name followed by an encouraging note, signed with their name. If you persevere in your faith, one day Jesus is going to write names of encouragement all over you.

This letter closes with the familiar words: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (3:13). This charge reminds us again that the message of each of these seven letters is applicable to all churches of all time. Finally the letter is closed with the usual charge to all the churches or to the church of God at large, wherever it may exist in the world, to hear and take this message to heart.

My brother, Tim, and I graduated from Bremerton High School. Our school mascot was a “knight.” Every year, there is a special ceremony where a handful of students are “knighted.” If you are fortunate enough to be “knighted” it means that you have faithfully represented Bremerton High School in such things as academic excellence, athletic achievement, school and community service, and character. Initially, candidates for “knighting” are voted into consideration by students and faculty. Then a committee decides those who will receive this great honor.[40]

The knighting ceremony is the last assembly of the year. Prior to that assembly the candidates do not know who will be knighted. During the ceremony, a group of perhaps a dozen juniors dressed in dark robes, walk randomly in circles throughout the crowd of seniors seated in chairs on the gym floor. The rest of the underclassmen sit in the bleachers, looking down on the entire spectacle. There is a long period of silence between the reading of the names, as tension builds up to a drum-roll style finale for the reading of each name. In an instant one of the seniors would feel a tap from behind, on the shoulder, from one of the robed juniors; just then the person’s name would be announced to the cheers and applause of the audience. The senior would then walk up to the stage and kneel before the knight dressed in armor who would then tap the individual on each shoulder with his sword.[41]

Being knighted is considered the highest honor one can achieve at Bremerton High. In fact, at the entrance of Bremerton High, there is a long hallway where you can see the names and the pictures of those who have been knighted over the years.[42] While it is certainly an honor, it is a temporal reward for faithful high school overcomers. Jesus promises an eternal reward that will never perish or decay. It will mean honor and glory in the presence of Jesus Christ and fellow believers for all eternity.

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Preaching Today Citation: From the Internet; submitted by Eric Reed, managing editor, Leadership Journal.

[3] The Greek word “Philadelphia” means “brotherly love.”

[4] This is the only letter where this is the case.

[5] Lit. “the holy one” and “the true one.” The only other place this description is found is Rev 6:10. Jesus is also declared to be “holy” (Rev 15:4) and “true” (Rev 19:11).

[6] I remember the definition of “holy” (hagios) by the mnemonic Hagen-Das ice cream (“set apart” or “a cut above” other brands). For a great study on the holiness of God, please see R.C. Sproul, The Holiness of God (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale, 1998 2nd, ed.).

[7] Cf. Ps 16:10; Isa 40:25, 34; Hab 3:3; Mark 1:24; Luke 1:35; 4:34; John 6:69; Acts 4:27, 30; 1 Pet 1:15; 1 John 2:20; Rev 4:8; 6:10.

[8] Jesus was not claiming to be the truth, while this is so (cf. John 14:6). Neither was He claiming to be “truthful” or “faithful.” Instead, He reminds those believing saints in Philadelphia whose adversaries of “the synagogue of Satan,” would have insisted that Jesus was, indeed, illegitimate (cf. John 8:41) that He was the legitimate, authentic Messiah promised in the Old Testament.

[9] “Having the key,” indicates the power and authority of its holder.

[10] Cf. Rev 2:2, 19; 3:1, 15.

[11] Gk. idou (“look” or “pay attention”) is used three times in this letter (Rev 3:8-9).

[12] Some have suggested that this “open door” is an opportunity for evangelism (cf. 1 Cor 16:9; 2 Cor 2:12; Col 4:3), however, it is more likely a reference to the coming kingdom.

[13] Cf. Matt 23:13; 1 Thess 2:15f.

[14] The word “and” (kai) should be translated “but.” There is a strong contrast being made here. See Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 189.

[15] Since there is no article before “little” in the Greek text, it is possible to understand their “little power” as a reference to their small influence, evidently because of their small number.

[16] This illustration comes from Dr. Tony Evans.

[17] See John Niemela, “For You Have Kept My Word: The Grammar of Revelation 3:10” (Part 1), Chafer Theological Seminary Journal, Vol 6, No 1 Jan-Mar 2000. http://www.chafer.edu/CTSjournal/journals/v6n1_2.pdf

[18] In John 8:39, Jesus told the Jews of His day, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing what Abraham did” (ESV). In Romans 2:28-29, Paul declared, “For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly…but he is a Jew who is one inwardly.”

[19] Eventually, these unbelieving Jews would have to admit their error at the great white throne Judgment, if not earlier (Isa 45:23; 60:14; Phil 2:10-11). However the future repentance of Israel at Messiah’s Second Coming that will result in the Jews’ respectful treatment of Gentile believers may be in view here (cf. Isa 45:14; 49:23; Ezek 36:23; 37:28; Zech 8:20-23).

[20] While some scholars suggest that these Judaizers will be converted this is unlikely.

[21] Gk. tereo ek (“kept from”) is used only one other time in John 17:15. We are “kept from” the Evil One though we are in the world. We will never “belong” to him but only to God.

[22] The “whole world” (Gk. oikoymenes, the inhabited earth), not just a local area.

[23] Those entering the “hour of testing” (i.e., the Tribulation) are described in Scripture as “those who dwell on the earth” (cf. Luke 21:35; Rev 6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 12:12; 13:8, 12, 14; 14:6; 17:8). This description always refers to unbelievers.

[24] Because this period of tribulation will immediately precede the coming of the Lord to earth in power and great glory (cf. Matt 24:29, 30), and because the generation to whom John wrote these words has long since passed away, Philadelphia’s representation of not just the other six churches of Asia but also of the church universal throughout the present age is evident.

[25] Gk. erchomai = This verb is a futuristic present.

[26] Gk. tachu, cf. Rev 1:1, 7; 2:16; 22:7, 12, 20; see also 2 Pet 3:8.

[27] “Some have advanced a theory that God’s promise to Philadelphia consists of a pledge to protect the faithful from the effects of God’s wrath while they remain on earth during the time others around them are suffering such severe consequences. That proposal does not correspond with the facts, however, because faithful followers of Christ on earth during that period, though delivered from God’s wrath, will suffer the worst persecution that the forces of Satan can muster against them. In fact, many believers will become martyrs for their faith during the ‘hour’ (see, for example, Rev 6:9-11; 7:9-14). What incentive to remain faithful a little longer is a promise to a persecuted people that if they remain faithful a little longer, they can expect to be ushered into a time in history when their persecution will become even worse than they are presently experiencing? This idea that the promise of Jesus entails their remaining on earth during the future tribulation is a complete misfit in the context of the Philadelphian letter.” Dr. Thomas L. Constable, Notes on Revelation (2003), http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf

[28] This is not true of Christ’s Second Coming (Rev 19:1-8).

[29] Robert Jeffress, As Time Runs Out (Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1999), 65-66.

[30] Jesus used the singular “crown” because He is speaking of “the crown of life” (Rev 2:10; Jas 1:12). This crown is given for persevering through hardship and trials.

[31] Cf. Matt 13:7, 22; Col 2:18; 2 John 8; Rev 2:20 with 2:25f.

[32] The New Testament uses the word “temple” (naos) for the inner part of the temple in Jerusalem (Matt 23:35; Gal 2:9; 1 Cor 3:16-17; 2 Cor 6:16; Eph 2:19-22; 1 Pet 2:4-10; Rev 21:22). The temple was the place of God’s presence.

[33] E.g., 1 Cor 3:16; 1 Tim 3:15; Heb 3:6.

[34] Metaphorically, the Bible uses this term for the church (1 Tim 3:15-16) for a permanent position in the eternal temple.

[35] When people sojourn to ancient ruins, they note that often all that remains are the pillars.

[36] The overcomer “will not go out” like the high priest used to have to. This is an added promise of permanence in the presence of God.

[37] The threefold occurrence of “name” (onoma) is impressive and amounts to a threefold assurance of his identity with God.

[38] Perhaps Jesus’ name is a symbol of His character, which overcomers can appreciate only when they see Him (cf. Rev 2:17; 3:5). Scripture does not reveal Christ’s new name elsewhere. However, Revelation 19:12 says that when Jesus appears, He will come with that new name.

[39] Earl Radmacher, Ronald B. Allen, and H. Wayne House, eds., Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: Nelson, 1999), 1740.

[40] Tim and I graduated with a senior class of approximately 400. Those who are knighted make up the top 5% of every graduating class. This means out of 400 only about 20 are knighted. While everyone in the class eligible for graduation graduates, only the overcomers are knighted. This illustration breaks down here because to be “knighted” does require some degree of physical intellect and gifting. However, in the spiritual realm, all believers are “gifted” and the rewards given to the overcomer are based on faithfulness in one’s stewardship, not raw ability.

[41] Following this, the senior would take his place on the stage with all of the others who had been knighted. When all of the individuals had been knighted, the principal or someone would generally speak, and the ceremony would end with the singing of the school song.

[42] In many ways, this is picturesque of the hall of faithfulness in Hebrews 11.

“How to Make Jesus Sick” (Revelation 3:14-22)

What is the greatest challenge facing the church today? Many suggest that it is Christian persecution. Yet persecution is not the greatest challenge. Quite the opposite, persecution is the fastest way to grow a healthy and vibrant church. The greatest challenge to any church is not persecution but prosperity.[1]

Consider the situation in America. We are the wealthiest nation in the world. Our currency reads, “In God We Trust.” We have more churches, more Bibles, Christian literature, and Christian schools than any other nation in the world. Yet, in spite of all these blessings, we are not influencing our society.

Why is this? The answer is simple: American Christians can’t handle prosperity. With freedom and prosperity comes the temptation to trust in our blessings rather than in the Blesser. We become fat, comfortable, and self-sufficient. If we have plenty, we tend to think we have need of nothing. If we think that we don’t have enough looking at the wealth around us we tend to think that what we need is what others have. Both extremes lead us to seek happiness in things, and security in wealth.[2] The result is we fail to rely on the Lord and our ministry to the world is blunted.

In Revelation 3:14-22, Christ warns and instructs us against the lukewarm effects of trusting in material wealth rather than pursuing a vital faith relationship with Jesus Christ. The Laodicean[3] church was a church that had lost its impact on the world because it had become occupied with the world and had left Christ standing outside the church.[4] We must not make the same age-old mistake.

1. The Character (3:14). Christ identifies Himself here with three titles that cover His entire career from eternity past to eternity future.[5] First, concerning the future Jesus is “the Amen.” “Amen” means “so be it, it is true.” It also connotes the idea of finality or the last word. When applied to Christ, it is a testimony to His ability to produce what He predicts (cf. Isa 65:16). Thus, every promise He makes is true and every woe He pronounces shall come to pass.

Secondly, Jesus is “the faithful and true witness.”[6] This title epitomizes Jesus’ earthly life. He was “faithful and true” in everything that He thought, said, and did. In His teaching, in His miracles, in His life, and in His death, He was “the faithful and true witness.”

Thirdly, Jesus is the “beginning of the creation of God.” This title looks back to Jesus’ eternal past. This phrase does NOT teach that Jesus was the first being created by God, as the Jehovah Witnesses insist.[7] The word “beginning” (arche) can mean either “source/origin” (NRSV) or “ruler” (NIV and NLT). Here, Jesus is saying that He is the source or originator of all creation. He is the Creator of time and space (Col 1:15-18; Heb 1:2). This is borne out in John 1:2-4, where John says that the Word (i.e., Jesus) was “in the beginning (arche) with God.” John then states, “All things were made through Him.”[8] Jesus is the first cause, the Creator, and Sustainer of creation.

2. The Condemnation (3:15-17). What this letter lacks is the commendation. It is unique among the seven letters in that Christ has nothing good to say about this church.[9] Jesus begins His condemnation by saying, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish[10] that you were cold or hot. So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth”[11] (3:15-16). The image of the Laodiceans being “neither cold nor hot” has traditionally been understood to be metaphorical of their lack of spiritual fervor and half-hearted commitment to Christ. One problem with this is that Christ’s desire that they be either “cold” or “hot” implies that both extremes are positive. This begs the question: why would Jesus prefer cold to lukewarmness? If we understand the term “cold” to mean hostility toward the Gospel, we must conclude that Jesus would rather see a person an antagonist than a halfhearted follower. But that explanation seems doubtful.

It is unlikely that Jesus preferred hostility to half-heartedness. A better way to understand these verses is to see both “cold” and “hot” as positive terms. Cold water refreshes, hot water heals,[12] but lukewarm water does neither.

Like many of you, I like coffee. I like it hot but I also like it cold. In fact, one of our staff members, Tom Jennings, regularly brings me ice-cold coffee from Starbuck’s. It’s delicious! To tell the truth, I like my coffee cold more than I like it hot. But the one way I don’t like coffee is lukewarm. Similarly, Jesus would rather that His people be cold or hot in their deeds, not apathetic. From the standpoint of their ministry the church at Laodicea provided neither refreshment nor healing, they could only cause nausea. They were useless to the Lord and His purposes for the church in the world. Jesus is saying, “If you were hot or cold I could do something with you.[13] But because you are neither, I will do nothing.”

This church nauseates Jesus. They make Him sick! So He “spits” them out of His mouth. This does not mean they would lose their salvation. This is impossible! This is a figure of speech (anthropomorphism) that simply indicates His intense disgust. However, the translation “spit” is not really strong enough. The Greek word here is emeo, which means “to vomit.”[14] There is another word, ptuo that means “to spit” that John could have used if that is what he meant.[15] Our English word “emetic” comes from this word. An emetic is a mixture that doctors give a person when they swallow poison; it makes them vomit. A lukewarm church makes Jesus vomit. Jesus rejects this kind of Christianity. There is nothing mediocre about Jesus. C. S. Lewis said, “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and, if true, of infinite importance. The one thing it cannot be is moderately important.”[16]

The particular “deed” that is lacking is their effort to witness. The unbelievers in Laodicea were receiving neither spiritual healing nor life because the church was not actively fulfilling its role of witnessing to the Gospel of Christ. Two reasons can be given to support this view. First, this theme is rampant throughout the seven letters. The church is either applauded or condemned for its impact upon its culture. Second, Christ introduces Himself as “the faithful and true witness,” which denotes His exemplary life as a witness.[17]

You and I must ask ourselves these questions: Do I provide spiritual refreshment to believers and unbelievers? Am I known for bringing others encouragement, joy, and hope? Do I bring healing by challenging the careless, correcting the erring, and rousing the indifferent? Remember, we can’t help anybody if we are lukewarm. The Lord wants us either hot or cold—whatever the need may require.

What brought about this lukewarm living? What is the problem with these Christians? They had the audacity to say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing” (3:17). The case against Laodicea revolves around the idea of self-deception. They were self-deluded. They were like the young woman who went to her pastor and said, “Pastor, I have a besetting sin, and I want your help. I come to church every Sunday and just can’t help thinking I’m the prettiest girl in the congregation. I know I ought not to think that, but I can’t help it. I want you to help me conquer this sin.” The pastor replied, “Child, don’t worry about it. In your case it’s not a sin. It’s just a horrible mistake.”[18]

The church at Laodicea was made up of Christians who were trusting in themselves and their wealth or what they thought their wealth could buy them. Note their threefold claim: (1) “I am rich.” These believers had an over abundance of material blessings, but by this statement, it shows they were proud and trusting in that richness as though wealth had the power to give them security and happiness. (2) I “have become wealthy.” These believers continued to add to their wealth. Not only was wealth a sign of security, happiness, and success, but the truth is, it never really satisfies and people want more. Billy Sunday once said, “The fellow that has no money is poor. The fellow that has nothing but money is poorer still.”[19]

(3) I have “need of nothing” (lit. “no one”). These believers were so well off they thought they needed help from neither man nor God. The people there say that their wealth and prosperity eliminates their need for the Lord. They had bought into the satanic delusion that money can buy anything. They didn’t need to trust God. They could simply go out and buy whatever they needed or desired. There was no need to wait on the Lord, no need to put Him first. They sought their security in their talents, abilities, human resources, and financial wealth. They thought they were protected from all dangers, were insulated from all problems, and immune to every kind of tragedy.

The Lord’s evaluation is that because they are so proud and self-sufficient they cannot see their spiritual condition, which is “wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.” The article “the” draws the five characteristics into a single whole, with each one building on the other.[20] “Wretched” means “distressed.” “Miserable” means “pitiful.” It describes one in such a state that he becomes the object of extreme pity, like a beggar. The real pity is that they were like a drunk in the cold; they could not feel their condition. “Poor” is “beggarly.” This word referred to one who begs for crumbs trying to fill his hunger or craving. Those who try to find happiness and security in the details of life are like beggars trying to exist on crumbs. Mother Theresa once said, “The spiritual poverty of the Western world is much greater than the physical poverty of our people. You in the West have millions of people who suffer such terrible loneliness and emptiness.”[21] “Blind” means “without spiritual insight or discernment.” Their eyes were bad and so their whole body was full of darkness (Matt 6:23).[22] Jesus concludes His list of five adjectives with the term “naked.” The idea of spiritual nakedness refers to humiliation and embarrassment. The Laodiceans were like the foolish emperor in Hans Christian Andersen’s story, “The Emperor’s Clothes.” They thought they were clothed in splendor when they were really naked. In the same way, all too often, we strut in front of others thinking we are clothed with commitment to Christ, when in reality we too are as naked as the emperor in his invisible clothes.

If there is a glaring truth that stands out from this section, it is this: God’s estimation of us is often very different from our estimation of ourselves. In what or who is your confidence?

3. The Correction (3:18-19). Of course Christ has a solution to their spiritual condition. He “advises” them to “buy” (cf. Isa 55:1) three entities. The Laodiceans don’t have to run to the malls of wealth in Laodicea to obtain satisfaction. There is only one market from which they can buy the goods Jesus offers—“from Me.” First, He counsels them to buy “gold refined by fire.”[23] Refined gold is a biblical idiom for purifying one’s life by removing sin (cf. Job 23:10; Prov 27:21; Mal 3:2-3). The metaphor is also used for the purifying effect of tribulation on God’s people (Zech 13:9; 1 Pet 1:6-9).

Secondly, they are told to buy “white garments” (outer garments worn only by Christ and the church) so that they may clothe themselves and so that their shame and dishonor, consisting of their nakedness, will not be made manifest at the judgment seat of Christ.

The third solution is to buy “eye salve” from Him that they will smear on their eyes so that they will be able to see divine realities. Since this obviously has to do with spiritual sight, this most likely refers to the person and work of the Holy Spirit as God’s anointing, who anoints our eyes to discern His Word (John 14:26; 1 Cor 2:14-16).

In 3:19, Jesus states, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous[24] and repent.” The Lord reminded His readers that He said what He did because He loved them (Prov 3:11-12; cf. Prov 13:24; Heb 12:5-6). The Greek word for “love” (phileo) is never used of God/Jesus loving unbelievers in the New Testament. (Indeed, it would be impossible for God to have this kind of love for

an unbeliever, for it routinely speaks of enjoyment and fellowship).[25] This phileo must be applied to the Laodiceans here, for the verse concludes, “Be zealous, therefore, and repent.”

The word “reprove” speaks of correction or verbal rebuke. The word “discipline” means primarily to train children (Eph 6:4). This is their first and basic form of education. God trains His children as well (Heb 12:6-8, 10). A basic idea behind “discipline” is correction or guidance. This instruction has to do with the purpose of forming proper habits of behavior (Acts 7:22).

Like the corrective commands given to the other four churches in this section (Rev 2:5, 16, 22, 3:3), the believers of the church at Laodicea are to “be zealous” and “repent.” This would involve them choosing to have a decisive change of mind regarding their spiritual condition. This results in genuine confession of sin to God (1 John 1:9; 1 Cor 11:31-32; Prov 28:13) and a change in spiritual direction. Again, the motivation for this is Jesus’ love for His church. [26]

Why isn’t the church more effective in the world today? Is the problem simply with the world? Is it too stubborn and too blind to listen? Or could part of the problem be with us? Have we, because of our materialism and in spite of our religiosity, excluded the Savior? Have we literally shut Him out of our lives so He can no longer flesh out His life in ours to impart His vision, His character, and values into ours?

The church today needs to repent of the mentality of tolerance and compromise. Churches today are neither cold nor hot. We like moderation and comfort. “Don’t disturb me. Don’t ask me to move out of my comfort zone.” We love moderate temperatures. We want to be as comfortable as possible. Comfort drives our values. This is very much like the value “peace at all costs.” It is possible to attend churches like this for years and never seriously confront sin. Compromise lies at the core of these churches. Jesus vomits when He thinks of churches like this. They are repulsive to Him. Though people may love these churches, Jesus rejects them. They are religious country clubs that exist only for the benefit of their members. Smug complacency does more damage than these churches imagine. These churches may please their community, but do they please their Lord? Public approval dictates the values of many churches today. They use public approval as a standard of how well they are doing as a church.

4. The Call (3:20-22). Jesus begins this section with the familiar verse, “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[27] with him, and he with Me” (3:20). This verse pictures the Lord Jesus seeking entrance into His own church for the purpose of renewed fellowship. This is not a gospel appeal.[28] It is addressed to Christians and is inviting them to have fellowship with Christ. The figure of opening the door[29] is an illustration of what it means to “be zealous and repent” (cf. 3:19).

Let’s break down this verse. “Behold (pay attention, listen), I stand at the door.” Jesus Christ has been and continues to stand (perfect, active, indicative) at the door. The question is “what door?” Now to assume this is the door of your “heart” is totally foreign to the passage. It would seem more appropriate to understand this as the door of the Laodicean church. While this church was saying, “I am rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing,” they actually had Jesus Christ on the outside of the church. No wonder He is then described as repeatedly “knocking” (present tense).

The picture Jesus is using here of eating an evening meal together speaks of intimate fellowship between the closest of friends. The arms outstretched, inviting restoration, are firstly toward a whole Christian community. However, a church is made up of individual people. So this invitation is a call to every member to respond, that the promise of renewal might come to the whole company.

Now Christ will come “in to” (two different words), not come “into” (one word).[30] The verse is saying that Christ will come in the church to the person, not that Christ will come into the person. When He gets in the church with the person He will eat dinner with him. That is, He will have fellowship with him.

Moving from the Laodicean church generally, Jesus Christ then appeals to the individual believers on the inside of this church. “If (ean)[31] anyone (singular) hears My voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him.” Notice the two conditions that Christ requires to be fulfilled by those on the inside: (1) “if anyone hears My voice.” This refers to what Jesus Christ has been saying in 3:14-19. (2) “If anyone opens the door.” This again refers to the door where the church is gathered and involves the genuine repentance He required.

Connected with these two conditions are three wonderful promises by Jesus Christ Himself. (1) “I will come in to him.” This is a promise of Christ’s personal entrance into the church to meet the believer face to face. (2) “I will dine with him.” This is a promise of Christ’s personal fellowship with this repentant believer. (3) “He will dine with Me.” This is a promise of reciprocal fellowship with Jesus Christ. Again, this is not an offer of salvation. Rather, it is a promise of Christ’s fellowship for any lukewarm believer who repents.[32]

Jesus closes this passage with these words: “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” (3:21).[33] The overcomer is the one who opens the door. Jesus says, I will give to the overcomer what My Father gave to Me. What was Jesus given? Philippians 2:6-11 tells us that Jesus was given authority and recognition.

Although the Savior’s sternest rebukes and condemnation are directed toward Laodicea, so also does He reserve for her the most glorious and precious promises given to any of the seven churches. Just as Christ was declared the victor over death by His resurrection and ascension to sit at the right hand of the Father, so believers follow Christ in victory to join Him on His throne and reign with Him (2 Tim 2:12). There is no greater reward or higher dignity than to reign with Christ.[34]

Jesus concludes this letter as He does His other six letters with the words: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (3:22). How easy it would be to allow these words of rebuke and instruction to pass one by. How easy it would be to fall into the same complacency and self-reliance that plagued the Laodicean church. If we have learned anything from this letter, it is that we must not be smug and complacent, but rather be zealous, evidencing fruit worthy of repentance. Our own assets are worthless before Christ. We must obtain all our spiritual assets from Him.

Henry Morrison was a missionary to Africa. One day he was coming home from Africa on a ship, which was also carrying President Theodore Roosevelt. When the ship docked in New York, thousands of people were there to greet Roosevelt. But no one cheered for Morrison.

Henry Morrison had served the Lord for forty years in Africa. As he watched the crowds greet Theodore Roosevelt, he became dejected to think he had served the Lord all those years and yet no one was there to greet him.

Morrison said that as he walked down the gangplank in a depressed mood, a voice whispered to him, “Henry, don’t worry. You’re not home yet.” Then he said he saw a vision of multiplied thousands of Africans standing at the gates of heaven, those who he had reached for Christ, applauding him as he entered heaven.

If people are not recognizing you down here, if you are not getting applause right now, don’t worry. You are not home yet. Remember what Christ has waiting for you.[35]

The Seven Churches Of Revelation 2-3

Church

Commendation

Condemnation

Challenge/Correction

Call/Promise

Ephesus (2:1-7)

Rejected evil and patiently persevered

Lost first love

Remember, repent, and redo the initial works

The Tree of Life

Smyrna (2:8-11)

Gracefully bore suffering

None

Be faithful until death

The crown of life

Pergamos (2:12-17)

Kept the faith of Christ

Tolerated immorality, idolatry, and heresies

Repent

Hidden manna and a white stone with a new name

Thyatira (2:18-29)

Love, service, faith, patience were greater than at first

Tolerated immorality and idolatry

Hold fast

Rule over nations and receive morning star

Sardis (3:1-6)

A remnant has kept the faith

Spiritually dead

Repent and strengthen what remains

Clothed in white, name confessed before God

Philadelphia (3:7-13)

Persevered in the faith, kept Christ’s Word, and honored His name

None

Hold fast

An eternal pillar in the temple with new names

Laodicea (3:14-22)

None

Spiritually indifferent

Be zealous and repent

Rule with Christ

The Character Of Christ In Revelation 2-3

1.      “The One who holds the seven stars in His right hand” is a reference to the sovereign authority and control of Jesus Christ over the angelic realm (2:1).

2.      “The One who walks among the seven golden lampstands” is a reference to the intimate presence of Christ among His church (2:1).

3.      “The first and the last” is a reference to Jesus’ eternal existence (2:8).

4.      “The One who was dead, and has come to life” indicates Christ passed into death, through death, and out of death (2:8).

5.      “The One who has the sharp two-edged sword” reveals that Christ’s acts of judgment will be carried out on the basis of His Word (2:12).

6.      The title “Son of God” declares Christ’s absolute deity (2:18).

7.      The description “eyes like a flame of fire” indicates that Jesus is able to see into the secret places of our hearts (2:18).

8.      The description “feet like burnished bronze” means that Jesus will pursue evil and stamp it out (2:18).

9.      The One who “has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars” conveys ownership and control over the Holy Spirit and the angelic realm (3:1).

10.  The One who is “holy” means that Jesus is set apart and a cut above all so called “gods” (3:7).

11.  The One who is “true” means that Jesus is genuine, authentic, and unique (3:7).

12.  The One with “the key of David” means that Jesus is the heir of David’s covenant who has been given all authority to grant entrance into heaven and the New Jerusalem (3:7).

13.  “The Amen” is a testimony to Christ’s ability to produce what He predicts (3:14).

14.  “The faithful and true witness” epitomizes Jesus’ earthly life as the model witness before the world (3:14).

15.  The “Beginning of the creation of God” means that Jesus is the origin or source of all history (3:14).

[1] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Christ told us in no uncertain terms to do the opposite, to lay up treasures in heaven (Matt 6:19-21; 1 Tim 6:17-19). Cf. God warned Israel in Deuteronomy 6:10f against forgetting the Lord as the source of their freedom and salvation. Nine times in Deuteronomy He tells them not to forget what the Lord had done for them and 15 times He tells them to remember the Lord and His deliverance.

[3] The Gospel came to Laodicea probably while Paul was in Ephesus (Acts 19:10). Although Paul mentions the church (Col 4:12-16), he may have never visited the city personally.

[4] Hampton Keathley III, Revelation (Dallas: Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 96.

[5] This is the one list of characteristics with no allusion back to the inaugural vision of Rev 1:12-20. The titles seem to have been chosen entirely to challenge the Laodiceans. See Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 203.

[6] This description is especially designed to contrast Christ’s statement of 3:15-16 with the statement of the Laodiceans about themselves in 3:17.

[7] This view is aptly refuted in Donald Grey Barnhouse, Revelation (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1971), 81.

[8] This is in harmony with Colossians 1:15, 18 where Christ is said to be “the beginning,” and “the firstborn of all creation.”

[9] The church in Sardis (Rev 3:1-6) received no corporate commendation but they at least had a remnant of “a few people” that remained faithful (3:4).

[10] The word translated “wish” (ophelon) is a fixed form used to express an unattainable wish. It assumes the nature of an interjection where one wishes that a thing had happened, but has not and probably will not. They had become thoroughly hardened and indifferent to Christ through the deceitful riches of the world and their sin (cf. Heb 3:7f).

[11] The only similar image in the Bible is found in the curse sections of Leviticus where God says that the land of Israel will “spew out the inhabitants” for disobedience to the covenant (Lev 18:25, 28; 20:22).

[12] Some scholars suggest that Jesus may have been thinking about two springs near Laodicea—the hot mineral springs at Hierapolis and the pure cold water springs in Colossae. The hot springs were seen as possessing healing powers. The cold, invigorating springs provided refreshment. The Christians in the church at Laodicea brought neither healing to the spiritually ill not refreshment to the weary. They were lukewarm, and therefore of no help to anyone.

[13] The church at Laodicea was useless. They couldn’t even give out a cup of cold water in the name of Christ (Matt 10:42).

[14] The NKJV translates this word literally as “vomit.”

[15] BDAG, Electronic Ed.

[16] Preaching Today Citation: “C. S. Lewis,” Christian History (65.19.1), 27.

[17] G.K. Beale, The Book of Revelation: NIGTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1999), 303-04.

[18] Preaching Today Citation: Haddon Robinson, “Good Guys, Bad Guys, and Us Guys,” Preaching Today, Tape No. 80.

[19] Preaching Today Citation: Billy Sunday (1862-1935), American revivalist. “Money II,” Christian History, Issue 19.

[20] Osborne, Revelation: ECNT, 207.

[21] Preaching Today Citation: Mother Teresa, Leadership, Vol. 8, no. 1.

[22] Cp Ps 119:11-14, 99-105; 19:10; Prov 16:16 and note there the results of good eyesight or spiritual illumination.

[23] Cf. Ps 66:10; Prov 17:3; Zech 13:9; Luke 12:21; 1 Tim 6:18; Jas 1:3; 2:5; 1 Pet 1:7; 4:12.

[24] The expression “I am rich, and have become wealthy” is a literary device that inverts the natural sequence for emphasis (cf. 3:19; 5:2, 5; 10:4, 9; 12:10; 19:13). Here it stresses that the wealth attained came though self-exertion.

[25] Agapao, rather, is the verb used of God’s love for unbelievers (cf. John 3:16).

[26] The inferential oun (“therefore”) connects the two parts of the verse, indicating that the Laodiceans are to repent because Christ loves (phileos) them!

[27] “Dine” (deipneo) is a Greek word, which referred to the main meal of the day—a real feast. This word was used not only of the chief meal of the day—a full course dinner—but of the meal, which was the occasion for hospitality and fellowship. At this meal, however, Jesus is the host. It is He who sets the table and we are His guests dining on that which He has provided.

[28] See the article by Pastor Dennis Rokser, Revelation 3:20: http://www.duluthbible.org/g_f_j/Rev3_20.html

[29] The metaphor of Christ standing at the door is a familiar eschatological concept (Mark 13:29; Matt 24:33; Luke 12:36; Jas 5:9). It is also true that the idea of a messianic banquet is often used as a symbol of fellowship in the kingdom of God (Matt 8:11; 22:1-4; 26:29; Luke 14:15; 22:29-30; Rev 19:9).

[30] This is not a hair-splitting of the English text, but an accurate reflection of the Greek. In phrase “come in” (eiserchomai) is one word. It is followed by the preposition “to” (pros). The idea of “come into“ would be expressed with the Greek independent preposition eis and would suggest a penetration into the person (thus, spawning the idea of entering into one’s heart). However, spatially the Greek preposition pros means, “toward,” not into. In all eight instances of eisercomai pros in the New Testament, the meaning is “come in toward/before a person (i.e., enter a building, house, etc., so as to be in the presence of someone), never penetration into the person himself/herself. In some instances, such a view would not only be absurd, but inappropriate (cf. Mark 6:25; 15:43; Luke 1:28; Acts 10:3; 11:3; 16:40; 17:2; 28:8). See Michael Cocoris, Evangelism: A Biblical Approach (Chicago: Moody, 1984), 82-83. See also Daniel B. Wallace, Scripture Twisting, www.bible.org.

[31] This is what Greek grammarians call a 3rd class condition: one might or might not open the door.

[32] Wallace humorously adds, “If it causes us some measure of panic to have to use other than Revelation

3:20 when we share the gospel, keep in mind that the earliest Christians did not have this verse. Revelation is the last book of the Bible to be written. How was it possible for Peter and Paul and James to ever see anyone get saved without this verse? They never had it! But if I read the book of Acts correctly, they had a measure of success in sharing the gospel even in spite of this handicap.” See Wallace, Scripture Twisting: www.bible.org

[33] “There is an interesting, often overlooked parallel between the five warnings in the Book of Hebrews and the seven overcomers’ promises in the Book of Revelation. The warnings and the overcomers’ promises both have the same end in view. The last warning has to do with the birthright (Heb 12:14-17), and the last overcomers’ promise has to do with the throne (Rev 3:21). The successive thought in the warnings in the Book of Hebrews is that of Christians ultimately realizing their birthright—sons exercising the rights of primogeniture. The great burden of Hebrews is ‘bringing many sons into glory’ (Heb 2:10). And the successive thought in the overcomers’ promises in the Book of Revelation is that of Christians ultimately ascending the throne—co-heirs, companions, exercising power with Christ. The great burden of Revelation, chapters two and three is that of placing equipped Christians upon the throne with Christ.” See Arlen L. Chitwood, The Judgment Seat of Christ, (Norman, OK: The Lamp Broadcast, 1986), 138-139.

[34] There are two thrones in this verse: “My throne” and “His throne.” There is the throne of Jesus and then there is the throne of the Father. The throne of the Father is His sovereign rule over the universe. There is nothing that is not under His control in the universe. Jesus sat down at the “right hand of the Majesty on high” with His Father, at His Father’s right hand (Heb 1:3).

[35] Tony Evans, Returning to Your First Love (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 218.

“A Glimpse into Glory” (Revelation 4:1-11)

What do you do for a living? Do you enjoy your vocation? It has been estimated that there are at least 40,000 different occupations in the United States. Yet for all that, only a small percentage of the population is completely satisfied with their jobs. Personnel problems, the lack of adequate pay, and wearisome hours of routine tasks are only some of the reasons. Few people, if any, are truly satisfied.[1]

This is also true when we consider our marriages and families. Many Christians deal with constant friction and tension in their marriages and families. Even though many are devoting more time and energy to marriage and family, many Christians are unhappier than ever. We see this in our churches as well. We live in a consumer world that has infiltrated the church. Now many people come to church solely to have their needs and preferences met. When these needs are not met, dissatisfaction occurs. Even in our hobbies, we find that we are restless. Nothing ever satisfies.[2]

This all breeds questions. Why are you here on planet earth?  What is the real meaning of your life? What are you really trying to accomplish? By the time we are finished, you and I will have answers to these most important questions.

We have been studying the book of Revelation, and today we will look at chapter 4. Before we do that we need to remember where this chapter fits into the whole book. Rev 1:19 provides us with a simple outline of Revelation: “Therefore, write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after these things.” “The things you have seen” refers to the vision of the glorified Jesus in 1:12-18. “The things that are” refers to the seven letters of Rev 2-3. “The things which shall take place after these things” refers to the visions of the rest of the book. In other words, Rev 4-22 is a prophecy of future events.[3]

Specifically, chapters 4 and 5 prepared John, and they prepare the reader, for the outpouring of judgments on the earth that follow in Rev 6-18. They present the place from which these judgments originate and the Person from whom they come. Before revealing these tribulation judgments, God gave John a glimpse into glory. He did this to enable the readers to view coming earthly events from a heavenly perspective.[4]

1. Envision your future in the present (4:1-4). In 4:1, John writes “After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me,[5] said, ‘Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things.’” The phrase “after these things”[6] signals the beginning of a new section of Revelation which reveals the terrifying events that will take place in the future.[7] This is the main section of the book and runs through 22:5. John was given a vision of heaven (cf. Ezek 1:1). In this supernatural vision he saw “a door[8] standing open in heaven” and he heard a voice “like the sound of a trumpet.” We must pay close attention throughout the remainder of the book to note when John uses the word “like” (nine times in this chapter).[9] John is not saying that the voice is a trumpet. Rather, he is saying that it is an authoritative voice “like” a shrill trumpet blast—powerful, dominating, overpowering, compelling, victorious.[10] John refers to this voice as “the first voice” which he heard. This refers back to 1:10 and identifies the voice speaking as that of Jesus Christ. It is Jesus who bids John to enter through the door into heaven. Jesus says, “Come up here,[11] and I will show you what must take place after these things.” From this new vantage point John would receive new revelations that would be compiled to make up the book of Revelation. The word “must”[12] indicates that the events God was about to reveal will indeed happen. The must is emphatic. The future is determined. This certainly would comfort the struggling believers of the seven churches. This should also comfort us today.

John writes in 4:2, “Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne was standing in heaven, and One sitting on the throne.” As soon as John heard this invitation he experienced a spiritual transference (cf. Rev 1:10). His body remained on the earth, but he caught a glimpse of glory.[13] He saw a throne “standing in heaven.”[14]  The throne symbolizes the sovereign authority to rule.[15] The word “throne” is mentioned 14 times in this one chapter.[16] Yet, it is only used a total of 14 times in the other 26 books of the New Testament. That is why this chapter has been called, “the throne chapter of the Bible.”

Looking into heaven, John records that he saw “One sitting[17] on the throne”[18] (cf. Ezek 11:1, 5).[19] The person on the throne was God the Father.[20] Now get a grip on this: John actually saw God sitting upon His throne! Can you imagine anything more glorious? The word “sitting” describes the position of a king who is actively reigning. For example, if a politician is “seated,” he is said to be in office. If an unelected official is put out of office, he is said to be “unseated.” John sees God “seated,” meaning He is actively exercising the duties of His executive office, administering over the affairs of His creation.[21]

Have you ever asked the question: where is God in all this? It’s easy to want to ask this question every time you watch the evening news or read the newspaper. This world is sinking deeper and deeper into a quagmire of sin, while the Christian community seems to be on the short end of the stick. The church appears to be making less of an impact upon our culture, not more. High profile teachers have fallen into sin. Other churches have stopped preaching the Gospel altogether. Like salt that has lost its savor, the church seems to be impotent.

It’s easy to ask, “God, are you still in control?” As we see our world falling apart all around us we must all be reminded that God is doing something. He has not resigned. He has not been impeached, nor put out of office. He’s not even up for reelection. There are no term limits to His being God.

Have you looked up lately to see God still upon His throne? Have you come to understand that His sovereign throne controls the events of your life? No matter what may seem out of control in your life, know that God is still in control.[22] Though evil reigns for a time on earth, God will ultimately prevail. There is no attribute more comforting to God’s children than His sovereignty. Whatever your trial, whatever your test, whatever your tragedy, God is still on His throne. There are times when that is the only thing that will keep you and me going.

At his news conference on the morning after the beginning of the 2003 attacks on Iraq, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld was asked by a reporter “about the apparent failure to follow the war plan.” Rumsfeld replied dryly, “I don’t believe you have the war plan.” We often approach God with a question like the reporter’s—why doesn’t He follow the plan we expect? As God told Job and countless others since then, “I don’t believe you have the plan.”[23]

In 4:3, John writes, “And He who was sitting was like a jasper stone and a sardius[24] in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance.” The sovereign Lord is described in terms of two precious stones, the jasper and the sardius. We should remember Scripture teaches, “God dwells in unapproachable light; whom no man has seen, or can see” (1 Tim 6:16). So these stones are used to portray something of God’s eternal glory, awesome holiness, and majesty.[25] “Jasper” was a clear, crystal-like gem, a translucent rock. The jasper gem that John saw was evidently a diamond (cf. 21:11), not what we identify as a jasper today. It portrays the purity and brilliance of God’s holiness.

Since such a stone picks up and reflects light, it calls our attention to the fact that God is light, a holy God who reveals and unmasks the darkness. A “sardius” stone was blood red, undoubtedly portraying God’s wrath and justice, but it would also look at His redemptive work of love and grace in the person of the Lamb of God who came to take away the sin of the world through His death on the cross.[26]

Amid the white light of His holiness and the red flames of His judgment, John also sees a “rainbow” (cf. Ezek 1:28). In Old Testament times, the rainbow represented God’s faithfulness to never destroy the world again as He did with the flood (Gen 9:13-15).[27] It represented God’s gracious covenant with His people. It was also a sign of God’s mercy, grace, and long-suffering. Here, this “rainbow” is apparently the shape of a rainbow rather than the color of one since this one was “emerald” (green), portraying God’s fruitfulness. This rainbow is also said to be “around the throne.” Unlike the partial rainbows we generally see on earth, this one completely encircled the throne, perhaps resembling a halo.[28] This unending rainbow means that God’s grace will endure forever. In the midst of wrath, God remembers mercy (Lam 3:22-23). His grace triumphs over His judgment (Jas 2:13). It is His grace that prevents us from being consumed in the flames of His judgment.[29]

In 4:4, John records another sight: “Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads.”[30] John saw 24 thrones surrounding the main throne in what is obviously a subordinate relationship. Evidently, these elders will have positions of authority under God. The 24 elders don’t appear anywhere else in the Scriptures. The identity of the 24 elders (presbuteros) is difficult to determine. (See Addendum below) Yet I believe these elders are men. Jesus told the church at Laodicea, in chapters 2 and 3, that whoever will overcome will sit down with Me in glory. Here are some people sitting. He told the church in Thyatira, whoever was faithful would rule with Him, with a rod of iron. Here are some people with crowns who are sitting on thrones. He told the church at Sardis that if they would be faithful he would clothe them in white. Here are some people clothed in white. He told the church at Smyrna, he who overcomes, I will grant to him a crown (stephanos), and here are some people wearing crowns.

This verse is interesting to me because in Mark 10:35-45, John and his brother James had their eyes on a throne. Now there are 24. These thrones are in a circle, around the throne. I don’t see a “first or second chair” as James and John were hoping. Although we can’t know with certainty, I’m inclined to interpret the 24 thrones as 24 seats of authority given to the faithful. On 12 of these thrones, it is likely that the 12 disciples (minus one, replaced by Paul, I assume) are seated. In Matthew 19:28, Jesus promised His disciples 12 thrones and said they would eventually judge the twelve tribes of Israel. On the other 12 thrones are seated “elders” representing Gentile believers. The point (especially for John) is not who these “elders” are by name, but what they are doing—falling on their faces before God in worship (4:10-11).[31]

2. Live your future in the present (4:5-11). When I was in high school, Laser Light shows at the Seattle Science Center were popular. I went to one of these with some friends and experienced the loud music and the special lighting effects. It was quite an experience. Yet, even the most spectacular Laser Light Show that clever technicians can devise pales in comparison with what takes place in 4:5.[32] Out from the throne, we see and hear “flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder.” The lightning and thunder reflect the awesome majesty of God and recall the divine authority to judge.[33] The wrath of God proceeds from this throne. Obviously, this is an unpopular view of God today (see Nah 1:2-3, 6). Nevertheless, the fear of God is the beginning of true worship (Prov 1:7).

The “seven lamps of fire”[34] are said to be the “seven spirits of God.”[35] These spirits are a reference to the sevenfold ministry of the Holy Spirit.[36] The “lamps” signify the unique role of the Holy Spirit in executing judgment.[37] The Spirit will carry out this judgment. The picture is of these torches ready to go, from God’s presence, to the earth where they will consume wickedness during the tribulation.

In 4:6, John records that “before the throne[38] there was something like a sea of glass, like crystal; and in the center and around the throne, four living creatures full of eyes in front and behind.” John gives no interpretation as to the meaning of this “sea of glass.”[39] The most likely allusion here is the “expanse” or firmament that separated the waters in Gen 1:7.[40] This sea then pictures an expanse that separates God in his holiness and purity from all of His sinful creation.[41] The emphasis is upon God’s awesome vastness—His transcendence and His holiness that separates Him from His creation.[42]

John also mentions “four living creatures” in 4:6. These seem to be angelic beings that reflect the attributes of God. These “living creatures” are mentioned in the book of Ezekiel, 12 times in the first ten chapters. Ezekiel 10:20 clearly identified the living creatures as cherubim. They form an inner circle and surround the throne and God (cf. Ezek 1:12), so they must constitute an exalted order of angelic beings. They appear similar to the seraphim (Isa 6:2) and even more like the cherubim (Ezek 1:4-14; 9:3; 10), though, because of their differences, they appear to be in a class by themselves. They appear to have a judicial function (cf. 6:1, 3, 5, 7) and to have some connection with animate creation (cf. 4:9-11; 15:7). Their many eyes evidently symbolize their penetrating intelligence that makes them immediately aware of whatever is happening that affects their judicial responsibility (cf. Ezek 1:18; 10:12). Full of eyes means they see everything.

In 4:7, John describes these four living creatures: “The first creature was like a lion, and the second creature like a calf, and the third creature had a face like that of a man, and the fourth creature was like a flying eagle.”[43] These four characterizations are the same as those in Ezekiel 1:10 but it is difficult to decipher their meaning. Again, the word “like” expresses similarity. The four creatures likely represent four classes of created beings: wild beasts, domesticated animals, human beings, and flying creatures.[44]

John then writes in 4:8 that these four living creatures have “six wings, are full of eyes around and within;[45] and day and night they do not cease to say, ‘HOLY, HOLY, HOLY[46] IS THE LORD GOD, THE ALMIGHTY,[47] WHO WAS AND WHO IS AND WHO IS TO COME.’”[48] These creatures seem similar to the seraphim (lit. burning ones) of Isaiah 6:2-3, in that they each have six wings. Their many eyes suggest alertness, comprehensive knowledge, and constant vigilance (cf. Ezek 10:12). “Around and within” probably means that they had eyes even on the undersides of their wings so they could move their wings without interrupting their vision. Their movements did not detract from their constant vigilance. They ascribe holiness to God day and night, namely constantly, though not necessarily without stopping (cf. 1 Thess 2:9; 5:17; 2 Thess 3:8). There will be no need for rest in heaven!

This verse reveals several aspects of God’s character that are adored. First, He is worshipped as the Holy One (cf. 15:3-4; 16:5).[49] God is holy in two ways: He is separated from all that He created and is not to be identified with the physical and material universe; He is also separate from sin. The holiness of God emphasizes both His transcendence as well as His moral purity. Holiness, in this verse, refers to God’s attribute of absolute moral purity, but it also seems to mean more. The phrase (“Holy, Holy, Holy”) in 4:8, is reminiscent of the words of the seraphim in Isaiah 6:3, thereby suggesting the same God whom Isaiah envisioned as the holy One (cf. 40:25; 57:15; cf. Jer 22:29; Ezek 21:27).[50]

Every year on the first Saturday in December, 2,500 of the most brilliant college students in North America take what may be the hardest math test in the world—the Putnam Competition. How tough is it? Although there are only twelve questions, the test lasts six hours. And although these are the best and brainiest young minds our country has to offer, the median score on last year’s test was one point, out of a possible 120. There’s an even tougher and higher standard: God’s holiness.[51]

Second, the four living creatures acknowledge God’s sovereignty, for they refer to Him as “the Lord God, the Almighty” (Rev. 4:8).[52] This title underscores God’s power and rulership. In Revelation, this title is applied to God the Father as the divine judgments against a rebellious world move toward their climax.[53] Third, the four living creatures worship God as the eternal One. They herald Him as the One “who was and who is and who is to come” (Rev. 4:8).[54] This phrase speaks of the eternal nature of God who governs past, present, and future history. We should also note that, in the next two verses (4:9, 10), John also mentions the eternality of God. (God is called the One who “lives forever and ever”). All three of these verses speak of the past, present, and future. Time is often represented by a straight line drawn on a page. We call this a time line. To get a grasp of what the eternality of God means, when you have drawn your time line you must picture God as the whole page on which the line is drawn.[55] What a comfort these descriptions are. How can we face life challenges? Well, the best way to face life’s changes is to look to the unchanging God.

John now brings his vision to a climax in 4:9-11. John writes, “And when the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, to Him who lives forever and ever, and the twenty-four elders will fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and will worship[56] Him who lives forever and ever, and will cast their crowns before the throne, saying, ‘Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power;[57] for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.’” Whenever it is appropriate and possible the four living creatures give praise to eternal God.[58] The focus of their worship is on God’s purity, His power, and His preeminence. Giving “glory and honor” calls attention to the perfections of God, while giving “thanks” calls attention to the manifold gifts of God in creation and redemption. Knowing angels should worship God should prompt our worship also. Do we have any less to praise Him or thank Him for? Like these four living creatures, we pay God honor and reverence, not for His sake (because He is of Himself full of glory to which no creature can add anything), but for our own sake.

In 4:10, the elders follow suit. “When” or “whenever” the four living creatures give worship to God, the 24 elders fall down before Him out of reverence. The sequence: prostration, adoration, and humiliation.  When the crowned elders prostrate themselves before God and cast their crowns at His feet, these rulers humbly acknowledge His sovereignty and His right to receive worship.[59] This verse reveals that the major purpose of crowns is as tokens of worship. This process is not a one-time event, but goes on “when (whenever) the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne.” Each time the rewarded believer approaches the throne, he will remove his crown and lay it before the feet of Jesus, the Christ, and worship. A central motivation for obtaining these crowns is to be found in the desire to have these expressions of worship.[60]

The elders’ song is similar to that of the four living beings, but it focuses more on the wonders of God’s creation as the evidence of His glory and power. It is also directed to God directly. Their words speak of what He deserves, “glory and honor and power”—as well as why He deserves it—“for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.” “Because of Your will” directs praise to God for the ultimate cause of creation.

Probably “they existed, and were created” simply credits God for the existence of all things and then stresses the fact that He brought them into existence (cf. Rom 11:33-35).[61] Astronomers estimate that there are 100 billion stars in our own galaxy—and that there may be 100 billion galaxies in the universe. God created the human brain that weighs less than three pounds, is the size of a grapefruit, and is thousands of times more powerful than the world’s most powerful computer. God made a giant sequoia tree in California that is the biggest living thing in the world. It is almost 3,000 years old, 275 feet high, and its trunk is 79 feet wide! Picture it this way: that’s as tall as a second Statue of Liberty standing on the shoulders of the real Statue of Liberty and is almost as wide as three city buses parked bumper to bumper. Your fingerprints are unlike anyone else’s fingerprints. The FBI has collected more than 170 million fingerprints and has never found two that are alike.[62]

A young boy was waiting after church for his family. The pastor saw him standing around and struck up a conversation. Since the boy had just come from Sunday school, the pastor decided to ask him some questions to determine just how much the children were learning there. He said, “Young man, if you can tell me something that God can do, I’ll give you a big shiny apple.” Thoughtfully the boy replied, “Sir, if you can tell me something God can’t do, I’ll give you a whole box of apples.”[63]

God the Father is worthy of praise and worship because of two basic things we should always remember: It was His power that created all things; and it is His purpose (will) that brought everything into existence and gives meaning to it all. If we refuse to acknowledge the power and purpose of God in creation, then as Paul so graphically portrays, we deserve His judgment (Rom 1:18-23).[64]

When I was growing up, I was really into sports. As a result, I collected autographs of a lot of famous athletes. All of creation bears God’s autograph. All creation is an outstretched finger pointing to God. We must recognize the value in what God has done. He who holds the stars in space will surely uphold His saints on earth.

This past Sunday, many of you watched the Seahawk wildcard playoff game against the Packers. It was a great game! Whether you know it or not, you worshipped. People are built to worship. People will worship something! There is hardly anything more evangelistically powerful than a group of worshipping believers.

This past Sunday, on the way home from church, I was talking with my six year old, Joshua. In the course of our conversation, I said, “Joshua, what’s your favorite thing to do?” Joshua replied, “Worship God.” Now I must tell you, this shocked me! I couldn’t have been prepared for this. I was expecting him to say, “Star Wars” or “guns.” Yet his immediate reply was, “Worship God.”

I then said, “Joshua, how do you worship God?” What he then said was even more surprising. He said, “I worship God when I go up to my room and pray secretly when no one’s listening.” Wow! This is a pretty spiritual kid! Now let’s be honest, we all know that this is the right answer to give. Yet how many of us would have been as quick as Joshua to toll this off of our tongue?  I must confess, if someone had asked me the same question, I would probably have responded, “My favorite thing to do is study and teach God’s Word.”

Now obviously, there’s nothing wrong with that but God wants my study and teaching to come from a passion to know Him and to make Him known.[65] But my chief goal in life must be to worship the Lord in everything that I do. That’s why I was created.

Worship is seeing what God is worth and giving Him what He’s worth. It is preparing for your glorious future. It has been well said, “Those who praise God on earth will feel at home in heaven.”[66] Therefore, this passage exhorts us to begin preparing for our eternal home by worshipping the Lord. This is done in multiple ways: evangelism, discipleship, work, fellowship, etc.

Do you worship the right God in the right way? You can do this as you can begin to envision the future in the present and then live for the future in the present.

Addendum: The Identity Of The 24 Elders In Revelation 4:4

The elders are a prominent group mentioned 12 times in Rev 4-19 (4:4, 10; 5:5, 6, 8, 11, 14; 7:11, 13; 11:16; 14:3; 19:4).  Yet, the identity of these elders is disputed.  However, the commentary tradition has by and large narrowed it down to two dominant views.  The elders either represent church-age saints or some form of angelic beings.  The following thoughts reflect my internal wrestling.  It is also my attempt to fairly represent both positions and defend both views as well as possible.  Not all of these arguments are equally strong, nor do I agree with each line of defense.  My goal is to assist the reader to decide which view is the best.

The Elders Represent Church-Age Saints

1.      The elders are sitting on thrones before God (Rev 2:26-27; 3:21; 20:6; cf. Eph 2:6). While Christ is not seated on His earthly throne, these kingly ones, having been presented “blameless with great joy,” must be with Him (Jude 24-25).

2.      The elders are clothed in white robes. Church-age overcomers are promised white garments (Rev 3:4-5, 18; 6:11; 19:7-8). Moreover, in Revelation, only the saints wear white clothing. This is appropriate, for the church, at this time, would have been judged and rewarded at the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Cor 3:10-15; 2 Cor 5:10).

3.      The elders have crowns of gold on their heads. These crowns (stephanous) indicate achievement and victory (Rev 2:10; 3:11). In the Epistles, believers are also promised crowns for spiritual accomplishments (1 Cor 9:25; 1 Thess 2:19; 2 Tim 4:8; Jas 1:12; 1 Pet 5:4). The Bible seems to distinguish between the word stephanos, which is used of a crown of reward for faithful endurance, and diadema, which is the crown of royalty or authority. Note: the crowning of these elders also indicates that the rapture and resurrection is past, for disembodied spirits wear no crowns.

4.      The term “elder” (presbuteros) is only used of men in Scripture (e.g., Luke 7:3; Jas 5:14; 1 Pet 5:1). “Elders” is often used of leaders and representatives of the churches (Acts 15:2; 20:17; 1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).

5.      The elders are “kings and priests” (Rev 5:10). Church-age believers are a royal priesthood (Rev 1:6; 1 Pet 2:9). Since Christ is a King-Priest according to the order of Melchizedek (Heb 5-7), believers who are in Christ are also king-priests.

6.      The elders are carefully distinguished from both the four living creatures and the angels in Rev 5:11 and 7:11.

7.      In Rev 5:9, the elders are seen singing a song of redemption. It appears that they sing of their own personal redemption because they say that God has made them to be kings and priests and they have been redeemed out of every kindred and tongue and people and nation (Rev 5:10). Note: Exodus 15:13, 16-17 demonstrates that it is possible to sing a song about yourself in the third person.

8.      The numerical adjective 24 is significant. King David divided the Levitical priesthood into 24 orders (1 Chron 24:3-5). Each order represented the entire priestly tribe and the whole nation of Israel as it functioned before God. Therefore, it is possible that the number 24 represents a larger, complete group. Some believe that the number 24 represents the 12 Apostles and the 12 Tribes. However, the Apostles were to judge the 12 Tribes. Yet, Old Testament saints are evidently not raised until after the Tribulation (Dan 12:1-2, 11-13; Isa 25:8; 26:19).

9.      In the other visions of heaven in Isaiah and Ezekiel, there was only the throne and the four living creatures. There were no 24 elders. If the 24 elders were angels then they would’ve been in the visions of heaven in Isaiah and Ezekiel. It is significant that the 24 elders are seen in the New Testament and not in the Old Testament. It may also be significant that the elders and their thrones are not mentioned after Rev 19:7-9. From that point, the Church is seen as the bride of Christ, and evidently sits together with Christ upon His throne.

10.  Many people believe that the 24 elders are angels because they interpret events to John (Rev 5:5; 7:13). We see that two angels interpreted events to John. One showed John the Harlot and the City of Babylon (Rev 17:1-19:10). The other angel showed John the New Jerusalem (Rev 21:9-22:11). Both times John fell down and worshipped the angel that interpreted the events to him (Rev 19:10 & 22:8-9). He did this twice. You would think that John learned his lesson the first time. He didn’t. There was something about these angels like an overwhelming presence. John never did this to the 24 elders. On two occasions, one of the 24 elders spoke to John (Rev 5:5; 7:13) and John never fell down and worshipped them. Obviously, John didn’t see anything overwhelming about the 24 elders for he never attempted to worship them. The important thing is not that both the angels and the 24 elders interpret events to John but the interpretation itself. The angels show John future events and seem to focus on the two cities – Babylon and the New Jerusalem and the difference between the two. The 24 elders describe past redemption and people being redeemed to Christ. One of the elders introduced the slain Lamb (Jesus Christ) in Rev 5:5 and the white-robed multitude in Rev 7:13. Why doesn’t an angel do this? Most likely, the elder can better understand this because he himself is a redeemed man.

The Elders Do Not Represent Church-Age Saints

1.      There are no other human beings in Rev 4.

2.      Believers will not sit on thrones surrounding Christ’s throne, they are to sit at a later time with Christ on His throne (Rev 20:4).

3.      Believers will not receive their crowns until after Christ returns to the earth and overthrows His enemies.

The Elders Represent Angelic Beings

1.      Angels are called “thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities” (Col 1:16; cf. Eph 3:10; 6:12).

2.      Isaiah 24:23 may be a reference to angels being called “elders” (see LXX). It is debated whether they are angels or the elders of Israel.

3.      These elders (literally, “the old ones”) could be interpreted as the majesties turning their ruling authority over the earth to the Lamb (Heb 1:5-14; 2:5-8ff).

4.      In Ps 89:7, God sits in the “council of His holy ones” (cf. 1 Kgs 22:19; Job 15:8; Jer 23:18, 22).

5.      White apparel is the characteristic dress of angels (cf. Matt 28:3; Mark 16:5; John 20:12; Acts 1:10).

6.      These elders wore crowns (Gk. stephanous). This Greek word often refers to a victor’s crown (Rev 2:10; 3:11), but John also used it to describe a crown that represents authority (Rev 6:2; 9:7; 12:1; 14:14). These crowns of gold could denote the royal dignity of those associated with the throne of God (cf. 1 Kgs 22:19; Ps 89:7).

7.      The elders are grouped with the “living creatures” as a part of the eternal worship (Rev 4:4). No one interprets the four living creatures as men; therefore, we should not construe these elders as men.

8.      The elders also serve as intermediaries and interpreters (Rev 5:5; 7:13-17).

9.      Nowhere in the context is it hinted that the 24 elders are symbols of a larger group. There is no compulsion that they stand for something else.

10.  One of the elders performs the same function of offering bowls of incense that is later performed by an angel (cf. Rev 5:8; 8:3). Also, in Rev 7:13, the phrase “one of the elders” indicates that the elders were separate created beings rather than corporately representing a larger group. He is separate and different both from the great multitude and from John (cf. also Rev 5:5). In Rev 7:14, this elder acts as an agent of revelation in much the same manner as angels function in Revelation (cf. Rev 1:1; 17:3; 22:6). Such duties belong only to angels (cf. Dan 9:21-27). This particular group of angels primarily assists in execution of the divine rule of the universe. They are probably part of the assembly of heavenly beings that are regularly pictured as present with God in heaven (cf. 1 Kgs 22:19; Ps 89:7; Isa 24:23).

11.  The elders are seated on thrones (Rev 4:4; 11:16) while the saints stand before the throne (7:11).

12.  The elders hold golden bowls that contain the prayers of the saints (Rev 5:8).

13.  One of the elders explains who the victorious saints are (Rev 7:13-14).

14.  The elders thank God for rewarding the saints (Rev 11:18).

15.  In Revelation, the elders are always grouped with angels rather than men, but are distinguished from other angelic subgroups (cf. Rev 7:9-11; 19:1-4).

16.  In Rev 19:4, 7, the elders are distinguished from the “Bride of the Lamb.”

17.  It is logically and sequentially unlikely that the church, as the bride, would be enthroned before her Lord and husband is recognized as being worthy to rule (Rev 5:8-9).

18.  In Rev. 5:10, the personal pronoun is “them” (not “us”) signifying that the redeemed are a separate class of individuals from the 24 elders.

19.  The church does not appear ready to rule until Rev 19:7-8.

The Elders Do Not Represent Angelic Beings

1.      The author of Hebrews suggests that angels are innumerable (Heb 12:22).

2.      Angels are never spoken of as seated on thrones elsewhere in the Scriptures.

3.      The Scriptures never speak of angels wearing crowns to say nothing of stephanoi or victors’ wreaths gotten as a reward for faithful endurance.

4.      In what sense are angels “kings and priests” (Rev 5:10)? Angels are never spoken of as being associated in a priestly act in the Bible. In what sense are angels redeemed from every kindred and tongue and people and nation?

[1] This statistic comes from Erwin W. Lutzer, One Minute After You Die (Chicago: Moody, 1997), 86.

[2] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[3] Scholars have proposed many interpretations of the remaining chapters (Rev 4-22), but the only ones that make much sense of the text are those that see them as predicting events yet future. This is the futuristic approach. Other approaches are the following: The idealist (or allegorical) approach sees these chapters as containing the story of the conflict between God and Satan in the present age with a symbolic presentation of God’s ultimate victory. The preterist approach sees these chapters as a picture of conflicts that took place in the early history of the church. Some preterist interpreters see these chapters as a symbolic revelation of God’s principles of dealing with humankind throughout history. The historical approach interprets these chapters as a history of the church from Jesus Christ’s first advent to His second advent. A major problem with the approaches just named is that their advocates do not agree with one another on the interpretation of individual passages. Only the futuristic approach has resulted in consistency in the interpretation of the major interpretive problems. This approach also has the support of 1:19 that promises a revelation of things yet future. See Dr. Thomas L. Constable, Notes on Revelation (2003), 56: http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/rev.pdf

[4] This should help us to accept the coming revelation that He will wipe out huge segments of humanity in the future.

[5] The translation “with me” implies that John was engaged in a dialogue with the one speaking to him (Jesus) when in reality it was a one-sided conversation, with John doing all the listening. For this reason, the Greek phrase met emou (“with me”) is better translated as “to me.” See NET Study Bible Notes at www.bible.org

[6] “After these things” typically refers back to previous events (Luke 17:8; John 5:1; 21:1; Acts 13:20; 1 Pet 1:11). See Daniel B. Wallace, Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics, Electronic Ed. The phrase, with variations, also introduces a new vision each time it occurs in Revelation (cf. 7:1, 9; 15:5; 18:1; 19:1).

[7] Posttribulationists (those who believe that Christ will return after the tribulation) argue that the phrase “after these things” refers only to the time of the vision that John saw. After the vision of Rev 2:1-3:22 he saw a vision of 4:1ff. Thus the first “after these things” in 4:1 means simply that after John saw the vision concerning the churches, he saw the vision of the heavenly throne room in 4:1ff.

[8] The word “door” (thura) is used four times in Revelation. In 3:8 it is used in connection with the door of opportunity for ministry given to the church at Philadelphia. Then in 3:20 it is used twice of Christ standing at the door of the heart desiring fellowship.

[9] Gk. hos: a conjunction that can mean, “like, as, that, how, about” is used 58 times in Revelation.

[10] Steven J. Lawson, Heaven Help Us! (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1995), 18.

[11] This is also the command given to the two resurrected witnesses in Rev 11:12. Some consider this to be a reference to the rapture of the church; however, it may be simply a phrase in apocalyptic style that introduces John’s revelatory vision (4:2).

[12] The word “must” (dei) indicates divine necessity here as it does frequently in the Gospels, especially Luke’s gospel (Luke 2:49; 4:43; 13:33; 17:25; 19:5, 22; 22:37; 24:25-27, 44-46; cf. Acts 2:23-24).

[13] Rev 4:2 should remind us that there is a seen world and an unseen world. In the seen world, John was on Patmos. In the unseen world, he was in the spirit, and he looked as through a keyhole into heaven. That unseen world is more real and more important than the seen world. The unseen world controls the seen world. This is why Paul said, “while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Cor 4:18).

[14] This was probably a room in the heavenly temple since later John also saw the golden altar of incense and the Ark of the Covenant there (Rev 8:3; 11:19).

[15] As early as Rev 1:4, John mentioned the throne of God. In Rev 3:21, overcomers are promised a share in God’s throne. Here, for the first time the throne actually appears.

[16] The Greek word “throne” (thronos) is used 37 times in Revelation and only 14 times in the rest of the New Testament.

[17] The tense of the Greek verb translated “sitting” (present participle here and in Rev 4:3) suggests continuous sitting.

[18] Cf. 1 Kgs 22:19; Ps 11:4; 47:8; Isa 6:1; Ezek 1:26; Dan 7:9.

[19] From this point of origination proceeds the outworking of God’s wrath described in the body of the Apocalypse (cf. Rev 6:10, 16-17; 14:7; 15:1; 16:5, 19; 18:20; 19:2, 11).

[20] Cf. Rev 4:5; 5:5, 7; 6:16; 7:10; 19:4.

[21] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 31.

[22] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 33.

[23] Preaching Today Citation: Steve Johnson, “‘Little Things’ Add Up to Jumpy, But Compelling, News Coverage,” Chicago Tribune (3-21-03).

[24] In the Old Testament these stones had a special relationship to the tribes of Israel. Each tribe had a representative stone, which the High Priest wore on his priestly garment. As the High Priest, he was representing each tribe before God at the altar. The Jasper was the stone representing the first tribe, the tribe of Reuben. The last tribe, Benjamin, was represented by the Sardius. So these two stones represent the whole nation, the first and the last and all in between. Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 110.

[25] Cf. Rev 1:14; 10:1; Ezek 1:4, 26- 28; 8:2; Dan 7:9.

[26] Perhaps it is better to think of this resemblance as denoting His anger as a reaction of His holy nature in view of the prevailing sinfulness of man and in consequence of which He is about to send judgment upon the earth, that the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.

[27] Usually, a rainbow appears after the storm; but here, we see it before the storm.

[28] The “rainbow” (iris) is an unusual term used only in Rev 4:3 and 10:1. The LXX (the Greek Old Testament) uses the word toxon for rainbow. This may suggest that the rainbow in Revelation is more like a halo. Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 227.

[29] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 36.

[30] For more detailed work see John P. Burke, “The Identity of the Twenty-Four Elders: A Critical Monograph on Revelation 4:4,” Grace Journal 2:3 (Fall 1961), 19-28.

[31] This insight came from personal correspondence with Bob Deffinbaugh.

[32] Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville: Holman, 1998), 76.

[33] Rev 6:1; 8:5; 11:19; 14:2; 16:18; 19:6; cf. Exod 19:16; Ps 29:1-3. In Revelation the symbols of thunder and lightning are always connected with a temple scene and mark an event of unusual import. R.H. Mounce, The Book of Revelation: NICNT (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998), 136.

[34] Gk. lampades (“lamps”), cf. luchniai, “lampstands,” Rev 1:12, 20.

[35] Some interpret the seven spirits of God as angelic beings.

[36] Rev 1:4; 3:1; 4:5; 5:6; cf. Isa 11:2-3.

[37] Cf. Judg 7:16, 20; Isa 4:4; Nah 2:3-4; Mal 4:1.

[38] This throne will be the “victory stand” for believing martyrs in Rev 15:2.

[39] Some commentators see the “sea of glass” as an analogy to the sea of brass in the Tabernacle or the molten sea in the Temple. Both were washstands so that the priests could cleanse themselves before entering the place of worship. The clear glass-like sea before the throne may represent the need for cleansing before approaching God. The laver (called a “sea” in the Old Testament, e.g., 1 Kgs 7:23; 2 Chron 4:2-6) served the need for cleansing in the Israelite tabernacle and temple. See Steve Gregg, Revelation: Four Views A Parallel Commentary (Nashville: Nelson, 1997), 91. Others have suggested that perhaps the fact that this sea is solid indicates that those who can approach God’s throne have attained a fixed state of holiness by God’s grace. Perhaps the sea represents the forces opposed to God’s will and His people. John now saw these forces under God’s sovereign control (cf. Exod 24:10; Ezek 1:22, 26).

[40] Osborne, Revelation, 231.

[41] Cf. Gen 1:7; Exod 24:10-11; 1 Kgs 7:23; Ps 104:3; Ezek 1:22, 26.

[42] Osborne, Revelation, 231.

[43] Together they may picture all creation praising God, or God’s sovereign control over all aspects of His creation, or both. Each creature also seems to possess different qualities that are appropriate in their service of God. John described these as the outstanding qualities of animals that everyone can identify. Lions are strong (cf. Ps 103:20), oxen are servants (cf. Heb 1:14), men have intelligence (cf. Luke 15:10), and eagles are swift (cf. Dan 9:21).

[44] Some of the early church fathers equated these creatures with the four Gospels, but they had different opinions about which beings represented which Gospels. Some commentators have taken this further and have suggested that each creature represents a different aspect of Christ in each Gospel. Others take the beings as symbolizing attributes of God. Still others connect them with the four chief signs of the zodiac. Some believe they represent Israel because there is some connection with the pictures on the standards of Israel’s tribes (cf. Num 2:2, 10, 18, 25). Others see them as representing four outstanding apostles or other glorified men. Yet none of these interpretations seems valid. See Constable, Notes on Revelation, 62.

[45] Some translations render esothen as “under [its] wings,” but the description could also mean, “filled all around on the outside and on the inside with eyes.” Since the referent is not available to the interpreter, the exact force is difficult to determine.

[46] In Hebrew, the double repetition of a word adds emphasis, while the rare threefold repetition designates the superlative and calls attention to the infinite holiness of God—the quality of God felt by creatures in his presence as awesomeness or fearfulness (Ps 111:9: “Holy and awesome is his name.”). See Alan F. Johnson, Revelation: EBC, Electronic Ed.

[47] Gk. pantokrator means, “all power” and is used five more times in Revelation (11:17; 15:3; 16:7; 19:6; 21:22) but is found nowhere else in the New Testament.

[48] This is the first of 14 doxologies in the book of Revelation.

[49] Of the 25 occurrences of the word “holy” (hagios) in Revelation only three are used of God. The other 22 refer to saints, Jerusalem, and angels.

[50] Similar to Isaiah 6:3, the words “holy, holy, holy” function as substantival adjectives, so that the words may be translated, “Holy One, Holy One, Holy One.” Wallace explains, “A substantival adjective is “used independently of a noun…. It either implies a noun or takes on the lexical nuance of a noun.” See Wallace, Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics, Electronic Ed.

[51] Preaching Today Citation: Lev Grossman, “Crunching the Numbers,” Time (12-23-02), p. 51; submitted by Kevin Miller, Wheaton, Illinois.

[52] This compound name appears seven times in Revelation (1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7; 19:6; 21:22) and the shorter form, “God the Almighty,” occurs twice (16:14; 19:15). It has roots in the Old Testament title “Yahweh, God of hosts.” This title (e.g., 2 Sam 5:10; Jer 5:14; Hos 12:5; Amos 3:13; 4:13) indicates Yahweh’s unrivaled power and supremacy over all things.

[53] Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 1-7 (Chicago: Moody, 1992), 363.

[54] This designation of God occurs, with variation, four other times in Revelation (1:4, 8; 11:17; 16:5). These designations derive from Exodus 3:14: “I AM WHO I AM.” This phrase emphasizes God’s self-existence, eternality, and presence. See Mazie Nakhro, “The Meaning of Worship according to the Book of Revelation,” Bibliotheca Sacra 158:629 (Jan 01), 76-77.

[55] Michael P. Green, Illustrations for Biblical Preaching (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1989).

[56] Worship (proskuneo) means “to prostrate one's self before another.”

[57] The definite article “the” (ten) appears before each of these three nouns “expressing the absoluteness and universality of these attributes” (cf. Rev 1:6). Marvin R. Vincent, Word Studies in the New Testament: Vol II (Peabody: MA: Hendrickson, reprint), 486.

[58] The twofold statement in Rev 4:9-10 that the creatures “worship Him who lives forever and ever” supports the adoration of God’s eternal existence and presence. In this sense the heavenly creatures worship God for who He is, namely, the eternally existent and present Being.

[59] Constable writes, “The Apostle Paul said he wanted to make sure he did nothing that would result in his losing his reward (1 Cor 9:27). He also used rewards as a motivation to urge Christians to serve Jesus Christ faithfully (1 Cor 3:10-15; 2 Cor 5:10). These factors have created problems for some believers. Is it not selfish to want to gain a reward? Is this not an unworthy motive for living the Christian life? I believe the answer lies in this verse. Here the 24 elders cast their crowns at the feet of the Father in worship. Since a crown is something we will give back to the Lord in worship, the desire for a crown need not be a selfish motivation. Indeed the desire to present one’s life work of faithful service as a gift to the Savior is a very unselfish and God-honoring motive. A victor’s crown is symbolic of the fact that the judge has declared the athlete victorious. Anyone can go out and buy a trophy in a store, but a trophy received as a reward for victory in competition has much greater value because of what it represents. Christians will receive crowns for finishing the race set before us faithfully, not first (i.e., before others). We do not compete against fellow believers, but we compete to overcome our spiritual enemies, namely, the world, the flesh, and the devil.” See Constable, Notes on Revelation, 63.

[60] See also Joseph C. Dillow, The Reign of the Servant Kings (Hayesville, NC: Schoettle, 1992), 583.

[61] Thomas, Revelation 1-7, 368.

[62] Most of these facts came from a children’s devotional that I read to my children. I have really appreciated this interesting and relevant tool. See Andy Holmes, Growing with Jesus (Nashville: Tommy Nelson, 2000).

[63] Green, Illustrations for Biblical Preaching.

[64] David Hocking, The Coming World Leader (Portland: Multnomah, 1988), 112.

[65] Please don’t feel badly for my kids when I use them as sermon illustrations. I typically get their permission and at this age of their lives they love it…and besides they earn a dollar for every illustration I use.

[66] Leland Ryken, author and Wheaton College professor, wrote, “Earlier in this century, someone claimed that we work at our play and play at our work. Today the confusion has deepened: we worship our work, work at our play, and play at our worship.” Preaching Today Citation: This quote appears to be taken from Gordon Dahl, “Work, Play and Worship in a Leisure-Oriented Society” (Augsberg, 1972).

“When All Heaven Breaks Loose!” (Revelation 5:1-14)

How many of you remember your first kiss? (Now teenagers, of course, you have your first kiss to look forward to): If you’ve had a first kiss, you know how difficult it is to explain. You can check the dictionary definition: “A caress with the lips; a gentle touch or contact.” But does that really capture the essence of what a kiss is? Does that describe what a mother does when she tenderly places her lips on the forehead of her newborn child? Is that what a husband does when he expresses his love to his wife? Trying to explain God is like trying to explain a kiss. Just as words cannot completely capture all that is involved in what we know by experience and attempt to describe as a “kiss,” we also cannot fully comprehend, explain, or define “God.” We can, however, know Him through experiencing His revelation of Himself to us in His Word and in the person of Jesus Christ.[1]

We are studying the book of Revelation. Today we are in Revelation 5:1-14. In both chapters 4 and 5, the scene is in heaven. In chapter 4 we experienced the worship of God the Father. In chapter 5 we will experience the worship of Jesus Christ. These two chapters provide us a keyhole glimpse of what will be going on in heaven before God pours out His judgments on the earth (Rev 6-18).[2]

1. God is in complete control of the future (5:1-4). John records, “I saw[3] in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a book written inside and on the back, sealed up[4] with seven seals.” Chapter 4 began by focusing our attention upon a throne; chapter 5 begins by drawing our attention to a scroll. In God the Father’s right hand John saw a book (lit. a “scroll”).[5] What more profound way of picturing God’s ultimate sovereignty over all history could be found than this picture of the scroll resting in His hand?[6] However strong evil becomes, however fierce be the satanic evils that assail God’s people on earth, history still rests in God’s hand.

God’s “right hand” refers to His authority to translate the contents of this scroll into action. This scroll is the focus of John’s attention in this chapter, and it is what Jesus Christ opens in chapter 6, resulting in the judgments that will come upon the earth. The scroll contains the detailed plans and purposes of God for subduing the enemies of Christ and establishing His reign upon the earth.[7] This scroll is so full of words that John could see writing on the inside as well as the outside of the scroll (cf. Ezek 2:10).[8] Writing on both sides indicates the detailed and important nature of the judgments. It also emphasizes their ability to accomplish the purposes of God. Someone, probably God, had sealed it with seven seals, suggesting the profound nature of the revelation it contained. It may represent the book of prophecies God instructed Daniel to seal until the end times (Dan 12:4, 9). The perfect number of seals (“seven”) may also hint at the absolute sacredness of the scroll. The seals inform us that while this plan has been settled in the eternal counsels of God, it has been concealed and only one, who is duly authorized, may open it to read and execute it. The period of grace and God’s long-suffering has now come to an end.

John is mesmerized by God the Father and the scroll in His right hand, when he sees a “strong angel[9] proclaiming with a loud voice,[10] ‘Who is worthy to open the book and to break its seals?’ And[11] no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the book or to look into it” (5:2-3). This unnamed, strong angel asks the question of the ages: “Who is worthy to open the book and to break its seals?” One with sufficient authority and worthiness was necessary to open the scroll and by breaking its seals to unleash the judgments on the world that it contained. Any prophet could have revealed this information but it took someone with adequate power to execute the events foretold, as well as to reveal and bring them to pass. This strong angel goes on a universal search and discovers that no angel, no created being (cf. Phil 2:10), no human being, no creature, no spirit, and no one can open the scroll.

This futile search almost crushed John’s heart! He dissolved emotionally. The future of the world seemed too bleak to face.[12] So in 5:4, John acknowledges, “Then I began to weep greatly[13] because no one was found worthy to open the book or to look into it.” John’s continual weeping reflected his sorrow that God’s future kingdom and final judgment appear to be indefinitely postponed because no one had sufficient authority to open the scroll.[14] Did this mean that the wrongs of earth would not be dealt with? Does this mean that the righteous will never be vindicated and that the wicked will go unpunished? John understood that if God’s purposes fail, then all of life is meaningless.  If no one can open the scroll, none of God’s purposes will come to pass. The sad truth is: without Christ there will be only weeping.

2. Jesus Christ will carry out God’s final purposes on earth (5:5-7). Yet, suddenly in 5:5, one of the elders said to John, “Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals.” One of the 24 elders comforted John with the news that Jesus Christ would open the scroll (cf. Luke 7:13; 8:52). He had achieved victory over all God’s enemies and therefore had the authority to open the scroll and to release its contents. The “Lion that is from the tribe of Judah” and the “Root of David” are Old Testament titles of the Messiah who would fulfill the promises of salvation and would rule.[15] The tribe of Judah was the tribe of David from which the kingly line proceeded (Gen 49:9-10). It was this tribe that the promise was given of a Son whose throne and kingdom would endure forever (2 Sam 7:13, 16). The title “the Root of David” means the Messiah would come through the lineage of David as a greater son of David (Luke 1:32-33).[16] He who came after David as the offspring of David was also before him as the root (Rev 22:16). As God’s ultimate Anointed One, Jesus alone possessed the authority necessary for this task. He overcame Satan, sin, and death so He could implement God’s purposes for the future that this scroll revealed. Only Christ can carry out God’s final purposes on earth.

Eagerly, John turns his head to see this Lion-King. But the apostle is not prepared for what he sees. Expecting to see a kingly Lion, the apostle sees something totally different: John saw “between the throne (with the four living creatures) and the elders a Lamb[17] standing, as if slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth” (5:6). Notice four things in 5:6.

First, John sees the Messiah as a “Lamb.”[18] The “Lamb”[19] is a symbol of Jesus Christ at His first advent, meek and submissive to a sacrificial death as our substitute (Isa 53:7; John 1:36; 21:15).[20] The Lion is a symbol of Jesus at His second coming, powerful and aggressively judging the world in righteousness (Ps 2).[21] John saw the Lamb, now in the center of all the creatures and elders gathered around the throne, as the central character and most important personage in the entire heavenly scene (cf. Rev 3:21; 4:6; 7:17).[22]

Second, the Lamb had been slain. The word “slain”[23] means to cut up and mutilate an animal sacrifice. It speaks of a violent, bloody sacrifice. It describes the gory crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thorns pierced His skull. A whip lacerated His back. Fists bruised His face. Nails gouged His hands. A spear tore His side. Blood and water came gushing out.[24] Christ paid the ultimate price for mankind.

Third, the Lamb is “standing.” This slain Lamb, who was violently slaughtered and put to death, is now actually standing! Having been killed, He is alive again, and He is standing in the innermost circle next to the throne.

Fourth, the Lamb is awesome with His seven horns and seven eyes. The number seven represents the fullness of Christ’s power in defeating His foes. The horn is a biblical symbol for power and authority.[25]

The seven eyes represent the fullness of Christ’s divine wisdom and discernment (Zech 4:10). His eyes are the seven Spirits of God (i.e., the seven manifestations of the Spirit) that communicate to Christ all that transpires (Isa 11:2-4).[26] The Lamb is all-knowing as well as all-powerful. This is one Lamb who can’t have the wool pulled over His eyes! There is no more dreadful thought than to have to face the “Lion” in judgment because you have rejected the “Lamb.” The purpose of the Lord’s first coming was gracious. He came to “seek and to save those who are lost” (Luke 19:10). But the purpose of His second coming is different. Then He comes to deal with His enemies and to fulfill His promises of blessing to His own. Do not reject the grace of God, my friend. There comes a time when all men must deal with the “Lion,” either as the One for whom we have watched and worked and prayed or the One whom we have rejected.

Now in one dramatic moment, Jesus Christ, the Lion-Lamb, boldly approaches the throne of God. In 5:7, Jesus exercises His sovereignty[27] by coming and taking the scroll out of the Father’s right hand. This symbolizes a transfer of authority from the Father to the Son to reveal the future and to execute judgment.

What we have in Revelation 5 is a vision of Christ (5:1-7) and the expanding, concentric circles of His worship in heaven. First, we see the worship of Jesus Christ in heaven by those immediately around the throne (5:8-10); then we see worship throughout all heaven (5:11-12); finally, we see worship throughout the entire universe (5:13-14). Like a “wave” at a football game, it spreads to all creation.[28]

3. Jesus Christ is worthy of overwhelming praise (5:8-14). In 5:8, John writes, “When He [Jesus] had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” This transfer resulted in an outpouring of praise for the Lamb because it signaled that Christ would begin judging (Rev 6-18). While the four living creatures and 24 elders prostrated themselves in worship, only the elders had harps and bowls.[29] They used the harps to praise God in song (Ps 33:2; 98:5).[30] Throughout the Bible, the harp is an instrument of joy and gladness. In fact, the harp is used in Scripture more than any other instrument to praise God (Ps 71:22). All types of instruments will be used in heaven to worship God. Here on earth, we must do the same (Ps 150:3-6).

John explained that the bowls contained the prayers of God’s people that are as the fragrant aroma of burning incense to Him (cf. Ps 141:2; Luke 1:10). In the Old Testament the offering of incense was a priestly duty (Num 16:6-7) so these angels were functioning in a priestly capacity.[31] The prayers offered are probably all those unanswered petitions that people have prayed asking God to judge unrighteousness, including, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done in earth as it is in heaven” (cf. 5:10; 6:10; 8:3-5; Matt 6:10; Luke 18:7-8).[32] These prayers are the pleadings of saints already in heaven, requesting God to make right every wrong on the earth. These prayers are petitions offered to God to vindicate His name on the earth by pouring out His judgments upon an unbelieving world. Remember, saints in heaven are glorified—they are perfected in the image of Christ. We will be without any sin. Therefore, these prayers are perfect petitions offered by perfected people in a perfect place.[33]

In 5:9-10, John goes on to record that “they sang a new[34] song,[35] saying, ‘Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased[36] for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.[37] You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth.’” As a result of the Lamb’s authority from God to advance God’s plan of the ages, the living creatures and elders sang a “new song”[38] (cf. Rev 14:3). This song represents new praise for deliverance about to take place.[39] In this song the Lamb receives honor as being worthy in view of four things. The first is His death. He was “slain.”

The second reason the Lamb is worthy is because He “purchased” (redemption) for God, by His death, people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation. This represents divisions of humanity based on lineage, language, race, and political orientation.[40] Together these terms describe the universal nature of Christ’s people. It is important to note that this, however, does not teach universalism. Every person will not ultimately be saved. But people “from” every people group will be in heaven. How will people from groups that never heard the Gospel be in heaven? First, Jesus said that the Gospel will be preached to all the world by the end of the age (Matt 24:14). This includes all people groups who will eventually be reached for Christ (cf. Rev 14:2-3; 15:2-4). This assurance should motivate us as a church and as individuals to fulfill our responsibility for world evangelization. Second, I believe that those who die an early death—babies, infants, fetuses aborted—go into the presence of God. Every people group experiences these untimely tragedies and will populate heaven.[41]

Third, the death of Christ not only saved men, it also made them priests and kings so that they would share in His kingdom (cf. 1 Pet 2:5, 9). Priesthood involves immediate access into God’s presence for praise and worship as well as the privilege of priestly service. The fourth is the blessing of His people by allowing them to rule on the earth (during the millennium).[42] This is man’s ultimate end; he will worship God by fulfilling God’s ordained responsibilities on a new earth, for all eternity.

The company of worshippers expands to include all the angels of heaven. A second choir of worshippers joins now with the first choir and all heaven breaks loose! In 5:11-12, John writes, “Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud[43] voice,[44] ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain[45] to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing.’” An innumerable host of angels now joins the four creatures and 24 elders in ascribing worth to the Lamb (cf. Dan 7:10; Ps 68:17-18; Matt 2:13). The Greek word for “myriad” (miros) means 10,000.[46] “Myriad of myriad” would mean 10,000 times 10,000. That’s 100 million! But this is in the plural—“myriads of myriads”—meaning hundreds of millions times hundreds of millions. The number is easily in the billions. But then John records that there are still “thousands of thousands” in addition to the billions. One thousand times one thousand is one million. But again, this is in the plural (“thousands of thousands”). So there are multiplied millions spilling over the billions of worshippers already counted. This staggering number exceeds the limits of human language and our ability to comprehend.[47] Multiplied billions are in this heavenly choir worshipping in heaven.

In 5:12, the angels use seven expressions (the perfect number is probably significant) to indicate the wonder of the Lamb.[48] The repetition of “and” (kai) between each quality brings special emphasis to each one individually. These characteristics of which Jesus is worthy (power, riches, wisdom, might, honor, glory, blessing) are things that He already possesses in heaven. Therefore, the song of praise, which the angels are singing, implies that He is worthy to break the seals and to open the scroll (that is to commence the period of the great tribulation) in order to gain these on earth, even as He already possesses them in heaven. As I understand this song it is earthly power, riches, wisdom, might, honor, glory, and blessing which our Lord is worthy to receive. The events of chapters 6-19 actually bring these to pass.[49]

(1) He is worthy to “receive power.” Power (dunamis) is mentioned first perhaps because the immediate situation calls for the need of great power to accomplish His purposes in the earth. He alone, as the perfect God-man Savior, is worthy of such power for He alone will and can use it with perfect justice and equity (Isa 11).

(2) “And riches” (ploutos) refers to the wealth of the universe. All this is His by creation and now by redemption and reclamation.

(3) “And wisdom” (sophia) refers to the Lord’s omniscience and its wise use in carrying out the purposes of God in the world.

(4) “And might” (ischuos) refers to working might or power in action and stresses His omnipotence to carry out God’s will.

(5) “And honor” (time) refers to the esteem, the value and respect which is due to Christ because of who He is and what He has and will accomplish to the glory of God, and the benefit of the world. He deserves public distinction.

(6) “And glory” (doxa) refers to the tribute and public display of adoration that should accrue to Christ, and again this stems from His person and work, both past, present, and future.

(7) “And blessing” (eulogia) refers to the praise that should be given to the Lord because of His wonderful acts of redemption and reclamation.

Our passage closes with universal praise to the Father and the Son (5:13-14). John writes, “And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, ‘To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion[50] forever and ever.’ And the four living creatures kept saying, ‘Amen.’ And the elders fell down and worshiped.” In this vision John “heard” “every created thing” giving praise to God and to the Lamb. The crescendo to this symphony of praise is all creation, everywhere and everything worships the Father and the Son. The stones, the birds, the animals, and the fish finally cry out—all creation had been groaning under the futility of the curse, now they know that they are about to be set free (Rom 8:18-23).[51]

In Revelation 4 and 5, the sequence of praise shows that the first two are addressed to God, the next two, to the Lamb, and the last one to both.[52] It is God who is praised as the Creator, in Revelation 4 (4:11). It is the Son who is praised in Revelation 5, as the Reconciler of creation (Col 1:20). Thus, every living creature praises both Father and Son. God the Father and God the Son are both equally to be worshipped forever and ever.[53] One of the weaknesses today is that many people want to worship “God” but they don’t want to worship Jesus. Yet, the Father has said that there is no life apart from Jesus (John 3:35-36).

Our passage concludes as the worship culminates in John’s vision with the four creatures saying “Amen” repeatedly, after the vast crowd fell silent. The elders are then seen worshipping by prostrating themselves before God’s throne (cf. 4:10).

A boy once captured two little birds and put them in a cage. A man saw the boy carrying the cage and asked him what he was going to do with the birds. “Oh,” the boy replied, “I’m going to play with them for a while and then feed them to my cat.” The man looked at the caged birds and took pity on them. “Say, I’d like to buy the cage and the birds from you. How much do you want for them?” The boy thought for a minute and then named his price. The man paid it and the boy handed over the cage, after which the man immediately opened the cage and set the birds free.

That’s what Jesus did for us. Satan had us caged and was going to feed us into the jaws of eternal death. But Jesus Christ purchased us, cage and all, and set us free. We’re going to be worshipping Him for all eternity because He paid that price. We need to start practicing our worship down here because He alone is worthy.[54]

[1] Revised from Michael P. Green, Illustrations for Biblical Preaching (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1989).

[2] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[3] Four new heavenly scenes are introduced by the phrase “and I saw” (kai eidon) in 5:1, 2, 6, and 11. In 5:11, the NASB translates kai eidon as: “Then I looked.”

[4] Gk. katasphragizo is a compound verb that means, “tightly sealed, firmly sealed,” and so, “very hidden, very secure.” The only other biblical occurrences of this verb are found in the Greek Old Testament (Job 9:7; 37:7).

[5] Similar scrolls are found in Isa 29:11 and Ezek 2:9-10.

[6] Robert H. Mounce, The Book of Revelation: NICNT (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998), 142.

[7] The contents of the scroll seem clear enough. Yet, there have been many other alternative interpretations offered: (1) the Lamb’s Book of Life, (2) the book of redemption containing God’s eternal plan for salvation, (3) Christ’s title deed to planet earth, (4) the book of the New Covenant, and (5) a testament or will assuring that the inheritance is reserved by God. For more information see Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 1-7 (Chicago: Moody, 1992), 376-79.

[8] Scholars note that it was less common for a scroll to have writing on both sides, since the backside of a papyrus scroll was more difficult to write upon.

[9] The “strong angel” (cf. Rev 10:1; 18:21) is could be Gabriel, the one who ordered the closing and sealing of the book to Daniel (see Dan 8:16; 9:21; Luke 1:19, 26). His name means, “strength of God.” Others believe he is the archangel Michael, who will play a major role in end-time events (Dan 12:1-3).

[10] The strong angel’s loud voice indicates his authority and the importance of what he says. The phrase “loud voice” occurs 20 other times in Revelation (1:10; 5:12; 6:10; 7:2, 10; 8:13; 10:3; 11:12; 12:10; 14:2, 7, 9, 15, 18; 16:1, 17; 19:1, 17; 21:3).

[11] The Greek word “and” (kai) can be translated “and, even, or also.” In this context, it should be rendered “even.” Greek grammarians call this an “epexegetical” conjunction as which means “explanatory; drawing out the meaning of something.” See Matthew S. DeMoss, Pocket Dictionary for the Study of New Testament Greek (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 2001), 52.

[12] Steven J. Lawson, Heaven Help Us! (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1995), 73.

[13] The expression “to weep greatly” (eklaion polu) conveys a “noisy grief, a wailing.” A form of the word klaio (“weep”) also occurs in Rev 5:5; 18:9, 11, 15, and 19.

[14] Thomas writes, “He did not want to see God’s vindication of His people as a part of the Old Testament Messianic hope deferred for an undetermined period.” Thomas, Revelation 1-7, 386.

[15] This is the only place in the New Testament where these two Messianic titles occur together.

[16] Isa 11:1, 10; Jer 23:5; 33:15; Matt 22:42-43; Rom 15:12.

[17] Keathley writes, “Since the one standing is ‘the Lamb of God,’ we might have expected to find the Greek article with the noun, but it is absent. Why? Because the absence of the article draws our attention to the quality or character of Christ as God’s sacrificial Lamb. Further, the term used here is the Greek arnion. The regular word for lamb is arnon. Arnion is the diminutive form and means ‘little Lamb,’ but it came to be used as a term of endearment. The sacrificial lambs were not just lambs taken out of the flock, but those, which had often been brought into the home, cared for and loved. It expresses God’s love for His Son and what it cost Him to give Him for us.” Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 122.

[18] The diminutive form of amnos (“lamb,” namely, arnion) enhances the contrast with the lion. The lion is a picture of strength and majesty, but this lamb was meek and gentle. Christ combines both sets of characteristics. See Dr. Thomas Constable, Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation, 2003, www.soniclight.org, 66.

[19] The word “Lamb” (arnion) is used 29 times in Revelation and only once elsewhere (John 21:15).

[20] John is the only New Testament writer who described Jesus as the Lamb, though Peter came close in 1 Peter 1:19.

[21] “The Lamb says: simplicity, meekness, white fleece, smallness, innocence, purity, helplessness, and submission to sacrifice. The Lion says: strength, size, golden mane, grandeur, courage, untamed power. How paradoxical that both images speak of Christ! Neither is a perfect image; each symbolizes different characteristics of the same infinite Person.” Preaching Today Citation: Luci Shaw, Leadership, Vol. 2, no. 3.

[22] “In one brilliant stroke John portrays the central theme of New Testament revelation—victory through sacrifice.” See Mounce, The Book of Revelation, 144.

[23] Gk. sphazo, Rev 5:6, 9, 12; 6:4, 9; 13:3, 8; 18:24; 1 John 3:12.

[24] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 76.

[25] See Rev 12:3; 13:1, 11; 17:3-4; Num 23:22; Deut 33:17; 1 Sam 2:1; 2 Sam 22:3; 1 Kgs 22:11; Ps 18:2; 75:4, 10; 112:9; 132:17; 148:14; Dan 7:7, 20-21; 8:5.

[26] An alternative interpretation is that the clause “which are the seven Spirits” refers to both the seven horns and the seven eyes. In this case John may have meant that the Lamb had the seven spirits (angelic beings), who are powerful and perceptive, at His disposal.

[27] Cf. Rev 5:6-7; 6:16; 7:17; 17:14; 22:1, 3.

[28] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 86-87.

[29] This is clear in the Greek text from the gender of kekastos, translated “having.”

[30] This is the only place in Scripture where angels praise God with harps.

[31] The Jews believed that angels carried human prayers to God (cf. Rev 8:3).

[32] It is also possible that these prayers reveal that the church in heaven will be praying for those who become believers in the tribulation period and for the nation of Israel.

[33] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 90.

[34] Gk. kainen, lit. fresh, distinctive in quality, rather than recent.

[35] See also Pss 33:3; 40:3; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9; 149:1; Isa 42:10.

[36] The word “purchase” (agorazo) pictures the acquisition of slaves in a marketplace and then setting them free. That’s what Christ did for us on the cross. See also Rev 3:18; 13:17; 14:3-4; 18:11. BDAG classifies this word under the broad meaning “to secure the rights to someone by paying a price, buy, acquire as property.”

[37] “Interestingly, of all the songs in the Book of Revelation, not one is a solo. The twenty-four elders sing and cast their crowns before His feet, the united voices of countless angels resound, every living creature in heaven and earth and under the earth and all that is in them are joined in one song. Those who are victorious over the beast are given harps and a song to sing. In every case multitudes of people or angels unite in the same song with absolute unity.” Preaching Today Citation: Graham Kendrick, Leadership, Vol. 15, no. 2.

[38] Mounce suggests that this “new song” celebrates Christ’s death that inaugurated a new covenant. Mounce, The Book of Revelation, 147.

[39] Beasley-Murray writes, “This [i.e., “a new song”] is a well-known expression in the psalms, relating to songs sung on festal occasions and celebrating new mercies from God, especially his deliverances from distress (e.g., Ps 40:1, 98:1). It receives a deeper meaning in Isaiah 42:10, where the new song relates to the new and greater deliverance which the Lord is about to make in the earth.” G.R. Beasley-Murray, The Book of Revelation: NCBC (London: Marshall, Morgan, and Scott, 1978), 126-127.

[40] “Tribe” means the same descent, clan, and family lineage. “Tongue” refers to people speaking the same language. “People” means those of the same race. Nation refers to those bound together by political unity, habits, and customs. Cf. Rev 7:9; 10:11; 11:9; 13:7; 14:6; 17:15.

[41] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 93.

[42] Some translations render this song in the first person (“You have redeemed us…,” 2:8, AV). Others put it in the third person (“You have redeemed men…,” e.g., NASB, NIV). This variation reflects a difference in the Greek texts that underlie these translations. I prefer the text family used as a basis for the NASB and NIV translations.

[43] They speak in a loud (megas) voice. Megas speaks of both the intensity and degree.

[44] Please note the word “voice” (phone) is singular which emphasizes they are speaking in perfect unity, as one.

[45] Morris writes, “The Greek perfect tense here signifies that the Lamb was not only slain at a point of time, but that the efficacy of His death is still present in all its power.” Leon Morris, The Book of Revelation: TNTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987), 97.

[46] Cf. Rev 9:16; Luke 12:1; Acts 21:20; Heb 12:22; Jude 14.

[47] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 93.

[48] See also Morris, The Book of Revelation, 101.

[49] I’m indebted to my friend, Bob Deffinbaugh for this insight.

[50] Gk. kratos is particularly used of ruling power or sovereignty or dominion (cf. Rev 1:6).

[51] Some scholars argue that against the inclusion of the animal world on the grounds that non-intelligent beings can hardly sing praises. However, this is to ignore the apocalyptic symbolism of Revelation. Throughout, animate and inanimate creation fights on the side of God against Satan (e.g., 12:14, 16). Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 265.

[52] There is also a gradual enlargement in the size of the choirs.

[53] How appropriate this is in the light of the last verse of the psalms: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!” (Ps 150:6).

[54] Tony Evans, Totally Saved (Chicago; Moody, 2002), 60.

“Buckle Your Seatbelts!” (Revelation 6:1-17)

Early Edition was a popular television program in the early 1990’s that featured a young man that regularly received the next day’s newspaper a day ahead of time. Because he always knew the future, the man’s task in each episode was to save people from a tragedy or problem he had read about in tomorrow’s newspaper. So, if he knew a building was going to burn, he tried to keep people from entering into it. Or if someone was going to be hurt by an act of violence, or in an accident, he tried to prevent the encounter from taking place.[1]

Most of us would like to have the knowledge that this man did. Yet, we fail to realize that the book of Revelation is an “early edition” of future events. Now we have arrived at Revelation 6. Revelation 6-18 deals with a seven-year period called “the tribulation” (Matt 24:21; Rev 7:14).[2] This section makes up almost two-thirds of the book of Revelation. This should cause us to stop and ask, “Is Revelation relevant? If so, why should we spend time studying the tribulation period when we believe (or hope and pray) that we will be raptured prior to this time?”[3]

Studying the tribulation serves several important purposes: (1) The tribulation should scare the living daylights out of us. God’s holiness, as expressed through His justice and wrath, should overwhelm us. It should spark a newfound appreciation for His love and grace. (2) The tribulation should also sober us. It should lead us to take our lives more seriously and to live them according to eternal values. As a result, we will not put so much attachment upon the things of this earth, once we see what will become of them. We will also live more thoughtfully for eternity, finding our source and satisfaction in God. (3) The tribulation should compel us to go out into our world as ambassadors for Jesus Christ, delivering people from the wrath to come.[4] Believe me when I say that no human being will want to go through this time. If all of these terrifying events don’t cause us to tell others about Jesus Christ, what will?

1. Jesus will sovereignly judge this world (6:1-8). The first four seals seem to belong together (6:1-8). (1) They are introduced by one of the four living creatures (6:1, 3, 5, 7). (2) Each seal is preceded with a call to “Come.” (3) Each seal contains the image of a horse and rider (6:2, 4, 5, 8).[5] (4) In each of the seals there is a progression of meaning given for each of the four seals: conquering, making war, famine, and death. (5) Each of these seals is opened by the Lamb, Jesus Christ. (6) Each seal is given its authority by Christ (“and to him was granted…”). John sees the whole process of judgment under the control of God. The conqueror has only what Almighty God allows him to have. God is completely sovereign so His people do not need to be dismayed.[6] The fifth and sixth seals seem to be distinct (6:9-11, 12-17) and the seventh seal introduces the trumpet judgments (8:1).[7]

The First Seal (6:1-2): “Then I saw[8] when the Lamb broke one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, ‘Come.’ I looked, and behold, a white horse, and he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.” John was an eyewitness of this revelation that came to him as action scenes in a film rather than as words from the pages of a book. When the Lamb broke the first of the seven seals on the scroll that He had taken from God, one of the four creatures (cf. Rev 4:6-7) called out with a voice of thunder. The “voice of thunder” is symbolic of judgment, as a coming storm. It is a voice of terror, majesty, and judgment! The command given is, “Come.” This was probably an invitation to the first horseman rather than to John or to Christ. The angel gave this command four times (6:1, 3, 5, 7), and each time a horseman on a horse came forth. In 6:2, a rider came riding on a white horse with a bow and a crown for the purpose of conquering.

This verse does not say who rides this “white horse.”[9] However, it is most likely the coming Antichrist (Dan 9:26-27; 1 Thess 5:3).[10] This rider represents a conquering power that no one can resist (cf. Matt 24:3-6). This person has the semblance of Christ but he is not Christ (cf. Rev 19:11-19). He comes as a deceiver.[11]

The horse was considered a war machine in biblical times.[12] “White” symbolizes righteousness and holiness.[13] The bow, mentioned without reference to arrows, does not intimate, as many suggest, that the rider is engaged in “peaceful conquest” by diplomacy and without bloodshed. For it is common in the Scriptures for the bow, as a symbol of hunting or of warfare, to be mentioned alone and still to symbolize violent conquest (e.g., Isa 41:2). This is analogous to frequent references in Western America to riders going forth with rifles, without mention of bullets. The bullets—and likewise the arrows—are assumed.[14] He also has a “crown.”[15] Evidently, God gave him this crown.[16] The sovereign God is the only One who can give rulers authority to rule (cf. Rom 13:1). This crown represents his world dictatorship.

At this point, I should mention that although the Antichrist’s reign includes war, it also includes peace. Peace is a buzzword today. Many of the world’s greatest thinkers speak of the need of a one-world government—a new world order. The Antichrist will camp on this and make “peace” his campaign message. Of course the world will buy in, which will allow him to be enthroned on earth as a “god” and political leader.

A number of years ago, the newspapers carried a story of a woman in Fayetteville, Arkansas, who named the United Nations as the beneficiary of her $700,000 estate, “in the fervent hope that this relatively small contribution may be of some effect in bringing about universal peace on earth and good will among men.” Upon reading this account, J. Vernon McGee, the well-known radio preacher, commented, “[That woman] poured [her] money down a rat hole,” because you cannot buy peace with $700,000 or even $700 trillion.[17] Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, is the only way to find peace.

The second seal (6:3-4): When the Lamb broke the second seal on the scroll John heard the second living creature order the second horseman forward. The red horse probably symbolizes bloodshed and war. The rider of this horse removes “peace from the earth.” Further, he was to cause men to “slay [lit. slaughter] one another.” The “great sword” represents authority to slay people.[18] It does not denote international warfare but revolution in which people turn on one another.[19] The result is anarchy, riot, and civil war. In light of the terrorism, bombings, and civil war taking place around the world, we need little imagination to think of what will be happening on an even larger scale.

It has always been so throughout history. From 1496 B.C. to A.D. 1861, the world knew 3,130 years of war and 227 years of peace. In the last 400 years European nations have signed more than 8,000 peace treaties. In the 20th century 8.5 million died in World War I, and 22 million died in World War II. The Vietnam conflict cost the U.S. 47,000 of our young men and maimed another 100,000 for life. What our text tells us is that in the years just prior to the second coming of Christ, God is going to give civilization over to war (cf. Rom 1:24, 26, 28).[20]

The third seal (6:5-6): A black horse followed, symbolizing the ravage of war, namely famine. Black is the color of frightfulness and mourning. This third horseman carries in his hand a pair of scales that symbolize his work. These scales in the hand of the horseman are not the kind used by Weight Watchers, but rather is the kind of used to measure out grain. This implies that food will have to be weighed out and rationed with care.[21] As is generally true, scarcity and famine follow war.[22]

Probably the wars that the ungodly rulers under Antichrist’s leadership begin will reduce the food supply greatly. These rulers will control it strictly with consequent suffering for many people (cf. Luke 21:11). The price of wheat and barley will be very high. A quart of wheat would provide one meal but it would cost a denarius, a whole day’s wages. “Do not damage the oil and the wine” means “do not tamper with,” reflecting the strict control over prices that ungodly rulers, under Antichrist’s leadership, will have at this time. The poor would have little money left over for oil, for fuel and health needs, and for wine to drink (cf. Ezek 4:16-17). An inescapable outcome of war is starvation. Worldwide inflation destroys the world economy. Worldwide famine causes great shortages and inflation. Panic in the market causes people to stampede the marketplace to sell their stock. A worldwide depression will make people panic over bread-and-butter issues.[23] The causes of the famine were not extremely severe, since they killed the wheat and barley, but not the vines and olive trees whose roots go deeper. As the tribulation grows worse, the rich as well as the poor will suffer, but at this early stage the poor will suffer more than the rich.

The fact that the voice announcing the prices comes from the living creatures that are in the middle of and around God’s throne (Rev 4:6) suggests that God has something to do with price lists. When we watch prices go up and down, and when we hear the weather reports and crop reports, and when we listen to the latest stock prices and economic indicators, we never think of anything divine connected with them. How wrong we are!

The thought is that there will be an abundance of such things as expensive foodstuffs, toiletries, beauty aids and conditioners (“oil”), and liquor (“wine”), but a scarcity for the poor of essential foodstuffs. We take food in our cupboards for granted. We let the waitress take potential leftovers away. We toss out half-eaten apples. In America, we have forgotten the old “waste not, want not” homily. We throw enough food in our garbage cans to feed a family of six, for a day, in India. Our dogs have a diet higher in protein than most of the people in the world.[24]

The fourth seal (6:7-8): “When the Lamb broke the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, ‘Come.’ I looked, and behold, an ashen horse; and he who sat on it had the name Death; and Hades was following with him. Authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by the wild beasts of the earth.” The Lamb broke the fourth seal, and the fourth living creature called the fourth horseman out. John next saw an ashen horse the color of a human corpse. The Greek term for “ashen” (chloros) is the one from which we get our English word chlorine. It denotes a yellowish-green color as of a human corpse.[25]  Presumably, Antichrist, the cause of this death, is the rider since his name is “Death.” Following on his heels is “Hades” which is the destination of the souls that do not know Christ as Savior (cf. Luke 16:23).[26] Perhaps John saw hades following death as a man on foot follows a mounted warrior grimly gathering in his victims, or as a hearse follows a horse.[27] The mention of hades following with him leaves no doubt that those who are slain will be unsaved people who will be cast into hell until they stand before the great white throne judgment (Rev 20:11-15). As John has already announced (Rev 1:18), Jesus holds the keys to death and hades. As horrible as they are, their power is limited to what Christ permits; they too were “given” their authority.

God gives these enemies authority to take one-fourth of the world’s population. This is approximately 1.5 billion. This is more than the population of China and the United States combined. This is the greatest destruction of human life recorded in history. This evidently is the total number that will die as a result of all the catastrophes predicted so far. The causes of death will be slaughter (the second rider), hunger (the third rider), pestilence or plague, and wild beasts. These catastrophes are war, the resulting famine, and disease. Attacks by wild animals will also contribute to the death rate.[28] When we compare these predicates with Ezekiel 14:21 (cf. 1 Kgs 8:33-39; 1 Chron 21:12), we realize that this is a listing of covenantal curses instituted when the people of Israel fall into idolatry.

2. Jesus will righteously avenge His people (6:9-11). Earlier, John had seen a throne room in heaven (Rev 4-5), but now he sees a temple.[29] In this temple, there is an altar. This altar was evidently an altar of sacrifice rather than an incense altar (cf. Rev 5:8; 8:3-5; 14:17-18). Under this altar were the souls of people who had died for their faith in God and their faithfulness to Him during the first four seals period just described (6:3-8; i.e., in the tribulation so far; cf. Matt 24:9, 13-14; Luke 21:11).[30] Perhaps the idea is that the lives of these martyrs were sacrifices to God.[31] These faithful believers had been slain for their faith. John did not see their resurrected bodies because God had not yet resurrected them (see Rev 20:4).[32] John sees these martyrs very much alive. Men may destroy our bodies, but they cannot kill the soul or the person who indwells the body, the house for the person. At death, the soul of the person goes to be with the Lord (Phil 1:21-22; 2 Cor 5:6-8). The body “sleeps” but the soul of the person is conscious, awake. These believers were “slain.” This was a sacrificial term used for the slaughtering of animals for sacrifice. The emphasis seems to be on the fact they were not just killed, but slaughtered.

Jesus now opens the fifth seal and John sees, “underneath the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained.” These martyrs “cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord,[33] holy and true,[34] will You refrain from judging and avenging our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’”[35]

In 6:11, John states, “there was given to each of them a white robe; and they were told that they should rest[36] for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brethren who were to be killed even as they had been, would be completed also.” In 6:10, John saw these martyrs calling out to their heavenly Master (Gk. despotes) to punish their murderers. “Master” implies divine might, majesty, power, and authority, and it stresses the absolute power of God. How much longer did they have to wait for God to avenge them? (cf. Ps 79:10; 94:3; Hab 1:2). “Those who dwell on the earth” is almost a technical expression in Revelation describing unbelievers who are hostile to God.[37] Contrast the prayers of Jesus (Luke 23:24) and Stephen (Acts 7:60) in which they asked God to be merciful to their murderers. The difference is that the time of God’s longsuffering has now ended and He has begun to pour out His wrath on sinners. Their prayers for revenge upon their enemies are viewed as the fifth judgment against the earth-dwellers. This is not a cry for revenge, but for God’s justice and righteousness to prevail on earth against the sin and the atrocities of man, in rebellion to God (Rom 12:19). As in the disciples’ prayer, “Your kingdom come,” they are praying for the second coming which ushers in God’s righteous and just reign on earth.

Each martyr received a long, white robe. Although many white-clothed beings appear in Revelation, the only ones specifically said to have a white “robe”[38] are the tribulation martyrs. They had been faithful and had suffered martyrdom for their fidelity to Christ (cf. Rev 3:5; 7:9, 14). God told these martyrs to be patient. More people would experience martyrdom before it would be God’s time for Jesus Christ to return to the earth and judge their living adversaries.

Apparently, religious persecution breaks out in the land of Israel. We would expect when the abomination of desolation occurs, there will be faithful messianic Jewish believers who will resist his pretensions. John sees the results of this persecution by the Man of Sin in Revelation 6:9. God will avenge the death of Christian martyrs at the right time and will give them special honor (Ps 116:15). In the meantime, we must pray for those who will be martyred.

3. Jesus will radically alter His creation (6:12-17). In 6:12-17, the scene shifts back to earth as Jesus opens the sixth seal. In 6:12-14, John tells us that the earth will be affected by six cosmic catastrophes. In these three verses, God shakes the universe like a rag doll. As a result, the entire world will know that there is a God. They will also know that His divine wrath is unleashed against their rebellion.[39] The first catastrophe that Jesus brings is a “great earthquake”[40] that will rock the whole world (cf. Luke 21:11).[41] In 6:14, John writes, “every mountain and island were moved out of their places.”[42] This is frightening! Then the sun will become “black as sackcloth made of hair.” “Sackcloth” was a very rough cloth made from the hair of a black goat and worn in times of mourning and despair (cf. Rev 11:3).[43] The blackening or darkening of the sun as a sign, speaks of God’s judgment and the withdrawal of His longsuffering.[44] It shows this will be a time of great despair for man. What causes this darkening? We are not told; we can only speculate. Perhaps it is caused by the ash, dust, and debris which will fill the sky when the earth begins to quake (6:14). This will undoubtedly cause volcanic eruptions which will make Mount St. Helens look like a hiccup by comparison. When there is a large volcanic eruption, the sun becomes darkened by the substances in the air.

Not only will the sun become black, John tells us “the whole moon became like blood.”[45] As a sign, this speaks of the loss of life. How eerie this all will be, to look up at night and see a blood-red moon. Evidently, through the atmospheric changes brought about by the shaking of the earth and the heavens, particles or substances will be in the air which will cause the moon to take on a red cast.

John also says that the stars will be affected. The word “star” (aster) is used of any heavenly body seen at night (i.e., stars, planets, asteroids, meteors, etc.).[46] These are not stars as we often use the word, which are huge and often dwarf the earth in size. These are likely meteorites, which are small by comparison to the earth.[47] John compares them to unripe figs falling to earth from a fig tree when shaken by a great wind.

In 6:14, the sky will appear to split and roll back in two opposite directions (cf. Isa 34:4).[48] The universe will seem to be coming apart. Apparently, the opening of the sky will give earth-dwellers a window-like look into heaven where they see the Lord God and the Lamb. Apparently, this lasts for at least one full revolution of the earth so all the world sees this (cf. Rev 6:15).[49]

In 6:15, John provides seven classes of society to stress the universal scope of this judgment. He then tells us that they “hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains and they said to the mountains and to the rocks, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and the wrath[50] of the Lamb for the great day of their wrath[51] has come, and who is able to stand?’” (6:15b-17). These verses are truly tragic. In the midst of unbelievable suffering, mankind does not pray to God for protection from His wrath.[52] Instead, they cry out to the rocks and the mountains. The inhabitants of the earth will recognize for the first time the source of their trouble,[53] yet they still refuse to respond to God’s wrath. God’s wrath is one of His eternal attributes, the perfect complement to His love. The wrath of God is His necessary and just response to evil (Ps 7:11). God’s wrath is presently being revealed against unbelievers by letting them go their way and face the consequences of their behavior (Rom 1:18-32). However, when the great day of God’s wrath occurs, He will be far more active in the execution of His anger.

At this point, the world poses this question: “As a Christian, aren’t you supposed to be teaching that God is a God of love rather than a God of condemnation?” The inference is somehow you are being unloving by reminding people of God’s holiness and intolerance of sin. Suppose I tell my daughter, Jena, that if she sticks her finger into an electrical outlet she will die. Am I being judgmental or loving? Warning people of inevitable consequences of sin is the most loving thing we can do, especially if it leads them to make the right choice.[54]

I acknowledge that it is not pleasant to read about the carrying out of God’s judgment on the world.  There are many questions surrounding God’s activity and His purpose in all this. It all seems so terrible.[55] Why would God do these things, which cause such misery and pain? There are several reasons but three should suffice: (1) God wants to bring people to repentance. (2) God wants to demonstrate His patience. (3) God wants to establish His justice.

Some lessons and applications may be drawn from this study: (1) Our passage teaches the absolute sovereignty of God. The four riders are given their authority from heaven. Everything they do is directed and limited by Almighty God and the Lamb. God’s people have nothing to fear from Antichrist, for the Lamb is their Lord. (2) The four seals demonstrate the self-defeating character of sin. Antichrist shows us in a graphic way the spirit of self-aggrandizement that is one of the fruits of sin. All God needs to do is let events take their course and sinners will inevitably be punished. (3) Christ’s work includes not only redemption but also judgment. Those who will not embrace the Lamb as redeemer, and share with Him the inheritance of the kingdom of God, will themselves be embraced by death and hades and dwell in the kingdom of the dead. (4) In this passage Almighty God reveals what this vain, proud, and guilty world is coming to. Our civilization shall one day expire under the Antichrist. The immediate future, therefore, holds not peace but judgment.

Harry Truman was the caretaker of a recreation lodge on Spirit Lake, five miles north of Mt. St. Helens’ smoke-enshrouded peak, in Oregon. Harry had been warned by rangers and neighbors that the mountain was going to blow up. Geologists had been watching their seismographs for some time, and the evidence predicted that the volcano would soon explode with such a fury that it would flatten the surrounding forest.

Warnings blared from loudspeakers on patrol cars and helicopters, and blinked from battery-powered signs at every major crossroad. Radio and television announcers pled with their audiences to flee to safety. Harry Truman ignored them all. He grinned on national television and said, “Nobody knows more about this mountain than Harry, and it don’t dare blow up on him.”

On May 18, 1980, at 8:31 A. M., the mountain exploded. I cannot help wondering if Harry regretted his decision, in the millisecond he had before the concussive waves, traveling faster than the speed of sound, flattened him and everything else for 150 square miles. Did he have time to mourn his stubbornness as millions of tons of rock disintegrated and disappeared into a cloud reaching ten miles into the sky? Did he have second thoughts as the wall of mud and ash 50 feet high buried his cabin, his cats, and his freshly mowed lawn, or had he been vaporized when the mountain erupted with a force 500 times greater than the nuclear bomb that had leveled Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945?

Harry Truman is now a legend in Oregon. In gift shops he smiles down on customers from posters, T-shirts, and beer mugs. There is even a song about old Harry, the stubborn man who put his ear to the mountain but would not heed the warnings.[56]

The question that faces each reader today is this: How do you stand in relation to the Lamb who breaks the seals? Are you a Christian? Then you will be kept from “the hour” of tribulation (Rev 3:10). Our Lord’s counsel to you is, “Be on the alert” (Matt 25:13) and “Abide in Me” (John 15:4). Keep yourself in fellowship with Him. Be thankful that judgment for you is passed. No divine wrath remains for you. Are you not a Christian? There is only one way to escape the judgment of the Lamb who breaks the seals. Trust in His death.

Addendum: The Doctrine of the Tribulation (Revelation 6-18)

The Definition of the Tribulation:  The word “tribulation” (thilipsis) is a general term used to describe any kind of testing, affliction or distress.  It frequently refers to the church and her trials in this world (e.g., Acts 11:19; Rom 5:3; Rev 1:9).  But the word “tribulation” also refers to a future time of trouble that will come upon the entire world (Matt 24:9, 21, 29; Mark 13:19, 24; Rev 7:14).  This Tribulation will be unprecedented in its affliction, and will culminate with the personal return of Jesus Christ to earth (Rev 19:11-21).

The Time of the Tribulation:  The Tribulation occurs after the removal of the church (1 Thess 4:13-18; 5:l-9) and is followed by the 1,000 year reign of Jesus Christ (Rev 20:1-4).  It is during this period (i.e., the Millennium) that Christ defeats His enemies and establishes His right to rule on earth (Rev 4-5; 11:15-18).

The Length of the Tribulation:  Daniel 9:24-27 teaches us that the Tribulation (Daniel’s 70th week) consists of seven years.  This is further verified by the time periods of Revelation, which divide the Tribulation into two periods of three and one-half years (Rev 11:2-3; 13:5; 12:6; Dan 7:25; Rev 12:14).

The Purposes of the Tribulation:

1.      To discipline Israel for her stubborn rejection of Christ and bring the nation to faith in Christ (Zech 12:10; Matt 23:37-39).  This prepares her for restoration and regathering for the Millennium (Jer 30:1-17; Ezek 20:33-38).

2.      To judge the Gentile nations for their wickedness and rejection of Jesus Christ (Zeph 1:15, 17, 18; Joel 3:12-14; Rev 6:16-17).  The Tribulation will also be used to bring many Gentiles to faith in Christ (Matt 24:14; Rev 7:9; 13:10).

3.      To reveal the true character and agenda of Satan.  The Tribulation will permit Satan’s program to come to its logical conclusion resulting in God’s judgment.  It will demonstrate that Satan is the cause of war, murder, and deception, and that he deserves God’s judgment (Isa 14:12-17; Ezek 28:12-19; Matt 25:41; Rev 12:7-12; 20:1-3).

4.      To demonstrate that God is holy (Rev 4:8; 6:10), righteous (Rev 15:3-4), just (Rom 3:26; 1 Pet 3:18), patient (2 Pet 3:9), and still on the throne (Rev 4:1:1-11).

The Names of the Tribulation:

1.      The indignation (Isa 26:20; 34:2)

2.       A day of (God’s) vengeance (Isa 34:8; 63:1-6)

3.      Jacob’s trouble or distress (Jer 30:7)

4.      Daniel’s 70th week (Dan 9:24-27)

5.      A time of trouble or distress (Dan 12:1)

6.      The end time (Dan 12:9)

7.      The day of the Lord (Joel 1:15; 2:1; 1 Thess 5:2)

8.      Tribulation and the Great Tribulation (Matt 24:9, 21, 29; Mark 13:19, 24; Rev 7:14)

9.      The hour of testing…to test those who dwell on the earth (Rev 3:10)

10.  The great day of their (i.e., the Father and the Lamb) wrath (Rev 6:17)

11.  Hour of His judgment (Rev 14:7)

The Nature of the Tribulation:

1.      It is a time of unprecedented trouble (Joel 2:2; Zeph 1:14-18; Matt 24:21).

2.      It is a time of God’s wrath or indignation and the vindication of God’s holiness (Zeph 1:15, 18; Rev 6:17; 1 Thess 1:10; Rev 14:7, 10; 19:2).  God’s wrath against man’s sin and rebellion will be withheld no longer.

3.      It is a day of utter darkness, gloom and extreme cloudiness (Joel 2:2; Zeph 1:15).

4.      It is a day of destruction and global catastrophes (Joel 1:15; 2:3; 1 Thess 5:3; Rev 6-19).

5.      It is a day of extreme lawlessness, sin and demonic activity (Rev 9:20-21; 2 Thess 2:12).

6.      It is a day of extreme deception and delusion (2 Thess 2:9-12; Rev 9:1f; 13:2-3, 11-18; Dan 8:24f).  This deception is caused by a number of factors: (a) the remova1 of the Spirit indwelt church with its restraining influence (2 Thess 2:6-8), (b) the increase of demonic activity (2 Thess 2:8-10), and (c) the blinding judgment of God (2 Thess 2:11-12).

7.      It is a time of death (Rev 6:3-11; 9:15, 18; 11:13).  Large portions of the populations of the earth will be wiped out suddenly, both human and animal.

8.      It is a time of utter negative volition, cold indifference, and rebellion against God even though the world will know it is under the wrath of God (Rev 6:14-17; 9:20; 11:10, 18).

9.      It is a time of internationalism religiously (Rev 17), politically (Rev 13, 17), economically (Rev 18), and militarily (Joel 3:2, 9-14; Rev 17).

10.  It is a time of extreme Anti-Semitism (Rev 12; Matt 24:9, 13f).

11.  It is a time of unprecedented apostasy and blasphemy against God (Rev 11:lf; 13:1f; 2 Thess 2:3f).

12.  It is a time of the martyrdom of believers, both Jew and Gentile (Rev 6:9; 7:14f).

13.  It is a time of global and universal war, human and angelic (Rev 6: 2-4; 16:14; 19:14f; Joel 3:2, 9f; Rev 12:7).

14.  But it is also a time of unprecedented evangelism (Rev 7:9; Matt 24:14).  Note: The following 14 points are from my friend, Hampton Keathley III, now in the presence of Jesus (2 Cor 5:6-8).

The Chronology of the Tribulation: The following charts provide a simplified glance at the Tribulation judgments in Revelation.

The Parallels Between Matthew 24 and Revelation 6

Conditions

Matthew

Revelation 6

False Christs

24:4-5

6:1-2

Warfare

24:6-8

6:3-4

Famine

24:7

6:5-6

Death

24:7-10

6:7-8

Witnessing

24:14

6:9-11

Cosmic changes

24:29

6:12-17

The Seals (Revelation 6:1-8:6)

1. Antichrist (6:2)

5. Martyrdom (6:9-11)

2. War (6:4)

6. Global Destruction (6:12-17)

3. Famine (6:6)

7. The trumpet judgments begin (8:1)

4. Death (6:8)

The Trumpets (Revelation 8:7-9:21)

1. A third of the world’s vegetation destroyed (8:7)

5. Terrible locusts (9:1)

2. A third of the world’s sea judged (8:8)

6. A third of mankind killed (9:13)

3. A third of the world’s fresh water poisoned (8:10)

7. The bowl judgments begin (16:1)

4. A third of the heavens darkened (8:12)

The Bowls (Revelation 16:1-17)

1. Ugly sores (16:2)

5. Darkness and pain (16:10)

2. Sea turned to blood (16:3)

6. Demonic hordes (16:12)

3. Fresh water turned to blood (16:4)

7. Greatest earthquake and widespread destruction (16:17)

4. Unbearable heat (16:8)

[1] Tony Evans, The Best is Yet to Come (Chicago: Moody, 2000), 15.

[2] The tribulation period is made up of seven seals (6:1-17; 8:1), seven trumpets (8:7-9:21; 11:15), and seven bowls (16:1-19:2). All 21 judgments are revealed chronologically and cover the seven-year period of tribulation.

[3] Copyright © 2003 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[4] Hitchcock suggests four other reasons to study the tribulation: (1) All Scripture is important and worthy of our careful study and application to our lives (2 Tim 3:16-17). (2) We learn a great deal about the nature of man, God, and Satan. (3) As we see the signs of the coming tribulation developing before our eyes, it fills us with hope and expectation that the Lord’s coming is near. (4) Though we won’t live through the Tribulation if we know the Savior, the Lord loves to take His own people into His confidence and tell them what is going to happen even if it doesn’t directly affect their own lives. Mark Hitchcock, 101 Answers to the Most Asked Questions about the End Times (Sisters, OR: Multnomah, 2001), 168-169.

[5] The first four seal judgments involve riders riding horses of various colors. This imagery recalls Zechariah 1:8 and 6:1-8. However the horses and horsemen in Revelation evidently represent something different from those in Zechariah as comparison of these texts suggests.

[6] Leon Morris, The Book of Revelation: TNTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987), 102, 104.

[7] The seventh seal is separated from the previous six by the parenthetical events of Rev 7.

[8] “Then I saw” (kai eidon, cf. Rev 5:1, 2, 6, 11) marks the continuation of what John had seen that Rev 4 and 5 record, but also the commencement of revelation concerning future events on earth.

[9] There have been several other interpretations that have enjoyed some popularity through the centuries. These include a Roman emperor, the Parthian invasion of the Roman Empire, the Word of God, a personification of judgment, the victorious spread of the Gospel, warfare in general, triumphant militarism, the personification of ungodly movements, and Jesus Christ. Whew!

[10] The view that the first horseman is the Antichrist is to be preferred for these reasons: (1) Besides the white horses, the riders in Rev 6 and 19 are different. In Rev 19 our Lord has a sword that characterizes Him as the judge of the church and the world. And He has royal crowns (diademata). The rider in Rev 6, however, has a bow and a victor’s wreath (stephanos). (2) The rider cannot be Christ, because Christ is already symbolized by another figure in the scene, namely, the Lamb. (3) The rider on the white horse is part of a group that brings devastating calamities and destruction upon the earth. It seems unlikely that he would bring good when the others bring woe. The picture here is not of the victory of Christ but of the wrath of God. The Messiah cannot appear before the messianic judgments. A picture of the victorious Christ would be quite out of place in a passage telling of disaster after disaster. Note: The best defense for this rider being Jesus Christ has been put forth by Zane C. Hodges, “The First Horseman of the Apocalypse,” Bibliotheca Sacra 119:476 (Oct 1962), 324-34. (4) The passage parallel to this one in Matthew 24 indicates that the rider is Antichrist:

Matthew 24 (cf. Mark 13; Luke 21)

Revelation 6

False christs (Matt 24:4-5, 24)

White horse (Rev 6:1-2)

War (Matt 24:6-7)

War (Rev 6:3-4)

Famine (Matt 24:7)

Famine (Rev 6:5-6)

Death (Matt 24:7-9)

Death (Rev 6:7-8)

Pestilence (Luke 21:11)

Pestilence (Rev 6:8)

Martyrdom (Matt 24:9-10, 16-22)

Martyrdom (Rev 6:9-11)

Cosmic catastrophes (Matt 24:29)

Cosmic catastrophes (Rev 6:12-17)

[11] This fits the entire evil picture in Revelation. The satanic powers, and especially the Antichrist, are seen as perverted imitations, or anti-types of God and Christ. There is, for example, a counterfeit trinity (Satan and the two beasts) in Rev 12 and 13. Then there is the contrast between Israel, the mother of Messiah (Rev 12), and Babylon, the mother of harlots (Rev 17-18). This terrible imitation of Christ, this Christ of hell, rides through the events of the tribulation period to meet his anti-type, the rider on the white horse in Rev 19. This second rider on a white horse is the true Ruler and Almighty Judge who will appear at the very end of history.

[12] Cf. Job 39:19-25; Ps 76:5-6; Prov 21:31.

[13] It gave an appearance of purity, but that does not necessarily mean the rider was righteous. When men wage war they always pretend to be fighting for righteousness.

[14] The Antichrist’s very rise to power is a violent one, for, as Daniel 7:8 points out, he will conquer three kings as he is on his way from his status as a “little horn” to a horn greater than even the great horn Alexander the Great was in his day. Antichrist will eventually head an eleven-nation federation (cf. Rev 17:9-13). But his victory is only temporary, for Christ will appear and put an end to it (17:14; 19:11-20). See Daniel K. K. Wong, “The First Horseman of Revelation 6,” Bibliotheca Sacra 153:610 (April 1996), 212-26. This the best article on this passage that I’ve seen.

[15] A crown is the symbol of a commander in chief or a victor. But whom does he seek to conquer? Revelation 13:7–8 says that he seeks to conquer the entire earth. It also says that he especially seeks to conquer “the saints” (13:7, i.e., God’s people on earth at that time). The apostle says that he persecutes them (6:9–11; 13:5–10). He also tries to mislead them (i.e., to seduce them with false doctrine, false apostles, indifference, relaxation of faith and love, cf. the warnings to the seven churches in Rev 2-3; also 1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 7).

[16] Cf. Rev 9:1, 3, 5; 13:5, 7, 14, 15.

[17] J. Vernon McGee, Thru the Bible, 5 vols. (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1983), 5:941.

[18] The warfare in view here seems to be what Ezekiel described in Ezekiel 38 and 39 as the battle of Gog and Magog.

[19] The order follows Mark 13:7-8 as wars lead to nation rising up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.

[20] David J. MacLeod, “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse,” Emmaus Journal 1:1 (Winter 1991), 14.

[21] Beasley-Murray writes, “The weighing of food is a prophetic announcement of famine.” Cf. G. R. Beasley-Murray, The Book of Revelation: NCB (London: Marshall, Morgan & Scott, 1974), 132.

[22] Mounce, The Book of Revelation, 155.

[23] In Rev 13 the Antichrist will place enormous economic controls on the world. No one will be able to do business without his permission.

[24] David Jeremiah, Escape the Coming Night (Dallas: Word, 1997 [1990]), 118.

[25] BDAG, Electronic Ed. See also Mounce, The Book of Revelation, 156.

[26] Death claims the material part of the person and Hades the immaterial part.

[27] “Hades” appears in Revelation four times, always trailing “death” (1:18; 6:8; 20:13, 14).

[28] Cf. Jer 15:2-3; 24:10; 29:17-18; Ezek 5:12, 17; 14:21.

[29] Cf. Ps 11:4; 18:6; 29:9-10; Isa 6:1: Hab 2:20.

[30] We meet this martyred throne again in Rev 7:9-17 and 20:4, and we learn more about their martyrdom in Rev 13.

[31] Cf. Phil 2:17; 2 Tim 4:6.

[32] Since tribulation saints along with all Old Testament saints are not resurrected until after the Tribulation described by Daniel as “a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time” (cf. Dan 12:1-2 with Rev 20:4), some have suggested that these martyrs are given temporary heavenly bodies. The robes spoken of here and portrayed to John in this vision, however, may simply be the symbol of the fact they are clothed in the righteousness of God as believers in Christ.

[33] These words echo throughout the Old Testament (e.g., Ps 6:3; 13:1-2; 35:17; 74:9-10; Isa 6:11; Jer 47:6; Zech 1:12).

[34] “Holy and true” were attributes of Christ earlier (Rev 3:7), but here the Father is probably in view since He is the source of the judgments.

[35] The Greek uses a present adjectival participle, which characterizes these as “the earth-dwellers,” those who have no interest in God, or in spiritual or heavenly things. As mentioned in connection with Rev 3:10, it is practically a technical term for unbelievers who live in rebellion against God.

[36] Gk. anapauo. This is a compound verb and is somewhat stronger than simply pauo. In the middle voice it means, “to take rest, enjoy a rest.” Some believe New Testament Greek has pretty much abandoned the rules of classical Greek, and, therefore, the middle voice has very little significance, if any, in the New Testament Greek. For arguments against this see Daniel B. Wallace, Greek Grammar Beyond the Basics, An Exegetical Syntax of the New Testament (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996), 420-21.

[37] Cf. Rev 3:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8, 12; 17:2, 8.

[38] It is interesting to note that the white robes (stole) granted to these martyrs are special garments and different from the garments (himation) offered to the overcomers in Rev 2-3 and worn by the elders who have already appeared in Rev 4-5. The writer makes this distinction to let us know that two groups are under consideration.

[39] Throughout this section, John utilizes well-known Old Testament references and images of the Day of the Lord (see Joel 2:10, 30f., Isa 13:9f., 2:10f., 34:4, Ezek 32:7f., Hosea 10:8).

[40] This is the first of five references to an earthquake (see also Rev 8:5; 11:13, 19; 16:18).

[41] Many commentators have taken this description as picturing a metaphorical convulsion among the nations, not a literal shaking of the earth and the heavens. We should probably take them literally for at least two reasons. First, Jesus used the same language in the Olivet Discourse and gave no indication that it was symbolic (cf. Matt 24:7; Mark 13:8; Luke 21:11). Second, a shaking of the nations follows in Rev 6:15-17.

[42] Literal interpretation does not rule out the use of hyperbole, which appears at this point. If all the mountains moved out of their places, there would be no places for people to seek to hide.

[43] E.g., Gen 37:34; 2 Sam 3:31; Neh 9:1; Dan 9:3; Joel 1:13; Amos 8:10; Jonah 3:5-6, 8.

[44] Cf. Isa 13:10; Ezek 32:7-8; Joel 2:10, 31; Amos 8:9; Matt 24:29; Mark 13:24-25; Luke 21:25.

[45] Cf. Joel 2:31; Acts 2:20.

[46] Any bright light in the sky was considered to be a star by the ancients.

[47] Revelation 8:8 most likely refers to an asteroid and this to meteorites.

[48] Thomas, Revelation 1-7, 454.

[49] Hampton Keathley III, Revelation (Biblical Studies Press: www.bible.org, 1997), 148.

[50] The word for “wrath” (orge) is used in Rev 6:16, 17; 11:18; 14:10; 16:19; 19:15. In all six of these, the explicit reference is the wrath of God or the Lamb.

[51] This “great day of their wrath” is the tribulation, Daniel’s seventieth week (Dan 9:24-27; cf. Jer 30:7; Dan 12:1; Joel 2:2; Matt 24:21).

[52] Cf. Isa 2:19, 21; Hos 10:8; Luke 23:30.

[53] The inhabitants of the earth will recognize for the first time the source of their trouble. Prior to this they will be living their lives as usual.  Jesus predicts, “For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matt 24:37-39).

[54] Robert Jeffress, As Time Runs Out (Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1999), 89.

[55] Whenever the forces of nature run amuck, the natural human responses are to protect self and blame God. What did we do to deserve this? Instead of, “God’s power and greatness are on display through these events.”

[56] The summary of events given here is adapted from Billy Graham, Approaching Hoofbeats: The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse (Waco: Word, 1983), 13-14.

“A Way Out of No Way” (Revelation 7:1-17)

How many of you like to talk on the phone? Come on now. I bet a lot of you like to talk on the phone. My kids love to talk on the phone. Their favorite time to talk on the phone is when I’m talking on the phone. They will beg and plead to talk to the person that I am on the phone with. If I give in, they usually launch into some story without even identifying themselves. Now when I’m on the other end of the phone line, there are times when I can hardly tell who’s talking. Imagine what it must be like for Grandma and Grandpa or a friend. In mid-sentence they will tell their brother or sister to “be quiet” or “stop touching me” and the person on the other end is supposed to know when he or she is being addressed. When Jena, my two-year-old, gets on the phone, often she will just sit there nodding her head in response; the caller doesn’t even know if she is still there. The boys will say, “Look at this,” and hold something up to the phone for the caller to see. The conversation can seem rather erratic. It is not a well-scripted, orderly scene. It is sometimes utter chaos.[1]

Many of you feel that the same could be said of the book of Revelation. Okay, I’ll be honest sometimes I do as well. Yet we must be reminded that Revelation is an important part of God’s Word and we are promised a blessing if we read and study it. If we understand that Revelation 6-19 is arranged like a phone conversation, it may make more sense to us. In chapter 6, John starts telling an orderly story. But in chapter 7, his chronological order is interrupted.[2] Chapter 7, then, serves as a pause (parenthesis) of relief amidst God’s great judgment.[3] In chapters 8-9, the order of events is resumed. Then John provides some more fill-in in chapters 10-15. In chapter 16, there is a return to the progressive order of events and finally, in chapters 17-19, there are more details. Sometimes the fill-in runs ahead of the story and at other times it backs up to add or emphasize pertinent information.[4]

Last week we studied how the tribulation will begin. We closed our time together with 6:17, which asks the penetrating question, “for the great day of their wrath has come; and who is able to stand?” Chapter 7 seeks to answer that question.

1. God always has an earthly remnant (7:1-8). Verse 1 begins with the phrase “After this.”[5] Between the sixth and seventh seal John sees “four angels standing at the four corners of the earth.” In the book of Revelation, “angels” are the instruments God uses to temporarily suspend and execute judgment on the earth. The phrase “the four corners of the earth” is an idiom for four quadrants—North, South, East, and West (Isa 11:12). The Bible never taught a flat earth theory. The idiom in the English is the four points of the compass. “The four corners of the earth” speak of God’s sovereign global authority and all-encompassing activity. These four angels receive a command to “hold back the four winds[6] of the earth, so that no wind would blow on the earth or on the sea or on any tree.” They are to do so until God’s bond-servants are sealed.

It is hard to fathom the impact that no winds would have on land, sea, and life. Wind is a necessary entity. The wind brings about rain. It carries pollen and removes pollution. Wind is used to power virtually all ships, and today it is being used experimentally to power generators. No wind would be a disaster. Before this disaster was to take effect, some were sealed.[7]

Here is a great biblical principle: Even in the midst of judgment and suffering, God is merciful. The tribulation will be both a time of horrific divine judgment (ch. 6) and terrific divine grace (ch. 7). While chapters 6, 8, and 9 all focus on divine judgment—God’s wrath poured out on men and the earth; chapter 7 reminds us that, in the midst of all this judgment, there is still mercy. Our God is full of mercy and compassion. He is slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness (Exod 34:6-7).

If you’re like me, you’ve experienced this in your personal life. Even in the midst of trials and tests you can see God’s grace, can’t you? Even when you’ve once again fallen into sin, you know that God loves you and He is patient with you.

On Friday night, there was an awful accident on I-5 between Seattle and Tacoma. There was a pile-up that involved 40-50 cars. Some of these cars were crushed beyond recognition. Yet there were only minor injuries. God’s merciful hand was present in the midst of human suffering. If only we were more conscious of God’s merciful hand; it would cause us to know Him and praise Him more.

Next, in 7:2-3, another angel[8] appears on the scene. This angel has greater authority than the other four angels and he possesses the seal of protection from the living God.[9] This seal will preserve this chosen remnant throughout the tribulation period. Since the rapture has already occurred, God must raise up another new remnant. He does this by placing His seal on the foreheads of a group of bond-servants.

But exactly who are these “bond-servants”? Although there are a variety of interpretations,[10] there is only one that fits the details of this passage and the whole of Scripture. The 144,000 witnesses are Jews from the 12[11] tribes of Israel. Verses 4-8 makes this quite clear by repeating the fact that 12,000 come from each of the 12 tribes making a total of 144,000.[12] Biblical usage only permits the phrase “sons of Israel” to refer to ethnic Israelites. It can never be used to describe Gentiles. This is logical and fits with the entire scheme of biblical prophecy, with the fact this is the 70th week of Daniel and with the nature of the tribulation as a period designed to turn Israel to their Messiah (Dan 9:27; Jer 30:7).

These 144,000 Jewish believers are mentioned also in Revelation 9:4 and 14:1-5. In 14:4, they are referred to as “first fruits to God and to the Lamb.” I understand this expression to mean that these 144,000 believing Jews were but the first installment of that much larger group, who would, as a result of the tribulation, turn to God just as the Old Testament foretold (cf. Jer 30-31) and as Paul wrote in Romans 11:25-32.

When the 144,000 were sealed, it was to protect them from the harmful effects of the cessation of the winds.[13] This protection is spoken of more clearly in Revelation 9:4: “And they [the locusts] were told that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, nor any green thing, nor any tree, but only the men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.”

Just as the Israelites were exempt from the plagues that God sent on the Egyptians (cf. Exod 9:1-7, 22-26; 10:21-23), so the 144,000 were not to be harmed by the plagues that God was bringing upon the men of the earth (cf. Ps 91:7). Their preservation will be a testimony to God’s power and grace. This is another reminder that God is able to preserve His children regardless of how bad things may appear. Not a hair on our head can be touched unless God sovereignly permits.

It has often been noted that John’s list of the 12 tribes varies somewhat from the usual listing in the Old Testament. Specifically, Dan and Ephraim are omitted and Joseph has been added. Since John does not give us reasons for this arrangement, we cannot know for certain why the above arrangement is given. One interesting note is that a “normative” list of the tribes of Israel is not to be found in the Old Testament. In fact, there are over 20 different orders and lists of Israel’s tribes. Only once is the same list repeated (Num 2:7; 10:14-29). Practically speaking, no one knows the identity of these tribes today, not even the nation of Israel. All of the genealogical records were destroyed by the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. God however, knows His people and their whereabouts. The most important element in these verses is the stress on the number twelve, which reflects the interest in the identification of this group with Old Testament Israel.

Although the direct interpretation of this passage deals with God’s sovereign care for Israel, He cares for the church as well. One of the most neglected doctrines of the Bible is the doctrine of the providence of God. God processes everything that ever happens to a believer. Each one is under His seal. After someone placed arsenic in bottles of medicine, the government required all medicine to be sealed with protection stickers. Warning labels of “Do not partake if the seal is broken” caution of a broken seal. God placed His seal on us and no one can break it. The Holy Spirit seals the Christian (Eph 1:13; 4:30).[14]

One more issue to be tackled. Since all believers are gone when the tribulation begins, just how will the 144,000 be saved? (1) There will still be copies of the Scriptures, books, tracts, and material on the Internet containing the Gospel message. Undoubtedly, this will be found and used by the Holy Spirit. Some are even hiding copies of the Bible in caves. (2) Some Jews will have heard the Gospel from friends or on the radio or TV before the rapture. Then when the church suddenly disappears, the Holy Spirit will convince these select 144,000 that the Gospel message is indeed true. (3) Perhaps others will simply be perplexed over the disappearance of thousands of people through the rapture of the church. Some will seek answers and the Holy Spirit will lead them to Christ. Regardless of the methods God will use, these will come to trust in Jesus Christ as their Messiah-Savior.

Again, we are reminded that God always has an earthly remnant. In 1 Kings 19:18, Elijah thought he was alone but God had 7,000 that were still faithful to Him. You’re not alone. You have a youth group or a small group. If I’m right and things deteriorate in our culture, you’re going to need other believers. You won’t make it alone. You’ll be a spiritual casualty. It is possible to be an effective witness even in the midst of tribulation and trouble.

2. God always has a heavenly choir (7:9-17). In 7:9-10, John begins with the phrase “after these things.”[15] This shows that this is a new vision and that John received it immediately after the vision of 7:1-8. Now John moves from the 144,000 on earth to “a great multitude[16] which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues.” Since the horsemen of chapter 9 are numbered at 200 million, this innumerable host must have been some spectacle. This should encourage us to no end! It seems to indicate that more people will be saved during this terrible time than in any other period in history! From the standpoint of eternity, the tribulation will be a wonderful time. Man will not thwart God’s salvation program! This is the great news of the power of the Gospel. Since there are still 3.8 billion people who do not have a real Gospel witness, we cannot be sure how this massive outpouring of souls will come about. It is possible that the 144,000 are used by God to help bring this great multitude to faith in Christ. God will also use His two witnesses (Rev 11:3) and an angel (Rev 14:6) to spread the Gospel throughout the world during the tribulation period. However it occurs, it will require divine intervention.

John describes this great multitude as standing in heaven before the throne and in front of the Lamb (cf. Rev 5:13). Standing before the throne of God and before the Lamb is a position of great honor. They are wearing white robes. The only other people who wear “white robes” are the tribulation martyrs seen under the altar in Revelation 6:11. This would seem to suggest that they are part of the same group. These white robes indicate purity. This great multitude also has “palm branches” in their hands indicating victory. In Scripture, palm branches are associated with celebration, deliverance, and joy (cf. Lev 23:40; Neh 8:15-17; John 12:13). They were the ancient equivalent of balloons at a party.

These saints cry out with a loud voice saying, “Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” They are excited about the truth that salvation belongs to our God and His Lamb and absolutely no one else (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). They recognize that God is the source of salvation, and no one else. Salvation isn’t something we achieve; it is something we receive. Salvation is a gift of God (Eph 2:8-9).

In 7:11-12, John records, “And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders[17] and the four living creatures; and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 saying, ‘Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. Amen.”’ Angels are always seen in attendance to God, obeying His will, or in the worship of God’s person and work as in creation (Job 38:1-7), or as in man’s salvation (Luke 2:13-14; 15:8-10). These angels say, “Amen!” which means “So be it! We agree!” To what do these angels say “Amen?” A list of seven attributes of God to be praised. The angels ascribe to God blessing, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and strength” (cf. Rev 5:12). This ascription will continue forever and ever. Ultimately, every created thing praises God or will eventually praise God. That is our ultimate purpose. Like the angels, our major role in heaven is acknowledging the glory of God. Are you getting in tune for an eternity of praise to God? Your marching orders on earth are to worship the Lord—to know Him intimately and passionately. This will be your main role throughout eternity.

In 7:13, one of the elders asked John a leading question: “These who are clothed in the white robes, who are they, and where have they come from?” The words “and one of the elders answered, saying to me,” (cf. Rev 5:5) suggests that John had some questions regarding the identity of this great multitude. It’s no wonder; Jesus had taught John and the other disciples that few would be chosen (Matt 7:13-14; 22:14). He must have been overwhelmed by this innumerable mass of people. Not to mention, for the first time in his life, seeing people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation must have blown him away.[18]

John politely deferred and replied, “My lord, you know.”[19] The elder then informed John that this great multitude is made up of “the ones who come[20] out of the great Tribulation.” These tribulation saints are said to “have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (7:14; cf. 1:5; 5:9). It reminds us that salvation is the same in the tribulation as it is today. It is given as a gift to all those who simply trust in the blood of the Lamb (7:14-15a). “For this reason,” and this reason only, these saints are in heaven before the throne.

This chapter concludes in 7:15-17 with ten eternal blessings enjoyed by this redeemed multitude.

1.      They are before the throne of God.

2.      They serve Him day and night in His temple. What does this multitude do before the throne? John is told that they “serve Him day and night in His temple” (7:15b). This is a reference to a future worship extravaganza because the tribulation has only begun in chapter 6, so chapter 7 has in view future events. As we mentioned earlier, chapter 7 serves as a parenthesis between the events of chapters 6 and 8. “Night and day” reinforces the concept of constant service. The expression is an idiom meaning unceasingly or without pause. Revelation 22:3-5 informs us that there is no day or night in heaven. There will be no need for rest or sleep in God’s heaven, for they will never get tired or need relief from their worship. Just like these tribulation saints, we too will worship our great God and His Lamb forever and ever.

3.      God will spread His tent over them. John also writes, “He who sits on the throne shall spread His tabernacle[21] over them.” Not only will they have this wonderful intimacy, but they will be free from all the devastation of the tribulation.

4.      Never again will they hunger.

5.      Never again will they thirst.

6.      The sun will not beat upon them.

7.      Nor any scorching heat. This is in stark contrast to what happened to them on earth. They had been hungry, for they couldn’t buy food without the mark of the Beast; they were thirsty, for the rivers were turned to blood; they were scorched with the burning sun. But now the agony of their lives will be over.[22]

8.      The Lamb will be their shepherd.[23] In another striking paradox, the saints are described as clothed in robes made white in the blood of the Lamb (Rev. 7:14). “The Lamb…will be their shepherd” (7:17) is yet another paradoxical figure—the Lamb leads the flock. This verse (and many others throughout the Scripture) points to the preeminence of Jesus Christ. The Father has given the Son all rule and authority and He is the reason why we will one day spend eternity with our Father and His Lamb. The phrase “springs of the water of life” is literally “life’s water springs.” The Greek language often reverses the order of words and phrases for the purpose of emphasis. By placing the word “life” at the front of this phrase, John is stressing the reality of life forevermore. Water symbolizes eternal life (Isa 55:1; John 7:38-39). Jesus even closes this book by offering those who are thirsty to drink freely from the spring of the Water of Life (21:6; 22:17). For those who die in the midst of the great tribulation you can imagine the comfort of these words. Upon our arrival in heaven, the great Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, will allow us to drink of life’s water springs for all eternity.

9.      He will lead them to springs of living water.

10.  God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.[24] What a glorious place heaven will be, especially for those tribulation believers who have known true hell on earth (see Isa 25:8; Jer 31:16).

To summarize, the first three of these blessings mean that the redeemed will be in the direct presence of God. The next four describe an end to the negative effects of sin. The final three blessings focus on the eternal joys of the redeemed.

How often we pray for one who is critically ill, that God will somehow take away the pain and prevent death. In the light of Revelation chapter 7 this may be a very shortsighted (and faithless) prayer. If suffering and death is indeed a means of entrance into God’s heaven for those who trust in Him, why do we so eagerly pray against it taking place?

There are countless religions available to men today, but the one thing men look for is a belief that endures when “the bottom falls out.” The faithful endurance of the saints in the midst of great tribulation is one of the most powerful testimonies that we can give to an unsaved world. God calls us to live the life before our world.

Many people assume that they can trust Christ later in life. If they miss the rapture, they will believe immediately after the tribulation starts. Yet this is a frightening prospect. Not only will the tribulation period be hell on earth, but many who are living during this period will fall under the spell of Satan’s lies (2 Thess 2:9-12). The time to be saved is today not tomorrow. If a person refuses to be saved today, what guarantee does he have that he will be willing to be saved in the future?

If a person refuses to trust Christ today when it is easy (for many, little or no persecution), why should this person be willing to trust Christ tomorrow when it will be very difficult (great persecution for believers during the tribulation)? Those who reject the Gospel today are in danger of rejecting the Gospel tomorrow. The person who rejects the Gospel before the rapture could very well be one of those who will worship the Man of Sin during the tribulation. Those who are unbelievers today will probably be unbelievers tomorrow. Please, I urge you, believe in Christ today. Don’t delay.

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Revelation 6 closes with the sixth seal and the seventh is not opened until Revelation 8:1. Rev 10:1-11:13 produces a similar break between the sixth and seventh trumpets.

[3] It is important to observe how the events of the tribulation are organized. First, we must recognize that the judgments form the backbone of chapter 6-19 and that the judgments follow in chronological order: The seven seals (6:1-8:6); the seven trumpets (8:7-9:21); and the seven bowls (15:1-16:21). Second, we must note that the other chapters and sections of Revelation 6-19 inform us of key players and events during this time of unprecedented distress. They reveal vital information about the tribulation period but are not arranged in chronological order.

[4] Charles Ryrie, Revelation: EBC (Chicago: Moody, 1968), 44.

[5] The phrase “after this” or “after these things” is used throughout Revelation with the phrase, “I saw” (eidon) to signify a new vision (cf. 4:1, 7:1, 7:9, 15:5, 18:1, 19:1). John is receiving a new vision at this time, which falls between the sixth seal judgment of 6:12-17 and the seventh seal revealed in 8:1.

[6] “The four winds” relate the temporary restraint of God’s judgments that follow to the entire earth. Incidentally, wind is often used in Scripture as a symbol of divine judgment (2 Sam 22:11; Jer 49:36; 51:1). This fits nicely with the restraint motif of this chapter.

[7] I’m indebted to my friend Bob Deffinbaugh for this insight.

[8] “Another angel” (Rev 7:2) is variously interpreted as a messenger of God or even Christ Himself, because he commands the four angels and has the seal of God (representing God’s authority) and speaks in the plural as though speaking for God.

[9] This takes the reader back to Ezekiel 9 when seven angels including one angel who acts as a scribe go through Jerusalem and mark everyone who mourns over the sin of Jerusalem. In other words this angel marks the righteous for protection for the duration of the tribulation to come.

[10] Some Christian interpreters have identified the 144,000 as symbolic of “spiritual Israel” (i.e., the church); Jehovah Witnesses’ have claimed that they are witnesses; Mormon’s have understood them as Mormon elders; and Seventh-Day Adventists believe it is a reference to their members who are observing the Sabbath when Christ returns.

[11] Look up the number “twelve” in a concordance. Ishmael became the father of 12 princes. Jacob became the father of 12 sons, from which came twelve tribes, (though Levi wasn’t in that number and Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, counted for two of the tribes). The number 12 seems to say that they are all here and accounted for. Jesus chooses 12 apostles and when Judas defects, another apostle must be chosen to replace him to bring the number to 12 again before the Holy Spirit comes (see Acts 1).

[12] This view is further substantiated by noting the distinction that John makes between the 144,000 and the great multitude that follows (Rev 7:9-14).

[13] It is typically thought that the sealing of the 144,000 protected them from martyrdom. While this may be true, it is not specifically stated. Neither, I must add, are we told precisely what the 144,000 are sealed for. It is generally assumed that these sealed Jewish saints are protected from martyrdom so that they may evangelize. They are thus thought by some to be the instruments of God for the salvation of the innumerable host. While this is possible, it is not stated. I am personally more inclined to see the emphasis fall on the stated fact (14:4) that they are first fruits to God, a guarantee of the salvation of the entire nation Israel.

[14] Dr. Grant C. Richison, Revelation (Grace Notes) 83.

[15] Nearly all Bible scholars agree that the expression “after these things” is intended to inform us that John saw this vision after the one described in chapter 6. I should make clear that this does not necessarily suggest that the events described in the vision occur after those of the previous vision. The order in which John saw the visions is not necessarily the order of the events described by the visions. Remember that this seventh chapter is parenthetical in the drama of the seven seals. Chronology or sequence is thus not necessarily implied by this expression.

[16] Some have suggested that the 144,000 and the great multitude are the same people (i.e., the church). However, this is unlikely for at least three reasons. First, it is “after these things,” which introduces a new vision. Second, this group is described as “a great multitude” that no one could count, no specific number. Third, the 144,000 came from the twelve tribes of Israel where this group comes from every nation, tribe, people and language. This group depicts the mass of humanity, crossing all barriers and dividing lines. They are not just Jewish but a mixture of Jews and Gentiles and from every people group across the world.

[17] By the way, the statement that “all angels” give praise along with the “elders” clearly determines that the twenty-four elders are not angels.

[18] See also Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 1-7 (Chicago: Moody, 1992), 495.

[19] Numerous scholars assert that the force of John’s language in his reply reveals that he was ignorant of the great multitude’s identity. If the great multitude were the church, it seems strange that John did not recognize it (at least those who belonged to the church in his time), in light of the fact that he was one of the church'’ apostles and part of its foundation (Eph 2:20).

[20] The word translated “come” (erchomenoi) is a present tense participle giving the sense of continuous action. These tribulation saints will enter heaven throughout the tribulation judgments.

[21] The phrase “spread His tabernacle” is one Greek verb (skhnow). This verb means “to live, dwell, have one’s tent, encamp.” It was used of setting up or spreading a tent over something. The verb comes from the noun sknh (a tent, booth, tabernacle) and was used of the Mosaic tabernacle, of its heavenly prototype, and of the dwelling of God in the New Jerusalem that comes down from heaven. Interestingly, John only uses the verb skhnow in one other place (John 1:14) and there it refers to God’s presence among men. The preposition “over” reveals that these saints will have access to God’s perfect provision, protection, and fellowship in an unlimited way!

[22] David Jeremiah, Escape the Coming Night (Dallas: Word, 1997 [1990]), 138.

[23] See Ezek 34:23; John 10:11, 14; 21:16; 1 Pet 2:22, 25; 5:1-4.

[24] All of these figures are drawn from the Old Testament (see Isa 25:8; 49:10; Jer 2:13; Ezek 34:23) and are repeated again in Rev 21:3–4.

“The Worst is Yet to Come” (Revelation 8:1-13)

Contemporary society, for the most part, has very little knowledge of Scripture. Occasionally on the news, however, a reporter describes a flood’s devastation or a famine as “of biblical proportions.” Sometimes I have heard the phrase “a plague of biblical proportions” with reference to some swarm of insects or some other natural calamity. To describe recent disasters in such extreme language makes me curious as to how reporters will describe the plagues God sends just prior to Christ’s return.[1]

God sent the original “plagues of biblical proportions” on Pharaoh and the Egyptians. These ten plagues recounted in Exodus 7-12, brought about the release of Israel from bondage. Beginning in Revelation 8, John foresees a series of divine plagues that are the ultimate in biblical proportions. He sees them as parallel to the plagues of Egypt, but worldwide. Both sets of plagues are warnings offering the ungodly an opportunity to repent. Both sets of plagues are divine judgments that go beyond any natural explanation. Both sets result in salvation and victory for the people of God.[2]

1. Stand and kneel before God (8:1-6). In 8:1, John writes, “When[3] the Lamb broke the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about[4] half an hour.” This is what’s called a “dramatic pause.” Considering the catastrophic events of chapters 4-7, the sudden and deafening silence in heaven is startling (cf. 7:10). The impact of such silence must have been impressive, for until now, everything that has been done has been done loudly.[5] Although heaven is quiet Bible students are not. Some male Bible students have suggested that there are no women or children in heaven at this point.  They believe that this is the only way to explain how there can be 30 minutes of silence. While that may be slightly amusing, I have found many men to be the worst of culprits when it comes to talking; but that’s another sermon.

Why was there “silence”[6] in heaven for approximately 30 minutes?[7] The silence intensifies a sense of anticipation and awe for God’s awesome judgments to follow (cf. Hab 2:20; 3:3; Zeph 1:7-8, 15, 17-18; Zech 2:13).[8] It is the calm before the storm of judgment to come, as a few moments of calm precede the most devastating destruction of a tornado or hurricane.[9]

Let me ask you a painful question: How many of you remember being spanked? If your parent was an effective disciplinarian, he/she made you wait for it. Good parents understand the art of psychological warfare. I remember…I mean, you probably remember when your dad said, “Go into the bathroom, go downstairs, or upstairs. I’ll be there in a few minutes.” I could almost feel the pain. Seriously, I don’t know which was worse: the emotional anguish of waiting or the physical pain of discipline. I concluded, with Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers that, “The Waiting is The Hardest Part.”

In a similar way, God unleashes His power with an expression of silence and delay to ensure that He has the full attention of everyone in the universe.

In 8:2, John writes, “And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them.” These seven angels are those “who stand before God” (cf. Rev 1:4; 3:1; 8:6; 15:1). They are always prepared, always available, and always obedient to carry out God’s will. In the same way, we are called to always and immediately obey God’s decrees. In the Lord’s Prayer, better called the Disciples’ Prayer, Jesus exhorted his disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt 6:10).

In what area of your life is the Lord urging you to be obedient to Him? Are you willing to stand at attention and say, “Lord, whatever You ask?” Will you yield that area of your life that you’ve been holding back?

John tells us that, apparently, God gives these angels seven trumpets[10] of judgment by which they will execute His will. Trumpets play a major role in God’s dealings with His people.[11] They assembled the Israelites for war, journeys, and special feasts (e.g., Num 10:9-10). A trumpet was sounded at Mount Sinai when the law was given; another was sounded at Jericho when the walls fell down; another when a king was anointed (Exod 19:19; Lev 23:24; 25:9; Josh 6:1, 13-16). They announced coming disaster (Amos 3:6-8). Here they announce divine judgment in the day of the Lord (cf. Joel 2:1; Zech 1:14-16).

In 8:3-6, God has something else to show us. What is our place in all this? Do we have any role to play? Do we make anything happen?  In 8:3, “Another[12] angel came and stood at the altar.”[13] The vision at this point is very reminiscent of priestly service as it took place in Israel’s tabernacle and temples. The Old Testament priest burned incense on the altar of incense that was symbolic of worship and the prayers of the people rising to God. This angel is “holding a golden censer.” A “censer”[14] is a bowl or fire pan designed for holding live coals and incense. The adjective “golden” describes the value of this censure. This angel is standing before God “holding” this very precious gift. He is then “given…much incense.” What is “incense”? Incense is a precious and valuable perfume. It is esteemed. The text doesn’t explicitly say who gives this angel the incense. Yet, in Revelation, the Father is the One who “gives” or “grants” all things. Why was this angel given all of this incense? Verse 3 states “…so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne.” God desires incense to be “add[ed] to the prayers of all the saints.”[15] Now wait just a minute. If incense is added to prayer, the incense will be diluted or worse yet, contaminated.[16] There are so many prayers that are prayed with selfish or impure motives. These are not precious or beautiful. This verse seems to suggest that even these less noble prayers are precious to God. The incense is added to the prayers of “all” (pas) the saints. Not merely the super spiritual but every “saint.” By the way, what is a “saint”? A saint is any and every believer in Jesus Christ. “Well,” you may say, “I’m more of a sinner than a saint.” That may be true, positionally speaking, but because of the work of the Son, the Father sees you as perfect.

This verse teaches that there is something pleasing and fragrant about the prayers of the saints that God enjoys (cf. Rev 5:8; cf. 2 Cor 2:14-16). Have you ever pondered this long and hard? The Lord longs to hear your prayers. Your prayers are special to Him. Your prayers are unique. No one else’s prayers can substitute for yours. The Lord loves it when we call out to Him. He wants to converse with us. He wants to hear the expressions of our heart. What makes our prayers especially beautiful and meaningful to God and others? The answer is simple, yet profound. Our prayers are especially meaningful and fruitful when our lives match our prayers.

John goes on to tell us that the prayers of all the saints are “on the golden altar which was before the throne.” What a powerful picture! God esteems and enjoys our prayers so much that He keeps them before Him. In 8:4, John describes further God’s great pleasure with our prayers: “And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand.” The smoke of the incense went up before God symbolizing His receiving the prayers of His people (Ps 141:2).

Sometimes you may wonder if your prayers are reaching God or if they have any impact. Prayer can at times feel like a lonely venture, especially when we don’t see immediate answers. But we see here that not only are our prayers supremely important to God, but they actually are closely connected to setting in motion the final judgments of God. So we can be certain that when we pray in faith and according to God’s will, we will receive an answer; maybe not on the same day on which they are offered, but at least in that day which John saw, if not before.

After the beautiful descriptions in 8:1-4, John writes, “Then the angel took the censer and filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it to the earth; and there followed peals of thunder and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake” (8:5). There seems to be a connection between these prayers that go up and the judgment that comes down. Verse 5 says that the same censor that carried the prayers up to God is dipped down into the fire of the altar and flung earthward. The saints who were martyred prayed that God would avenge them (6:9-11). Their prayers are about to be answered. The storm is about to begin. There is noise and thunder and lightening and earthquakes. The seven angels prepare to blow their trumpets.

This verse reminds me of Luke 12:49 where Jesus says, “I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindled!” Both of these contexts are referring to God’s judgments. “Thunder, lightning, and earthquakes” are all symbols of God’s power and wrath (cf. Ezek 10:2-7: Hag 2:6). This storm apparently implies the awful calamities that will come in the trumpet and bowl judgments that are ahead. The censer thus became a symbolic instrument of judgment in response to prayer.

Verse 6 informs us: “the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound them.” Once again, God’s judgment was about to fall. It is worth noting that all the trumpet judgments proceed out of the seventh seal judgment (8:1). The seven trumpets are not the same as the seven seals. Both the bowl judgments and the trumpet judgments are within the seal judgments. These judgments are one series in three movements. In other words, when the Lamb broke the seventh seal John saw not just one judgment but a whole new series of judgments.[17] Therefore, they are more severe than the first six seal judgments. Their object is to lead hostile unbelievers to repentance, but few will repent (9:20-21).

The remainder of chapter 8 gives us the first four trumpet judgments. The first four trumpet judgments fall on creation and the last three on mankind (9:1-21).

2. Recognize and respond before God’s wrath is revealed (8:7-13). In 8:7, “The first sounded,[18] and there came hail and fire,[19] mixed with blood,[20] and they were thrown to the earth; and a third[21] of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.” The scene shifts again, this time from heaven to earth. This first trumpet blast signaled the beginning of a judgment that involved hail,[22] fire, and blood (cf. Joel 2:30-31).[23] Hail is only mentioned here in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, hailstorms are a common element in God’s judgment (e.g., Josh 10:11; Job 38:22-23; Ps 78:47; 105:32-33; 148:8).  Why were these judgments “mixed with blood”? “Blood” is a key word here. Blood is the symbol of vengeance. Blood and fire were often combined as symbols of judgment (e.g., Isa 9:5; Ezek 21:32; 38:22).

This is similar to the seventh plague on the Egyptians (Exod 9:13-35) in which Moses raised his staff to the sky and God sent hail mixed with lightning and thunder. This proved to be the worst storm in the history of Egypt (Exod 9:18) and it destroyed all vegetation. This judgment in Revelation resulted in the fiery destruction of one-third of the earth (cf. Ezek 5:2; Zech 13:8-9). This would also refer to the various crops of the earth like wheat, barley, rice, corn, etc.[24] Besides the obvious ramifications of losing a third of all lumber-producing trees which will effect everything from home prices to the availability of paper, this first judgment will also possibly have a significant impact on our most basic need—oxygen, which is a by-product of trees and vegetation.

Can you imagine how the destruction of a third of all trees[25] and the destruction of grass will upset the balance of nature and the supply of food and oxygen? Most of us have seen the results of terrible forest fires when even the ground was charred black and the all the vegetation was destroyed.

Yet none has seen anything like this image. Even the ravaging of large forest fires in the western United States is partial. We are supposed to picture one-third of all the great forests of the world (the Amazon, the Congo, Yosemite, Yellowstone) burned down. It is a natural disaster beyond anything imaginable. Think of all the firefighters of the world trying to stem fires thousands of times greater than anything ever known.[26] This may be a temporary problem (9:4) but it will still have a tremendous effect on the environment.

The opening of the seventh seal introduces the second series of judgments. The trumpet judgments are more intense and severe than the seal judgments. The seals will wipe out one-fourth of the world’s population: 1.5 billion. The trumpets will decimate another third of the world and its population: 3 billion. The bowl judgments will leave only a fraction of the world’s initial population intact. What a principle for believers and unbelievers alike to consider. Revelation is a reminder that human wickedness will not go unnoticed or unpunished.

Some have taken the judgments of Revelation and interpreted symbolically rather than literally. However, if you consider any of God’s judgments in the Old Testament, especially the ten plagues in the book of Exodus, there is no reason to believe that these judgments are to be interpreted in any other way than in their literal and obvious sense. It would be very inconsistent to understand these judgments symbolically and interpret the plagues in Egypt plainly and actually.

A point worth noting is that the Old Testament prophets understood that the miracles of Egypt were to be repeated in the future (e.g., Isa 10:22-25; 11:12-16; 30:30; Jer 16:14-15; 23:7-8; Ezek 38:22; Joel 2:30; Mic 7:15). At several points the prophet Amos uses God’s miraculous work of deliverance from Egypt as a reference point for the way He will deal with His people in the future (cf. Amos 2:10; 4:10; 8:8-9; 9:5-7).[27]

In 8:8-9, “The second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea;[28] and a third of the sea became blood, and a third of the creatures which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed.” Let’s be careful to note exactly what this says and what it does not say. It does not say that a great mountain, burning with fire, was cast into the sea. Remember, mountains were moved in Revelation 6:14 and then disappear altogether in 16:20. Rather, it says, “Something like a great mountain . . .” It was a huge mountain-like ball of fire, which was cast into the sea.[29]  It is the perfect picture of what we know today about asteroids. Asteroids are literally mountains hurling through space. There is one family of asteroids called the Apollo group with an orbit that crosses directly across the earth. These asteroids are masses of rock, which vary in size from just a few miles to several hundred miles. Some scientists make ominous predictions of asteroids hitting the earth. They say the impact will be like many hydrogen bombs, causing massive death within hundreds of miles of their collision. According to NASA scientists, an asteroid of four kilometers broad could wipe out half the world’s population.[30] Yet, we must remember the words of Psalm 46:2-3, “Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.” Selah.

John writes that a third of the sea “became blood.” This could be caused supernaturally, as with the Nile River in Exodus 7:20, or perhaps it could be caused by the tremendous amount of death resulting in blood poured into the sea. The sea becoming blood would simply mean or refer to a tremendous loss of life.

Undoubtedly, the impact of this enormous object will generate global tsunamis, tidal waves, floods, and unprecedented destruction. The movie, Deep Impact, is about asteroids that create a huge tidal wave or tsunami that sweeps over all the global, coastal communities and wreaks terrible destruction. Likely the greatest damage to the shipping industry will take place in harbors geographically closest to ground zero.

So if you intend to still be on earth after the rapture and you enjoy oceanic cruising, I would suggest that you get your fill of it early on in the tribulation period, while your ship is still afloat (cf. Isa 2:11-22).

The first plague in Egypt (Exod 7:17-18) made the water undrinkable, killed all the fish, and had a terrible stench. In this verse a third of the living sea creatures died. These creatures constitute the lowest and most basic component of the world’s food chains. Their destruction will produce a significant domino effect on many higher forms of life. We know this is only a precursor to the second bowl judgment, found in Revelation 16:3-6, that will result in the death of every living thing in the sea (cf. Zeph 1:3).

Just try to imagine how the world’s nations will deal with disposing of billions of marine corpses. Although John does not mention it, many land animals perished as well. If a third of the world’s drinkable water is gone, we can only imagine the dreadful impact on the animal kingdom.[31] This will greatly impact the world ecologically and economically, considering that three-fourths of the earth’s surface is water.

In 8:10-11, “The third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters.[32] The name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter.” Next a falling star or meteorite[33] fell from heaven on the fresh water sources on earth.[34] It too was on fire (cf. 8:7-8). The name of this star was “Wormwood”[35] which means “bitter” (cf. Deut 29:18). It was a bitter herb that was a symbol of divine punishment (Jer 3:15; 9:15; 23:15; Lam 3:15, 19; Amos 5:7). “Wormwood” is also the name of a demon in C.S. Lewis’ book, Screwtape Letters. This star kills many men and causes a third of the fresh waters of the world to be bitter.

This judgment recalls the bitter water that God gave the rebellious Israelites to drink in the wilderness, which the tree cast in, turned sweet (Exod 15:23-25), as well as the first Egyptian plague (Exod 7:21). This is a reversal of the miracle at Marah, recorded in Exodus 15:25, where God made bitter waters sweet for the people of Israel as they traveled through the desert. A very important principle from this passage is: sin brings bitterness. We must also remember that God has the power to make sweet waters bitter and bitter waters sweet.

When is the last time you thanked God for trees, for grass, for the ability of food to be distributed, for predictable cycles, for water? These are all gifts from a loving God to an undeserving world. The coming judgment on the earth’s natural resources reminds us of just how gracious God is to us now. He has supplied everything we need for physical life. He has also provided all we need for eternal life. This eternal life is the gracious gift of God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Avail yourself of God’s grace before it is too late.

I have great sympathy for many of the environmentalists of our day. Instinctively, they seem to know what the Bible says in Genesis 1; that man has been given dominion over the earth. But we must recognize that the long-term solution is not passing more laws; it is repenting of our sin and turning to our Creator. The greatest threat to our environment is not carbon monoxide or chemical plants or nuclear reactors. The greatest threat to our environment is sin! While committed Christians should be very conscientious in the way we care for the environment, creation will not be truly liberated and restored to its original state until mankind is right with God.[36]

While politicians, world leaders, and scientists are attempting to find naturalistic explanations for the catastrophic events and emergency responses to their effects, yet another trumpet is sounded.

In 8:12, “The fourth angel sounded, and a third of the sun and a third of the moon and a third of the stars were struck, so that a third of them would be darkened and the day would not shine for a third of it, and the night in the same way.” In contrast to the first three trumpet judgments against the land, sea, rivers, and fountains of water, the fourth trumpet is aimed against the heavens. It is interesting that it was on the fourth day that God created and made visible to the earth, the sun, the moon, and the stars.

This time the trumpet blast announced judgment on a third of the heavenly bodies. Darkness is a common symbol of judgment in the Old Testament, and the day of the Lord was to be a time of darkness (Amos 5:18; cf. Isa 13:6-13; Joel 2:2; Matt 24:29; Mark 13:24). The darkening of the heavenly bodies predicted in this verse also serves to warn of more judgment to come. Evidently, God will cut off light from the sun, moon, and stars and from the earth, by one-third (cf. Exod 10:21-23). The text seems to imply that God will reduce the intensity of light from these sources by one-third (cf. Matt 27:45). Perhaps a partial eclipse or pollution in the atmosphere is in view. Such a reduction in light, and consequently temperature, would have a devastating effect on the earth.

Verse 12 describes an incredible atmospheric phenomenon, which will result in the period that constitutes a day (24 hours), being reduced by one-third to 16 hours.[37] There is some similarity between this and the 9th plague upon Egypt (Exod 10:21-23), which brought supernatural darkness to the Egyptians for three days. Jesus promised that the sun and moon would be smitten (Matt 24:29-30; Luke 21:25-28) and that the days would be shortened for the elect’s sake (Matt 24:21-22).

Some interpret the 33% reduction of light as meaning that the daytime lasts for eight hours and the nighttime lasts for 16. However, the wording of this judgment implies an overall reduction of light for these heavenly bodies so that even the daylight hours are darkened to some extent.

It could mean that the sun, moon, and stars will not be seen for several hours of the normal cycle of day and night. But probably what is meant is the intensity of light during the day and night is reduced by a third because of cosmic and atmospheric disturbances (8:7, 8, 10).

The impact of these phenomena is incalculable. World climates will suddenly change. Temperatures will dramatically drop. There will be unpredictable and violent atmospheric storms as well as interruptions to botanical and biological growth cycles since their existence is dependent on light for photosynthesis. As a result, a significant portion of the world’s food supply will be destroyed.

How long will it last? It seems to be temporary, since we are told in Revelation 16:8-9 that this judgment will be reversed to a deadly extreme when the sun will be so intense that the earth and mankind will be scorched due to the intense heat.

A fitting judgment—they rejected the true Light, now the light they had is taken away. They rejected the Water of Life, so water is taken away. If the most dependable things in the world are taken away (the sun rising), on top of poison water and scorched earth, what would be the impact on humans? I can tell you this, insurance companies will be bankrupt.

Amazingly, there will be those who refuse to acknowledge the increasingly obvious fact that God is judging the earth and its inhabitants. But God’s next messenger will be difficult to disregard.

In 8:13, “Then I looked, and I heard an eagle[38] flying in midheaven,[39] saying with a loud voice, ‘Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth,[40] because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three angels who are about to sound!’” The phrase “Then [or “and”] I looked”[41] signals a new scene in John’s vision. John next saw an eagle flying through the sky and warning those living on the earth to beware of the last three trumpet judgments. This could be a literal eagle.[42] God has given animals the ability to communicate with people in the past (cf. Gen 3:1-5; Num 22:28-30). As a donkey spoke to Balaam, so this eagle, by the power of God, speaks to men. Eagles (or vultures) are birds of prey that approach rapidly and are a sign of disaster (Matt 24:28). Thus this eagle is a fitting herald of God’s judgments to come. Its loud voice further guarantees that everyone on the earth will hear its message. The eagle announces the last three trumpet judgments which are also “woes” (9:12; 10:14). They are especially bad because they have people, rather than the objects of nature, as their targets. There are several examples of double woes in Scripture (18:10, 16, 19; Ezek 16:23), but a triple woe announces an even worse. The objects of these judgments are earth-dwellers, and their judgment is partially in response to the prayers of the tribulation martyrs (cf. 6:10).

As severe as the first four judgments have been, worse is yet to come. The first four attacked nature, with humankind affected indirectly. The next judgments will attack humanity directly. John is saying, “The worst is yet to come. You haven’t seen nothing yet!”

What was the purpose of this proclamation? I believe it serves several purposes. For the reader, this sets the last three trumpets apart from the first four, distinguishing them and intensifying God’s judgment as it progresses. For the hearer of that day, I believe it was not intended to torment men so much as it was to be a turning point for those who were unbelievers. Why should men suffer further when they could turn to the Savior, who has already borne the punishment for their sin? Just as the prophets of the Old Testament called for men to turn from their wicked ways, so this warning of judgment is a message of hope for all who would repent and be saved.

It is a terribly sobering thing to envision what John describes as the final days of the world as we know it. However, there are benefits to understanding and heeding the prophetic future:

1.      It brings perspective to what is important in life.

2.      It serves as a warning to those who continue in sin.

3.      It motivates us to share the truth with others.

4.      It assures us of God’s ultimate victory over sin and evil.

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Holman Reference, 1998), 141.

[3] Rev 7 introduced additional information between the breaking of the sixth and seventh seals. Now the chronological progression of judgments resumes. The scene John saw continues to be in heaven.

[4] Gk. hos, an adverb that means, “as, that, how, about.”

[5] The word “loud” (megas) has occurred six times already in the book (Rev 1:10; 5:2, 12; 6:10; 7:2, 10) and will be found 15 times in Rev 8 and beyond (8:13; 10:3; 11:12, 15; 12:10; 14:2, 7, 9, 15, 18; 16:1, 17; 19:1, 17; 21:3).

[6] Gk. sige (cf. Acts 21:40 for the only other New Testament usage). BDAG defines as “the absence of all noise, whether made by speaking or by anything else.”

[7] There are at least eight other Greek words for “silence” that John could have used. Why did he use this particularly rare word? I’m uncertain. See Louw-Nida Lexicon 33.117-33.125, Electronic Ed.

[8] The Old Testament writers take “silence” as an anticipation of God’s imminent action (Exod 14:14; 1 Sam 12:16), as the natural response to God’s omnipotence (Isa 41:1; Hab 2:20), or as a fearsome awe in light of His coming judgment (Zeph 1:7; Zech 2:13). Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 337.

[9] Beasley-Murray writes, “Perhaps the silence represents God listening to the prayers of the saints.” George Beasley-Murray, The Book of Revelation: NCBC (London: Marshall, Morgan, and Scott, 1978), 152

[10] These trumpets appear to be different from the trumpet of God (1 Cor 15:52; 1 Thess 4:16) and other trumpets mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament (Heb 12:19; Rev 1:10; 4:1), though they too announce God’s working (cf. Ezek 33:3). Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation (www.soniclight.org 2003 edition), 90.

[11] Cf. Exod 19:16; 20:18; Isa 27:13; Jer 4:5; Joel 2:1; Zeph 1:16; Matt 24:31; 1 Cor 15:51-52; 1 Thess 4:16.

[12] The Greek word for “another” is allos, “another of the same kind,” and not heteros, “another of a different kind.” This indicates this single angel is another angelic being of the same order as the seven.

[13] An altar in heaven is mentioned seven times in Revelation (6:9; 8:3 [2x’s], 8:5; 9:13; 14:18; 16:7).

[14] Gk. libanotos, cf. outside of Rev 8:3, 5, this word is only used in 1 Chron 9:29 (LXX, Greek Old Testament).

[15] The angel received more incense to add to the prayers of the saints already there. This may indicate that the prayers of the tribulation saints (Rev 6:10) joined those of the rest of God’s people requesting God’s justice (cf. Rev 5:8; 9:13; 14:18; Ps 141:2). Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation, 91.

[16] Exodus 30:34-38 indicates that God considered incense precious.

[17] The seven bowl judgments proceed out of the seventh trumpet judgment in the same way (see Rev 16:1).

[18] Since the angels are specifically mentioned in 8:6 the text only tells us “The first sounded.” In the other trumpet judgments, however, we read “the second angel,” etc.

[19] The Bible records occasions when God used hail or fire to judge his enemies: Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 19:24); the seventh plague of Egypt (Exod 9); Joshua’s defeat of the Amorites (Josh 10:11).

[20] Some have understood these phenomena to be an electrical storm of some kind. But clearly the nature of this storm is differentiated from anything that could be attributed to natural phenomena when John adds in blood.

[21] The word “third” appears 14 times in Rev 8.

[22] Hail is only mentioned here in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, hailstorms are a common element in God’s judgment (e.g., Josh 10:11; Job 38:22-23; Ps 78:47; 105:32-33; 148:8).

[23] Blood and fire were often combined as symbols of judgment (e.g., Isa 9:5; Ezek 21:32; 38:22).

[24] Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org, Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 165.

[25] This holocaust included a third of its trees and all of its grass. There are two explanations of how all the grass perishes here but in Rev 9:4 we read that grass exists later. First, the grass may grow again since some time elapses between these two references. Second, it may only be the grass that is green that perishes now and what is now dormant and brown will be green when the events of 9:4 transpire.

[26] Osborne, Revelation, 351.

[27] Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1992), 16.

[28] “The sea” (singular with the definite article) referred originally to the Mediterranean, the sea that virtually defined the Roman Empire.

[29] In the New Testament there is a close parallel is found in Mark 11:23, in which Jesus says that faith can say to a mountain, “Be taken up and cast into the sea.” Revelation 8:8 takes the analogy to another level, as the throwing of a mountain “on fire” into the sea is part of end-time events.  See Osborne, Revelation, 352.

[30] Dr. Grant C. Richison, Revelation (Austin, TX: Grace Notes), 88.

[31] Easley, Revelation, 145.

[32] “Spring of life” is used often in the Old Testament (Lev 11:36; Ps 104:10; 107:33) due to the fact that most of Judah’s water stems from natural springs. Osborne, Revelation, 354.

[33] The ancients sometimes used “torch” (lampas) to describe a meteor shooting through the sky. Thomas, Revelation 8-22, 21.

[34] The National Geographic Society has listed 100 major rivers in the world ranging in length from 4,000 miles (the Amazon) to 150 miles (the Rio de la Plata). The U.S. Geological Survey reports 30 large rivers in the U.S. the largest of which is the Mississippi, 3710 miles long. See Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1989), 2:593.

[35] The Russian word Chernobyl (the city that suffered the tragic nuclear reactor disaster) means, “Wormwood.”

[36] These thoughts have been revised from Anne Graham Lotz, The Vision of His Glory (Dallas: Word, 1996), 155.

[37] Ryrie believes this means the day-night cycle is changed from a 24-hour day to a 16-hour day. Charles Ryrie, Revelation: EBC (Chicago: Moody, 1968), 58-59.

[38] Gk. aetos, cf. Rev 4:7; 12:14. This word is also used of vultures (Matt 24:28; Luke 17:37).

[39] Cf. Rev 14:6; 19:17. The “mid air” means top of the sky—where the sun shins at noon. Easley, Revelation, 146. See also Leon Morris, The Book of Revelation: TNTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987), 125

[40] The phrase “those who dwell on the earth” means more than those who live on the earth, because that is where all living people reside. It refers to those that live for the earth and for the things of the earth (See Rev 3:10; 6:10; 8:13; 11:10 [2x’s]; 13:14 [2x’s]; 17:2, 8).

[41] Gk. kai eidon cf. Rev 5:1-2, 6, 11; 6:1-2, 5, 8, 12; 7:2; 8:2, 13; 9:1; 10:1; 13:1, 11; 14:1, 6, 14; 15:1-2; 16:13; 17:3, 6; 19:11, 17, 19; 20:1, 4, 11-12; 21:1.

[42] There is a textual debate surrounding this verse. The King James and New King James Versions read “angel” (cf. Rev 12:14).

“All Hell Breaks Loose!” (Revelation 9:1-21)

How many of you have had a bad day? I want you to stop and think of the worst day you’ve ever had. Is that day registered in your mind? Now, I want you to imagine a day, a series of days, a hundred times worse than your very worst day. If you can envision that then you may have an inkling of what the tribulation will be like.[1]

We have been working our way through the book of Revelation. In chapter 6, we began a study on the tribulation period. The seven-year tribulation will be the worst period of human history. It will literally be hell on earth. The Bible presents several purposes for the tribulation. For our purposes, I will share two.[2] First, the tribulation will demonstrate God’s righteous wrath as He judges a wicked world. Second, the tribulation will convince many Jewish people, scattered throughout the world, that Jesus is the Christ.[3]

We will now look at Revelation 9:1-21. In this chapter, we see another purpose of the tribulation: to unmask Satan’s true character. While in the future men will go to hell, in Revelation 9 hell comes to men.

1. Satan wants to harm mankind (9:1-11). In 9:1, John writes, “Then the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star from heaven which had fallen to the earth; and the key of the bottomless pit was given to him.” The star that “had fallen” (or descended) from heaven is an angel.[4] This star is referred to in 9:1 by the pronoun “him.”[5] Some think that this angel is Satan but it is unlikely that God would entrust the key of the bottomless pit to Satan or to any fallen angel. Apparently, the Lord Jesus Christ gave one of His angels the key, since we are told in Revelation 1:18 that Jesus has the keys to death and hades. With this key the angel[6] unlocks the “bottomless pit.”

The “bottomless pit” (lit. shaft of the Abyss) is the abode of Satan (Rev 9:11; 20:1-3), the Beast (Rev 11:7; 17:8), and some demons (cf. Luke 8:31; 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6). It is evidently a preliminary prison, not their final abode, which is the lake of fire (Rev 19:20; 20:10; cf. Matt. 25:41). It is worth noting that this section is framed with the beings of the “bottomless pit” or “Abyss” (9:1, 11).

It is important to note that this angel is “given”[7] the key of the bottomless pit.[8] Throughout Revelation, God is the One who grants authority to Christ, angels, and evil beings. Nothing occurs without His divine permission. This is another reminder of God’s sovereignty. God is in complete control of all that occurs in the world. He also is a personal God who is able to exercise His sovereign care in your life.

In 9:2, God’s angel “opened the bottomless pit, and smoke went up out of the pit.” In Revelation “smoke” usually relates to judgment, doom, and torment (9:17, 18; 18:9; 19:3; cf. Gen 19:28; Exod 19:18).[9] This is confirmed by the rest of the verse that states the smoke went up “like the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by the smoke of the pit.” The smoke blocks the sun and the air (like smog or forest fires now). But there is stuff in the smoke…and it isn’t nicotine.

It is worth noting that, in this chapter, there are more occurrences of the words “as” and “like” than in any other chapter in the Bible. This shows how difficult it was for John to describe the scene which he saw in the vision. Therefore, we must be careful and wise as we interpret this chapter.

John continues his vision in 9:3: “Then out of the smoke came locusts[10] upon the earth,[11] and power[12] was given them, as the scorpions of the earth have power.” It is quite certain that these are demons that assume some of the characteristics of locusts.[13] These locusts ascend from the Abyss, which is elsewhere in the Bible the abode of the demons.[14]

Also 9:11 informs us that they have “the angel of the bottomless pit” as their king. These locust-like demons have power “as” scorpions. Please notice that these demons are not called scorpions, nor are we told that they look like scorpions, just that they have the power (9:3) and torment (9:5) of a scorpion.

In 9:4, these demons “were told not to hurt the grass of the earth,[15] nor any green thing, nor any tree, but only the men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.” Locusts are greatly feared because they can strip a country of every green thing, leaving man and beast alike to die from starvation. These insects move in giant columns, stripping away everything that is green. The plague of locusts that God sent against Pharaoh of Egypt brought Pharaoh to his knees…temporarily. But in this case, there is a total prohibition against the destruction of any plant life, which is the natural food of locusts. Instead, these locusts are “given” power to harm those who didn’t have the seal of God on their foreheads—those who were not a part of the 144,000 (cf. Rev 7:2). It is reasonable to assume that all those who have become believers during the tribulation will also be protected.

So there are limitations placed upon these locusts. They are limited as to what men they can afflict (9:4) and how they can afflict those men. Verse 5 states that these demons “were not permitted to kill anyone, but to torment for five months; and their torment was like the torment of a scorpion when it stings a man.” Again, we see God’s sovereignty, here prohibiting death and limiting the torment to five months. It is a sobering thought to realize that many of the demons of hell are not free to hurt us in this present age. Satan is managing to do a good job of destruction today, without his entire army to back him up.[16]

In 9:6, John records an awful sentence: “And in those days[17] men will seek death and will not find it;[18] they will long to die, and death flees from them.” Because of the influence of these scorpion-like locust demons, the earth’s inhabitants will have reached their emotional, physical, and spiritual limit. Men and women alike will try to die, but will not be able to.  Like Job, they will “long for death…. And dig for it more than for hidden treasures” (Job 3:21). But it will elude them. They will cripple and injure themselves but somehow will be unable to finish the job.

Think of the worst pain you’ve ever experienced. The worst pain I think I’ve ever experienced was a case of food poisoning. I was so sick that I was afraid I was going to die and then I was disappointed when I didn’t. This period of tribulation is far more severe than having food poisoning for five months. It will be like the movie, Ground Hog Day, where actor Bill Murray experiences the same day over and over.

What an awful time period. Can you imagine wanting to die and not being able to? The Lord refuses to give these rebels any satisfaction. Is God a sadistic God? No, but He is a just God that gives men and women who reject Him what they want: separation from Him.

This is a five-month foretaste of eternal hell. During this part of the tribulation, Satan and his host are given a short time to treat men as they will in hell. Please hear me: Hell is a place that no sane person would ever want to go. Don’t risk spending eternity in hell. Trust in Christ today.

The next five verses are a parenthetical section where John describes the creatures he saw from head to tail. In all, he enumerates eight characteristics of these demons.

1.      “The appearance of the locusts was like horses prepared for battle.” These creatures had mobility. These were invading creatures. They came like calvary.

2.      “On their heads appeared to be crowns like gold.” Their crowns probably symbolize their victory over the objects of their oppression.

3.      “Their faces were like the faces of men.” This may imply intelligence.

4.      “They had hair like the hair of women.” This may infer long, loose hair, giving the impression of ferocious beings. The opposite interpretation might be true as well; that they are of such striking beauty and charisma that few can reject their false teaching. Many people will buy into their propaganda because of the authority and power of these false teachers.

5.      “Their teeth were like the teeth of lions.” This is a symbol of something frightening. Those who surrender to false teaching will find it vile and hurtful to their belief. False teachers will show no mercy on their followers.

6.      “They had breastplates like breastplates of iron and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots, of many horses rushing to battle.” These demons were not vulnerable to attack and the sound of their false teaching was intimidating.

7.      “They have tails like scorpions, and stings; and in their tails is their power to hurt men for five months.” These demons are able to wreak havoc for five months through stinging tails.

8.      “They have as king over them, the angel of the abyss; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon,[19] and in the Greek he has the name Apollyon.”[20] Proverbs 30:27 tells us that “locusts have no king.” Again, this further proves that these are not literally locusts. They are demons that are in submission to a king—“the angel of the abyss” who is called “Abaddon” and “Apollyon” both meaning “destruction.” This angel is not Satan, as many believe. Nowhere in Scripture is Satan referred to by either of these names. More importantly, this angel is confined to the Abyss (until he is released by the star angel) while Satan and his angels are roaming free in the heavenlies.

In these eleven verses, Satan’s true colors are revealed. His purpose is to harm all people. If he could, he would kill every person that has ever lived or ever will live. He would then take humanity straight to hell. But, of course, he can’t because God has limited his authority and is sovereign over him. As Martin Luther, the great reformer, said, “Even the devil is God’s devil.” We don’t have to fear him. God has given Satan the power that he possesses.

2. God wants to humble mankind (9:12-21). In 9:12, John writes, “The first woe is past; behold, two woes are still coming after these things.”[21] The three “woes” that the eagles pronounced in Revelation 8:13 are quickly coming to pass. The fifth judgment woe has occurred, the sixth and seventh judgment woes are to come. This verse is transitional and clarifies that the fifth, sixth, and seventh trumpet judgments are also the first, second, and third woes.[22]

In 9:13-16, four angels are released. John writes, “Then the sixth angel sounded, and I heard[23] a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God.” Someone near the four horns (symbolic of power) of the golden altar in heaven, probably the angel identified with it in 8:3, gave a command after the sixth angel blew the sixth trumpet (cf. 8:2, 6).

In 9:14, this angel says to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, “‘Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.’” These are evidently four angels that John had not seen before. They must be fallen angels since good angels are not bound (cf. Rev 20:1-3; 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6). God had a purpose for them to fulfill and ordered their release to accomplish His will (cf. 9:1-11).

Scripture does not record when or why God bound these angels, but evidently He restricted them as punishment. Perhaps He imprisoned them when Satan rebelled against Him.

These angels are bound “at the great river Euphrates.” Euphrates was in the Mesopotamian Valley, which was the cradle of civilization. It was where the garden of Eden was located; it was where the first sin was committed; it was where the first lie was told; it was where the first murder was committed; and it was where the first grave was dug. It was in this region where God saw that the wickedness of man was great and so He sent the flood. It was where men attempted to build a tower that would reach into the heavens, so that God confounded the languages. Nimrod built the tower of Babel. It was this region where ancient Israel’s most oppressive enemies came from —the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Medes, and the Persians. It is here that God has kept in confinement, four fallen angels who will be loosed upon the earth, when the sixth trumpet is sounded. It might be that God chose to bind these angels at the place of Satan’s first apparent victory, as serving notice that this “victory” will be overturned. Thus, the four bound angels are but the first fruits of a far greater victory to follow.

These “four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year,[24] were released, so that they would kill a third of mankind.” These angels were ready for a specific assignment at a specific hour in history.[25] This specificity highlights the preciseness of God’s divine plan. His purposes will be accomplished, perfectly and on schedule (Isa 46:9-11). The task of these angels was to put one-third of those who dwell on the earth to death (cf. 8:13). This figure accounts for more than the accumulated deaths of all the wars of the 20th century put together. In today’s numbers, this accounts for over two billion dead.[26]

Keep in mind; this will result in approximately half the population of the earth, alive at the beginning of the tribulation, being dead at the end of this judgment. One-fourth died under the fourth seal judgment (Rev 6:7-8), and many more died as martyrs and for other reasons (cf. Dan 12:1; Matt 24:21-22). However, it is only the earth-dwellers; those in rebellion against God, who suffer death as a result of this woe (cf. Rev 9:20).

In 9:16, John states, “The number of the armies of the horsemen was two hundred million; I heard[27] the number of them.” It is worth noting that the massive army of 200 million is often thought to be a reference to China. While this may be possible, it is more likely that this army is not human but demonic. These are hellish horsemen riding satanic steeds. Several reasons support this: (1) The fifth and sixth trumpet judgments go together since they are called the first two of three “woes.” Since the fifth trumpet is clearly demonic, it is fairly certain the sixth trumpet is as well. (2) Fallen angels, like those of the fifth trumpet judgment, lead this army (9:15). Since the leaders are four fallen angels, it makes sense that the troops they are leading are also demons. (3) There are other examples in Scripture of supernatural armies (e.g., 2 Kgs 2:11; 6:13-17; Rev 19:11, 14). (4) The weapons mentioned—fire, sulfur, and smoke—are always supernatural weapons in the Bible and are associated with hell, four times in Revelation (14:10-11; 19:20; 20:10; 21:8).[28]

In 9:17-19, John provides a description of the horses and riders he saw. John records, “And this is how I saw in the vision the horses and those who sat on them: the riders had breastplates the color of fire and of hyacinth and of brimstone; and the heads of the horses are like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths proceed fire and smoke and brimstone.” John saw what these horsemen looked like. Horses were swift implements of war in ancient times. Red, blue, and yellow breastplates covered both horses and riders. This was apparently their only armor, and it is defensive armor. Hyacinth is a flower that is most commonly blue, and brimstone is sulfur that is yellow.

Lion-like horse heads could be very different from those of ordinary horses or just heads of horses that appear exceptionally bold and majestic. Lions are terrifying (cf. 10:3), fierce (cf. 9:8), and destructive (cf. 13:2). Natural horses do not breathe fire, smoke, and brimstone. This verse suggests that this army is probably something other than a human army of cavalry, probably an angelic army (cf. 9: 9). Note: The description of the horses also argues for an angelic army. An angelic army of 200,000,000 demons is not hard to imagine. That’s roughly 80% of the population of the United States.

In 9:18, John writes, “A third of mankind was killed by these three plagues, by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which proceeded out of their mouths.” Fire, smoke, and brimstone are natural elements that God used to bring judgment in the past during similar conditions (cf. Gen 19:24, 28). He may use them again, or they may represent other agents of destruction. “Plagues” recalls the plagues in Egypt.[29] The repetition of the definite article “the” in the Greek text (tou), indicates that these are three distinct plagues. Together they will be responsible for the largest death toll in human history so far (cf. 9:15).

These four fallen angels will be instigators in what will result in the death of one-third of the world population. You will recall that the rider of the fourth horse brought death to one-fourth of the world population from war, hunger, pestilence, and wild beasts. This additional third will mean that half of the earth’s population will have died during the tribulation. By today’s standards, that would be more than one billion people.

In 9:19, John continues, “For the power of the horses is in their mouths and in their tails; for their tails are like serpents and have heads, and with them they do harm.” This further description of the horses supports the conclusion that they represent angelic instruments of divine judgment other than natural horses. Some interpreters have suggested that what they represent are modern weapons that shoot both forward and backward, such as missiles. The locusts had the power to injure like scorpions with their tails (9:10), but these horses have power to kill like serpents with their tails, which is worse (cf. 9:15).

These last two verses are two of the saddest in the entire Bible. John concludes by observing, “The rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands, so as not to worship demons,[30] and the idols of gold and of silver and of brass and of stone and of wood, which can neither see nor hear nor walk; and they did not repent of their murders nor of their sorceries[31] nor of their immorality nor of their thefts.” Those that survived this sixth trumpet judgment refused to repent[32] “of the works of their hands.”[33] This was a refusal to change their minds about their worship and works.

The sins of humanity are generally of two sorts (Luke 10:27). Verse 20 focuses on sins directed against God—they do not love God supremely (the first four of the Ten Commandments, Exod 20:1-11). Verse 21 directs our attention to sins directed against other human beings—they do not love their neighbors as themselves (the last six of the Ten Commandments, Exod 20:12-17).[34]

One of the most amazing things about these two verses is that demons are worshipped. Yet, demons are the instruments of man’s destruction in the fifth and sixth trumpets. Men worship the very things that destroy them. Hard-core unbelief and stubborn, willful rebellion is the result of these plagues. Just as Pharaoh’s heart was hardened by the Egyptian plagues, so the hearts of these men and women are hardened by the plagues of the last days.

People are prone to believe satanic lies. It is what Paul calls a “deluding influence” (2 Thess 2:11), a lie from the Devil. Since mankind believes this, many are rendered finally unable to repent. It is because they have begun, unknowingly perhaps, and innocently, to worship demons.

Did you know that there are over 600 warnings in the Bible about judgment and evil? The judgments that will take place on earth are just a small glimpse of an eternal hell. It is a place of fire and smoke. It is a place of pain, as pictured by the stinging scorpions. Hell is a place of crying. Hell is a place where a person cannot die. How could anyone survive in a place of such agony?  Hell is not a place where the good ole’ boys sit around and drink beer and play poker to pass the time. It is a place of separation, torment, and agony.  Please do not make light of rejecting Christ.[35]

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Two other purposes include: The tribulation will end the time of Gentiles and affect the deliverance of the Jewish people from Gentile dominion (Isa 24:21-23; 59:16-20; cf. Matt 24:29-31/Mark 13:24-27; Rom 11:25). The tribulation will purge the earth of wicked people in order to establish the messianic kingdom in righteousness (Isa 11:9; 13:9; 24:19-20; Ezek 37:23; Zech 13:2; 14:9).

[3] See Rev 7:1-4; Deut 4:27-30; and Matt 24:14. The tribulation will convince the Jewish nation of their need for the Messiah in order to produce a national regeneration (Isa 59:20-21; Jer 31:31-34; Ezek 20:34-38; 36:25-27; 37:1-14; Dan 12:5-7; Zech 12:9-13:2). This will result in a massive return of Jews to the Land of Israel (Ezek. 36:24; 37:21; Zech. 8:7-8).

[4] Angels are also referred to as stars in Rev 12:4 and Job 38:7.

[5] Gk. auto: pronoun personal dative masculine singular.

[6] This may be the same angel who later comes from heaven again with the key and a great chain to imprison Satan in the Abyss for the duration of the millennial kingdom. (Rev 20:1-3)

[7] Gk. edothe (from didomi), see Rev 1:1; 2:7, 10, 17, 21, 23, 26, 28; 3:8, 9, 21; 6:2, 4, 8, 11; 7:2; 8:2, 3; 9:1, 3, 5.

[8] Gk. abussos, see also Rev 9:1,2, 11; 11:7; 17:8; 20:1, 3; cf. Luke 8:31; Rom 10:7.

[9] Smoke can also have connections with holy things (Rev 8:4; 15:8).

[10] Locusts were the eighth plague of Egypt (Exod 10:4-15). The Old Testament attests the destructive power of locusts (cf. Deut 28:38; 2 Chron 7:13; Joel 2:25). They often swarmed in apparently limitless numbers (cf. Ps 105:34; Nah 3:15). Joel likened what would come on the earth in the day of the Lord to a locust invasion (Joel 1-2). The locust is a symbol of destruction throughout the Old Testament (cf. 1 Kgs 8:37; Ps 78:46). Yet the locusts John saw had the power to hurt people as scorpions can, which normal locusts do not. They also had a leader (9:11), which normal locusts do not (Prov 30:27).

[11] The smoke and the locusts are decidedly different from the incense and the prayers of Rev 8:3-5. Smoke is offensive and is evidence of destruction. Incense is pleasant and precious, and is associated with what is lovely and desirable.  In reality, both the prayers (and incense) of chapter 8 and the locusts (and smoke) of chapter 9 are instruments of God’s judgment, accomplishing His purpose of judging the earth.

[12] Gk. exousia is defined as “potential or resource to command, control, or govern, capability, might, power.” BDAG, Electronic Ed.

[13] Bock writes, “Should we assume the prophet saw something like a motion picture of the future in his vision and then attempted to explain it in terms of images he understood? Or did he see a picture precisely in the images he gives, images that paint reality rather than describing it? Which description of those options is ‘more literal’? Is it the one that focuses on how it might look to us, so we explain what he meant in words and images very different from the prophet’s terms and images? Or should one focus on how it looked to the prophet and how it appears in the ancient text? We would thus attempt to understand his words in their literary character, both by examining the image in context and the Old Testament images and background(s) it evokes.” See Darrell L. Bock, “Interpreting the Bible—How Texts Speak to Us,” in Progressive Dispensationalism (Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1993), 91.

[14] Luke 8:31; cf. Rom 10:7; Rev 9:1, 2, 11; 11:7; 17:8; 20:1, 3.

[15] If you recall in Rev 8:7 the first trumpet judgment of hail, fire, and blood burned up all the green grass. Therefore, how can these locusts be told not to hurt “the grass of the earth?” Two legitimate explanations have been suggested. First, the grass may grow again since some time elapses between these two references. Second, it may only be the grass that is green that perishes now and what is now dormant and brown will be green when the events of 9:4 transpire.

[16] David Jeremiah, Escape the Coming Night (Dallas: Word, 1997 [1990]), 144-145.

[17] Since 4:1 John had been reporting what he saw, but now he spoke as a prophet predicting the future. For the first time the Apostle ceases to be the exponent of what he saw, and becomes the direct organ of the Spirit. Henry Alford, The Greek Testament (London: Rivingtons; Cambridge: Deighton, Bell 1866), 4:641. This is one of the indications that Revelation is prophetic rather than only apocalyptic in genre.

[18] The Greek phrase ou me (“will not”) is the strongest negation in the Greek language. It is a double negative that can be translated “no way,” “never” or “absolutely not.”

[19] Abaddon is referred to as the “Beast who is to come up out of the Abyss.” (Rev 11:7; 17:8; 13:1). Rev 11:7 and 17:8 are both clearly referring to Abaddon as the “Beast” who will ascend from the Abyss.  In 13:1 we see the same thing in symbolic form, since the sea was often a symbol of the Abyss as well as the Gentile nations.

[20] Only the apostle John supplied information bilingually in the New Testament (cf. John 1:38, 42; 4:25;

6:1; 9:7; 11:16; 19:13, 17, 20; 20:16; Rev 1:7; 3:14; 12:9).

[21] While most place 9:12 with 9:1-11, a study of the three “woe” texts (8:13; 9:12; 11:14) shows clearly that each introduces the following woe. This is made especially clear by 11:14, which follows the interlude of 10:11-11:13 rather than the sixth trumpet judgment. While it does tie the interlude into the fifth and sixth seal trumpets, it leads more closely into what follows. Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 377.

[22] It is unclear whether the eagle (8:13) or John is the speaker, though John seems the more likely candidate. “After these things” indicates that the woes are consecutive, not simultaneous.

[23] Instead of seeing something (cf. Rev 9:1), John now heard something.

[24] This is the only place in Scripture that piles up the “hour-day-month-year” combination. Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Holman Reference, 1998), 160.

[25] Cf. 12:6; 16:12; Matt 25:34, 41; Mark 10:40; Luke 2:31; 1 Cor 2:9.

[26] Osborne, Revelation, 380.

[27] Whenever John uses the Greek word ekousa (“I heard”), it refers to prophetic and visionary material he is given from above (e.g., Rev 1:10; 4:1; 5:11; 6:1, etc.). Osborne, Revelation, 381.

[28] See also Mark Hitchcock, Bible Prophecy (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House, 1999), 210-11.

[29] Cf. Exod 11:1 LXX; Rev 9:20; 11:6; 13:3, 12, 14; 15:1, 6, 8; 16:9, 21; 18:4, 8; 21:9; 22:18. The following chart demonstrates the similarities between the Tribulation and the Egyptian plagues.

What was God’s purpose in the 10 Plagues of Egypt?

What is God’s purpose in the great tribulation?

1. To free His people from bondage.

1. To free and redeem the world from Satan.

2. To punish sin and judge Egypt for their wickedness.

2. To punish sin and judge the world for its wickedness.

3. To demonstrate His supremacy over false gods.

3. To demonstrate His supremacy over false gods.

4. To lead people to repentance.

4. To lead people to repentance.

[30] Idolatry is ultimately worship of demons (cf. Deut 32:17; Ps 106:37; 1 Cor 10:20), an understanding that John reflected here. Ironically, these earth-dwellers refuse to stop worshipping demons that are responsible for their misery under this sixth trumpet judgment. In his day people fashioned idol images out of the materials that John mentioned. Today objects that people venerate made of these same materials can be bought in stores. John reminded his readers of the helplessness of these idols. Cf. Deut 4:28; Ps 115:5-7; 135:15-17; Isa 44:12-20; Dan 5:23.

[31] The Greek word translated “sorceries” (pharmakon) can refer to poisons, amulets, charms, magic spells, witchcraft, or any other object or practice that makes someone susceptible to sin.

Cf. Exod 22:18; Lev 20:27; Deut 18:10-12; 1 Sam 28:7; Acts 8:9; 13:8; 19:13-15.

[32] The call to repentance is frequent in the seven letters (Rev 2:5, 16, 21, 22; 3:3, 19) addressed to believers in seven churches in Asia Minor. However, the call for unbelievers to repent is found in 9:20, 21 and 16:9, 11.

[33] Elsewhere in Scripture the phrase “the works of their hands” refers to idolatry (cf. Deut 4:28; 27:15; 31:29; 2 Kgs 19:18; 22:17; 2 Chron 32:19; 34:25; Ps 115:4; 135:15; Isa 2:8; 17:8; 37:19; Jer 1:16; 10:3, 9; 25:6, 7, 14; 32:30; 44:8; Hos 14:3; Mic 5:13; Hag 2:14; Acts 7:41).

[34] Easley, Revelation, 161.

[35] Helpful Principles from Rev 9:

·         Satan is real (Rev 9).

·         God is in control (Rev 9)

·         God’s judgment is real (Isa 28:21).

·         Scripture is supernatural (2 Tim 3:16-17).

·         Death is inevitable (Heb 9:27).

·         Hell is certain (Matt 25:41).

·         Man is depraved (Rom 3:10-11; cf. Ps 14:1-3; 53:1-4).

·         The tribulation is temporary (Rev 9:5)

“The Bittersweet Book” (Revelation 10:1-11)

Why does God allow human suffering and death? Why does He allow evil to go unpunished? When will He break the silence and punish the wicked? Have you ever been asked such questions? I have. Have you personally asked any of these questions? I have. This may be the most difficult biblical question to answer this side of eternity. It is the one question that no Christian wants to be asked. After all, many people say they can’t accept a God who stands by and lets evil continue in the world. Even Christians have fallen away from Christ because they couldn’t harmonize the reality of evil and suffering with a God of love. Yet, for those that are interested, the Bible provides an answer to this dilemma in Revelation 10:1-11.[1]

Before we delve into our passage, let’s get our bearings. Revelation 10:1-11:14 is a parenthetical vision. The opening of the seventh seal was preceded by two visions (7:1-8; 11-17), so here, the sounding of the seventh trumpet is preceded by two visions (10:1-11; 11:1-14). The emphasis shifts temporarily from the outpouring of God’s wrath on unbelievers to the consolation and encouragement of believers.[2]

1. Trust and Time God’s promises (10:1-7). In 10:1, John sees “another[3] strong[4] angel[5] coming down out of heaven.” A “strong angel” is referred to three times in Revelation (see also 5:2 and 18:21). This implies there are angels of varying degrees of strength and that this one is very powerful. He probably uses a Bowflex like I do. In 10:1b, a four-fold description of this angel is included. This strong angel is (1) “clothed with a cloud.”[6] In the Old Testament, God appears in a cloud as a sign of His glory.[7] In the New Testament, clouds are frequently connected with God’s judgment.[8] In Revelation 1:7, it is predicted that Jesus will come again “with the clouds” (cf. Dan 7:13). (2) “The rainbow[9] was upon his head.” In Revelation 4:3, God has a rainbow encircling His throne, signifying His faithfulness and mercy. The rainbow is a reminder that God will never destroy the earth with water again (Gen 9:12-17). God will never go back on His Word. He never goes back on a promise. He is always true to Himself. (3) “His face was like the sun.” In Revelation 1:16, Jesus’ face “was like the sun shining in its strength.” This angel is reflecting the appearance of the radiant glory and majesty of Christ.[10] (4) “His feet like pillars of fire.” Fire, throughout Revelation, symbolizes judgment and this angel’s mission is to announce God’s coming judgment. “Pillars of fire” is reminiscent of Israel’s wilderness wanderings, when God sent a “pillar of fire” to guide the Israelites at night and a “cloud” by day (Exod 13:21-22). This not only guided but also delivered and protected God’s people (Exod 14:24). Thus, this angel signifies judgment, glory, and power but also deliverance for God’s people.

The strong angel in 10:2 “had in his hand a little book which was open.[11]” The little scroll may be different from the scroll Jesus Christ unrolled (5:1; 6:1). John used a different and rare Greek word to describe it.[12] However, it is also possible that the size of the book may mean that most of the message has been revealed.

In 10:2b-3a, this strong angel “placed his right foot on the sea and his left on the land; and he cried out with a loud voice, as when a lion[13] roars.” This is a colossal angel that straddles land and sea. This angel would win any game of Twister hands down. Spanning the earth and the sea symbolized this angel’s sovereignty and authority over the whole world.[14] It conveys the image of taking possession. This angel is claiming the world for Christ. God is going to take back what is rightfully His (Ps 2:6-8). This should cause our hearts to leap within us! God will eventually rid the world of evil. He will be victorious. This should encourage you and me to continue to trust Him and wait for His promises to be fulfilled.

The loud voice of this angel is likened to a roaring lion, suggesting a cry of vengeance. God’s anger is described as the roaring of a lion (Job 4:9-10; Hos 5:14). He is often referred to as a lion ready to devour (Isa 31:4; Hos 11:10; Amos 3:8), emphasizing the importance of His message and the power and majesty of His authority and sovereignty over all.

After the strong angel cried out, “the seven peals of thunder[15] uttered their voices” (10:3b). Such “thunders” come forth from the throne of God (4:5) and dramatically emphasize the importance of God’s message and purposes (cf. 8:5). The number seven could emphasize the completeness of the message or be a symbolic number that points to the voice of God Himself. It is likely that this is an allusion to Psalm 29:3-9 where thunder is portrayed as the voice of the Lord, seven times.[16] The idea is that thunderstorms are a reminder to man that he should ascribe glory and strength to God and worship God as the Creator King of this world. In the physical world, thunder warns of coming storms. In the spiritual world, thunder warns of impending storms of judgment. In this verse, these thunders spoke to warn John of tribulation to come.

After the seven peals of thunder had spoken, John was about to write down what he heard, but was interrupted by a voice out of heaven. The voice commands John to “seal up the things which the seven peals of thunder have spoken and do not write them” (10:4). The voice probably belongs to God or Christ (cf. 1:11, 19; Dan 12:4, 9). From the context of the passage, this apparently deals with God’s judgments and purposes for these things, but the details are sealed. This indicates that God has not revealed in Scripture all the judgments that will take place on the earth during the great tribulation. Evidently, the message was so awesome that man could not handle it. It is sealed and is never revealed in this book. The Lord will evidently explain and reveal this Himself when we are with Him.

It also seems that these things were spoken for John’s benefit, but not for ours. This is similar to 2 Corinthians 12:4 where Paul shared that he “was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which a man is not permitted to speak” (see also 2 Thess 2:5). We must remember that prophecy is only partial (cf. 1 Cor 13:9), and God has only revealed what we need to know, not what we would like to know. Therefore, there is no value in trying to conjecture as to what God has said we should not know. While we may know the broad outlines of things to come, there are still some things that are not revealed. Thus, we cannot accurately predict the future and should not attempt.

After being stopped dead in his tracks, John begins writing again in 10:5. He records, “Then the angel whom I saw standing on the sea and on the land lifted up his right hand to heaven.” For emphasis, the gymnastic ability of this angel is mentioned three times in this chapter (10:2, 5, 8). Again, this presents a picture of total conquest of land and sea. This angel “lifted up his right hand[17] to heaven.” This was and is a customary gesture when making a solemn oath (cf. Gen 14:22; Deut 32:40; Dan 12:7). In fact, the Bible is the basis of our modern-day courtroom oath taking: “I promise to tell the truth, the whole truth and…”

The angel then “swore by Him[18] who lives forever and ever,[19] WHO CREATED HEAVEN AND THE THINGS IN IT, AND THE EARTH AND THE THINGS IN IT, AND THE SEA AND THE THINGS IN IT”[20] (10:6). This oath emphasizes the certainty of what the angel announced. It is important to note that the basis of the oath is the person and work of God (see Rev 4:9-11). The phrase “who lives forever and ever” sums up all the attributes of God—who He is. The three-fold division of creation sums up all the deeds of God—what He has done.[21] God is the eternal, self-existent God who created all things and who can cause whatever He pleases to happen.

It is significant, for us who are living in these last days before the tribulation, that the key philosophical issue of our time revolves around these two issues—the existence of God, and creation versus secularism and evolution. Modern man derides both. Instead of being the creation of a personal God who created mankind for His own glory and purposes, man is the impersonal result of time and chance.[22] This is a lie. Therefore, we must counteract this teaching. We must have answers for our children. We must study up on matters pertaining to the Bible and science. If we fail to educate our children and ourselves, we will potentially hurt the cause of Christ.

Going back to the oath, the strong angel proclaimed “that there will be delay no longer, but in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, then the mystery of God is finished, as He preached to His servants the prophets”[23] (10:6d-7). When the angel says, “there will be delay[24] no longer,” he means that once the seventh trumpet is sounded, God will act swiftly to establish His righteous rule on earth. Evidently, the seal and trumpet judgments will take some time to unfold, giving earth-dwellers time to repent (6:15-17; 9:20-21), but the bowl judgments will come very quickly allowing little or no time for repentance (16:1-17). The period of God’s patience is over. In fact, the verb translated “finished”[25] (cf. Rev 15:1) is a form of the verb Jesus used at His crucifixion when He cried out, “It is finished” (John 19:30). God is bringing complete closure.

The remaining question is: What is the “mystery of God”?[26] First, we must define the word “mystery.”  In the Bible, a “mystery” is a divine truth previously undisclosed but now made known through Christ or His apostles (Eph 3:9). In this context, the “mystery of God” refers to the fulfillment of God’s defeat of evil (cf. Dan 12:7a). The mystery of God describes the good news of the redemption of creation and the bad news of the judgment of the wicked.[27]

Chapter 10 is vital to our understanding of the book of Revelation for it signals a significant change that is about to take place. Listen up: Time will run out at the blowing of the seventh trumpet, and the mystery that was preached, to and through the prophets, will be finished.

[So how can you trust and time God’s promises? Verses 8-11 will instruct each of us to…]

2. Digest and declare God’s Word (10:8-11). When John first saw the strong angel in 10:1, he immediately focused on a little book in his hand (10:2). These last four verses involve this book and how it relates to John. In 10:8, John records, “Then the voice which I heard from heaven, I heard again speaking with me, and saying, ‘Go, take the book which is open in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the land.’” In Revelation 5, it was the Lamb who took the scroll from the Father. Here, John takes the open book from the strong angel. What exactly does this little book say? The Bible doesn’t say directly. Yet there are a couple of clues. In 10:7, John is told that the sounding of the seventh trumpet will complete the mystery of God. This is a clue that the contents of the book are all the information regarding the rest of the tribulation. In 10:11, when John is informed that his commission to prophesy continues, there is indication that the contents of the little book are that prophecy.

In 10:9, John approached the angel and requested the little book.[28] The angel told John, “Take it and eat it.” This is quite strange, to say the least. Imagine sitting around munching on the Bible! Usually, eating a book is not very nourishing! Books normally do not contain vitamins! Yet, this is the third time in the Scriptures that a person is told to eat a book (cf. Jer 15:13-17; Ezek 2:8-10). Why? Eating is a universal idiom for receiving knowledge. John is being challenged to know and understand God’s prophetic Word. But biblical knowledge is not merely knowledge for the sake of knowledge. It refers to assimilating knowledge into one’s life. God wanted John to digest the contents of the book so that it would change him personally. He needed personal transformation. This is also true for each of us. It is not enough to read the Bible; we must apply the Bible to our lives. Reading the Bible without applying is like eating without chewing. No one would consider such a thing!

You’ve heard the old adage, “You are what you eat.” Well, it’s actually true! When you eat a burger, your body metabolizes it. It assimilates and converts it to energy and the building material to create flesh and bone. That burger eventually becomes a part of your body, whether you like it or not! You bear it on your body. The same ought to be true with God’s Word. You should begin to act and look more like Jesus Christ. Every day and in every way, people ought to be able to say, “I’m becoming more like Christ.” I would suggest to you that you haven’t really learned the Word until you live the Word. So how are you living? What difference has the book of Revelation made in your life?

In 10:9, this angel tells John that this book “will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey.”[29] This is a sweet and sour scroll.[30] God’s Word can be bittersweet and hard to digest. Let’s face it; sometimes “relief” is not spelled b-o-o-k. Sometimes God’s Word can give us heartburn. Other times it is sweet to the taste.

We must understand that prophecy and Scripture, as a whole, is bittersweet. There are sweet promises in the Bible, but there are also bitter warnings. God’s Word can bring joy to our heart, but at times it brings sorrow. It both blesses us and burdens us. People get excited about studying prophecy. Preaching from Revelation thrills people. Unquestionably, there are some exciting things about this book. It has a sweet taste. But it also burdens the believer about his unsaved family and friends, and is a stern warning of judgment to come to the unbeliever.

In 10:10, John writes, “I took the little book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and in my mouth it was sweet as honey; and when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter.”[31] This revelation was pleasant at first because it was a revelation from God (cf. Ps 119:103). Please note that John tastes God’s revealed Word.  It is not enough to see the book in someone’s hand or even to know what it contains. We must appropriate it into our lives. We must assimilate it and digest it. Too many Christians do not make the Word part of their inner being. Yet, our privilege as believers is not only to read the Bible but also to assimilate it into our lives. God won’t force-feed us with His Word; rather, He exhorts us to take it from His hand, eat it and assimilate it into our lives. The Word of God is the food of the Christian. It is compared to bread (Matt 4:4), milk (1 Pet 2:2), meat (1 Cor 3:1-2), and honey (Ps 119:103).

Still, as John meditated on it and comprehended the fearful judgments that it predicted, he became distressed. Have you ever experienced the sweet and bitter dimensions of God’s Word? We read of God’s love and mercy toward us, His eternal plan of salvation, His promise to give us a future and a hope, and the assurance of eternal life. That’s sweet! But then the Word also speaks directly to areas in our lives that may require change. Maybe your behavior or lifestyle dishonors God and is in direct violation of His Word. Maybe you have excused a bad attitude or a critical spirit in your life. At times, God’s Word can be a painful tool of correction. But it is always redemptive! It is always for our good.

You may have noted a correlation between the contrast of “sweet” vs. “bitter” and that of “hot” vs. “cold” in the message to the Laodicean church (3:14-22). Hotness and coldness are preferable to bland lukewarmness.  Hotness and coldness both benefit men by its contrast to its surroundings.  Hot coffee on a cold morning is a blessing; lukewarm coffee is not. Ice-cold iced tea is soothing on a hot summer day; lukewarm tea is not. So too, God’s Word, whether sweet or bitter, is beneficial because of its distinctiveness. This was a much needed message for the Laodicians, who were virtually indistinguishable from those who were lost and without hope. The superiority and desirability of Christianity is found in its distinctiveness. It is that distinctiveness which must be evident in our lives and on our lips.[32]

In 10:11, John writes, “And they said to me, ‘You must[33] prophesy again[34] concerning many peoples and nations and tongues and kings.[35]’” In 10:4 and 8, a voice from heaven speaks to John, then the mighty angel in 10:9. But now we read “and they said to me.” This is what is known as an indefinite or a literary plural, sometimes used to hide the precise subject. Whether this came from the voice from heaven or from the angel or from some other source is not important. It is left indefinite. What is important is the commission or the assignment.

John is recommissioned to faithfully proclaim God’s Word and judgment on the wicked (cf. Jer 1:9-10). John must speak!  In a similar manner, as a pastor, I am commissioned to faithfully proclaim the entire Word of God. Each of you, as fellow believers, is also commissioned to the same task of applying and proclaiming His Word. Being a true prophet of God is no easy task. It requires a man or woman to tell people what they don’t want to hear.

Humanly speaking, we would rather speak “sweet” words for God, rather than “bitter” words which cause men to react against us. When God sent forth His prophets, He warned them of the danger of compromising their message, making it easier for the people to hear, but thus diluting God’s warning about the dire consequences of sin (see Isa 5:20).

I hear many different “messages” being proclaimed by the evangelical community, but nearly all of them have a “sweet” taste to them (cf. Isa 30:10). There are messages about being successful and effective. There are messages about a positive outlook and a positive self-image, but frankly there is not much said negatively about sin and God’s holy wrath. If judgment was near enough that the apostle John needed to be hardened by the eating of that scroll, should we not be more direct and more pointed in speaking to men and women about the realities of sin, righteousness, and judgment?

Until we are faithful to speak out concerning the “bitter” realities of God’s judgment on sin, we will not find the Word of God as “sweet” to us as it could be. You see, the prophets found God’s Word sweet because of the persecution they experienced for being faithful spokesmen for God. We do not appreciate the sweetness of some things until we have first experienced the sourness of others. Is this not the reason why some people “sweeten” watermelon with salt? It is the bitterness of the salt which causes us to sense the sweetness of the melon. So too, when we experience opposition and persecution, the sweetness of the Word is much more fully sensed and appreciated.

Are you feeding on the Word of God? Are you exposing your life to the truth of the Scriptures? As you do, the Holy Spirit will give you great joy as you assimilate the Word of God into your heart and life. You will be daily transformed by the power and instruction of God’s Word as the Holy Spirit teaches you.  God’s Word will never return empty without accomplishing the purpose for which God has sent it. You have a mission! You have a calling! You are an ambassador for Christ! God has equipped you with the sword of the Spirit—the Word of His Gospel, that you might impact other lives for the eternal and everlasting kingdom of God.

[1] In Revelation, we read of God’s final corrective to evil in the world. Yet, most people recoil in horror at the finality of His judgment. We’re a very contrary people!

[2] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[3] “Another” (allos) means “another of the same kind.” The “strong angel” is an angelic being of the same kind, but different (another) from either the sixth angel (9:13) or the strong angel (5:2).

[4] Almost all of the popular English versions translate ischuron as “mighty” (e.g., ESV, NRSV, NIV, KJV, NKJV, NLT).

[5] There is considerable debate over whether this is simply an angel or Christ Himself. Those who consider this individual an angel state that: 1) Christ is never called an angel in the book of Revelation. He is Lord over all the angels. 2) In Revelation, angels are always angels. 3) Elsewhere angels may have great splendor and power and yet not be identified as Christ (cf. Rev 18:1). 4) There is no other biblical evidence that Christ “comes down from heaven” midway through the tribulation period. 5) Christ wouldn’t be swearing an oath to God since He is God (Rev 10:6). Those who consider this angel to be Christ point to the numerous appearances of Christ in the Old Testament where He is called the “Angel of the Lord” (see Exod 3:1-6; Jdgs 13:21-22). However, Christ was never called by this title after He took on humanity. They also argue that each of the descriptive elements that John records are elsewhere used only of Christ (Rev 1:13-16). This is true but angels are Christ’s representatives and possess Christ’s traits.

[6] In Rev 11:2, the two witnesses will go up to heaven “in the cloud.” In Rev 14:14-16 Jesus is seen “sitting on the cloud.”

[7] E.g., Exod 16:10; Lev 16:2; 1 Kgs 8:10; Ezek 10:4.

[8] Nine of the 20 occurrences of clouds in the New Testament are connected with scenes of judgment (Matt 24:30; 26:64; Mark 13:26; 14:62; Luke 21:27; Rev 1:7; 14:14, 15, 16). Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 61.

[9] The only other use of the word “rainbow” (iris) in the New Testament is found in Revelation 4:3. In this context, John writes that around the throne of God, was a rainbow. This word is also found in Exodus 30:24 of the Greek Old Testament. Ezekiel records a powerful vision of the Son of Man and writes, “As the appearance of the rainbow (toxou, LXX) in the clouds on a rainy day, so was the appearance of the surrounding radiance” (Ezek 1:28). While another Greek word for “rainbow” is used here, this is still a helpful passage. Interestingly, the only time toxou is used in the New Testament is in Rev 6:2 with reference to the “bow” of the Antichrist.

[10]Also in Revelation a woman was “clothed with the sun” (12:1) and an angel was “standing in the sun” (19:17).

[11] The tense of the Greek verb translated “was open” (perfect passive) indicates that someone had opened it and it was then open in his hand.

[12] Gk. biblaridion, not biblion. Biblaridion is only used in Rev 10:2, 9, and 10.

[13] The first creature was “like a lion” (Rev 4:7). Jesus Christ was called “the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah” (Rev 5:5). The teeth of the locusts were like lions (Rev 9:8). The heads of the horses were “like the heads of lions” (Rev 9:17). The mouth of the beast was “like the mouth of a lion” (Rev 13:2). See also Joel 3:16.

[14] Cf. Rev 7:2; cf. Exod 20:4, 11; Deut 11:24; Ps 68:22; 69:34.

[15] The word “thunder” is used in Rev 4:5; 6:1; 8:5; 10:3, 4[2x’s]; 11:19; 14:2; 16:18; 19:6. In Ps 29, the Lord speaks in the sevenfold thunderstorm upon the sea.

[16] See Job 37:5; Ps 18:13; John 12:28-29.

[17] The “right hand” is an expression of Jesus’ authority (Rev 1:16, 17, 20; 2:1; 5:1, 7). The right hand (or the forehead) is also the location that the mark of the beast is received (Rev 13:16).

[18] This is the only angel in the Bible to swear an oath with the exception of the “angel of the Lord” (Gen 22:15-16; Judg 2:1) who I believe to be the preincarnate Jesus Christ.

[19] The phrase, “Him who lives forever and ever,” is a common phrase in Revelation for God as eternally existing (1:18; 4:9, 10; 15:7).

[20] These are paraphrased quotes from Gen 14:22; Exod 6:8; Num 14:30; Ezek 20:5.

[21] Kendell H. Easely, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1998), 174.

[22] Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org, Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 185.

[23] “His servants the prophets” is a common description of the Old Testament prophets in particular (cf. Jer 7:25; 26:5: 29:19; 35:15; 44:4; Ezek 38:17; Dan 9:6, 10; Amos 3:7; Zech 1:6).

[24] The Greek word translated “delay” (chronos) commonly means “time.” The original expression (chronos ouketi estai) is literally rendered “time will be no longer” or “there will be no more time.” Yet, nearly all scholars agree that the expression does not mean that time will cease to exist and that a kind of timeless eternity is to commence with the blowing of the seventh trumpet. Therefore, it seems that the rendering “time is up,” conveys the sense intended here. The phrase “there will be delay no longer” is also a very acceptable translation that makes sense in this context.

[25] The mystery is “finished” (the aorist passive of teleo) in the sense that God would then have no more to reveal about these kingdom plans beyond what He revealed to John. He had revealed His plans for the future kingdom to His servants the prophets in former times but only partially (cf. Heb 1:1-2).

[26] The only other occurrence of the phrase the “mystery of God” is found in Colossians 2:2 (cf. Col 4:3).

[27] The tribulation martyrs would have to wait no longer for vindication (cf. Rev 6:10).

[28] An understanding of Ezekiel 2 will help you in interpreting this next section. Ezekiel was commanded to preach to the nation of Israel the Word of the Lord. In Ezekiel’s day, God’s judgment fell upon the people of Israel; Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and the temple of Solomon in 586 B.C.

[29] David writes, “They [the judgments of the Lord] are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb” (Ps 19:10). Elsewhere, the psalmist writes, “How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Ps 119:103).

[30] This clever expression came from my friend, Bob Deffinbaugh.

[31] The order of the results is here changed to the actual experience (sweet in the mouth, bitter in the belly).

[32] I am indebted to Bob Deffinbaugh for this correlation.

[33] Gk. dei points to a moral necessity.

[34] Following this interlude, John must once more pick up his prophetic pen.

[35] The specific mention of “kings” reflects God’s sovereignty and anticipates the judgments in Rev 16:14; 17:10, 12; 18:9.

“The Rise and Fall of God’s Witnesses” (Revelation 11:1-19)

I graduated from high school in 1989. At that time, I don’t think I knew anything about the World Wide Web. If you can think back 15 years ago, you’d probably have to admit, you didn’t know a whole lot about the Internet either. The Internet zoomed from, “What’s that?” to universal awareness among North Americans during the 1990’s. Even people like me without computer savvy have learned to say, “dot.com” rather than, “period.com.” The Internet has become the ultimate tool for cruising the information highway. Virtually every fact and factoid in the universe could be accessed with just a few computer clicks.[1]

The Internet, however, has not helped people discern truth. Any and every lie, rumor, and false claim has come via the World Wide Web. Moral filth has poured from thousands of web sites. This has caused many people to point to the factual errors and moral bankruptcy provided through the net. The Internet illustrates the awesome power that is neutral about truth and morality. Too often contemporary Christianity has pictured the opposite: truth without power. Revelation 11 prods us to see that God intends for His truth to be proclaimed with power.[2] In these 19 verses, we will be reminded of four truths about God that will teach us how to live a life of truth and power.

Revelation 11 is a part of a parenthetical section that began in 10:1 and runs through 14:22. Chapter 11 does not advance the chronological sequence of the prophetic events, but parenthetically describes tribulation events and personalities. Not until chapter 15 will the chronological developments pick up again (cf. Rev 7:1-17). Now as we prepare to look into this passage, I want you to think back to your most difficult class in high school. Was it Geometry, Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, English, or PE? If you have this class registered in your mind, then you have an idea what Revelation 11 is like. Scholars call this the most difficult chapter in the book of Revelation. However, for the sake of time and simplicity, we will try not to bog down too much in all the minutia of details.

1. God controls our world (11:1-2). John writes, “Then there was given[3] me a measuring rod like a staff;[4] and someone[5] said, ‘Get up and measure the temple[6] of God and the altar,[7] and those who worship in it.’”[8] This is a scene on earth. John is told to measure the temple, the altar,[9] and its worshippers.[10] There is no temple when John is writing, but he sees one in the future.[11] This points to a temple that will stand in Jerusalem, built before or shortly after Jesus returns for His church. In 11:2, John is specifically told, “‘Leave out[12] the court which is outside the temple and do not measure it, for it has been given to the nations; and they will tread under foot the holy city for forty-two months.[13]’” This stresses that God rejects the end-times religious system because it will be a product of the times of the nations and a False Messiah. It will, however, have another 42 months to operate and then God will establish the true temple. The whole point of these two verses is God is in control. Through John’s act of measuring, God is again staking His claim on His end-time scheme.

One of the problems many have with taking these verses literally is the absence of a temple in Jerusalem. The Dome of the Rock presently sits on a portion of this temple site.[14] This is a very important place of worship in the Arab world. Muslims believe this to be the place where Mohammed ascended to heaven. For the Jews to wrestle this site away from the Muslims and build their temple there is unfathomable in today’s political climate.[15] But during the first half of the tribulation there will finally be peace in the Middle East. Under the protection of Antichrist, the Jews will be able to rebuild the temple. However, at the midpoint of the tribulation, the Antichrist will stop their sacrifices, place an image of himself in the holy place, take his seat in the temple, and demand to be worshipped as God. This is called “the abomination of desolation.”[16]

Now back to 11:1. The vision of Zechariah 2 may help us further understand why John is called to measure the temple, the altar, and the worshippers. While an angel in human form sets out to measure Jerusalem, another angel informs Zechariah that the city will one day be greatly expanded and protected by God (Zech 2:5). This will occur in the kingdom established by Jesus Christ at His return. But before this can take place, the nation must experience a spiritual cleansing (Zech 3:3-5). This is seen right here in Revelation. By commanding John to measure the inner court, the altar, and the people, God marked out the Jewish people as belonging to Him but in need of cleansing. He will allow wicked nations led by the Antichrist and his cohorts to take control of Jerusalem for 42 months, but through this judgment He will purify His people and their worship.

This is a reminder that man and his worship are always judged by the standards of God. Regardless of what man thinks, the only thing that counts is God’s judgment and standard of both our lives and our worship. If Jesus showed up in bodily form today, would your worship change? What would you begin to do that you are not currently doing?

[God controls our world…we will now also see that...]

2. God uses our service (11:3-6). We are now introduced to two[17] witnesses.[18] The two witnesses are two persons,[19] presently unknown, who will minister in the spirit and power of Moses and Elijah, in the future tribulation period.[20] The mention of these witnesses should comfort us. God never leaves Himself without a witness. Despite the tribulation in your school, workplace, or neighborhood, God has a witness in your proximity. Do you know who your fellow Christians are? Are you praying for other believers by name, in your school, work, or neighborhood? Stop for just a moment and write down the name of one believer in your school, workplace, or neighborhood. Commit to pray for that person on a daily basis.

Through God’s empowerment these two witnesses “will prophesy for twelve hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth” (11:3). In Scripture a prophetic year is 360 days or 1,230-day lunar months. Thus the 1,260 days equals three-and-a-half years—exactly half of the seven-year tribulation. The two witnesses will wear “sackcloth,” the dress that in biblical times, signified approaching judgment and needed repentance.[21] These witnesses are “the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth” (11:4). The two witnesses are thus the two light-bearers of God for the wicked city of Jerusalem. The seeming hopelessness and futility of their mission is no greater than that which was the calling of Joshua and Zerubbabel, who were to lead in the rebuilding of the temple in the days of Zechariah (Zech 4:2-3, 14).[22] In both cases, it was not human power and strength that would accomplish the mountainous task at hand, but the power of the Spirit of God working through men (4:6).

Throughout the Bible, the witness of God’s people is likened to a light or a lamp (cf. Matt 5:14-16). Israel was God’s light to a darkened world in the days prior to the coming of Christ. Since then the church has been fulfilling this function of light bearing (cf. Rom 13:12; Eph 5:7-14). You are a light-bearer in your school, workplace, and neighborhood (11:4). How will you be salt and light? Do you have a plan to reach out to others? Is there enough evidence to convict you of being a Christian? If so, what charges would you be brought up on? What charges should you be brought up on?

In 11:5-6, John records that the ministry of these two witnesses is characterized by four miraculous powers. (1) They can kill their enemies with fire. These witnesses will be able to protect themselves by calling down fire on their enemies who try to harm them, as Elijah did (cf. 2 Kings 1:10-14).[23] (2) They can withhold rain for three-and-a-half years.[24] (3) They can turn water into blood. (4) They can bring plagues upon the earth (Exod 7-11; 1 Kings 17:1f; 2 Kings 1:10-15).

Why these specific miracles? First, they are a means of defense and protection to the two witnesses until their ministry is over. But second, these specific miracles occur because of their significance to Israel. They will be used to turn the hearts of the Jews to the Lord (see 11:13).

This section should remind us that the Lord will always provide the resources necessary to accomplish whatever He sends you to do (11:5-6). Do you lack faith that God can use? How have you been limiting what God wants to do through you in ministry? What specific ministry have you said, “God, I could never do that.” Write that ministry down right now. Lay our weakness at the Lord’s feet and ask that He may empower you with His strength to do whatever He would have you do.

[Not only does God use our service…]

3. God guarantees our future (11:7-13). John continues his account of the two witnesses: “When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the abyss will make war with them, and overcome them and kill them.” Verse 7 begins with the phrase “When they have finished their testimony.” This entire phrase is worth highlighting in your Bible. These two witnesses will march in the belly of the Beast, the city of Jerusalem, under the reign of the Antichrist. Yet, they are immortal until the Lord permits. In the same way, you are immortal until you finish the work that God has set out for you to accomplish. This is a very important principle: As long as you are alive, God has a plan for you. You are invincible until that plan is done. You need not fear Satan or any man. The Devil can do nothing to us without divine permission (Job 1). Do you fear man? Today, will you write down Matthew 10:28: “Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Will you commit to memorizing this verse by the time you go to bed this evening? As I prepare to leave for Siberia next month, I depart with no fear of what may happen to me. The Lord knows the number of my days. He knows the number of hairs on my head. My time will not end before His work in and through me is done.[25]

At the Lord’s appointed time, “the beast that comes up out of the abyss[26] will make war with them, and overcome them and kill them.” “The Beast” is the Antichrist—a man that is empowered by Satan.[27] Since chapter 13 describes and develops the Beast and his political-religious system in detail, we will wait until then to discuss the Beast. Here we are simply told that he is the one who makes war, overcomes, and kills the two witnesses. Their ministry has been diametrically opposed to his purposes, so the Beast goes all out to hush their testimony, which he is unable to do until the end.

After Beast kills the two witnesses, John tells us “their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which mystically[28] is called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified.”[29] Jerusalem is likened to “Sodom and Egypt.” In Scripture, “Sodom” stands for the flesh[30] and “Egypt” for the world. The point is, the great city is dominated by the world system, by the flesh, and by Satan through the Beast. It is in this great city that the bodies of the two witnesses lie in the street (11:8-9).

In 11:9, “Those from the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations will look at their dead bodies for three and a half days, and will not permit their dead bodies to be laid in a tomb.” In biblical times, exposing an enemy’s dead body was the ultimate way of dishonoring and desecrating them (cf. Ps 79:2-3). God forbade the Israelites to engage in that practice (Deut 21:22-23).

What’s even worse is the people of the earth celebrate a kind of hellish Christmas, giving gifts not in celebration of the birth of Christ, but over the death of His two witnesses.

John explains, “And those who dwell on the earth[31] will rejoice over them and celebrate; and they will send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth.” This serves as a powerful reminder that service for God always “pays” but it doesn’t necessarily pay now (11:8-10). Will you begin to pray, “Lord, grant me an eternal perspective? Help me to realize that payday will be on that day!” Remind me again and again that You have guaranteed my future. I am secure in You!

“And now for the rest of the story…” In 11:11, John writes, “But after the three and a half days, the breath of life from God came into them, and they stood on their feet; and great fear fell upon those who were watching them.” This is long enough for the bodies to have begun to decay. As the Lord did with Lazarus, God waits until there is no question about their death, and then suddenly God intervenes. They will be physically, visibly resurrected on Worldwide Satellite TV (something akin to CNN live coverage). Who says there’s nothing good on TV? This entire sequence of events would serve to remind Israel of the ministry of Jesus Christ—His death, resurrection, and ascension.

But it gets even better. John records, “And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, ‘Come up here.’[32] Then they went up into heaven in the cloud, and their enemies watched them. And in that hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell; seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven” (11:12-13). The murder of God’s two witnesses will precipitate special judgments on Jerusalem.[33] Interestingly, this is one of the few times in Revelation that people give glory to God. Elsewhere in Revelation, “giving glory to God” is the equivalent to conversion (4:9; 16:9; 19:7).[34] Therefore, it is my belief that these people have their eyes opened to the truth. Suddenly, now they begin to realize God was not dead or defeated; Satan would not be victorious and they were doomed.

God loves to intervene in convincing fashion. He often uses dramatic events to draw people to Himself. Will you be bold enough to pray, “Lord, whatever You want to do in my neighbor’s life, do it? I want you to draw him/her to Christ.” Will you step out in faith and believe God for great feats?

4. God expects our gratitude (11:14-19). In 11:14, John writes, “The second woe is past; behold, the third woe is coming quickly.”[35] John again resumes the sequential movement of the book. So the second woe, concluded in chapter 9, is now mentioned as an introduction to the third and final woe.[36] Thus John says, “Behold, the third woe is coming quickly.” This is the seventh trumpet that will take us up to the return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom.

The picture in 11:15-19 is panoramic of the rest of the tribulation. In these five verses the victory of God’s enemies and the establishment of His kingdom are announced.[37] John records, “Then the seventh angel sounded; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, ‘The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever’” (11:15). The record of this judgment appears in chapter 16. The millennial reign of Christ will last for only 1,000 years, but the reign of Christ will continue on throughout all eternity in the new heavens and the new earth. So here we have the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies that look forward to the eternal rule[38] of God when God’s purposes will be done on earth as it is in heaven.[39]

In 11:16, “the twenty-four elders, who sit on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God.” The action of falling down on their faces demonstrates a clear understanding of God’s greatness and the believer’s humility before God. The worship they expressed was a giving of thanks. In Hebrews 13:15, we learn that God wants us to continually offer up a “sacrifice of praise.”

The Hebrew writer goes on to inform us that this sacrifice of praise is thanksgiving to God. We were created to give thanks to God. That is where we find our ultimate meaning and worth.

In 11:17-18, we see four specific reasons for thanksgiving.

·         God’s power is being proclaimed (11:17b). Thanks is due God especially for His sovereign rule and righteous judgment. Yet, we rarely thank God for these attributes. The word “Almighty” (pantokrator)[40] means possessing all power and rule (Rev 1:8; 4:8; 15:3; 16:7, 14; 19:6, 15; 21:22). It speaks of God’s sovereignty and omnipotence as the supreme Ruler of the universe. Next God is praised for His eternality: “who are and who were because You have taken Your great power and have begun to reign.”[41]

·         God’s plan is being accomplished (11:18a). John writes, “And the nations were enraged, and Your wrath came, and the time came for the dead to be judged.” Here is a reference to the rebellion of the nations during the tribulation period. This is a fulfillment of Pslm 2:1-6. God will one day judge all the wicked dead.[42]

·         God’s promise is being fulfilled (11:18b). John writes, “and the time to reward Your bond-servants the prophets and the saints and those who fear Your name, the small and the great.” The reward of God is a great reason to give thanks! We are given salvation as a gift of grace. You would think that would be more than enough, but God freely gives rewards on top of salvation (Rev 22:12).

·         God’s punishment is being declared (11:18c).[43] John writes that God will “destroy those who destroy the earth.” The wicked do not escape the judgment of God. No one gets away with anything. God will punish unbelievers for what they have done (2 Thess 1:8-9).

God longs to be appreciated. Which of these expressions of gratitude to God will you pray this week? Will you begin today?

We should note that this chapter began with the apostate temple on earth, but closes triumphantly with the heavenly temple in view (11:19). John writes, “And the temple of God which is in heaven was opened; and the ark of His covenant appeared in His temple, and there were flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder and an earthquake and a great hailstorm.” Again, this stresses as in Isaiah 6, the awesome holiness of God, the basic cause of God’s wrath (Heb 1:13). Remember, the Beast desecrates this earthly, apostate temple, but he cannot touch the heavenly temple that reflects God’s perfect righteousness, perfect justice, and majesty.

In baseball, the home team bats in the bottom half of the inning. This allows the visiting team to bat first.   It also gives the home team, the opportunity to either win or lose the game in the bottom of the ninth. Today, it is the top of the inning and people are at bat. However, there will be a day when that will cease and God will walk to the plate in the bottom of the ninth. Man’s day will come to an end and God’s day will begin. One day God’s forecasting clock will strike suddenly and surely. Only God knows the timing. I need to ask you today: Are you ready?

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] The idea for this illustration came from Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1998), 201.

[3] Again John became an active participant in his vision (cf. Revelation 1:12; 5:4; 7:14; 10:8-10; 19:10; 22:8).

[4] John’s “measuring rod” was probably a lightweight reed (cf. Ezekiel 29:6; 40:5; 42:16-19; Mark 6:8; 3 John 13) much like that used by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 40:3, 5) in his vision of the measuring of the temple (Ezekiel 40-48).

[5] The person giving the reed and the instructions was probably the strong angel (Revelation 10:9-11).

[6] The word “temple” (naos) specifically refers to the Holy of Holies portion of the temple where only the priests could serve. Another Greek word for “temple” (hieron) refers to the entire temple at Jerusalem.

[7] The “altar” (thusiasterion) probably refers to the brazen altar of sacrifice outside the sanctuary to which non-priests will have access.

[8] John received instruction to perform a symbolic act, as many of his prophetic forerunners had done (cf. Isaiah 20:2-5; Ezekiel 12:1-17; 40; Zechariah 2).

[9] The temple will have an altar of sacrifice that will begin operation after the church has departed the earth.

[10] These temple worshipers evidently represent godly Jews who will worship God in this tribulation temple (cf. Ezekiel 14:22; Romans 11:4-5, 26).

[11] Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15; and 2 Thessalonians 2:4 indicate that a literal future temple will be present for the “abomination of desolation.”

[12] “Leave out” (ekballo, lit. cast out) implies removal from divine favor (cf. Matthew 22:13; 25:30; 3 John 10).

[13] See Daniel 7:25; 12:7; Luke 21:24.

[14] The Dome of the Rock Mosque was erected in 691.

[15] The Jews would never build their temple on any other site.

[16] When Jesus Christ returns at the second coming He will build a new temple that will replace this tribulation temple (Ezekiel 40). This temple will be in place during Christ’s 1,000-year reign in Jerusalem.

[17] There are two witnesses because the Bible requires the testimony of two people to confirm a fact or verify truth (see Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15; Matthew 18:16; 2 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Timothy 5:19; Hebrews 10:28). Both Jesus and the early church sent out messengers in pairs (e.g., Mark 6:7; Luke 10:2; Acts 13:2; 15:39-40).

[18] There have been numerous suggestions as to the identity of the two witnesses. Three interpretive schools exist: symbolic, corporate, and literal. For our purposes, I will only list the literal interpretive options (1) Elijah and Moses, (2) Elijah and Enoch, (3) Elijah and John the Baptist, (4) Elijah and John the Apostle, (5) Elijah and an unidentified person, (6) Peter and James, (7) Peter and John, (8) Peter and Paul, (9) the two high priests, Ananus and Jesus, who nobly withstood the zealots in Jerusalem, and were massacred by them, and (10) two unknown persons who will minister in the spirit and power of Moses and Elijah in the future. See Daniel K. K. Wong, “The Two Witnesses in Revelation 11”: Bibliotheca Sacra 154:615 (July 1997), 345-354.

[19] The overall context in which the activity of the two witnesses is described (Revelation 11:3–12) supports the literal view. In these verses witnesses, depicted as individuals, speak (11:3, 6); are given power to kill their enemies (11:5); are heard, handled, and hated (11:3, 7, 10); have mouths, ears, and feet (11:5, 11–12); wear “sackcloth,” and after their martyrdom are seen as “dead” (11:8–9). Grammatically, it is also worth noting that John’s use of the definite article tois indicates specific persons. Also, elsewhere in the New Testament “witnesses” (martus) is always personal (Matthew 18:16; Luke 24:48; Acts 1:8; 1 Timothy 5:19; Hebrews 10:28; Revelation 1:5).

[20] Many have suggested that these two witnesses are Elijah and Moses. The strengths of this view are as follows. (a) The miracles performed are those of Elijah and Moses—power to shut up the sky, plagues, and power to turn water to blood. (b) Moses and Elijah were seen at the transfiguration and are therefore apt to have the exalted positions of “olive trees and lampstands” before the Lord. (c) Elijah is predicted to return “before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord” (Malachi 4:4-6). (d) There is a satanic battle over the body of Moses (Jude 9). Satan knows Moses has a role yet to play and sought to thwart it. (e) The words at the transfiguration that “some of those who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power” (Mark 9:1; cf. Matthew 16:28), then the three disciples saw Moses and Elijah. This may indicate Moses and Elijah’s appearance is a foretaste of the coming kingdom. The weaknesses of this view are as follows. (a) There is no explicit statement that the two witnesses are Moses and Elijah. (b) Moses would be required to die twice (Deuteronomy 34:5-6). (c) Jesus stated that John the Baptist was Elijah so we don’t have to expect another appearance (Matthew 17:10-13). Luke 1:17 states that John the Baptist, as a forerunner of Christ, would go forth in the spirit and power of Elijah (cf. Mark 1:2-3 with Malachi 3:1). John himself also said that he was not Elijah, only a voice of one crying in the wilderness to prepare men for Messiah (John 1:21-22). John denied that he was a literal Elijah, though he saw his role as a virtual Elijah doing what the Malachi passage said Elijah would do (Malachi 3:1; 4:6). (d) Matthew 11:7-14 shows that John could have and would have fulfilled the Malachi passage if Israel as a nation had believed and accepted his message. But since they rejected both John and Messiah, another would have to come to fulfill the Malachi prophecy and this would need to occur prior to Christ’s second coming. Since John could have and would have fulfilled the Malachi passage, it seems obvious the one who will come in the future, will be, like John, one who will come in the spirit and power of Elijah, a virtual Elijah, but not literally Elijah himself. He does not have to be a literal Elijah, or John could not have fulfilled the Malachi passage.

[21] Cf. Isaiah 22:12; Jeremiah 4:8; 6:26; Jonah 3:5, 6, 8; Matthew 11:21. Biblical characters like Job (Job 16:15), Jacob (Genesis 37:4), David (2 Samuel 3:31), Isaiah (Isaiah 20:2), and Daniel (Daniel 9:3) all wore sackcloth for the purpose of mourning.

[22] The seven lampstands of Revelation and the seven lamps of Zechariah are related, but not synonymous.

[23] See Leviticus 10:2; Numbers 11:1; 16:35; Pslm 106:17-18.

[24] The third trumpet judgment resulted in the poisoning of one-third of the earth’s fresh water supply (Revelation 8:10-11). Now this drought will cause further widespread devastation of crops and loss of human and animal life through thirst and starvation.

[25] Of course, men can terminate their own lives or kill their own ministry by personal rebellion, carnality, and regression from the Lord (e.g., 1 Corinthians 11:30-32; 1 John 5:16-17). But people bring this on themselves by turning away from God and staying out of His plan and grace.

[26] Cf. Revelation 9:1-3, 11; Luke 8:31.

[27] This is the first of 36 references to one called the Beast that will occur from this point on in the book of Revelation.

[28] Gk. pneumatikos, cf. 1 Corinthians 2:14.

[29] Cf. Jeremiah 22:8.

[30] The English word “sodomy” is derived from the sexual depravity exhibited by the males in Sodom (Genesis 19:5-6). Sodom became a symbol of living in sensual pleasure and the inevitable consequences of divine judgment (Deuteronomy 29:23; 32:32; Isaiah 1:9-10; 3:9; 13:19; Jeremiah 23:14; 49:18; 50:40; Lamentations 4:6; Ezekiel 16:45-46; Amos 4:11; Zephaniah 2:9). The New Testament, likewise, echoed the depravity of Sodom (Matthew 10:15; 11:23-24; Luke 10:12; 17:29; Romans 9:29; 2 Peter 2:6; Jude 7).

[31] In Revelation this is practically a technical term for unbelievers, for those totally at home on the earth and devoid of any heavenly hope, concerns, or desires (cf. 3:10, 6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8, 14; 17:8).

[32] Cf. Revelation 4:1 for the command, “Come up here.”

[33] The wrath of men praises God as well as man’s true repentance (cf. Pslm 76:10).

[34] Giving glory to God is significant throughout the Scriptures (e.g., Joshua 7:19; 1 Samuel 6:5; Isaiah 42:2; Jeremiah 13:16; Luke 17:18; John 9:24; Acts 12:23; Romans 4:20; 1 Peter 2:12). See this perspective in Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 98-99.

[35] The word “quickly” (tachu) can mean (a) quickly in the sense of soon, i.e., the end of the age is near, or (b) “quickly” in the sense of “in rapid succession” (i.e., once the seventh trumpet is blown, its judgments will come like trip hammer blows in quick succession, the end will then be near). This last explanation best suits the conditions of the passage.

[36] In Revelation 9:13 John was informed that the last three trumpet judgments would be more intense because woe is pronounced upon the earth dwellers because of the remaining three blasts of the trumpets.

[37] This judgment becomes the greatest woe because it includes the seven bowl judgments though they are not mentioned here. Revelation 12-14 form the third parenthetical section filling in more details of other key events and personages (cf. 7:1-17; 10:1-11:19).

[38] The prophets spoke of the “kingdoms of this world being conquered by the coming kingdom of the Messiah (Daniel 2:44; 7:14; Zechariah 14:9; cf. 1 Corinthians 15:24).

[39] Cf. Pslm 2:2-9; Daniel 2:35, 44; 6:26; 7:14, 26-27; Zechariah 14:9; Matthew 6:10.

[40] Gk. pantokrator is from pas “all” plus krateo, “to rule, be master, to be strong, mighty.”

[41] The elders’ statement has led some interpreters to conclude that it signals the beginning of Jesus Christ’s reign. In view of the events that seem to follow this one and precede the beginning of His reign in Revelation 20, it seems better to regard the elders’ statement as anticipatory of the inauguration of that reign. The event is so certain that throughout this section it is repeatedly spoken of as already having taken place.

[42] Here we have the fulfillment of Pslm 2. Just before the return of Christ, as part of the sixth bowl, the armies of the world will be gathered together in the Plain of Esdraelon or the Valley of Decision (Revelation 16:16; Joel 3:14). At this point, as never before, the nations are enraged against one another and against God (Revelation 19:19). But their wrath is impotent against the omnipotence and the holy wrath of God. So John adds “and Your wrath came.” In this context especially, this refers to the final phase of the Tribulation, the seventh trumpet and the seven bowl judgments that are concluded by the personal return of the Lord.

[43] David Hocking, The Coming World Leader (Portland: Multnomah, 1988), 188.

“This Means War!” (Revelation 12:1-17)

In my previous pastorate the church that I served was involved in the community outreach, “Heaven’s Gates/Hell’s Flames.” At the conclusion of this powerful drama, I was walking out when a boy about eight-years old approached me and said, “Are you Satan?” [I have black hair and a narrowly cropped black goatee and was wearing a long bright red jacket]. I slowly turned to him and gave my best satanic scare, complete with a sinister laugh. Fortunately, I didn’t scare him too badly because I was quickly able to explain to him that I was actually a pastor that just happened to look like Satan (kidding J).[1]

Obviously, this young boy was badly mistaken in his idea of Satan. Apparently, he expected Satan to be an extremely good-looking man [me, of courseJ] with a red cape-like jacket. He also may have assumed that beneath my jacket I had horns and a pitchfork. This poor little guy bought into the stereotypical image of Satan. Yet, he is to be commended because at least he believes in a literal Devil. The research of Christian pollster George Barna indicates that nearly 60% of Americans say that Satan is not a living being but is a symbol of evil. His research also indicates that 45% of born-again Christians deny Satan’s existence.[2] Isn’t this sad? We are falling victim to Satan’s greatest deception: to convince us that he does not exist.

Yet the Bible insists that Satan is a powerful, literal, supernatural being who must be taken seriously. From cover to cover, the Bible warns us that we’re in a war! But our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers of darkness (Eph 6:12). In Revelation 12:1-17, we will learn the simple principle that we must “know our enemy.” If we fail to know and understand our enemy, we’ll fall prey to his surprise attacks and lose many earthly battles.

1. God preserves His people (12:1-6). In 12:1-2, John writes, “A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars and she was with child; and she cried out, being in labor and in pain to give birth.” John saw “a great sign.” In John’s writings, a “sign”[3] is a symbol pointing to something else.[4] The fact that this “woman”[5] is spoken of as “a great sign” emphasizes that John is not referring to a literal woman. Some suggest that it is specifically speaking of the Virgin Mary. Others have identified the woman as the church. Yet, the best option is to understand this woman as a symbolic reference to Israel. This is evident for the following reasons: (1) Israel is often identified as a woman in the Old Testament and is more specifically called God’s wife.[6] (2) The image of the sun, moon, and twelve stars most definitely seems to be an allusion to Joseph’s dream in Genesis 37:9-11, where the sun and moon are identified as Joseph’s parents and the 12 stars represent the twelve sons of Jacob (ultimately the 12 tribes).[7] (3) In 12:2, the woman is seen with child, one who rules with a rod of iron (12:5). This can be none other than Christ who, as promised in Scripture, was from the nation of Israel.[8] (4) The figure of Israel as a woman travailing in birth is found in several Old Testament passages.[9] (5) The woman will be persecuted in the last half of the tribulation (12:6, 13-17). This is an obvious clue that the woman is to be identified with the nation of Israel, the source of Messiah.

In 12:3, “another sign appeared in heaven: and behold, a great red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and on his heads were seven diadems[10].” The second “sign” John saw was the “dragon” that God later identifies as Satan (cf. 12:9).[11] A dragon is basically a serpent on steroids (cf. Gen 3:1f.). A dragon is an awesome, destructive creature, like the ones portrayed in the old science fictions movies. A dragon may be mythical and not an actual being, but the Bible draws on the imagery of a terrifying, destructive beast to characterize Satan.[12] His “red”[13] color suggests bloodshed and death. The seven heads represent mountains (Rev 17:9) and the ten horns represent kings (Rev 17:12; cf. Dan 7:7-8, 20, 24). We’ll find out more about these heads, horns, and crowns in Revelation 13.

In 12:4, John writes that the Dragon’s tail “swept away a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth.” These “stars”[14] are fallen angels who revolted with Satan at his fall (see Isa 14:12-17; Ezek 28:12-14). At that time, one-third of the angels rebelled with Satan and became his servants in his fight and hatred against Israel and the purposes of God. God cast Satan and these angels out of heaven to earth. That is, they were no longer at home in God’s presence though they presently have access to Him. John sees past and present events all brought together in a kaleidoscope. He sometimes will visualize events without identifying all the gaps in between.[15]

Verse 4 goes on to say, “the dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she gave birth he might devour her child.” Satan knows the prophecies about God’s plan of redemption.  He also knows that redemption would come through the promised Messiah who would come from the lineage of Israel. So we find him down through time waiting with fangs bared to devour the long-promised Messiah.[16]

The not so subtle point is: As followers of Jesus Christ, Satan will also seek to “devour” us. Peter writes, “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world” (1 Peter 5:8-9). If we are believers in Jesus, we can rest assured that we will ultimately be victorious.

In 12:5, we are introduced to the male child of the woman. John writes, “And she gave birth to a son, a male child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her child was caught up[17] to God and to His throne.” This is a one-sentence summary of Christ’s birth, life, and ascension into heaven. Since Satan failed to destroy Jesus at His birth, during His life, and in His death, Jesus Christ ascended victoriously into heaven.[18] Satan cannot persecute Him there. This verse also teaches that one day Jesus will rule the world with a “rod of iron” (Ps 2). This is a reference to Christ’s rule over the nations of the world, in the establishment of His millennial kingdom, during His second coming (cf. 19:15). The emphasis of this historical review of Satan’s opposition to Jesus is Jesus’ victory and Satan’s continuing antagonism.

Unable to destroy Christ, Satan turned his attention toward the woman, Israel. In 12:6, we are told, “the woman fled[19] into the wilderness[20] where she had a place prepared by God, so that there she would be nourished for one thousand two hundred and sixty days.”[21] John saw Israel as having fled into the wilderness where God protected her 1,260 days (three-and-a-half years) during the second half of the tribulation period.[22] The passive verb “prepared” suggests that God, angels (cf. Dan 12:1), and perhaps Gentiles will care for the Jews at this time. This section can be summarized like this: God’s chosen people (Israel) are an important part of His program. Even though Satan has had it in for the Jews, God has preserved His people in both the past and present and will continue to do so in the future.

[In future days, not only does God preserve His people…]

2. God expels His enemy (12:7-12). In 12:7, John writes, “And there was war in heaven.” The tense of the verb “was”[23] indicates that John is referring to a future war that will take place during the tribulation period (cf. 12:12). The war pits Michael and his angels against the Dragon and his angels.[24] Michael the archangel (Jude 9) is the leader of God’s angelic army.[25] In the Old Testament he also had a special role in protecting the nation of Israel (Dan 10:13, 21; 12:1). The Dragon, of course, is Satan. Satan’s angels are his demons that were once part of God’s angels, but earlier fell with Satan. The number of these demons as mentioned in 12:4 was one-third of the total number of the angelic host. This is clearly a spiritual battle in the realm of heaven.[26]

Fortunately, 12:8 informs us that Satan and his angels “were not strong enough.” While the warring was no doubt intense, the Dragon and his angels were not capable of defeating God’s holy angels. The end result is, “there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. And the great dragon[27] was thrown down” (12:8b-9a).  The later half of 12:9 makes it clear Satan and his demonic horde will be “thrown down to the earth.” While Satan and his demons, shortly after creation, fell and were cast out of heaven, Satan still had access to heaven to accuse the brethren (cf. Job 1:6-7; 2:1-2 Zech 3:1-2). Satan today still has access to heaven where he functions as the accuser of believers.[28] However in this future time, when Satan and his demons lose this heavenly battle he will no longer be permitted access to heaven to bring forth those accusations. In fact, as 12:9 says, “the great dragon was thrown down.” The verb ekballo (“thrown down”) is a strong verb denoting a powerful throwing or propelling. It is what Laker’s star Shaquille O’ Neal does when he gets the ball down low in the paint—he “throws down” ekballo (i.e., slam dunks). The word emphasizes that Satan is cast down out of heaven once and for all. Not only Satan, but also his entire demonic force is permanently limited to the realm of the earth from this point on.

Don’t miss that this is not a battle between God and Satan, but between Michael and Satan.[29] It is two created angels and their forces battling each other. Satan has perpetuated the lie that he is God’s opposite. He is not God’s opposite. He is not omniscient, omnipresent, or omnipotent. He is only a created being. He can’t even go one round with God. In our times of discouragement and seeming defeat, we must remember that the powers of good will overcome the powers of evil. Satan and his demonic forces may win some battles along the way but they will ultimately lose the war!

In 12:9, John also gives four descriptive phrases to identify the Dragon. (1) The Dragon is “the serpent of old.”[30] This title stresses his crafty and venomous character (cf. Gen 3:1-5; 2 Cor 11:3). The word “old” (ophis) brings to remembrance the first accusation of Satan as the Serpent in the garden of Eden in his temptation of Eve. (2) The Dragon is “the devil.” The word “devil” comes from a Greek verb (diabolos) meaning “to slander” or “to falsely accuse.” Satan acts as somewhat of a prosecutor in God’s court of law. His tasks are to arraign men before the bar of the divine justice.[31] (3) The Dragon is “Satan.” The word “Satan” (Satanas) is a transliteration of a Hebrew word that means “Adversary.”[32] This proper name depicts Satan as the enemy or opponent of God and His people. (4) The Dragon is “the one who deceives the whole world.” The word translated “deceives” (planon) means “to mislead, delude, or lead astray.”[33] Who is said to be deceived? The whole world!

As John beholds Satan and his angels being cast from heaven, he hears a loud voice in heaven say, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, he who accuses them before our God day and night” (12:10). The loud voice is not identified and probably cannot be with certainty. It does, however, seem best to identify it as the voice of the martyred tribulation saints, for they also cried out with a loud voice (cf. 6:10). This is further supported by the mention of Satan as “the accuser of our brethren.”

We learn in 12:11 that these tribulation martyrs (“they”)[34] “overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.” This verse imparts three weapons that these martyrs will use to overcome Satan. The first weapon is “the blood of Lamb.” The blood shed on the cross ensures that God will forgive us (Rom 8:31-34). Thus, Satan’s accusations, however true, are rendered null and void in God’s court of law. So how can we practically apply this truth? First, we have to honestly admit the truth of Satan’s accusation: We are sinners! Secondly, we should remind Satan that the blood of the Lamb covers us. Our sins have all been nailed to the cross of Christ and we will no longer be judged or accused by God for these sins.

The second weapon we have is the word of our testimony (see 1:9; 6:9). This refers to both lives and lips. We must be salt and light to our world (Matt 5:13-16). When we share our testimony, we move into Satan’s territory and it’s intimidating to him! Our testimony is powerful and irrefutable.

The third weapon we have is a refusal to love one’s life.[35] These tribulation martyrs were willing to give up anything for Jesus: reputation, status, and possessions. They were even willing to give up their lives for what they believed, even if it meant suffering the violent death of a martyr. They followed the instruction given to the church in Smyrna (2:10) of being faithful unto death as well as the example of the Savior who laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11, 15). They would rather die than prove unfaithful to Christ. Rather than signaling the triumph of Satan, this shows instead that they have gained the victory over the Dragon by their acceptance of Jesus’ cross and their obedient suffering with Him. This is one of John’s chief themes throughout the book of Revelation (1:9; 6:9; 14:12; 20:4).

The victory of these believers leads to the bittersweet words of 12:12: “For this reason, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them. Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has only a short time.” Heaven-dwellers can rejoice in view of Satan’s punishment (cf. Ps 96:11; Isa 49:13). He is no longer among them. However, everyone living on the earth, especially believers, must beware because he now moves among them more antagonistically than ever. Furthermore he knows that his time is short. He will have only 1,260 days before Jesus Christ returns to the earth and binds him (20:1-2).

[Realizing his time is short, Satan pulls out the stops and….]

3. Satan persecutes God’s people (12:13-17). Once Satan is cast out of heaven, he will give his full attention to persecuting[36] the woman who brought forth the male child (12:13). His intense hatred of Israel will reach its climax during the great tribulation, as he tries to do everything in his power to destroy them. Satan knows that if he can destroy Israel, he can thwart God’s program, keeping it from coming to ultimate fruition. But the miraculous hand of God will be upon Israel in the midst of Satan’s plot to destroy them, providing a way for them to escape. John writes, “But the two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, so that she could fly into the wilderness[37] to her place, where she was nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.”[38] The Israelites will receive divine assistance in fleeing from the Dragon (passive: “were given”). God bore the Israelites “on eagles wings” when He enabled them to escape from Pharaoh (Exod 19:4; Deut 32:11). God often uses this metaphor to refer to His protection of Israel (Ps 55:6-8; cf. Isa 40:31). Therefore we should probably understand the eagle to be metaphorical, describing the way God will save them, namely with strength and safety. The comparison between an eagle that can fly overhead and an earth-bound serpent implies the superior protection of God.

In 12:15, the Serpent retaliated. John records that he “poured water like a river out of his mouth after the woman, so that he might cause her to be swept away with the flood.” The text indicates that the water is “like” a flood, making it difficult to tell if the flood should be interpreted literally or figuratively. Perhaps Satan will use literal water to try to drown this group of Israelites. Another possibility is that he will pursue them with soldiers as a river (cf. Jer 46:7-8; 47:2-3; Ezek 38-39). A flood is also a biblical metaphor for overwhelming evil (Ps 18:4; 32:36; 69:2; 124:2-4; Isa 43:2). Probably this is a picturesque way of describing Satan’s attempt to destroy the Jews who will have congregated in Palestine following the Antichrist’s covenant with them.

Fortunately, “the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and drank up the river which the dragon poured out of his mouth” (12:16). In the past the ground swallowed the Egyptians (Exod 15:12) and later Korah, Dathan, and Abiram (Num 16:28-33; 26:10; Deut 11:6; Ps 106:17). Perhaps God will do similar miracles to preserve the fleeing Jews in the future.[39]

After having his great wrath thwarted, “the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.” Satan is now three times a loser. He has failed to destroy the man child (12:1-6), he has lost the war in heaven (12:7-9), he has been unable to destroy the woman (12:13-16), and thus his wrath is directed toward the “rest of her [the woman’s] children.” I understand these “children” to be any true child of God, Jew or Gentile. Regardless, it is important to note that Satan wars with those “who keep the commandments of God” (1 John 5:2-5) and “hold to the testimony of Jesus” (1 Cor 2:1-2; 1 John 5:11-12).” As Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:12: “If you live a godly life in Christ Jesus, [you] will be persecuted.” The Christian life is not a playground; it’s a battleground! If you live for Jesus Christ in this life, there will be suffering but the rewards will be eternal.

I grew up watching Pac-10 football. I’ve always been a University of Washington, Husky fan. Of course, I was familiar with Arizona State University’s Pat Tillman. Tillman was a great football player who gave up a 3.6 million-dollar NFL contract to be a US Ranger. This past Friday (5/23/04) he gave his life for the freedom of his country. Pat Tillman is one of my heroes. But there are even greater heroes in this world…they are spiritual heroes who “keep the commandments of God,” “hold to the testimony of Jesus,” and lay down their lives. These are heroes that this world is not worthy of (Heb 11:38). Will you recognize that you are in a spiritual war and the enemy of your soul wants to devour you? Will you commit yourself to seek Jesus and cling to Him in the midst of this warfare? If so, you will realize the abundant life that Jesus Himself spoke of (John 10:10).

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] These statistics are from 2001. Barna’s research also indicates the following: 45% of born again Christians deny Satan’s existence. (2001); nearly seven out of ten Catholics (68%) say the devil is non-existent, compared to 60% of Protestant mainline church attenders, 51% of Baptists and 50% of Protestant non-mainline church attenders who agree that Satan is only a symbol of evil (2001); men emerge as slightly more likely than woman to believe that Satan is just a symbol of evil (61% to 55%, respectively) (2001); and two-thirds of adults (69%) are aware that the Bible describes Satan, or the Devil, as an angel who formerly served God in Heaven (1994). See The Barna Group:  http://www.barna.org/FlexPage.aspx?Page=Topic&TopicID=6 (4/25/04).

[3] Usually John uses the word “sign” (semeion) to describe something miraculous that points to some deeper spiritual significance connected with an event or object (cf. John 2:11, 18, et al.).

[4] While no signs appear in Revelation 1-11, seven signs are mentioned in chapters 12-19 (cf. the seven signs in John 1-11). Three signs are in heaven (12:1, 3; 15:1) and four are on earth (13:13-14; 16:14; 19:20). Only one is a sign of good (12:1); the others are omens of evil or judgment from God.

[5] There are four women mentioned in Revelation. These are (1) Jezebel (2:20), a woman who claimed to be a prophetess in the church of Thyatira, and who stands for false teachers within the church in the church age; (2) the harlot (17:4), the false religious system of the last days, apostate Christendom; (3) the bride (19:7), the true church, glorified and returning with Christ; and (4) the woman (12:1), the nation Israel.

[6] Cf. Isaiah 54:5,6; Jeremiah 3:6,8; 31:32; Ezekiel 16:32; Hosea 2:16.

[7] This identifies the woman with Israel and the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant.

[8] See Matthew 1:1-25; cf. also Pslm 2:8-9; Revelation 2:27; 19:15.

[9] Evidently this represents Israel’s pain before Jesus Christ’s appearing at His first coming (cf. Isaiah 26:17-18; 66:7-12; Hosea 13:13; Micah 4:10; 5:2-3).

[10] Diadem crowns were a type of crown used as a symbol of the highest ruling authority in a given area, and thus often associated with kingship. The NET Bible http://www.bible.org/netbible/

[11] The word “dragon” (dragkon) occurs 12 times in Revelation and nowhere else in the New Testament. In every instance it refers to Satan (12:3, 4, 7, 9, 13, 16, 17; 13:2, 4, 11; 16:13; 20:2).

[12] Tony Evans, The Battle is the Lord’s (Chicago: Moody, 1998), 123.

[13] The term “red” (purros) means, “fiery red.” It denotes either “flame-colored” to depict destruction or “blood-red” to denote murder.

[14] The Scriptures often use the term “stars” for angelic beings and specifically of Satan (e.g., Revelation 9:1; Job 38:7; Isaiah 14:12; Luke 10:18).

[15] See also Erwin W. Lutzer, The Serpent of Paradise (Chicago: Moody, 1996), 169.

[16] Beginning in the book of Genesis, we see Satan’s numerous attempts to devour the future Messiah’s line.

·         Satan motivated Cain to kill Abel (Genesis 4:1-8). But God raised up Seth as the seed and the lineage continued (Genesis 4:25).

·         Satan caused such evil to pervade the earth that God destroyed everyone but eight people in the flood (Genesis 6:17).

·         Next, Satan motivated Esau in an attempt to kill Jacob, Isaac’s son of promise (Genesis 27:41).

·         After that, Satan gave Pharaoh the idea of killing every Hebrew male baby. Again, the plan failed (Exodus 1:16; Acts 7:17-19).

·         Satan also tried to have Saul kill David because it was prophesied that the Messianic line would come through David (1 Samuel 18 ff).

·         Later, Haman tired to kill all of the Jews in the kingdom. Instead, Haman was hung on his own gallows (Esther 3-9).

·         One of the most amazing accounts is found in 2 Chronicles 21-22. Here we read that the entire royal seed of Israel was completely wiped out except for one, Joash, who was hidden for six years. All Messianic hope was one baby away from complete obliteration! But God preserved the seed.

·         After the Jesus was born, Satan tried to kill the child directly using Herod (Matthew 2:3-8). But God intervened as he had so often in the past, and protected the infant Jesus by warning Joseph in a dream to flee to Egypt beyond the reach of Herod (Matthew 2:13).

·         In Luke 4, people tried to kill Jesus; in Matthew 4, Satan himself attempted to kill Him, telling Jesus to throw himself off the pinnacle of the temple.

·         After all of these failures, Satan still persists in afflicting Israel because God promised He will reign from there. Throughout history, we have seen Satan’s attempt to wipe out God’s plan in the persecution of the Jews. It is Satan-inspired anti-Semitism.

[17] The phrase “caught up” (harpazo) means, “to suddenly seize or snatch away.” This Greek word is used in reference to the rapture in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, in describing Paul’s being caught up to Paradise in 2 Corinthians 12:2-4, and in reference to the Spirit of God catching up Philip in Acts 8:39.

[18] Jesus Christ was born of Jewish descent (Matthew 1:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:8). Despite Satan’s efforts to destroy Israel and the messianic line, Jesus’ birth took place as predicted by the prophets.

[19] Those Israelites who flee (Revelation 12:6, 16) will be protected by God, but those who stay will come under Satan’s attack. This is why in Matthew 24:15-18 Jesus warned Israel to flee Jerusalem when they saw the abomination of desolation in the temple. Evidently many Israelites will flee from Jerusalem into desolate places to escape Satan’s persecution (cf. Zechariah 14:1-8; Matthew 24:16; Mark 13:14).

[20] Throughout Scripture a wilderness often represents a place of desolation, safety, discipline, and testing. It is unclear exactly what wilderness area that those from Judea will flee to. Most suggest the areas of Moab, Edom or Ammon, which all lie east of Israel and will be spared from Antichrist’s attack on Israel (cf. Daniel 11:41).

[21] Revelation 12:1-5 has been somewhat reflective, however 12:6 is somewhat anticipatory of what will be described in 12:13-17.

[22] This destructive time is called the great tribulation or the time of Jacob’s trouble. This flight into the wilderness is predicted by Christ in His Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24:16ff and takes place immediately after the abomination of desolation mentioned in Matthew 24:15. So the flight takes place at the mid-point of the tribulation and God will protect those who flee during the remaining 3 1/2 years.

[23] It is at this point that we are told that there was war in heaven. The verb “was” (egeneto) is in the aorist and as it is used here carries the force of “came to be” or “arose.” There came to be a war in heaven or there arose a war in heaven. This is best translated as it is in the New King James Version, “And war broke out in heaven.”

[24] This is not Michael’s first encounter with Satan: He overcame Satan when an angel was battling Satan for 21 days (Daniel 10:13) and he disputed with Satan over the body of Moses (Jude 1:9). But the conflict in view here evidently takes place just before the last half of the tribulation.

[25] Michael’s name is a composition of: mi, “who,” and a preposition, ke, “as or like,” and the noun El, “God.” Michael means, “Who is like God?” Of course the answer is,  “No one!” It is interesting that God sends Michael to defeat Satan whose boast in Isaiah 14:14 is, “I will make myself like the most High.”

[26] It is unclear exactly how these two forces will battle each other since our human picture of war is strictly material.

[27] Satan is called “the great Dragon” because he is fierce and cruel in nature.

[28] Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:12 that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood…but against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” It’s so important to realize that other people are not really our problem. Our real opponent is the Devil and his army of wicked spirits who manipulate people and events. Where are the Devil and his allies? In the heavenly places—they still have access to heaven.

[29] “Let us not forget that at one time Michael and Satan (previously called Lucifer) were colleagues, they served the same master and had essentially the same responsibilities. Since it is likely that Michael at one time served under Lucifer, the loss of this battle was especially painful for the Devil. He was thrown out of heaven by one who at one time had been his underling.” See Lutzer, The Serpent of Paradise, 170.

[30] The identification of Satan as a serpent occurs five times in the New Testament (cf. Revelation 12:9, 14, 15; 20:2; 2 Corinthians 11:3).

[31] This is best evidenced in the book of Job as Satan acts as Job’s accuser before God (cf. Job 1:9-11; 2:1).

[32] The Aramaic corresponding to originally meant, “one lying in ambush for.”

[33] Satan causes people loved by God to miss the plan and truth of God by (1) lying against the truth; he is the father of lies (Genesis 3:1-5; John 8:44); (2) denying the truth (1 John 4:3 with 2 Peter 2:2); (3) counterfeiting or imitating the truth (2 Corinthians 11:3-15); and  (4) perverting or distorting the truth (1 Timothy 4:1-5 with Galatians 3:1-3). He disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14) and masks his true identity in order to deceive the nations.

[34] The pronoun “they” (autoi) refers to believers whom Satan formerly accused before God.

[35] E.g., Revelation 2:10; Matthew 16:25; Luke 9:23; 17:33; John 12:25; and Acts 20:24.

[36] There is a double meaning in the word translated “persecuted” (dioko). This Greek verb can mean either “persecuted” or “pursued.” In this context, both means are present. See also Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 482.

[37] Scripture does not identify the location of “the wilderness” where God will protect and nourish this remnant of Jewish people. Many believe it will be in the area of Edom because this country will escape the wrathful destruction of the Antichrist during the tribulation (Daniel 11:41). This could well be the place because Christ will come to Edom upon His return to take vengeance on the people of Bozrah and possibly to deliver a remnant of Jewish believers (Isaiah 63:1-6).

[38] God takes care of Israel during this period similar to Elijah’s experience by the brook of Cherith or that Israel experienced during the forty years when they lived on manna in the wilderness (1 Kings 17:1-7). Whether natural or supernatural means are used, it is clear that God does preserve a his people

[39] Bear in mind that two-thirds of these Israelites will die (Zechariah 13:8) and one-third will escape. Some of those who perish will probably be believers (cf. Revelation 12:11).

“Here Comes the Beast” (Revelation 13:1-18)

One of the most remarkable tours available to visitors to Washington D.C. is the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. It is fascinating to learn about the process by which paper money is manufactured. One great task of the government is to make counterfeiting difficult. Many agents of the Treasury Department spend their entire careers tracking down fake money. On these tours, the most commonly asked question is, “What’s the best way to avoid receiving counterfeit bills?” The answer is always the same: “Just learn the marks of a true bill. Then you will not have any trouble spotting the fake ones.[1]

That guideline holds true for Revelation 13. In this chapter, we will see the emergence of an Unholy Trinity: the great Dragon, the Beast, and the False Prophet. This trio of wickedness will be bent on deceiving and destroying the world. Yet, the message of Revelation 13 and the rest of Scripture is: Maintain a close relationship with Jesus, the true One, and those who are cheap imitations of Him will never deceive or destroy you. Please turn in your Bible to Revelation 13.[2]

Revelation 13 is composed of two major sections, each of which describes a beast. Verses 1-10 depict the Beast from “out of the sea.” This Beast represents civil and military power. Verses 11-18 describe the Beast from “out of the earth.” The second Beast represents religious and media power in service of the first Beast. Both Beasts are instruments of the Dragon to persecute the church and to deceive the unbelieving world.[3] In these two sections, God gives us two precautions that hold true not only for tribulation believers but also for believers of all ages, including ours.

1. Beware of satanic partnerships (13:1-10). In 13:1, John writes, “And the dragon[4] [Satan] stood on the sand of the seashore.[5] Then I saw a beast[6] coming up out of the sea…” The word “beast” refers to a wild and ferocious animal.[7] Yet, in this context, John is referring to a man who rules over and represents a particular nation (cf. Dan 7:17). The description “beast” points out two things. First, it portrays the brutal, bloody, uncontrolled, and wild character of the dictator and his system; it is inhuman. Second, the word “beast” portrays this man as the epitome and paramount outgrowth of the character of Satan who is himself called “the great red Dragon” (12:3). John watches this Beast “coming up out of the sea.” The implication is that the Dragon summoned the Beast out of the sea. Evidently, this was part of his plan to destroy the rest of the woman’s offspring (12:17). “The sea” represents the Abyss—the abode of Satan (9:11; 20:1-3), the Beast (11:7; 17:8), and some demons (cf. Luke 8:31; 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6). (11:7; 17:8).[8]

This Beast is said to have “ten horns and seven heads,[9] and on his horns were ten diadems, and on his heads were blasphemous names” (13:1b). Before we can begin to make some sense of this verse, we must recognize that in prophecy it is sometimes hard to determine when a passage is speaking about the king or the kingdom since the kingdom is the epitome of the king from whom it gets its character. For instance, even in the U.S., we often speak of the administration in power by the name of the president (i.e., the Bush administration). Likewise, a passage may refer to the king in one verse and the kingdom in the next, or vice versa. This is evidently the case here. Verses 1 and 2 look more at the kingdom, the empire; verse 3 includes both, and verses 4 and following refer more to the individual, the satanically controlled or possessed dictator. So “the beast” may refer to the end-time kingdom, the empire, or to the dictator or both.[10]

In 13:1-2, there is figurative language that must be explained.[11] The “ten horns” are ten future kings who will rule over ten nations (17:12). The “seven heads” are seven historic Gentile kingdoms, which are represented by seven kings or rulers.[12] These Gentile powers or nations find their culmination in the Beast.[13]

The “ten horns” look at the future history of the Beast while the seven heads look at the past history (cf. Dan 7:24). The “ten diadems” are symbols of governmental authority (cf. 12:3). The diadems are placed on the horns rather than on the heads of the Beast to show that his claim to authority rests on brute force.[14] The “blasphemous names” reflect the Beast’s opposition to God (cf. 13:5-6; 2 Thess 2:4). The Beast is evidently Antichrist, who is the head of a future empire (cf. 13:8, 18; 17:8).[15]

In 13:2a, John describes the Beast: “And the beast which I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion.” In Daniel these three animals represented three kingdoms that previously ruled the world. The fourth kingdom that Daniel described (Dan 7:23) includes Antichrist’s kingdom. The Beast is a composite of all the beasts or empires throughout human history that have gone against God and His people.[16]

In 13:2b, John adds a very important note: “And the dragon gave[17] him his power and his throne and great authority.” The Beast will derive his power and position from Satan (cf. 2 Thess 2:9). Instead of being “Spirit-filled” (Eph 5:18); He is “Satan-filled”! This is a powerful reminder of Satan’s control. Many people pursue power, pleasure, and possessions without even realizing that they have partnered with Satan’s agenda. In sixth grade, I began to listen to heavy metal music. Some of the bands that I listened to used the occult for the purpose of shock value. When I read interviews on these bands, they assured all their fans that they were not Satanists. At the time, I bought into this rational. I liked the music so much that I chose to ignore the lyrics and the lifestyles. Yet years down the road, I realized that these bands were obliviously glorifying Satan. It may have been initially unintentional and innocent in their minds, yet Satan used these rock stars like marionettes. This remains true today. Every musician has an agenda. It is positive or negative, selfish or unselfish, or a little of both. We must be able to discern what we’re listening to. Am I telling you what kind of music you should listen to? No, that is between you and God (and maybe you and your parents). I’m just encouraging you to be wise.

In 13:3-4, the plot thickens. John writes, “I saw one of his heads as if[18] it had been slain, and his fatal wound was healed.[19] And the whole earth was amazed and followed after the beast; they worshiped the dragon because he gave his authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, ‘Who is like the beast, and who is able to wage war with him?’” Most likely the Beast is killed (assassinated by a sword/knife, cf. 13:14) and brought back to life. Scripture is silent as to the source of the healing. If the healing of the Beast does refer to a physical resuscitation, no doubt the forces of Satan will take credit for such a work when it occurs.[20] This is interesting; Jesus rises from the dead and the world refuses to believe. But Satan’s messiah rises and the whole world is amazed and forms a church to worship him (13:4, 12, 14). The Beast not only rules, he is idolized. The present celebrity culture shows us how easily that could happen. This demonstrates the utter depravity of people. During the tribulation, spiritual realities become crystallized. There are only two groups/kinds of worshippers: the Beast and the Lamb. This is also true today even though we have a multitude of religions. Satan desires all religions to worship him. The expression, “Who is like the beast?” seems to be a spoof of Old Testament praises of God.[21] “Who is like You among the gods, O Lord?” (Exod 15:11). Later the Lamb will prove superior to the Beast (14:1-5; 17:14; 19:11-21) but during this period of the tribulation, the Beast reigns.

However in 13:5-8, it becomes clear that Satan and the Beast can’t do a single thing without permission from God.[22]  In 13:5-6, John writes, “There was given to him[23] a mouth speaking arrogant words and blasphemies, and authority to act for forty-two months was given to him. And he opened his mouth in blasphemies against God, to blaspheme His name and His tabernacle, that is, those who dwell in heaven.” The word “blaspheme” means “to harm one’s reputation through defaming speech.”

The Beast poured forth blasphemies against God (His person and works), His name (defamation of character), and those who are in heaven. But note that he only has authority to act for 42 months. This is a powerful reminder that God limits the extent of evil. We must always remember to trust in God’s power.

In 13:7-8, John goes on to record, “It was also given to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them, and authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation was given to him. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain.”[24] The Beast will wage war against believers and overcome them (i.e., kill them, 13:15). Through this victory, he will become a worldwide dictator (Dan 7:21, 23). No other ruler has ever been able to rule the entire world. Again, we see that the entire world will worship him. This is Satan’s ultimate goal: to be worshipped as God.

Here is John’s further observation dealing with the problem of evil. Although God has permitted evil, yet from the beginning He planned the ultimate remedy for overcoming evil: the sacrificial death of His Son. Jesus was not only slain in the first century, He was slain from eternity in terms of God’s eternal plan (Eph 1:4). Before creation God chose you to have a relationship with Him (cf. Rev 17:8; Eph 1:4). Despite what suffering you go through in this life, your name is written in the Book of Life. God doesn’t have a cosmic eraser. You’re secure in Christ. It is this security that ought to compel you to live for Him.

After giving some hope in 13:9-10a, John shares a tough bit of news: “If anyone has an ear, let him hear.[25] If anyone is destined for captivity, to captivity he goes; if anyone kills with the sword, with the sword he must be killed.” In light of the coming imprisonment and death of even more Christians the readers are to persevere. This is what John means when he writes, “Here is the perseverance and the faith[26] of the saints” (13:10b). These fatalistically sounding words are not meant to discourage the believers, but to tell them that given the shortness of the time, it is better to go to jail or submit to death, rather than hold out for one’s own continued earthly existence.[27] Because heaven awaits us, earth and its freedoms can be forfeited without real loss.

This verse is a reminder that Christians are not to take up arms and fight or go into survivalist mode. God calls us to accept our fates without resisting. The answer is not to fight but to be faithful unto death (2:10). We can fulfill this calling as we realize that we never have to fear. God is still in control even in the time of great authority for the Dragon. The emphasis here is that there are no accidents, what God has destined will happen. One of the greatest prayers that you can pray is, “God, grant me supernatural perseverance when evil comes my way. Deliver me from the Evil One (Matt 6:13). Grant me perseverance in my relationship with You. Grant me perseverance in my marriage and ministry. God’s goal for every believer is to “present every man complete in Christ” (Col 1:28b).

2. Beware of satanic religions (13:11-18). In 13:11, John writes, “Then I saw another[28] beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb and he spoke as a dragon.” The second Beast is called the “False Prophet” elsewhere in Revelation (16:13; 19:20; 20:10). This Beast comes “up out of the earth.” The contrast between the earth and sea could simply be that the former arises first and at the time of terrible chaos among the nations (who are like the raging sea, Isa 57:20) when people are fearful and crying for “peace and safety” and for a world ruler to settle world conditions. The second Beast may come on the scene after world conditions have been settled somewhat, when chaos has given place to some order and a more stable government has settled in human society (the earth). This second Beast comes as a wolf in sheep’s clothing (Matt 7:15) but his association and identity becomes clear.

Satan’s hand in history is seldom ugly in appearance at the time. It is only ugly in retrospect. There is a reason, I believe, why the Beast and the False Prophet are both described as beasts. It is because they will not initially appear as such. The awesome power of the first Beast and the stunning signs and speech of the second will dazzle the men who dwell on the earth. Their ugliness is exposed by their description in Revelation 13 because that is the way saints need to perceive them. Remember that Satan appeared to Eve as a beautiful creature, not as a dragon. God wants us to see Satan and his servants as they are; Satan wants to appear as an angel of light (cf. 2 Cor 11:14).

In 13:12, the Beast “exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence. And he makes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose fatal wound was healed.” The Greek word translated “exercises” or “performs” (poieo) is used eight times in 13:12-16. The False Prophet is giving performances—counterfeit performances. The goal is to bring about worship. The truth is Christianity is a threat to world religion. Because Christianity claims to be mutually exclusive, world ecumenical religion must put it down. Unity at all costs will be the theme of the future in order to obtain syncretism in religion. World religion must eliminate religions that claim distinction.

The Dragon and the two Beasts mentioned in chapters 12 and 13 are a counterfeit of the divine Trinity. The Dragon seeks worship that belongs only to God. The first Beast seeks to rule the world, which is Jesus Christ’s prerogative. The second Beast glorifies the first Beast, which is a counterfeit of the Holy Spirit’s ministry of glorifying Christ.

John writes in 13:13 that “He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down out of heaven to the earth in the presence of men.” Like Elijah in the Old Testament and the two witnesses in Rev 11, the second Beast will even be able to call down fire from heaven. The purpose of these signs is to authenticate the authority of the first Beast. Not all miracles are of God, for the second Beast performs these miracles in the presence and authority of the first Beast (13:2). No discerning Christian trusts any and every miracle. He or she must ask the question, “Is this miracle demonic or divine?” Let us never lose sight of the fact that false teachers, prophets, and “christs” can have great power and do many strange and seemingly wonderful things (cf. Matt 24:5, 11, 23-24; 2 Thess 2:9-12). The test of a true prophet is not just his ability to perform great wonders (cf. Deut 18:20-22), but also his fidelity to the revealed Word of God (cf. Deut 13:1-3).

In 13:14-15, John writes, “And he deceives those who dwell on the earth because of the signs which it was given him to perform in the presence of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image[29] to the beast who had the wound of the sword and has come to life. And it was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast would even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed.” The greatest sign—the world makes an image/idol of the Beast, and the False Prophet breathes life/breath/spirit into it. This image then gives orders to kill all who fail to worship the Beast. Satan is at his best when he tries to copy the work of God. Satan loves to counterfeit God’s work.

My boys love to draw. They are pretty amazing artists. They can draw quite a bit, free hand. They possess amazing creativity. They take after their mother. Their father, on the other hand, used to trace or carbon copy comic strips and then present them to his parents as his own. They put my artwork on the fridge like most proud parents do. But I knew it was a forge job.

The result of this great miracle is found in 13:16-17, when the False Prophet “causes all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free men and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hand or on their forehead,[30] and he provides that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name.”

During the tribulation period, the False Prophet will cause all the peoples of the world to receive a mark. The mark will likely be a technological advancement. Currently, we can identify people by using voice prints or laser scans of their retina. Scientists have even developed a computer chip small enough to be imbedded in your fingertip. It is worth mentioning that the choice of the right hand or forehead is significant. Both locations are conspicuous. The mark cannot be hidden. It is given some place publicly visible. Satan knows what Christ and the writers of Scripture teach: our faith is a public thing.

The effect of the mark is economic. No buying or selling. Think about it! No food, gas, electricity, home, car, clothes. What would you do? No seed to plant. Time of famine, and bread is $100 a loaf, so who will share it? That’s the “buying” part. Also can’t sell, therefore no work, no garage sales, or classified ads. There will be enormous pressure to be marked! Believers will lose their jobs and possessions, but God will reward them for all that they have lost. In Mark 10:29-31, Jesus said, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or farms, for My sake and for the Gospel’s sake, but that he will receive a hundred times as much now in the present age, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and farms, along with persecutions; and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last, first.”

John closes with this exhortation: “Here is wisdom[31] [or “This demands wisdom”]. Let him who has understanding calculate[32] the number of the beast, for the number is that of a man; and his number is six hundred and sixty-six.” Just type in 666 into your search engine and see how many hits you get! Everyone is trying to figure out who he is. There have been many suggestions like Kennedy, Kissenger, Clinton, and Hussein. My two favorites are Gorbachev (because of the birthmark on his head) and Ronald Wilson Regan (because of the six letters in each of his three names). Christians have cried “Wolf” so often on this that they have totally lost credibility, so that when the real guy shows up (we might see him on the horizon), no one will listen.

While at the present period of history it seems unthinkable that such a state of affairs could occur, we must remember that we are only 70 years removed from the rise of Hitler and Stalin, and it is pure arrogance to think something similar could not happen again. If anyone could solve the terrorist crises, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and the unrest in Africa, and bring peace to our troubled world, people would rush to worship such a person.[33] As Francis Schaffer said, “People will give up freedom to gain security.” That is the basis for the rise of dictators in a lot of cases. This is the time when people shout “Peace and safety!” and the Antichrist promises it to them (1 Thess 5:1-3).

Where does your peace and safety lie today? Are you resting in Christ? If so, you have nothing to fear. But I warn you, beware of satanic partnerships and religion. Seek to beware of any pressures (e.g., political, religious, or economic) that attempt to pull you away from Christ.

[1] Revised from Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1998), 237.

[2] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 196x3, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[3] Rev 13 is particularly dependent upon Daniel 7. It is only out of the context of the Old Testament prophets in general and the 7th chapter of Daniel in particular that we will adequately grasp the message of our text.

[4] There is a textual problem associated with the last sentence of Revelation 12, the solution of which will determine whether we understand that it is John (“I”) who is standing on the seashore or the Dragon (“he”). The difference in the Greek text is the presence or absence of but one letter, the equivalent of our letter “n.”  The matter is not of great import, for only the emphasis would change in either case. If it was the Dragon that stood on the seashore, it would further emphasize the close relationship between chapters 12 and 13, of the coming forth of the Beasts and Satan’s frustrations and failures.

[5] In Revelation 13:1a in our English Bibles, we find him standing on the seashore with the Beast rising up out of the sea, but in the Greek text this sentence is Revelation 12:18.

[6] Hollywood movies like the Omen, Damien, Rosemary’s Baby, The Devil’s Advocate, and End of Days have focused on the Beast (i.e., the Antichrist).

[7] The term “beast” is to be contrasted with “living creature” (6:3, 5, 7).

[8] The ancient world often associated evil with the sea and used the sea as a figure for the Abyss (cf. Job 16:12-13; Ps 74:13-14; 87:4; 89:9-10; Isa 27:1; 51:9-10; 57:20; Dan 7:3; Rom 10:7).

[9] John pictures the Lamb (i.e., Jesus) with seven horns and seven eyes (Rev 5:6).

[10] This is supported by the following: (1) Revelation 17:10 tells us the seven mountains are kings. This could indicate that the mountains are symbolical for the kingdoms these seven kings represent. (2) Rome is known as the city of seven hills, but the hills of Rome are not mountains. (3) The term mountain is commonly used in Scripture as an image of a kingdom (Ps 30:7; Isa 2:3; Dan 2:35, 45; Jer 51:5). (4) But more importantly, chapter 17 deals with the harlot system of Babylon which goes all the way back to the time of Nimrod and all these Gentile world powers have been her lovers and supporters, not Rome alone (cf. 17:1-2, 15). It is more likely that the seven mountains refer to seven successive Gentile kingdoms, which go way back, far beyond Rome. See Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Foundation, 1997), 223-24.

[11] The repetition of heads, horns, and diadems (Rev 12:3) suggests that there is a close affinity between the Dragon and this Beast. Yet there are some differences in the descriptions of these heads, horns, and crowns.

[12] The beast had seven heads that apparently represent the remaining seven rulers of nations after three of them disappear (Dan 7:8).

[13] The nations refer to the major world empires up to the time of Rome and which also were connected with the nation of Israel and her enslavements. These were: (1) Egypt: This was the first great world empire and the cause of Israel’s enslavement before entrance into the land. (2) Assyria: Historically this was the next great empire which took the northern kingdom of Israel into captivity in 722 B.C. (3) Babylon or the Chaldean empire: This is where Daniel’s prophecies begin and where we have the captivity of Judah, the southern kingdom. In Daniel’s prophecies he does not list the three preceding Gentile powers because his prophecies look forward only from his time in history to the final Gentile power and the return of the Lord. But Revelation 13 and 17 both look back (the seven heads) and forward (the ten kings). (4) Medo-Persia: This Gentile power followed Babylon and was the kingdom under which a remnant of Israel were allowed to return to the land to rebuild the city and the temple (cf. Ezra and Nehemiah). (5) Greece: This was the kingdom of Alexander and his successors who likewise ruled over the land of Palestine. (6) Rome: The Roman Empire of New Testament times was the empire of the emperors who reigned from before Christ: Augustus (30 B.C. - A.D. 14), to Domitian when Revelation was written (A.D. 81-96), and afterwards. During this time, Jerusalem was destroyed and the Jews dispersed worldwide (A.D. 70 - A.D. 135). Later the Roman Empire divided into the eastern and western divisions (the two legs of the image in Daniel 2) and finally fell, becoming fragmented into many nations. (7) What about the seventh head? Revelation 17:10-11 explains the seventh head. It is really a future kingdom though it has historical roots in the sixth kingdom. Revelation 17:10 says “five are fallen.” These five are Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia and Greece. “One is,” which is the sixth, the Roman empire of John’s day. “And the other is not yet come,” this is the revived Roman empire, the ten nation confederation or the ten horns under the leadership of the white horse rider in the first half of the tribulation. Compare 17:11 with 17:8, “The Beast which you saw was (refers to his past history, old Rome), and is not (does not presently exist; from John’s standpoint it would soon pass from the scene, i.e., the fall of Rome), and is about to come up (refers to the revived Roman empire).” Now in 17:11, this Beast, the Roman Empire represented by its king, becomes an eighth kingdom while at the same time being one of the seven, specifically, the seventh. The eighth refers to the imperial form of the revived Roman Empire in the last half of the Tribulation under the power of the dictator, the man of lawlessness or the antichrist who is also called the beast. See Keathley III, Studies in Revelation, 223-24.

[14] Robert H. Mounce, The Book of Revelation: NICNT (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998), 250.

[15] Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 153.

[16] Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 492

[17] Elsewhere it is God who gives authority to do things (Revelation 6:2, 4, 8, 11; 7:2; 8:2, 3; 9:1, 3, 5; 11:1, 2; 12:14; 13:5, 7, 14, 15; 16:8; 19:8; 20:4).

[18] The word “if” does not appear in the Greek. Literally the Greek says, “as slain unto death.”

[19] See Gregory H. Harris, “The Wound of the Beast in the Tribulation,” Bibliotheca Sacra 156:624 (October-

December 1999): 459-68.

[20] The possibility of the Beast’s return to life (with either God’s sovereign permission or His active working) should not be readily ruled out. In other words it is not impossible that the Antichrist should return to life because of the unique status of the tribulation and the increased capacity of satanic power during that time, as well as God’s broadening the parameters of what He will either permit or accomplish directly. In support of the view that this wound was fatal is the fact that identical language is used of Christ’s death and resurrection. Revelation 5:6 describes the Lamb “as if slain,” the same words used of the wound received by the Beast.

[21] Cf. Exod 15:11; Ps 35:10; 113:5; Isa 40:18, 25; 46:5; Jer 49:19; Mic 7:18.

[22] Four times in Rev 13:5-7, the original text notes that the Beast was given something: a mouth (13:5); authority for 42 months (13:5); authority to make war (13:7); and authority over people (13:7).

[23] God’s sovereignty: Everything the two Beasts do occurs only because God allows them to do so (13:5-8, 14-15), and the saints submit to God because He tells them to do so (13:9-10). Also the great works of the Beast are mere counterfeits of what Christ and His servants have already done (13:3, 14).

[24] It has been debated whether “from the foundation of the world” modifies “the Book of Life written” or “the slain Lamb.” The word order favors “slain” as the antecedent. However, the parallel in Revelation 17:8 favors “written.”

[25] “If any one has an ear, let him hear” (cf. Matthew 11:15; 13:9; Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22). It is worth noting that the oft-repeated phrase “to the churches” is excluded. This supports the notion that the church has already been raptured.

[26] The noun “faith” (pistis) is only found four times in Revelation (2:13, 19; 13:10; 14:12). But it is found in critical conjunctures of the book. Interestingly, the verb “believe” (pisteuo) does not occur at all.

[27] My friend, Bob Deffinbaugh writes, “The contest of these verses (Jer 42:17, 22; 43:11) helps us understand their meaning. After the first waves of Babylonian assault on Jerusalem and Judea, some faithful Jews still remained in (or had returned to) Jerusalem. Fearing that the Babylonian army was yet to wage another campaign on Jerusalem, the people were considering whether or not to flee to Egypt, where they thought they would be protected from the Babylonians. They came to Jeremiah for a word of divine guidance, and these words are a part of his response. Jeremiah assured these people that they would be safe if they remained in Jerusalem. Even though they might be led into Babylonian captivity, God would protect them and once again bring them back into their land. He warned the people that if they sought safety in Egypt, there would be no security there at all. Instead, the very things they dreaded, “the sword, famine, and pestilence,” would overtake them there. Their only security was to trust in the Word of God. I believe that this context and the message of Jeremiah fits very well into the setting of Revelation 13:1-10. The perseverance of the saints must rest in their confidence in the Word of God. They will be safe only when they continue to trust only in Him. Lest one should consider “bowing the knee” to the beast so as to save their life, let them be reminded in Jeremiah’s words that death is inevitable, if death is the will of God. One will not escape captivity or the sword if this is God's will. Such should not be dreaded by those who trust in the One who died and rose again, and who will give them deliverance from the second death.” Robert Deffinbaugh, Unpublished notes on Revelation.

[28] Gk. allo, means, “another of the same kind.”

[29] The image is mentioned three times here in this chapter and in 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2; 19:20 and 20:4. This image becomes the center of the false worship of the Beast and the focal point of the final state of apostasy and idolatry.

[30] In Deuteronomy 6:8 God told the Jews to place the Shema (6:4) on their hands and foreheads. In Ezekiel 9:4 the Lord required that the Hebrew letter tau be placed on the foreheads of all who had repented of the idolatry of the nation, indicating that they belonged to Him.

[31] In a context like this, “here” (ode) draws a conclusion from the previous statement (“in this case, moreover,” see BDAG). Thus, John is saying that “in light of” the coming mark of the Beast, the readers need wisdom. Due to the critical nature of this “wisdom” here, it may be better to translate “This demands...” See Osborne, Revelation, 519.

[32] Gk. psephizo, “to count, compute, reckon” (cf. Luke 14:28 the only other place the word is used in the New Testament). This word was used of calculating the numerical value of a word or number, of voting, of a vote in the sense of resolving to do something. But it also meant to calculate in order to arrive at a value (cf. Lev 27:23 where this word is used in the LXX translation of the OT Hebrew).

[33] Osborne, Revelation, 522.

“The Grim Reaper and the Grapes of Wrath” (Revelation 14:1-20)

In the world of sports timeouts are one of a coach’s greatest tools. A good coach knows how to use his allotted timeouts. Often, he will call a timeout just to ensure that his player’s heads are in the game and that they are giving a 100%. A timely timeout can often make the difference between winning and losing. This morning, as Emmanuel’s coach, I need to call a timeout.[1]

Last September, we embarked on a study through the book of Revelation. Today, we are in chapter 14. We’ve come a long way and you have shown great perseverance. Yet, as we move into the summer, I sense some of you may be feeling weary. Maybe you’re not sure how much more of this revelation you can receive. I understand how you may be feeling. Athletes and coaches both grow tired. But I want to affirm you. Many of you have been faithful to hear and heed God’s Word. As a result, Revelation 1:3 declares that you will be “blessed.” Revelation is relevant! It really is. Even when you don’t feel it may scratch you where you itch, it’s strengthening your spiritual muscles. It’s making you the believer God wants you to be.

Now before we delve into Revelation 14, we need to remember that we are currently in a parenthetical section. This section began in chapter 10 and runs through chapter 15. These chapters do not move forward chronologically, rather John sees visions of peoples and events that encompass the tribulation period. For example, chapter 13 tells us about the Beast, the False Prophet, and the mark of the Beast. Revelation 14 then serves as a timeout to provide encouragement by telling of the ultimate triumph for those who refuse the beast’s mark[2] and to predict the doom of those who do receive it.[3]

[In Revelation 14:1-20, we will discover three future facts about God.]

1. God will honor His remnant (14:1-5). In these five verses, we move from agony (13:1-18) to ecstasy. In this vision John describes the setting, the sound, the song, and the separation. In 14:1, John describes the setting: “Then I looked,[4] and behold,[5] the Lamb[6] was standing[7] on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His name and the name of His Father written on their foreheads.” This verse fast-forwards to the triumph of the Lamb and the 144,000 (cf. 7:1-8). They are standing together on “Mount Zion,” a place of worship in Jerusalem.[8] It is here where Jesus delivers Israel and gathers together His people for His earthly thousand-year kingdom. This again demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His people. It is also worth noting that the 144,000 have the name of the “Father written on their foreheads.” This is in contrast to the mark of the Beast (13:16-17; 14:11). These are those whom God set apart as His own. They march to the step of the Father. This remnant is faithful to God.

In 14:2, John describes the sound: “And I heard a voice from heaven, like the sound of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder, and the voice which I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps.” Verse 3 suggests that the “voice from heaven” refers to heaven’s angels.[9] The phrases “like the sound of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder” refer to authority and power. The mention of “harps” and “harpists” refers to comfort and love. While we are not told what the voice says, clearly the 144,000 hear words of commendation. These men were hated by the world during the seven-year tribulation. They were cursed by men and hunted by the Antichrist as criminals. Yet, now as they are in Christ’s presence, He commends them.

How do you and I live our lives? When it comes down to it are we willing to pay the price to please God? Are we willing to be misunderstood and scorned by men? Who will you choose, Christ or the crowd?

In 14:3, John describes the song: “And they sang a new song[10] before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders; and no one could learn the song except the one hundred and

forty-four thousand who had been purchased from the earth.”[11] These angels sang a new song. In the Old Testament singing a new song represents praise for something God has done.[12] It is worth noting that a “new song” is not necessarily a song new in time (chronos), but one fresh with a new (kainos) response and understanding so that it is sung as though it were new. This has application for us as well. When we worship the Lord, any song can be a “new” song IF our hearts are right before the Lord. We can revel in His worth and declare His praise with an ancient hymn or a brand-new chorus. It is a matter of the heart. God desires us to come and worship Him for who He is, for all that He is. This should inevitably lead to fresh praise! An interesting point is that the song this group sang in heaven is one that only the 144,000 of all God’s creatures could learn. Apparently, there was a special significance to the lyrics of this song that would have unique meaning to these faithful men. God had “purchased”[13] them from the earth for their special ministry in the great tribulation (cf. 14:4), not just for salvation. The principle is this: Special faithfulness in the present world leads to special reward in the future kingdom.

In 14:4-5, John describes the separation: “These are the ones who have not been defiled with women, for they have kept themselves chaste.[14] These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These have been purchased from among men as first fruits to God and to the Lamb. And no lie was found in their mouth; they are blameless.” The character of the 144,000 is summarized by the word “blameless” (14:5).[15] More specifically, they were honest and truthful: “no lie was found in their mouth.”[16] These men refused to bow the knee to the religious lies of the Antichrist (13:15; 2 Thess 2:11). Furthermore, they spoke the truth even though deception abounded.

The most puzzling part of this description is the fact that these men “have kept themselves chaste.” They have not, we are told, “been defiled[17] with women.” Since this statement is perplexing, I will take a moment to put the matter in context, so that all of the women who might read this might have their minds put at ease.[18] In the New Testament, sexual abstinence and celibacy are seen as options, but not imperatives.[19] Paul spoke of the possibility of a man and wife abstaining from normal marital sexual activity, for the purpose of prayer (1 Cor 7:5). He could also recommend the celibate life to those who saw this as freeing them from family obligations in order to devote themselves to other responsibilities and opportunities (1 Cor 7:7; 25-35). He also said, “I think then that this is good in view of the present distress, that it is good for a man to remain as he is [single]” (1 Cor 7:26). In the context of the whole chapter, as well as the “present distress” of that day, we can understand how it would be good for a man or woman to choose to remain single. Surely if the distress of Paul’s day was so severe as to warrant celibacy, the great tribulation of the last days calls for celibacy even more.[20]

In our culture, being single is undervalued. Yet, a single person can accomplish great things for the Lord. As wonderful as a spouse and children are, they can be distractions (albeit blessed) that can keep a disciple from accomplishing what he/she could as a single. If you sense that the Lord would have you be single, then maximize the single life for the glory of God.

The 144,000 will receive special commendation because they followed the Lamb faithfully during their lives (14:4b). They experienced intimate fellowship with Christ. This was especially difficult due to the time in which they lived, the great tribulation. They receive honor because they not only experienced purchase by God but because they were firstfruits to God. Some view this as expressing the idea that they are the first of others who will follow, specifically believers who will enter the millennium as living believers. However, there will be no others who follow that are just like the 144,000; they are unique. Probably the firstfruits figure represents them as a special gift to God.[21]

[Not only will God honor His remnant…]

2. God will judge mankind (14:6-13). In 14:6-7, John writes, “And I saw[22] another angel flying in midheaven,[23] having an eternal gospel to preach to those who live on the earth,[24] and to every nation and tribe and tongue and people; and he said with a loud voice, ‘Fear God, and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made the heaven and the earth and sea and springs of waters.’” John next saw another angel (cf. 7:2; 8:3; 10:1) flying between heaven and earth (cf. 8:13).[25] He had an “eternal gospel” to preach to the worldwide population.[26] “Gospel” means good news.[27] What this good news is comes out in the next verse. It is “eternal” because it has eternal significance. In 14:7, the angel spoke loudly, revealing his urgency and concern. The loudness of his voice implies that everyone will hear his message. This angel gives three commands: “Fear God,” “give Him glory,” and “worship Him.” The phrase “fear God” indicates that people must respect God for who He is. Fear carries the idea of awe. We must first gain an awe of God if we are going to respect His work. The reason for fearing God is “because the hour of His judgment has come.”[28] This is the very last chance that these unbelievers will have to change their allegiance from Satan to God before the final judgments of the great tribulation begin. An expression of the fear of God is to believe His promises. The most important promise being that He gives eternal life to those who believe (John 6:47). To “give God glory” means to repent, having acknowledged His attributes (cf. Deut 6:13; 10:20; Matt 4:10; Acts 14:15-17).[29] The only way to glorify God is to accept the principle of grace. Grace means that God does the work. If God does the work, then He gets the glory. If we do the work then we get the glory. God made every provision we need to execute the Christian way of life in Christ. If we accept and believe that, we glorify God. Finally, God commands men to “worship Him.” The word “worship” means “to prostrate one’s self.” All men are called upon to worship the God who is the Creator. This is an expression of the Gospel in its most elementary terms (cf. also Acts 14:14-18).

It is important to note that the angel referred to natural revelation in making this appeal. God is worthy of worship because He is the Creator, and He has the right to judge what He has created (cf. Neh 9:6; Ps 33:6-9; 146:6). People are told to worship Him who “made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.” Our own nature witnesses that there is a God. It takes four years of college and two years of postgraduate work to deny that! That is the fundamental witness of God found everywhere in the world (Rom 1:19). It is the witness that no one can miss because it is manifest all around us. This calls attention to the ageless and universal message of creation itself. Age after age creation has called man to recognize God’s existence and to seek after Him (cf. Acts 17:26-27 with Ps 19:1-6). This means men are without excuse and that the hour of the Creator’s judgment is about to fall (Rom 1:18-20).

A second angel now cries out in 14:8: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon[30] the great, she who has made all the nations drink of the wine of the passion of her immorality.” Since the downfall of Babylon is described in detail in chapters 17-18 I will merely say that the point of this proclamation is that the system (of which the Beast is the head) is doomed. If Babylon is fallen, then so is the Beast! The system that has overcome the world and the saints is indeed, short-lived. How foolish to fall before the Beast or his image, when Babylon is destined to fall.[31]

In 14:9-12, a third angel cries out: “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is mixed in full strength in the cup of His anger;[32] and he will be tormented[33] with fire and brimstone[34] in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb.

And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever; they have no rest day and night,[35] those who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name. Here is the perseverance of the saints[36] who keep[37] the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.”[38]

As God looks upon the wickedness of man, his rejection of His Son and his worship of the Beast, He is left with only three choices: (1) He can indulge it and allow it to go on forever. That means that all the injustice, pain, and suffering in this world would continue indefinitely. Neither man nor God want that. (2) God can force man to obey. But this would take away our capacity to give our love to God freely. (3) God’s only other remaining choice is to withdraw Himself from those who refuse His love. He must let them have their way forever. God doesn’t want anyone to go to hell. You’ll have to step over the body of Jesus Christ to get there!

The Scriptures make it clear that if a person rejects Jesus Christ, he/she is condemned eternally (cf. Matt 25:41).[39] Why would the Lord tell tribulation believers this? Tribulation saints will suffer great persecution for refusing to take the mark. They will see unbelievers who take the mark avoid the persecution they are experiencing. This would be discouraging for any believer who was shortsighted. Verses 9-11 are thus designed to give the tribulation saints (and believers of all ages) the big picture. We might paraphrase 14:12 in this way: This [knowing the fate of those who take the mark] is a motivation for believers to endure the persecutions and to persist in obeying God’s commands and in keeping the faith. In view of their hope, believers in the great tribulation should persevere in obedience and trust, good works, and faith in God, plus ethical conduct and reliance on Jesus Christ. This is an encouragement to persevere, not a guarantee that the saints will persevere.[40]

In 14:13, the Lord gives a positive incentive to remain faithful that balances the negative warning previously given (14:9-12). John hears a voice from heaven say, “Write, ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on!’[41] ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘so that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow with them.’” This “voice” was probably the Lord’s.[42] The voice told John to record that it would be a blessing for the believers who live during the great tribulation to die as martyrs.[43] There are two reasons given in this verse for the blessedness of dying in Christ. The first is that by dying they will “rest from their labors.” The term “labors” stresses the pain and the persecution of living as witnesses in a wicked world which seeks to overcome them (cf. 2 Cor 6:1-10). The second reason for the blessedness of the saints who die in the last days is that their “deeds follow with them.” If there are consequences for wickedness and unbelief, so there are consequences for righteousness and perseverance. What is a cause for fear on the part of sinners is a cause for faith on the part of the righteous (1 Cor 15:58). As J. Vernon McGee once said, “God does not save anyone for his works, but He does reward us for our works. Our works (good or bad) are like tin cans tied to a dog’s tail; we cannot get away from them. They will follow us to the bema seat of Christ.”[44] Always remember the words of Hebrews 6:10: “For God is not unjust so as to forget your work.” He will reward you one day![45]

3. God will harvest the earth (14:14-20). In these remaining seven verses John sees an end-time harvest.[46] “Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was one like a son of man, having a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand. And another angel came out of the temple, crying out with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, ‘Put in your sickle and reap, for the hour to reap has come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe.’ Then He who sat on the cloud swung His sickle over the earth, and the earth was reaped.” Verse 14 describes one sitting on “a white cloud.” “The cloud” probably represents the glory of God. The whole description is very similar to Daniel’s prophecy of Messiah’s second coming (Dan 7:13-14). “Son of Man” is a messianic title of Jesus Christ in Scripture (cf. 1:13; Dan 7:13-14; Matt 8:20; 24:30; 26:64; John 5:27).

It seems clear that this “son of man” is Jesus Christ.[47] He is wearing a victor’s crown (stephanon) and holding a sharp sickle (drepanon oxy) with which He does the work of judging (cf. Mark 4:29). Since the sickle is sharp, the reaper can do His work swiftly and completely. “The harvest” is an Old Testament figure used for divine judgment (Hos 6:11; Joel 3:13). This judgment will occur at the end of the tribulation (19:17-21).[48]

God judges because He sees all the evil in the world and it angers Him. He must judge because He is loving and just. If He did not judge, He would be immoral. This is an easy concept to understand if you are a parent. There are times when I don’t want to discipline one of my children. I may be weary or frustrated or I may not have the heart to discipline. There have been times when Lori has said, “Keith, we must discipline for disobedience. We can’t make exceptions.” Since God is just and righteous, He must discipline His children and punish His enemies.

In 14:17-20, John continues to reveal God’s harvest judgment: “And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, and he also had a sharp sickle. Then another angel, the one who has power over fire, came out from the altar; and he called with a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, ‘Put in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, because her grapes are ripe.’ So the angel swung his sickle to the earth and gathered the clusters from the vine of the earth, and threw them into the great wine press of the wrath of God.[49] And the wine press was trodden outside the city, and blood came out from the wine press, up to the horses’ bridles, for a distance of two hundred miles.” In 14:18, another angel, the sixth in this chapter, came out from the golden altar of incense in heaven (8:3). This is probably an allusion to his responding to the tribulation saints’ prayers for vengeance from under the altar (6:9-10). His “power over fire” may indicate his authority to execute punishment.[50] In 14:19, the earth had yielded a crop of unbelievers that now, at the end of the tribulation, would come into judgment. The angel took them from the earth to undergo judgment in God’s great grape press (cf. Isa 63:1-6; Lam 1:15; Joel 3:13). The picture here is drawn from the imagery of the winepress. When grapes were put into the winepress, people inside it would stomp around on the grapes so that the juice would flow down into a collection vat. The treading of grapes was a familiar figure for the execution of divine wrath upon the enemies of God.

On Friday evening, we had some friends over for dinner. Lori was showing our guests her strawberry patch and she was distributing berries to the kids. Well, Justin, our middle child, took his berries and laid them on our back porch and began stomping on them. I felt my blood begin to boil when all of a sudden one of our guests said, “Look at the glee on his face.” At that very moment, I calmed myself and realized I had a sermon illustration. Many people think that God is like Justin. He stomps out his wrath and fury for no real purpose. Apparently, He has nothing better to do than to gleefully get His kicks out of being angry. I can assure you that nothing could be further from the truth. God’s wrath is His righteous response to man’s sin. He is loving and compassionate but He is also a righteous Judge.

In 14:20, we read a gruesome verse: “And the wine press was trodden outside the city, and blood came out from the wine press, up to the horses’ bridles, for a distance of two hundred miles.” Since the city in view escapes this judgment, Babylon is evidently not the city in view. It is instead Jerusalem. The Old Testament predicted that a final battle would take place near Jerusalem, in the valley of Jehoshaphat (i.e., the Kidron Valley just to the east of Jerusalem; Joel 3:12-14; Zech 14:4; cf. Rev 11:2). It seems probable that blood will literally flow up to the height of horses’ bridles (about four and one-half feet) in some places in that valley. Obviously many people will have to die for this amount of blood to flow.

Blood will come out from the wine press of God’s wrath for a distance of 200 miles (lit. 1,600 stadia),[51] the length of Palestine. Evidently, this figure describes the judgment that will take place all over Palestine, not just in the valley of Jehoshaphat. Much of this action will take place in the valley of Jezreel in northern Israel (i.e., the battle of Armageddon; 19:17,19). In that place God will put vast numbers of people to death (cf. Isa 63:1-6). The blood will evidently drain out of the Jezreel Valley for a distance of 200 miles, probably eastward down the Harod Valley, to the Jordan Valley, and south into the Dead Sea. What gruesome gore! Yet the central message is, God is not to be messed with! He will judge His enemies. He will be victorious over the Beast, the False Prophet, and all of Satan’s henchmen.

As we conclude this challenging passage, I can almost hear Jesus calling a timeout. If Jesus, the ultimate Head Coach, was to speak audibly right here right now, I believe He would say, “Christian, timeout! Stop for just a moment and evaluate your life. Are you living in light of my return? If not, when this timeout is over, get back in the game. I want you to win. I want you to strive for my glory and your good.” I believe He would then say, “Pre-Christian, timeout! Stop for just a moment and evaluate your eternity. Are you prepared to meet Me? If not, before this timeout is over, you must trust me as your Savior from sin. I want you to spend eternity with Me. There is still time but you must not put off believing in Me.”

In Christ’s first coming, He came as the meek Jesus, giving His life for the ransom of men, like a lamb silent before His shearer’s. But when He comes again, He will come as the mighty Conqueror in the full wrath of the holy God of the universe. But today is a day of grace. The invitation remains open to those who will trust in Christ and who will receive the grace of God to be saved from the coming wrath of the Lamb, which may be even at the door of our generation.

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

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[2] It is typically thought that the sealing of the 144,000 protected them from martyrdom. While this may be true, it is not specifically stated. Neither, I must add, are we told precisely what the 144,000 are sealed for (cf. Rev 7:3-4). It is generally assumed that these sealed Jewish saints are protected from martyrdom so that they may evangelize. They are thus thought by some to be the instruments of God for the salvation of the innumerable host (7:9-17). While this is possible, it is not stated. I am personally more inclined to see the emphasis fall on the stated fact (14:4) that they are first fruits to God, a guarantee of the salvation of the entire nation Israel.

[3] These scenes lay the groundwork for the seven bowl judgments.

[4] “Then I looked” or “And I saw” (kai eidon) introduces three scenes (14:1, 6, 14; cf. 13:1, 11).

[5] “Behold” (idou, cf. 14:14) calls special attention to the greatness of the sight that John saw here.

[6] See Rev 5:6, 8, 12-13; 6:1, 16 cf. John 1:29, 35.

[7] The word “standing” (estos) is in the perfect tense, which emphasizes completed action with abiding results. Jesus has taken his stand and reigns.

[8] E.g., Ps 48:1f; Isa 24:23; Joel 2:32; Zech 14:10; Rom 11:26. Some interpreters understand “Mount Zion” to be a reference to heaven (cf. Heb 12:22). Yet, “Zion” appears 162 times in the Bible and refers practically every time to a locality related to the city of Jerusalem. See Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 190.

[9] John did not identify the person who spoke from heaven. This could be the voice of Christ (cf. 1:15; Ezek 1:24; 43:2), the tribulation martyrs (7:10), an angel (cf. 6:1; Dan 10:6), or many angels (5:8, 11; 7:11; 19:6). Perhaps the last option is best in view of how John described it here and in the next verse (pl. “they sang”). These angels do not include the four living creatures and the 24 elders, however (14:3). See Thomas L. Constable, Revelation Notes (www.soniclight.com).

[10] This new song is somehow related to the new song of Rev 5:4 and 15:3.

[11] The argument that the 144,000 must be in heaven as they hear the song before the throne may be disputed. There is no statement to the effect that they hear the song, only the declaration that they alone can learn it. See John Walvoord, The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Chicago: Moody, 1966), 214.

[12] E.g., Ps 33:3; 40:3; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9; 149:1; Isa 42:10.

[13] Twice in 14:3-4, the 144,000 are said to have been “purchased.” The difference between these men and those who were defiled is to be found only the redemption, which Christ wrought on the cross. The only ones who are righteous are those who have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.

[14] This verse can also be understood figuratively. If this is correct, it would mean that the 144,000 had remained faithful to the Lord, as the NIV translation “they kept themselves pure” suggests (cf. 2 Kgs 19:21; Isa 37:22; Jer 18:13; 31:4, 21; Lam 2:13; Amos 5:2; 2 Cor 11:2).

[15] Cf. Phil 2:15; Heb 9:14; 1 Pet 1:19; Jude 24.

[16] Cf. Isa 53:9; Zeph 3:13; John 8:44; 1 Pet 2:22.

[17] The aorist passive verb “defiled” (emolunthesan) should be rendered “defiled themselves.” See BDAG, Electronic Ed, the ESV, and the NET Study Bible (http://www.bible.org/netbible/index.htm)

[18] I attribute the following insights to my friend, Bob Deffinbaugh’s unpublished notes on Revelation.

[19] Jesus seemed to esteem the single life. He spoke approvingly of those who voluntarily chose to live a celibate lifestyle (as eunuchs, Matt 19:12). He also used the term “virgins” to represent those who awaited the coming of His kingdom (Matt 25:1-13).

[20] The Old Testament established the concept of “holy war.” In such war, the soldier was to be very careful not to be defiled, lest it have a negative effect on the army of God. Achan’s sin, for example, brought defeat to the army of God (cf. Jos 7). So, too, strict sexual regulations were laid down concerning defilement (cf. Deut 23:9-14; Lev 15:16-18). This included the prohibition of marital sexual relationships in the case of war (cf. 1 Sam 21:4-5). Uriah is a stellar example of the dedication of a soldier, refusing the normal enjoyment of sex with his wife, because of the war in which he was engaged, all this in contrast to David, who took the war lightly, and who took Uriah’s wife to bed with him (2 Sam 11). This OT perspective is helpful to me, however, Thomas points out that during the tribulation, the 144,000 will not be called to fight but to lay down their lives (13:9-10). See Thomas, Revelation 8-22, 196.

[21] In two out of every three of its 66 occurrences in the Greek OT, the word “firstfruits” (aparche) refers to a contribution without the connotation of a larger harvest to follow (e.g., Num 5:9; Deut 18:4; 26:2; Ezek 48:8, 10, 20). See Thomas, Revelation 8-22, 198.

[22] “And I saw” (kai eidon) signals another scene of this vision on earth. In this one John heard four announcements that provide incentives for remaining faithful to God and resisting the beasts. Angels made the first three announcements, and a voice from heaven gave the fourth.

[23] He was flying in midheaven, so nothing hindered people on earth from hearing his words.

[24] The angel was to preach this message to everyone who “who dwell on the earth.” It is primarily the good news that God at last is about to deal with the world in righteousness and establish His sovereignty over the world.

[25] This is the first of six specific angels who individually participate in the events recorded in this chapter (14:8, 9, 15, 17, 18).

[26] I understand this proclamation to be the necessary fulfillment of the words of our Lord, when He said,

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations, and then the end shall come” (Matt 24:14).

[27] This is the only time that the word “gospel” (euaggelion) is used in Revelation.

[28] The phrase “the hour of His judgment has come” is a reference to the final judgments of the tribulation, the bowl judgments that are about to occur. These will conclude with the return of Christ Himself (Rev 19) and lead to the removal of all unbelievers. The emphasis then is to not delay because the time is short.

[29] The positive response to this invitation appears in Rev 15:4 and the negative response in 16:9, 11 and 21

[30] The city of Babylon was built by Nimrod after the flood and is infamous for the tower of Babel, which was a symbol of man’s pride and rebellion. It became the seat of Satan’s ancient counterfeit strategy to destroy and corrupt the knowledge of God as well as God’s plan of salvation as anticipated in Gen 3:15. The term “Babylon” is open to at least four major interpretations. (1) Babylon could be a reference to the literal rebuilt city of Babylon. (2) Babylon could be a reference to the worldly system symbolized by Babylon. (3) Babylon could be a reference to the religious system of the Beast. (4) Babylon could be a veiled reference to ancient Rome.

[31] In Revelation, “Babylon” seems to represent an entire world system in rebellion against God. The OT prophets often prophesied the fall of Babylon, the capital empire (Assyria) that destroyed Jerusalem and carried away God’s people into captivity. So here Babylon becomes a fitting image for a society that persecuted believers but which God will ultimately destroy. See Earl Radmacher, Ronald B. Allen, H. Wayne House, eds., Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1999), 1754.

[32] The combination of “wrath” (orges, settled indignation) and “anger” (thumou, vehement fury) stresses the reality and severity of God's hostility (cf. Num 12:9; 22:22).

[33] “He will be” is a first person singular verb. This is an experience everyone who rejects Christ must face alone. The torture will be physical, mental, and emotional. The lake of fire is prepared for Satan and his angels (Matt 25.41). It is not God’s desire for anyone to spend eternity there. Unbelievers make that choice of their own accord.

[34] “Fire and brimstone” refer to the ingredients or content of the lake of fire already prepared for Satan and his angels (Matt 25.41). These are one and the same. The lake is the place and the fire and brimstone the ingredients (Rev 20:10; Matt 25:41, 45; Rom 2:3-9; 2 Thess 1:6-9).

[35] “The smoke” evidently stands for their cries and pain which consume their purpose and meaning for existence. “Goes up” is a progressive present and means the smoke “keeps on ascending.” The torment never lets up. “For ever and ever” is literally “unto ages of ages.” This is without the article and stresses the qualitative idea of infinite duration. This is the strongest Greek expression for eternity. The word order is literally “unto ages of ages ascends up.” This passage shows the error of the view or belief that God will annihilate the unsaved. “And they have no rest day or night.” “No rest” (anapausis) signifies rest that comes from a temporary cessation from something. They won’t know even a moment’s rest from this torment. Remember it is “undiluted.” “Day or night” further emphasizes the concept of no rest.

[36] The Reformed doctrine called the perseverance of the saints is not exactly the same as eternal security. Eternal security says that once a person is saved he cannot lose his salvation. Perseverance says, however, much more than this. It says that all saved people will persevere in a life of godliness and holiness. While temporary times of sin and carnality may occur, no true believer will persist in such a state for very long. I believe the Bible teaches the eternal security of the believer.

[37] The present active participle terountes (“keep”) means, “to guard.” This is a military term. It means to stay on guard to God’s Word like a soldier standing on watch against the enemy. Those who “keep” the commandments God [apply the promises of the Word of God] can endure trial.

[38] The phrase “faith of Jesus” may mean either “faith in Jesus” or “faithful to Jesus.” Either translation implies that “Jesus” (Iesou) is to be taken as an objective genitive; the difference is more lexical than grammatical because “faith” (pistis) can mean either “faith” or “faithfulness.” See the NET Study Bible (http://www.bible.org/netbible/index.htm)

[39] “A. A. Hodge in his theology says there is no word more emphatic for eternal than the one used of hell in the New Testament. Leon Morris says the word was applied to an age that was never to end. Ajith Fernando in his outstanding book, A Universal Homecoming, reminds us that sixty-four times the same word is used to remind us of heaven’s eternality. Would it not be logical to conclude that in the seven occurrences of ‘eternal’ to describe the antithesis of these blessings (eternal punishment), the idea is that of duration without end? Hell's eternality is also talking of an unending, physical, real separation from God.” Preaching Today Citation: Ravi Zacharias, “The Lostness of Humankind,” Preaching Today, Tape No. 118.

[40] See also Bob Wilkin, Grace Evangelical News, June, 1991, 2-3.

[41] The text specifically states that from now on those who “die in the Lord” are blessed. I believe that the Bible teaches that those who die in the Lord are always blessed (cf. Ps 116:15; 2 Cor 5:1-10; 1 Thess 4:13-18, etc.). There is here, however, an indication to the saints that things will progressively get worse, before they get better. “From now on” keys in on the intensified persecution that lies ahead. If it has always been true that those who die in Christ are blessed, it will be particularly true in the last days of the tribulation.

[42] See Rev 1:10-11, 19; cf. 10:4, 8; 11:12; 14:2; 18:4; 21:3.

[43] This is the second of seven beatitudes in Revelation (cf. 1:3; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14).

[44] J. Vernon McGeee 5:1011.

[45] An example of a modern day eventual martyr is Philip Ghabboush is a beloved man in the eyes of Sudan. For years he has stood up against the injustices and persecution suffered by believers under the radical Islamic government. As a result he has been beaten and tortured. He told his torturers that he would die for the Truth saying, “My blood would speak louder than all the words spoken throughout my life.” He is continually watched and regularly threatened with death.

[46] Following the pattern of Joel 3:13, the scene furnishes two pictures of the same judgment for the same reason that Joel does, i.e., to emphasize the terror of it. The two reapings seem to describe a single judgment at the end of the great tribulation (19:15, 17-21). The vine may represent Israel and the wheat Gentiles.

[47] The person John saw was evidently Jesus Christ, though some commentators think he was an angel in view of Rev 14:15.

[48] Jesus also likens the final judgment to the harvest of the earth (Matt 13:30, 39).

[49] See Isa 63:1-6; cf. also Jer 6:9; Lam 1:15; Joel 3:13.

[50] It’s possible that the “fire” will burn the tares separated in the harvest (Matt 13:38-43).

[51] Gk “1,600 stades.” A stade was a measure of length about 607 ft (185 m). Thus the distance here would be 184 mi or 296 km.

“The End is in Sight” (Revelation 15:1-8)

Last month while I was in Russia, I taught a class on the judgment seat of Christ. This particular class took place on a Tuesday afternoon in 104-degree heat. The seminary classroom was packed with sweaty and smelly male bodies. Visiting professors were required to wear dress shirts and ties. I was in front of the class, teaching away, and because it was so hot, I was about ready to “give up the ghost.” I was nearly praying for the rapture to occur. While I’m teaching the students are practically dropping like flies. They are hurting even more than I am. As I entered the last 30-minute stretch, I said, “I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.” Since I had to use a translator, the dramatic pause before the punch line was beautiful. I then said, “It’s an oncoming train!” I’m not kidding, the class erupted with laughter! You would have thought this was the funniest joke ever told. This one-liner sustained the students and me for the rest of the class.[1]

As we look at Revelation 15, we will be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, in this case, it’s not a train; it’s our great and glorious God. Revelation 15 is the shortest chapter in the whole book, just eight verses long. It doesn’t give us any new information of events of the tribulation. Rather, it is a prelude to the last round of judgments that God is going to send upon the earth. It is as though the Lord is warning, “Brace yourself, I have not yet finished judging the wickedness of the earth, there is more to come.” Revelation 15 is an introduction to the beginning of the end![2] It reminds us that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. In these eight verses, we are encouraged to celebrate God’s work in two ways.

1. Celebrate God’s ultimate victory (15:1-4). In 15:1, John sees[3] another vision. This time he sees “another[4] sign in heaven, great and marvelous, seven angels[5] who had seven plagues,[6] which are the last,[7] because in them the wrath[8] of God is finished.” The word “sign” refers to a symbol that is used to signify and teach an important truth. Here, the sign is the seven angels who control seven last plagues.[9] These plagues refer to the final series of judgments that will come on the Beast, his system, and his worshippers (16:1-21). The sign is called “great” because of the awesome power of the judgments. It is called “marvelous” because it represents the final vindication of God’s people and His divine judgment against everything evil and wicked. These “seven plagues”[10] complete or finish God’s wrath (15:1-19:5). The verb “finished” means “reaches its goal” rather than “comes to an end.” Other expressions of God’s wrath come later (cf. 20:10). During the tribulation period, the judgments (the seals, trumpets, and bowls) are progressive, each worse than the last. However, these last seven judgments, the bowl judgments, are in a category of their very own. They represent God’s final response to the world’s unrepentant wickedness.

The lesson here is: Whenever we fail to repent in answer to God’s initial corrections and judgments, we can be sure that He will escalate our discomfort and hem us in with the purpose of turning us back to Himself. It is an act of His love to protect us from continuing on a course of spiritual self-destruction. But for those who fail to respond to His loving rebukes, He will inevitably pour out His final wrath.

In 15:2, John sees “something like a sea of glass mixed with fire,[11] and those who had been victorious over the beast and his image and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of God.” The “sea of glass” was first revealed in 4:6 and functioned as a mirror, reflecting God’s glory and majesty. The sea is also symbolic of God’s purity, holiness, and separation from His creation (cf. Exod 24:10; Ezek 1:22). The sea is “mixed with fire,” which suggests the judgment that is about to come. The people standing on this sea are not identified. However, it is likely that they are tribulation martyrs (6:9-11; 7:9-17; 12:11; 14:1-5, 13). These have overcome[12] the Beast, his image, and the number of his name (cf. Rev 12:11). The Beast refers to the Antichrist and his political system.

The image of the Beast refers to religious pressure to reject Christ, brought about by the False Prophet. Finally, the number of his name refers to economic pressure to reject Christ.[13]

In a strict sense, these saints did not prevail “over” the Beast, for his downfall only comes with the return of Christ, when he will be cast into the lake of fire (19:11-21). These saints are victors literally “from” him (cf. 14:13). The Greek preposition ek is used three times in 15:2. The word means “out of, from, away from.” Therefore, a better rendering of 15:2 speaks of the saints being victorious “from the beast, from his image, and from the number of his name” (see the NASB side or center column reference). Paradoxical as it may seem, “Christian” victory is often achieved by apparent defeat. We overcome by losing. Those who overcome the Beast are not those who worship him, so as to live, but those who worship God, so as to die. Death is the way to life and to victory. Christ overcame the world by dying to it and so do we. In God’s kingdom it is those who would save their lives who lose them, and those who would lose their lives who save them (cf. Matt 10:38-39).

In 15:2, John also sees these victorious saints “holding harps of God.” Only four groups are mentioned as having harps in heaven: living creatures, elders (5:8), heavenly singers (14:2), and these tribulation saints. Harps were not given to all the martyred dead (cf. 7:9-17). The harps have a privileged position before God’s throne. They contribute greatly to the heavenly harmony of the chorus that the redeemed offer to God.[14]

Often those who have been persecuted the most worship the most. Why is this? Typically, it is because these saints arrive at the realization that they have nothing or no one but God. The things of this world pass away. They are seen as fleeting and empty. This explains why often believers in other parts of the world worship with such fervency. The Lord is their life! If you’ve had a tough week and you’re feeling beat up by relationships, work, and the realities of life, be encouraged, the Lord is leading you into a fuller worship experience. He wants you to see Him as your all in all.

John writes that these victors, “sang the song of[15] Moses,[16] the bond-servant of God, and the[17] song of the Lamb, saying, ‘Great and marvelous[18] are Your works,[19] O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Your ways,[20] King of the nations!’” The Song of Moses was a celebration of God’s miraculous deliverance from the wrath of the angel of death in Egypt, by means of the blood of lambs applied to the doorframes of their houses (Exod 15).[21] It was also a celebration of God’s deliverance from the Egyptian army as they passed through the Red Sea and their enemies were swept away. This great deliverance under Moses was a foreshadowing of the great deliverance that was accomplished by the true Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, whose blood must be applied by faith, to the heart of every man and woman who desires to be spared the wrath of God and delivered from His enemies.

What is the song of the Lamb?  The Song of the Lamb emphasizes the redemptive work and plan of God in Christ and His promise of deliverance through Christ’s shed blood on the cross (cf. 5:9-10). Both songs, the Song of Moses and the Song of the Lamb, are the response of grateful hearts celebrating God’s merciful deliverance.

The first part of this song extols God’s person and His works. This is the recipe for worship. We cannot worship the Lord until we know something about His person and work. I’m often asked to provide letters of recommendation or serve as a reference for people. In order to accurately recommend a person, I need to know the person. I also need to be familiar with his/her accomplishments. Both are necessary. There is a parallel in our relationship with God. We need to know His person and works.

How well do you know God’s person? Have you ever studied the attributes of God? Have you ever read a book on the character of God? A couple of classics come to mind: “The Knowledge of the Holy” by A.W. Tozer and “Knowing God” by J.I. Packer.

Another book worth purchasing is “Close to His Majesty” by David Needham. This book had a great impact on my wife Lori, during our Bible college days. Tony Evans has written an excellent book called “Our God is Awesome.” There are many books out there. If you’re interested, I will be glad to recommend others. It is worth reading a book a year on God.

How much time do you spend pondering the great works of God? Psalm 111:2 says, “Great are the works of the LORD; they are studied by all who delight in them.” Do you know what God has accomplished down throughout human history? Have you seen that history is really His-story? Have you shared God’s great works with your children, grandchildren, and fellow believers?

John continues the song in 15:4: “Who will not fear, O Lord,[22] and glorify Your name?[23] For You alone are holy; for ALL THE NATIONS WILL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE YOU,[24] FOR YOUR RIGHTEOUS ACTS HAVE BEEN REVEALED.” It is inevitable that everyone fears God and glorifies Him. The rhetorical questions make this crystal clear (cf. 13:4). This will happen after He finishes judging (cf. Ps 86:8-10; Jer 10:7). “The Song of the Lamb” concludes with three reasons for bringing glory to God (note the three-fold repetition of the word “for”). First, God is holy. The word used for “holy” (hosios)[25] is an unusual term that means God is devout or absolutely right in vindicating persecuted believers and judging wicked earth-dwellers. Holiness means that God, by His very nature, demands that sin be punished. God cannot overlook sin. If He did, He would be violating His holiness. Sin must be punished. That’s why Jesus had to die on the cross. It was necessary to punish sin. The only way in which God can be both merciful to sinners and maintain His holiness was for God to punish our sin in Christ.

Have you personally experienced the freedom of having your sins forgiven? Do you have full confidence that you will spend eternity with God? What are you basing that confidence upon? The Bible makes it clear that salvation and assurance only come through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Today, will you trust in person and work of Christ?

The second reason to glorify God’s name is all the nations will come and worship before the Lord. During the tribulation, it will seem that the world is worshipping the Antichrist. He will appear to have succeeded in his mission. Yet this verse points to Rev 21:24-26 when all the nations will come to acknowledge God. In that day, the nations will worship God when Christ returns because He will have purged the earth. No one will say in that day, “Look at man and what man has accomplished.” They will say, “Look at God’s plan for creation. It came to fulfillment just as He promised.”

It is worth mentioning that the phrase “all the nations” is the same phrase found in the Great Commission (Matt 28:19; Luke 24:47; cf. Zech 14:16). It expresses the scope of God’s discipleship agenda. Again, God’s plan is so much bigger than you and me. His plan includes every tribe, tongue, people, and nation. Do you share God’s heart? Are you passionate about what He is doing in other parts of the world? Amidst your busy schedule, do you keep yourself informed? I find that my passion for the Lord and His work can decline when I’m not keeping current on His progress throughout the world. Do you have a subscription to mission magazines and newsletters? There are several that have been very helpful to me: Gospel for Asia’s Send magazine, Voice of the Martyrs, and Open Doors. These mission agencies will send you a free subscription to various resources with the hope that you will be educated and devoted to prayer. Will you go online today and get on the mailing list of one of these organizations? If you do not have Internet access, will you call our church office and we will be happy to give you contact information? God will change your life as He widens your perspective of His program.

The third reason to glorify God is because His righteous acts have been revealed. This statement is in contrast to the Antichrist’s wickedness. This refers to God’s tribulation judgments in particular.

Of course, this also reminds us of God’s many works down throughout history. God has accomplished so much in each of our lives. We must actively recount His many acts. What a powerful song!

Let me ask you a very simple question: What is your “song”? What is the preoccupation of your life; the theme of your worship? How is this expressed to God?

[We have seen that we are called to celebrate God’s ultimate victory. In 15:5-8, we are also called to…]

2. Celebrate God’s final judgments (15:5-8). In 15:5, John writes, “After these things I looked, and the temple of the tabernacle of testimony in heaven was opened.”6 The phrase “after these things I looked”[26] indicates a transition to a new vision and a new subject: the bowl judgments. John saw the heavenly temple opened. Although this is debated, the Bible seems to indicate by this passage and others that there is a literal temple in heaven. Hebrews 8 and 9 seems to argue for the earthly tabernacle being a “copy” of the heavenly (cf. 8:2, 5; 9:23-24). Remember, the point of the tabernacle and temple was to present a Christology for us to see. All the furniture and functions of the temple were a testimony to Christ. The phrase “the temple of tabernacle of testimony” refers to the temple as the building that housed God’s law, which the earth-dwellers disregard.[27] God was now going to hold them to it and judge them by it.

In 15:6, John continues his vision: “and the seven angels who had the seven plagues came out of the temple, clothed in linen,[28] clean and bright, and girded around their chests with golden sashes.” The seven angels now came out from God’s presence (cf. 15:1). Each of them had received a plague (judgment) from God (cf. 8:2). Their clean linen garments represent holiness and righteousness (cf. 19:8, 14), and their golden sashes mark them as on a punitive mission (cf. 1:18). Their clothing fits their purpose, which is to purify the earth.[29]

Our passage concludes in 15:7-8: “Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever. And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power; and no one was able to enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished.” In 15:7, one of the living creatures (4:6) gave each angel a bowl full of God’s wrath.[30] Only once elsewhere in the New Testament is this same expression “golden bowls” found, and that is in Rev 5:8-9. In chapter 5, the golden bowls are filled with the prayers of the saints, while in chapter 15 they are filled with the wrath of God. The identification of these two sets of golden bowls as the same bowls is not simply the result of the fact that they are described by the same terminology. There is also the parallel of Revelation 8, where the prayers of the saints are mixed with incense, and then with fire, and then cast to the earth in the form of the plagues. It seems evident that God has transformed the prayers of the saints (once contained in the golden bowls) to the plagues of the final series of judgments about to be poured out on the earth (now contained in the same golden bowls). The prayers of the righteous thus become the plagues of Revelation 15 and 16.

Verse 7 includes the important phrase “who lives forever and ever.” This ascribes eternality to God. This is a solemn reminder that God, as the eternal One, is first a long-suffering God. For centuries God has withheld his judgment in grace (2 Pet 3:8-9). At this point, not only will God’s period of grace be over, but once God pours out His justice in divine wrath it will have eternal ramifications. Through the Lord Jesus Christ man has the opportunity and the means to come to God and be with Him eternally, but if he rejects God’s grace in Jesus Christ, he must eternally face God’s wrath (14:11).

In 15:8, the temple is filled with smoke. “Smoke” frequently represents God’s glory and power.[31] John tells us that this smoke proceeds from two sources: First, from “the glory of God.” The word “glory” refers to God’s divine essence, righteousness, and justice. Together they form the holiness of God. Second, the smoke proceeds from “His power.” The word “power” refers to God’s inherent and sovereign capacity to execute and carry out the demands of His holy character.

No one could enter God’s presence until He had finished judging the earth-dwellers. This indicates the climactic nature of these judgments.[32] It is also an ongoing reminder that God’s glory is always manifested during the time of His judgment.

The end is in sight. Fortunately, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The Light is the Lord Jesus Christ.  In John 12:35-36, Jesus spoke these words to a crowd: “‘For a little while longer the Light is among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes. While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light.’ These things Jesus spoke and He went away and hid Himself from them.”

If you want to be able to celebrate God’s ultimate victory and final judgments you must have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Will you step out of the darkness and into the Light?

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

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[2] Rev 12-14 prepares us for the final outworking of God’s wrath by highlighting the wickedness, which needs to be put aside, and the wicked that need to be punished. Rev 15 draws our attention to the righteous, whose reward is to worship in the presence of God, and whose martyrdom is one of the principle reasons for the wrath, which is to come.

[3] “Then I saw” (kai eidon) again introduces a new scene, this time in heaven (cf. Rev 13:1, 11; 14:1, 6, 14; 15:2, 5).

[4] The former “signs” (semeion) were the woman and the Dragon (cf. Rev 12:1, 3).

[5] These angels appear seven times as a group (15:6, 7, 8; 16:1; 17:1; 21:9) and nine times individually (15:2, 3, 4, 8, 10, 12, 17; 17:7; 21:9).

[6] The seven plagues and seven bowls used in this chapter refer to the same judgments. The use of different terms is designed to display the different aspects and character of these last judgments. They are plague-like calamities, and each is poured out suddenly, all at once as the contents of a bowl when it is turned over.

[7] We have come to the third and final series of judgments of God upon the earth. In Rev 6 there were the seal judgments. In 8:1-11:13 there were the trumpet judgments. Now, in Rev 15, we come to the final series of judgments, known as the “bowl” judgments. In each series of judgments, the seventh of the sequence blossoms into the seven judgments of the next sequence (cf. 8:1-2; 10:7; 11:15-18). Between the sixth and seventh judgments, there is an intermission, which serves to prepare the reader for what follows. Chapter 7 separates the sixth and seventh seals, and Rev 12-15 separate the sixth trumpet from the beginning of the final series of the seven bowl judgments.

[8] In the Greek language there are two words used for God’s “anger.” There is orge (“anger”), which emphasizes the divine attitude toward sin as it proceeds from the holiness of God. But then there is thumos (“wrath”), which points to the expression of God’s anger or God’s holiness in action or His wrath overflowing in righteous indignation. Here we have the last and final judgments of the tribulation, but they will also perfectly accomplish God’s righteous purposes through this seven-year period. See Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Foundation, 1997), 273.

[9] There is a good reason why the seven final plagues are introduced in Rev 15:1, but not commenced until 16:1. The literary style of Revelation prepares us for the momentary shift from the scene on earth to that in heaven. The seventh seal commences the trumpet judgments in 8:1, but before the trumpets begin to sound in 8:6 and following, 8:3-5 take the reader into heaven, where the prayers of the martyred saints are added to the incense of the altar and offered up to God. Fire, in turn, is added to the censor by an angel, and it is this fiery mixture, which is cast to the earth. The point of this parenthesis is that the prayers of the saints are transformed into the plagues, which follow. A very similar situation occurs in Rev 15. The seven final plagues are introduced in 15:1, but 15:2-4 forms a parenthesis, so that the seven angels and the seven plagues are not taken up again until 15:5-8. It is not until Rev 16 that the plagues actually commence. Rev 15:2-4 are intended to inform the reader that the presence and the praise of the “victors” are directly related to the judgment, which is soon to follow. The praise and adoration of the “victors” of 15:2-4 is one of the principle causes of the outpouring of the wrath of God, which follows. See Bob Deffinbaugh, God’s Final Word on the Last Times: A Study in the Book of Revelation, Unpublished Notes.

[10] This construction (lit. “the seven plagues, the last ones”) draws our attention to the fact these are the last of God’s judgments of this period and suggests the preceding judgments (seven seals and trumpets) were also plagues.

[11] The “sea of glass” is likely a reference to the laver or bronze bowl [shallow saucer] that the priests used to wash their hands for purification purposes while serving at the altar of the tabernacle or the temple (1 Kgs 7:23). But here, the laver instead of being filled with water it is mixed with fire, which, as a symbol of judgment.

[12] “Victorious” (nikontas) is the same verb translated “overcome” at the end of each message to the seven churches (Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21).

[13] See also Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Holman, 1997), 271.

[14] John F. Walvoord, The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Chicago: Moody, 1966), 227.

[15] In the case of both songs, the genitive “of” is probably subjective: Moses and the Lamb were responsible for these songs, not the subjects of them.

[16] The difficulty we face with the song is that the name given it poses a number of problems for the scholars. First, the text seems to suggest that there are actually two songs: “the song of Moses” and “the song of the Lamb” (15:3).  This is somewhat troubling in the light of the fact that there is only one rather short song in Rev 15.  Secondly, it is difficult to determine which “songs” of the Scriptures can be identified as “the song of Moses,” and “the song of the Lamb.”  The words of this “song” in chapter 15 do not precisely duplicate those of any one song in the Bible. Bible scholars thus disagree as to what former songs this song of the victors is based upon.

[17] The definite article “the” (ten) appears before the title of both songs in 15:3, which implies that these are songs known to the reader. If John had written that they sang “a song of Moses,” our dilemma would not exist.

[18] Both “great” and “marvelous” appear elsewhere separately, but only in Rev 15:1 and 3 together. There is an obvious attempt on John’s part to show the connection between the “greatness and marvelousness” of the seven final plagues and the “greatness and marvelousness” of God. This is especially significant in the light of the fact that the unbelieving world marveled at the greatness of the Beast (cf. 14:3-4). No doubt John is saying that the last plagues far outclass the wonders accomplished by the Beast and his prophet, thus manifesting the sovereignty of God and His superiority over men and their meager might.

[19] See Psalm 111:2-3: “Great are the works of the LORD; they are studied by all who delight in them. Splendid and majestic is His work, And His righteousness endures forever.”

[20] See Psalm 145:17: “The LORD is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds.”

[21] Moses recorded two songs in praise of God’s faithfulness and deliverance of the Israelites. Of these, the one in Exodus 15 seems slightly more appropriate for these martyrs to echo than the one in Deuteronomy 32 because it is a song of victory. Nevertheless, they both contain similar emphases.

[22] Luke 12:4-5: “I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!” (cf. Matt 10:28)

[23] Exodus 15:11: “Who is like You among the gods, O LORD? Who is like You, majestic in holiness, Awesome in praises, working wonders?”

[24] Psalm 86:9-10: “All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your name. For You are great and do wondrous deeds; You alone are God.”

[25] Gk. hosios is used in the NT only in Acts 2:27; 13:34-35; 1 Tim 2:8; Tit 1:8; Heb 7:26; Rev 15:4; 16:5.

[26] Gk. meta tauta eidon, see Rev 4:1; 7:9; 18:1.

[27] See Exod 32:15; 38:21; Num 1:50, 53; 10:11; 17:7-8; 18:2; Acts 7:44.

[28] The word “linen” (linon) is unusual and is not found elsewhere in the NT applied to clothing. John may have in mind the multicolored linen used to make the tabernacle and to make the high priest’s robes (Exod 36:8; 39:2). See Easley, Revelation, 274.

[29] Clean, shining linen was the standard dress code required in the Holy of Holies and symbolized their purity and righteousness (Ezek 44:17).

[30] The priests in Israel’s earthly temple also used bowls in their worship (1 Kgs 7:50; 2 Kgs 12:13; 25:15).

[31] Cf. Exod 19:18; 40:34; 1 Kgs 8:10-11; 2 Chron 5:11-14; 7:1-3; Isa 6:4; Ezek 11:23; 44:4.

[32] Rev 15 is really more of a prelude to Rev 16 than a conclusion to Rev 12-14. Chapters 12-14 record prophetically historical information about the great tribulation but not in the chronological sequence of the three sets of seven judgments (seals, trumpets, and bowls). Chapter 15 is similar to 8:1 in that it prepares for the next set of judgments. It prepares for the resumption of the chronological progression of events on earth that ended temporarily in 11:19.

“The Super Bowls” (16:1-21)

For many Americans, the greatest Sunday of the year is “Super Bowl Sunday.” The Super Bowl is the National Football League Championship. It takes place every January. I came across some Super Bowl Sunday Fun Facts that I would like to share with you:[1]

·         Most Super Bowls generate $100 million in merchandise sales bearing the Super Bowl logo.

·         The Super Bowl is the top at-home party event of the year, surpassing New Year’s Eve.

·         Super Bowl Sunday is the second largest day of food consumption per year, surpassed only by Thanksgiving.

·         The average number of people attending a Super Bowl party is 17.

·         Ninety-five percent of Super Bowl watchers watch with at least one other person.

·         Nine of the 10 most-watched TV programs of all time are Super Bowls.

·         An estimated 14,500 tons of chips and 4,000 tons of popcorn are eaten on Super Bowl Sunday.

·         The California Avocado Commission says that on Super Bowl Sunday, Americans scarf down eight million pounds of guacamole.

·         Sales of antacids increase 20 percent the day after Super Bowl Sunday.

·         Six percent of Americans will call in sick the day after Super Bowl Sunday.

·         Fifty-four percent of all Americans will drink coffee the morning after.

·         Super Bowl Weekend is the slowest weekend for weddings.

·         Sales of large screen TVs increase five times during Super Bowl Week.

·         Fans spend an average of $15 on food and drink at the stadium during Super Bowl.

·         Fans spend an average of $15 on souvenirs at the stadium.

·         Fans spend more than $50 million on food during the four days of the Super Bowl Weekend.

·         Fourteen miles of soft-drink pipeline leading to 160 dispensers serve fans at the game.[2]

If you think this is both impressive and bizarre, you haven’t seen anything yet. This June morning, it is “Super Bowls Sunday”! However, I won’t be preaching on football (sorry men). Rather, I will be preaching a message on “The Super Bowls” that are found in Revelation 16. These judgments are both impressive and bizarre. They are also God’s most intense and horrible judgments. Everything starts to die. The seals judgments destroyed a quarter of the earth and the trumpets judgments a third of the earth. The bowls will affect the whole earth. Moreover, while the seals and trumpets affected the people indirectly, the bowls are poured out directly on people. Let’s examine these judgments and their significance to our lives.

Verse 1 begins with a heavenly command. John writes, “Then I heard a loud voice from the temple, saying to the seven angels, ‘Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of the wrath of God.’” The “loud voice” John hears belongs to God (cf. 15:8; 16:17).[3] The word translated “loud” is the Greek adjective megas. Megas means “great or large.”[4] Our English translations somewhat obscure an important emphasis of this chapter because of the various ways they have translated this word. The NASB, for instance, translates megas with “loud,” “fierce,” “great,” “huge,” and “severe,” all good translations, but the English reader might not notice that megas is used eleven times in this chapter in connection with its events: There is a “great” voice (16:1, 17); heat (16:9); river (16:12); day (16:14); earthquake (16:18, twice); city (16:19); Babylon (16:19); hail (16:21); and plague (16:21).[5] Since all of these “greats” are related to the plagues, we are compelled to take this series of judgments most seriously.   This emphasizes the intensity or unprecedented nature of what will begin to take place on earth at this point in the tribulation.[6] The fact that God tells all seven angels to “pour out”[7] “the seven bowls”[8] seems to indicate that these judgments will follow each other in rapid succession. The final act of history has begun.

Now we will look at the seven bowl judgments. The first four bowl plagues are poured out on the natural realm (16:1-9). The remaining three bowls are poured out on the Beast’s throne (16:10-21).

1. The First Bowl: terrible sores (16:2). This bowl resulted in “loathsome” (evil)[9] and “malignant” (painful) sores. This is an abscessed or ulcerous sore, often caused by infection.[10] Have you ever had a canker sore? I have been plagued with canker sores over the course of my life. I have had up to a dozen in my mouth and throat at the same time! These sores have always been my “thorn in the flesh.” Fortunately, they only occur in the mouth. Can you imagine if you had a case of canker sores over your entire body? You would be unable to walk, sit, or lie down without pain. Such will be the case during the tribulation for those who experience these sores. It will be nearly impossible to get along with other people. People think they have relational struggles now; during this period of the tribulation, relationships will reach an all-time low. Since medical supplies will be exhausted in a few days with such a universal disaster, the world’s population will have to suffer from sores that nothing can cure.

It is important to see that these sores break out “on the people who had the mark of the beast and who worshiped his image.” This plague and those that follow are not the expression of God’s wrath against sin in general, nor are they punishments for individual wrongdoing. The judgment comes from God because of the world’s allegiance to God’s supreme opponent.[11] Since these people received the Antichrist’s mark (13:16-18; 14:9-10), God adds His mark to them as well. They begin to pay the penalty for their allegiance.[12]

It’s not always best to follow the crowd (see Matt 7:13-14). The crowd might be going away from God and turn you away from God. Judgment is sure to follow. Are you currently involved in practices that warrant the chastening of God? Now is the time to “get right.” Don’t put it off.

2. The Second Bowl: sea turns to blood (16:3). This judgment results in the destruction of all sea life. Imagine all the world’s oceans and seas turning to blood “like that of a dead man.” In the second trumpet judgment, one-third of all sea life perished (Rev 8:8-9). The emphasis here is greater with the phrase “every living thing in the sea died.” Quite frankly, this is far beyond our comprehension. The stench alone would make most people want to die.

3. The Third Bowl: inland waters turn to blood (16:4-7). Not only are the world’s oceans and seas affected, so are the fresh bodies of water (“the rivers and the springs”).[13] Even these “became blood.” This resembles the first Egyptian plague where the Nile River and its tributaries were turned into blood and all the fish died (Exod 7:14-21). This is not a time for the ecologists. All of their dire predictions will come true. There will be no fresh water to drink on the earth. We think of the value of oil in the earth. Nations fight over it; wars are waged because of it. During this period of judgment, fresh water to drink will be more valuable than oil! After all, people cannot exist long without any water to drink. We take water for granted. May we never do so again!

Verses 5-7 explain why God turns all the world’s waters to blood. John hears a hymn that glorifies God’s justice: “And I heard the angel of the waters saying, ‘Righteous are You, who are and who were, O Holy One, because You judged these things; for they poured out the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. They deserve it.’ And I heard the altar saying, ‘Yes, O Lord God, the Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments.’” The “angel of the waters” evidently refers to the angel responsible for the sea and fresh water, the superintendent of God’s water department.[14] This angel attributes righteousness and holiness to the eternal[15] God for His judgment (cf. 15:3-4; Gal 6:7). He affirms that those guilty of slaying the saints (Israel) and prophets (two witnesses) deserve what they get. The tribulation martyrs from under the altar also acknowledge God’s judgments as “true and righteous” (6:9; 15:3-4).[16] Because the earth-dwellers poured out the blood of God’s saints and prophets, they will drink blood. He makes the punishment fit the crime (cf. Isa 49:26).[17]

Think about this for a moment. How could an earthly judge be called just if he refused to condemn a wicked man and sentence him to be punished? How could a policeman be praised for standing by as a helpless victim was being robbed and beaten by a brutal assailant? God is just because He is angered by sin and He does something about it. While His delay is the manifestation of God’s grace, the judgment of Rev 16 is the manifestation of God’s holiness. A God who refuses to respond to man’s sin is not worthy of praise. The Almighty God of Rev 16 is praised because He has judged men for their sins.[18]

Two principles can be found in 16:6-7: First, the world will one day pay for its treatment of believers (Rom 12:19). They rejected those who preached, and offered them the “water of life.” God judges them for it by turning their water to blood. Second, because the world rejected the blood that brings forth life (Jesus), God poured out blood that brings forth death. The lesson is clear: reject what the blood of Jesus gave to save you and you will perish for eternity.

4. The Fourth Bowl: the sun scorches people (16:8-9). The fourth trumpet judgment darkened the sun (8:12), but this judgment increases the sun’s intensity.[19] The Beast-worshippers[20] will be scorched on top of sores (16:2) and there will be no fresh water to drink to give people relief from the heat! The world rejected the S-O-N, now God sends the S-U-N to judge them.

Previously, some people repented because of the earthquake in Jerusalem (11:13), but now none do. Instead of repenting and giving God glory,[21] the Beast-worshippers blaspheme God. They recognize His sovereignty, but they refuse to honor Him as sovereign.[22] They have now taken on the character of the god whom they serve (13:5-6). This means blaming God for the first four plagues, rather than blaming their own sinfulness.[23] There is a real progression of rebellion in this chapter. Initially, those who dwell on the earth “blaspheme the name of God” (16:9), but later they go on to “curse the God of heaven” (16:11). Finally, as a result of the deception of the “frog-like demons” (16:13-14), and the leadership of the kings whom the demons have deceived (16:14), the men of the earth seem to gather at Armageddon in a futile attempt to overthrow God by waging war with Him (16:16). When the pain gets great enough, people do one of two things: repent or blaspheme. Sadly, most will blaspheme and curse God. This reveals that the human heart is incurably wicked.[24] No amount of punishment will purify it and change it (Eph 2:1). God must actively draw rebellious men to Himself (John 6:44).

5. The Fifth Bowl: the Beast’s throne in darkness and pain (16:10-11). The darkening of the Anti-christ’s throne (i.e., government) causes great pain.[25] From a scorching sun to debilitating darkness![26] They will be groping around in pitch black running into things, hitting and bumping their sores and scorched skin.[27]  As we have noted, there are terrible sores, an increase of heat, and an absence of water. Everyone on earth will no doubt be real testy. Imagine three little kids in the back seat of a car on a long car trip without water and air conditioning. Now multiply their reaction ten-fold and you probably have a good picture of what it will be like on planet earth. There will be great chaos, pain, and agony!

This is just a preview of the hell that is to come (Matt 8:12; 13:42). Those who reject Christ will spend eternity in darkness. But this ultimate fate is unnecessary. Hell was not prepared for humans. It was prepared for the Devil and his angels (Matt 25:41). There was another time when there was darkness on the earth (Matt 27:45). Jesus endured three hours of darkness on the cross to take away our sin. God couldn’t look upon the face of His dear Son, as every despicable sin known to mankind was placed upon Jesus. God hid the face of Jesus in darkness so we could have the “light of life.” Here, the world rejects the Light so God gives them darkness.

6. The Sixth Bowl: preparation for final war (16:12-16). In these five verses, three critical events take place: The Euphrates dries up[28] (16:12); the false trinity gathers kings for battle (16:13-14); and the kings gather at Armageddon (16:16).

The problem that the sixth bowl poses for earth-dwellers is not a result of the judgment itself but its consequences: war. It does not inflict a plague on people but serves as a preparation for a series of final battles. The Euphrates River forms the eastern boundary of the land God promised to Israel.[29] This river, sometimes called the “great river,” flows some 1,800 miles from its source on the slopes of Mt. Ararat to the Persian Gulf. Now God supernaturally dries up this river that had previously turned into blood (16:4) so the kings of the East can cross with their armies.[30]

The reason for this battle is given in 16:13-14. This battle is inspired by the false trinity to overthrow the true Trinity. The Dragon, Beast, and False Prophet[31] will evidently join in making a proclamation that will mobilize the armies of the world to converge on Palestine.[32] The three unclean spirits that proceed from their mouths are demons.[33] These demons resemble frogs in that they are unclean and loathsome (cf. Lev 11:10-11, 41).[34] The demons persuade the kings, but their decision is something that God, the ultimate cause, puts in their hearts (17:17). The nations are moving according to God’s plan. Movements of armies, confederations of nations, and worldwide opposition to God cannot thwart God’s purposes. Men may think they can do as they please but in reality they are accomplishing the plans and purposes of God.

These kings from all over the world will gather to destroy Israel.[35] That is why the armies converge in Palestine. When Jesus Christ returns to earth, specifically to the Mount of Olives (Zech 14:1-4), they will unite in opposing Him. However, God’s sovereign hand will be regulating Satan’s activities (Zech 14:2). This will not be the day of Satan’s triumph but that of “God, the Almighty” (16:14). He will show Himself supreme in this climactic battle (cf. Joel 2:31).

In the midst of this end-times scenario, there is a parenthetical statement in 16:15: “Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed[36] is the one who stays awake and keeps his clothes, so that he will not walk about naked and men will not see his shame.” Jesus Christ Himself evidently gave this invitation and warning (cf. 3:3, 18). It is an encouragement directed to the Christian readers of this prophecy during the church age, before the tribulation begins.[37] By the time the sixth bowl is poured out believers who have not taken refuge (12:13-17) will have suffered martyrdom (13:15; 14:1-5, 13; 15:2). Therefore, there will be no believers on the earth by the time the sixth bowl judgment occurs.[38]

This section concludes in 16:16 with the armies of the world gathering together “to the place which in Hebrew is called Har-Magedon.” We sometimes hear people speak of “the battle of Armageddon,” but nowhere does the Bible use that phrase.[39] The name Armageddon comes from two Hebrew words, har and Megiddo. The word har literally means “mountain or hill.” The word Megiddo means either “place of troops” or “place of slaughter.” Interestingly, there is no Mount Megiddo.[40] There is only a city and a plain called Megiddo in northern Palestine in the valley of Jezreel.[41]

Although the phrase “battle of Armageddon” is a familiar one, it is somewhat misleading for two reasons: First, it is not a single battle but rather a whole series of conflicts that culminate at Jesus’ second coming. The word “war” (polemos) in 16:14 signifies a war or campaign, while mache signifies a battle, and sometimes even single combat. Second, this plain of Megiddo is 14 miles wide and 20 miles long.[42] This area is not large enough to contain armies from all over the world, so this must be the assembly area for a much larger deployment that covers a 200-mile distance from north to south and the width of Palestine from east to west (cf. Rev 14:20). Several other locations are also mentioned in the Scriptures, other than Megiddo; namely Jerusalem, the valley of Jehoshaphat (an area east of Jerusalem), and Edom.[43] So the many armies that gather are apparently spread out over a much larger area than the plain of Megiddo. John calls this area of land the “winepress” of God’s wrath (14:19; 16:19).[44]

7. The Seventh Bowl: cosmic judgment (16:17-21). In 16:17, John writes, “Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl upon the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple from the throne, saying, ‘It is done.’” This final judgment has the greatest impact of all since the air into which the angel pours his bowl is what humans breathe. John hears God’s voice from the throne (cf. 16:1) that declares, “It is done.” Men would not have the Savior’s “It is finished!” on the cross; so they must have the awful “It is done!” from the Judge![45]

In 16:18-19a, John then observes a huge worldwide earthquake. It is the greatest earthquake mankind has ever experienced. The “flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder” are signs of divine judgment, but this earthquake is much larger than any previous one.[46] All islands are gone, every city destroyed, all mountains sink. No more Hawaii. No more Paris or D.C. No more Himalayas. John writes, “The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. Babylon the great was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of His fierce wrath.” The “great city” likely describes Jerusalem. It contrasts with the cities of the nations, and the phrase “the great” described it before (11:8).[47] Evidently the earthquake will destroy virtually all the cities of the world. Babylon is the most significant of these cities (14:8). It is the special object of God’s judgment, which the cup of wine that she receives symbolizes. Chapters 17 and 18 will describe the fall of Babylon in more detail. The point of these verses is that this is God’s expression of judgment (16:19b).

John describes the results of the judgment in 16:20-21: “And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. And huge hailstones, about one hundred pounds each, came down from heaven upon men; and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, because its plague was extremely severe.” The earthquake will produce other effects. It will level mountains and cause islands to disappear. As the flood produced global topographical changes, so will this earthquake. It will prepare the earth for the Edenic conditions that the prophets predicted would characterize the earth during the millennium. These changes will be a fore view of the final disappearance of the old creation and the creation of a new earth (cf. 20:11; 21:1-2).[48]

Our passage concludes with hailstones raining down. However, these hailstones are unusual—they weigh almost 100 pounds each![49] Talk about a severe thunder storm! We better think twice before we complain about our weather in Washington! God’s judgment is not a laughing matter.

You think the “Super Bowl” will be exciting? It doesn’t compare with the “Super Bowls” that God has in store for planet earth. When will all this happen? Seven years from the time of the rapture. Think about it…it could happen seven years from today! If you have a relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, you’ll be spared all of this. But if you’ve never trusted Jesus to be your Savior, you will be there. You’re looking at your future…if you even survive that long!

The message today isn’t very uplifting, is it? It’s rather depressing, isn’t it? But this will literally happen. God is a God of wrath and judgment. One day He will say, “Enough is enough.” Now, let me give you some good news. The same God who is a God of wrath and judgment is also a God of grace and mercy. He wants to save you from all of this. He put a plan into place 2,000 years ago that is still in effect today.

The message is simple: God is a holy God that cannot tolerate sin. Fortunately, Jesus Christ took God’s wrath for sin upon Himself when He died on the cross. The penalty for sin was met by Jesus. If you believe in Christ’s work on the cross as the substitute for your sins, you will be pardoned. If you reject Christ’s work on the cross, God will have to punish you. But this is unnecessary, since Christ has already taken your punishment upon Himself. Will you believe in Him today?

Addendum: The Chronology of Tribulation Judgments (Revelation 6-16)

The Seals (Rev 6:1-17)

·         First seal (Antichrist)

·         Second seal (war)

·         Third seal (famine)

·         Fourth seal (death takes 1/4 of the earth)

·         Fifth seal (martyrdom)

·         Sixth seal (heavenly and earthly disturbances)

·         Seventh seal (trumpet judgments)

The Trumpets (Rev 8:2-9:21)

·         First trumpet (earth 1/3 smitten)

·         Second trumpet (sea 1/3 smitten)

·         Third trumpet (1/3 smitten)

·         Fourth trumpet (sun, moon, and stars 1/3 smitten)

·         Fifth trumpet (locusts torment men for 5 months)

·         Sixth trumpet (200,000,000 horsemen slay 1/3 of men)

·         Seventh trumpet (heavenly temple opened and bowl judgments)

The Bowls (Rev 16:2-21)

·         First bowl (sores upon worshippers of the beast)

·         Second bowl (sea smitten entirely)

·         Third bowl (rivers smitten)

·         Fourth bowl (sun scorches men)

·         Fifth bowl (darkness upon kingdom of the beast; sores give pain)

·         Sixth bowl (Euphrates dried to prepare the way of the kings of the east)

·         Seventh bowl (exceeding great earthquake and hail; Babylon remembered for destruction)

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Super Bowl Sunday Fun Facts: http://www.nfl.com/fans/forher/sb_funfacts.html

[3] Many scholars believe this verse echoes Isa 66:6 in the Greek OT, in which Isaiah tells the righteous remnant among the nation to hear “a voice from the temple, the voice of the LORD who is rendering recompense to His enemies.” See Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 578.

[4] BDAG classifies megas in these five categories: (1) pertaining to exceeding a standard involving related objects, large, great; (2) pertaining to being above average in quantity, great; (3) pertaining to being above standard in intensity, great; (4) pertaining to being relatively superior in importance, great; and (5) pertaining to being unusual, surprising.

[5] The KJV translates the word megas as “great” all eleven times in Rev 16.

[6] The word megales also occurs nine times in Rev 18, which is an elaboration on the seventh bowl judgment introduced in 16:17-21.

[7] Gk. excheo (“pour out”) is a term often used in the Greek OT for “pouring out” drink offerings to the Lord (Exod 30:18; Lev 4:7, 18, 30; Num 19:17) or the sprinkling of blood in the covenant rite (Exod 24:6, 8). The image is used figuratively in Jeremiah’s prayer in Jer 10:25 that God would “pour out [His] wrath on the nations (cf. Ps 69:24; Jer 7:20; Zeph 3:8), a prayer that could well be the background here. See Osborne, Revelation, 579.

[8] See Lev 26:18, 21, 24, and 28, where God promises a sevenfold judgment on Israel if they refuse to obey His decrees: “If then, you act with hostility against Me and are unwilling to obey Me, I will increase the plague on you seven times according to your sins.”

[9] Gk. kakon: pertaining to being harmful or injurious, evil, dangerous, pernicious, see BDAG.

[10] The word translated “sore” (helkos) is the word used in the Greek OT to translate the Hebrew word for boils inflicted on the Egyptians (cf. Exod 9:9-11; Lev 13:18-27; Deut 28:27, 35; 2 Kgs 20:7; Job 2:7; Luke 16:21).

[11] Osborne, Revelation, 578.

[12] Believers who apostatize and worship the Beast may suffer from this plague (cf. 14:9-12), but the faithful will be in a safe refuge (cf. 12:13-17) or God may protect them in other ways.

[13] However, other cataclysmic changes follow that will evidently make water available again (cf. Rev 16:17-21).

[14] Scripture reveals that angels affect the elemental forces of nature (cf. Ps 104:4; Heb 1:7; Rev 7:1; 9:11; 14:18).

[15] Cf. Rev 11:17; see also 1:4, 8, 4:8.

[16] One of the dominant OT themes is the “rightness” of God’s judgment of His people and the nations (e.g., Ps 7:11; 9:8; 67:4; 75:2; Isa 11:4; Jer 11:20). Revelation also builds on this theme (15:3; 16:7; 19:2).

[17] Pharaoh tried to drown the Jewish boy babies, but it was his own army that eventually drowned in the Red Sea (Exod 1:22; 14:28). Haman planned to hang Mordecai on the gallows and to exterminate the Jews; but he himself was hanged on the gallows, and his family was exterminated (Esth 7:10; 9:10). King Saul refused to obey God and slay the Amalekites, so he was slain by an Amalekite (2 Sam 1:1-6).

[18] Bob Deffinbaugh, God’s Final Word on the Last Times: Lesson 24: The Seven Bowls (Rev 16), 12/2/84, unpublished notes.

[19] In the OT, the sun’s “scorching heat” is used in God’s judgment of Jehoiakim in Jer 36:30 and in the affliction of Job in Job 30:21, 30; cf. Jer 17:8 (cf. Deut 32:24; Isa 24:6; 42:25; Mal 4:1; perhaps the destruction of the ozone layer?). This is the only one of the first five bowls not based on an Egyptian plague.

[20] Lit. “the men.” There is a definite article before “men” (tous) in the Greek text. The men in view are evidently the people who have the mark of the Beast and who worship him (16:2).

[21] Throughout Revelation, “giving God glory” is synonymous with conversion (9:20-21; 11:13; 14:7).

[22] Cf. Rom 1:28; 2:24; 1 Tim 6:1; Jas 2:7.

[23] Thomas, Revelation 8—22, 257.

[24] See Eccles 9:3; Jer 17:9; Mark 7:21-22.

[25] Cf. Exod 10:21-23; Isa 60:2; Joel 2:1-2, 31; Mark 13:24.

[26] The darkness in Rev 6:12-17 caused even world leaders to fear “the wrath of the Lamb” (6:16). But at this late date, the Beast and his followers only blaspheme God.

[27] Evidence that the bowl judgments will follow each other quickly is that the sores of the first bowl are still on people in the darkness of the fifth bowl. The bowl judgments come in swift succession, one right after another. In contrast, each of the seal and trumpet bowls ended before the next one began.

[28] The sixth bowl involves the Euphrates River, as does the sixth trumpets (9:14). Both judgments deal with the demonically inspired military forces. The army of 200 million (9:16) will kill a third of all humankind (9:18); the army in 16:12-14 will do battle against God (19:19-21).

[29] Gen 15:18; Deut 1:7; 11:24; Josh 1:4.

[30] God earlier dried up the Red Sea so the Israelites could advance on the Promised Land from the west (Exod 14:21-22; cf. Isa 11:16). He also dried up the Jordan River so they could cross over from the east (Josh 3:13-17; 4:23). Elijah too parted the waters of the Jordan (2 Kgs 2:8). Cyrus may have conquered Babylon by draining the Euphrates and marching into the city over the riverbed (cf. Jer. 50:38; 51:36). All these previous incidents should help us believe that a literal fulfillment of this prophecy is possible.

[31] This is the first mention of the False Prophet, but he is clearly the Beast out of the earth (cf. Rev 13:11-17). He deceives the people. What he urges them to do for their advantage eventually results in their destruction.

[32] A deceiving spirit earlier lured King Ahab into battle (1 Kgs 22:21-23).

[33] I.e., Fallen angels, 16:14; cf. Matt 10:1; Mark 1:23-24; 3:11; 5:2, 13; Acts 5:16; 8:7.

[34] The second Egyptian plague involved frogs (Exod 8:5), but these demons are only like frogs.

[35] Cf. Ps 2:1-3; Joel 2:11; 3:2; Zech 14:2-3.

[36] This is the third of the seven beatitudes in Revelation (cf. 1:3; 14:13; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14).

[37] An alternative view is that Jesus’ second coming will be as a thief in that it will be sudden, and His enemies will not expect it (cf. Matt 24:43; Luke 12:39; 1 Thess 5:2). Believers who understand the revelation of this book, on the other hand, will be expecting His return. Christ’s coming for the church will not be as a thief because the church is looking for His return (1 Thess 5:4; Titus 2:13). Jesus Christ urged these faithful believers to be watchful and pure (cf. Matt 25:1-30). The alternative is embarrassment (cf. Exod 20:26; Lev 18:6-19; Deut 23:14; Isa 47:3; Ezek 16:37; 23:24-29; Hos 2:10; Nah 3:5).

[38] See also Thomas, Revelation 8-22, 267.

[39] To learn more about the events of Armageddon read the following passages: Ps 2; Isa 34:1-16; 63:1-6; Joel 3:1-17; Zech 12:1-9; 14:1-15; Mal 4:1-5; Rev 14:14-20; 16:12-16; 19:19-21. See Mark Hitchcock, 101 Answers to the Most Asked Questions About the End Times (Sisters: OR: Multnomah, 2001), 189-190.

[40] Alternatively, Har-Magedon may refer to the mountain closest to Megiddo, namely, Mt. Carmel. At Mount Carmel God humiliated the host of prophets of Baal who gathered to oppose Him in Elijah’s day (cf. 1 Kgs 18:16-40). God and Elijah slaughtered them in the Valley of Jezreel. Mt. Tabor is another prominent hill (1,850 feet high) at the east end of this valley. Some believe it is the mountain in view here.

[41] Earlier Deborah and Barak had defeated the Canaanites in this valley (Judg 4-5), and Gideon had routed the Midianites (Judg 7). King Josiah also died there when he opposed Pharaoh Neco (2 Chron 35:22).

[42] A point of interest is that Napoleon called this location “the most natural battlefield of the whole earth.”

[43] Isa 34; 63; Jer 49; Joel 3; Zech 12, 14.

[44] See also Paul N. Benware, Understanding End Times Prophecy (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 263-64.

[45] The Greek words used are not the same.

[46] Cf. Rev 6:12; 8:5; 11:13, 19; Hag 2:6; Heb 12:26-27.

[47] Zechariah’s prophecy of topographical changes taking place around Jerusalem at this time argues for a geophysical rather that an ethnographic division (Zech 14:4).

[48] Rev 20:11; cf. also Isa 54:10; Jer 4:24; Ezek 38:20; Nah 1:4-5.

[49] The accompanying storm will include huge hailstones that will fall on the earth crushing people (cf. 8:7). Hail was often an instrument of divine judgment in biblical history (cf. Josh 10:11; Job 38:22-23; Isa 28:2, 17; Ezek 13:11-13; 38:22-23). In spite of all these judgments the hearts of earth-dwellers will remain hard, as Pharaoh’s did during the plague of hail in Egypt (cf. Exod 9:24). They will know that God sent this calamity, but rather than repenting they will shake their fists in God’s face. God will stone these blasphemers with these huge hailstones (cf. Lev 24:16).

“Use It or Lose It!” (Revelation 17-18)

The old saying is true: “Use it or lose it.” This past Friday evening, I played in a church-sponsored basketball game designed to raise money for our summer missions’ trip to Honduras. There was only one problem: Eleven years ago when I failed to be drafted into the NBA, I decided to hang up my sneakers. I have played very little full-court basketball since. Needless to say, I was not able to match my glory-days of old. The expression, “Use it or lose it” rang in my ears as I struggled to run up and down the court.[1]

The expression, “Use it or lose it” also applies to other areas of life. The best-built house, if it is unoccupied for too long, will begin to fall to pieces. A house was meant to be lived in. A vehicle that sits idle and is rarely driven tends to have more mechanical problems than one that receives regular use. Cars and trucks were made to be driven. Those of you who learned a foreign language in high school or college know that if you don’t continue to use that language, you will lose it.[2] “Use it or lose it” is true spiritually as well. We must use what God has given us. If we don’t, we run the real risk of losing our productivity as disciples. Our effectiveness in life is dependent on the proper use of God’s blessings. Neglecting what we’ve been given or squandering God’s provisions places us in dangerous territory.

Fortunately, God desires for you to be an effective and productive disciple. Instead of experiencing chastisement for wasting your God-given privileges and responsibilities, He wants you to live with hope and confidence. Revelation 17 and 18 are intended to motivate disciples in the importance of growing in Christian faithfulness. Today, your sermon order will be “super-sized” so you can grasp the flow of these two chapters. It is important to recognize that Revelation 17 and 18 are parenthetic in that they do not advance the revelation chronologically.[3] Instead, these chapters are an amplification of one of the main features of the tribulation: the place, function, and final judgment of Babylon. This fact is an important emphasis in Revelation. The Lord devotes two chapters of material to Babylon.[4] Therefore, it is very important to our study and understanding of Revelation.

Before we delve in, I must ask: Do you like to solve problems? Do you enjoy following clues and solving mysteries? If so, you will love Revelation 17. In this chapter, we will attempt to unfold a mystery: Who is “Babylon the great?” Then in Revelation 18, we will unpack the reasons God judged Babylon and how these chapters apply directly to our lives. Beginning in 17:1-6, John records a mysterious vision: “Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and spoke with me,[5] saying, ‘Come here,[6] I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on[7] many waters, with whom the kings of the earth committed acts of immorality, and those who dwell on the earth were made drunk with the wine of her immorality.’[8] And he carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness; and I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast, full of blasphemous names, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman was clothed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a gold cup full of abominations and of the unclean things of her immorality,[9] and on her forehead[10] a name[11] was written, a mystery,[12] ‘BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.’ And I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the witnesses of Jesus. When I saw her, I wondered greatly.”

There are several words and phrases that I would like you to underline or circle in your Bible. First, in 17:1, note the words “judgment,” “the great harlot,”[13] and “sits on many waters.” Second, note the word “immorality”[14] which is seen twice in 17:2 and again in 17:4. Third, in 17:5, note the phrase “Babylon the great, the mother of harlots, and of the abominations of the earth.”

The main idea of this chapter is “the great harlot” (also called “Babylon the great”) will be judged. Her predominant sin is “immorality,” which is a figure for spiritual unfaithfulness.

In 17:7-18, an angel interprets the vision for John. Even with the help of an angelic interpreter, there is a great deal in this chapter that I am not sure I understand. This should not come as a surprise to anyone familiar with Old Testament prophecy. There is much in prophecy that is not understood until after it has been fulfilled. In 17:8, the Beast on which the harlot is seated is the Antichrist of chapter 13.[15] This Beast is a counterfeit of our Lord in that he “was” and “is not” and “is about to come” (cf. 1:4, 8). This phraseology apparently also refers back to Rev 13:3, 12, and 14 where the Beast is resurrected. Regardless of the details, we know the ultimate fate of this Beast will be destruction (cf. 19:20; 20:10). But before he meets his end, he will deceive “those who dwell on the earth, whose name has not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world.” The flip side of this verse is very encouraging to the believer when you notice that your name has been written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world. Your name was not placed there at the point of your salvation. Your name was there before you were saved…before you were born…even before the foundation of the world. If you have believed in Jesus as your Savior, you can be confident that God chose you and has placed your name in the Book of Life.[16] What an encouragement! You didn’t choose God; He chose you! Because He chose you, He will be sure to preserve you in His grace.

In 17:9-14, the angel moves on to the interpretation of the Beast’s “seven heads” and “ten horns.” Much effort has been expended in attempts to identify the seven “mountains”[17] and/or the seven “kings” of these verses, on which the harlot sits. Verse 9 should caution us not to look for an interpretation that is either quick or easy. John writes, “Here is the mind which has wisdom” or “this calls for a mind with wisdom” (NIV).[18] This same expression is also found earlier in Revelation, in conjunction with calculating the number of the Beast (13:18). Since no one has identified the Beast, neither do I feel that anyone has conclusively identified these seven heads (17:3, 9-11) or ten horns (17:3, 12-14). What we can know is this: The “seven heads” represent seven past, present, and future kings/kingdoms (cf. Dan 7:17, 23),[19] while the “ten horns” represent ten kings who will be subject to the Antichrist himself (cf. 13:1-10).[20] This harlot not only lines herself up with the kings of the earth and those who dwell on the earth, but also has an alliance with the Antichrist himself. Yet, 17:12 informs us that the harlot’s reign with the Beast will be for a short time, in the words of John, for “one hour.”

In 17:13-14, we learn that these ten kings will be united in their submission to the Beast and in their willingness to wage war with the Lamb (cf. 16:14, 16).[21] Their single purpose will be to rule the world and they will submit to the Antichrist’s leadership to achieve this end.[22] At the very end of the tribulation these kings will fight against Jesus Christ as He returns to earth (cf. 16:14, 16; 19:19-21). The Lamb will defeat them and will prove to be Lord of Lords and King of Kings (19:16); the title the Antichrist seeks to claim in his worldwide empire. Those with Christ accompany Him from heaven (cf. 19:14). They are “the called, the chosen, and the faithful.” These three terms epitomize Christians.

In 17:15, we learn that “the waters[23] on which the harlot sits” are the Gentile peoples of the world.[24] By reigning over[25] the kings of the earth, the harlot also rules over the constituencies of the kings. If the reign of the ten kings is short, the “reign” of the harlot appears to be even shorter. For a time, she “reigns” from the back of the Beast, supported by the ten kings. After a short time something will happen which will cause the Beast to turn against the harlot, so she will be cast aside, shamed and dishonored (17:16).[26] This will fulfill the sovereign purpose of God, which is the humbling of the harlot (17:17).[27]

Verse 18 brings us to the climax of the chapter—the unveiling of the true identity of “the great harlot,” or “Babylon the great.” Her true identity is disclosed by the designation “the great city.” Is she ancient Babylon? The rebuilt Babylon in Iraq? Ancient Rome? The revived Roman Empire? Apostate Christianity? The United Nations? The United States? How do the Scriptures describe her? Does her description fit that of any other in the Bible? I have come to the conclusion there is only one city that can be called “the great city,” and that city is Jerusalem.[28] The following observations bear this out.[29]

1. Jerusalem is identified as “the great city” in Revelation (11:8; 16:19).[30] Jerusalem is the place where the Lord was crucified (11:8). Jerusalem was also the scene of Christ’s resurrection (Luke 24) and will be the site of His return in glory (Zech 14:5). It is the capital city of God’s chosen people. Jerusalem is the place where God chose to manifest His glory to all the earth in a special way (Ps 87:2-5). It is also the place where God will fulfill His promises to Israel.

2. Jerusalem is mystically called “Sodom and Egypt” (11:8).[31] This gives a key precedent to symbolically naming Jerusalem with the name of an enemy empire. This tells us two things: We should not be surprised if John does it again, and Jerusalem is being painted in a negative light in Revelation.[32]

3. Jerusalem, which is called “the great harlot” and “the great city,” is contrasted with the New Jerusalem, which is likened to a chaste “bride” and “the holy city.” The similarity and difference between these two Jerusalems is suggested in 17:1 and 21:9-11. It is also important to note that whenever the word “city” is used in Revelation, it always refers to the old or new Jerusalem.[33]

4. Jerusalem is distinguished from other cities in such a way as to agree with her designation as “the great city” (16:19). John writes, “The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. Babylon the great was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of His fierce wrath.” One must grant the conclusion that “the great city” is Jerusalem, but having done so, we find that the “great city” is distinguished from all others, which are lumped together as “the cities of the nations.” It should be quite evident that the “cities of the nations” are Gentile cities, thus distinguishing Jerusalem from these Gentile cities.

5. Israel merits the designation, “the great harlot” because she is married to Yahweh. Another nation cannot commit adultery against God if she is not married to God.[34] As the Lord’s wife, it is Israel who distinguishes herself as “the great harlot” because she is in a covenant with God and her harlotries surpass all others (Ezek 5:7; 16:32-34, 46-48, 51; cf. also chap 23).[35]

6. The sins of “the great harlot” are those that can best be attributed to Israel, and its capital city, Jerusalem (17:6; 18:20, 24). No city I am aware of has had more of the blood of the prophets and saints than that of Jerusalem. Other cities, including Rome, have shed the blood of the righteous, but Jerusalem more than all of them. The above verses seem to be direct paraphrases from Jesus’ words in Matt 23:35, 37-39; Luke 11:50-51; and 13:34-35.[36]

7. The identification of Israel as “the great harlot” is consistent with the Old Testament prophecies concerning Israel’s future. God’s covenant with Israel still governs the future of this chosen people. Her persistent waywardness, culminating in the rejection and execution of the Messiah, calls for divine discipline. While God’s earlier discipline of His people took the form of her dispersion (cf. Ezek 22:13-16), in the last days God will bring His people back to Jerusalem where He will chasten and refine them (Ezek 22:17-22). The purpose of the tribulation is not just to punish men for their sins.

The principle purpose of the tribulation is to chasten wayward Israel so she will repent and turn to God. The awesome anger of God, which we see in the three tribulation judgments, is required by the willful rebellion (harlotry) of Israel. Just as Ezekiel foretold the gathering of Israel to Jerusalem to be refined, Revelation describes it. Those who see no future for Israel fail to recognize the way in which Revelation depicts the fulfillment of God’s promised chastening, restoration, and blessing of His people, in keeping with His covenant with her (Isa 1:21-26).

8. The identification of Israel as “the great harlot” best harmonizes with the details of Revelation, which anticipates the conversion of Israel. The 144,000 are faithful Jews who are said to be “first fruits to God” (14:4). This is in light of God’s promise to restore His people to a place of privilege and blessing. The city of Jerusalem is “trodden down by the Gentiles,” but this is limited to a period of 3½ years (11:1-2). The account of the “woman and the Dragon” in Revelation 12 reflects Israel in light of God’s purpose for His chosen people. But the description of Israel as “the great harlot” adds Israel’s willful disobedience to our perspective. Unbelieving Israel will, for a short time, have a position of prominence and leadership, with the support of the Beast and the ten kings, but both will turn against her, bringing about the oppression and persecution of Jerusalem and Israel. This persecution will end with the war between the Beast and the kings of the earth and God. When God prevails, Israel will turn to God in faith and be restored to a place of blessing.

9. The hard-line condemnation of Israel as “the great harlot” is altogether consistent with our Lord’s condemnation of the harlotry of Israel’s finest—the Scribes and Pharisees, the religious leaders of that day. Jesus frequently laid into the Pharisees and Sadducees for their religious hypocrisy and sinfulness. In Matt 23, He labeled them “hypocrites” (23:13-15, 23, 25, 27), those that “devour widows’ houses” (23:14), “a son of hell” (23:15), “blind guides” (23:16, 24), “fools” (23:17), “blind men” (23:17, 19, 26), those that are “full of robbery and self-indulgence” (23:25), “whitewashed tombs” (23:27), “full of hypocrisy and lawlessness” (23:28), “sons of those who murdered the prophets” (23:31), “serpents… brood of vipers” (23:33).

10. The harlot is dressed in purple, scarlet, and gold (17:4; 18:15). These colors are used in the Old Testament to make sacred garments for Aaron and his sons, so they may serve as priests (Exod 28:4-6; cf. Jer 4:30-31).

11. The harlot’s lovers will strip her and ruin her (17:16; cf. Ezek 16:37-39). This is reminiscent of Israel’s history.

12. Jerusalem is called a great city that says she is no widow (17:18; 18:7-8; cf. Lam 1:1). Again, this too is reminiscent of Israel’s history.

13. John was astonished by the identity of Babylon. In 17:6b, he literally “marveled a great marvel.” He probably wouldn’t have been surprised if it was Rome, ancient Babylon, or the apostate church.[37]

14. The preeminence of Jerusalem is completely consistent with Satan’s purposes. Satan’s desire has always been to usurp God’s glory and the worship that is due Him alone. If Satan were to be given the authority to rule over any one people on the face of the earth I am convinced that it would be Israel, for this is the people who are the “apple of God’s eye.” And if Satan were to choose any one city from which to rule it would surely be Jerusalem. The “great harlot” rides on the Beast because Satan sees this to be to his advantage. When he has sufficiently used her, he will cast her aside and turn against her.

Because Satan is particularly interested in Israel and Jerusalem, the momentary “reign” of Israel with Satan’s support is very plausible. If our Lord turned down Satan’s offer of ruling over the kingdoms of the earth (cf. Matt 4:8-9), unbelieving Israel will find this offer too tempting.

We must use the Bible to interpret the Bible biblically…not the political landscape of our world to try to expose mystery Babylon. We are not to use the “signs of the times,” the newspaper, or our favorite prophecy teachers to interpret Bible prophecy. Jerusalem seems to be the best option available to us.[38]

One issue that can be troubling in nailing down all this symbolism is 17:18. Speaking of the harlot it says: “The woman whom you saw is the great city, which reigns over the kings of the earth.” If you know your history, you’ll understand that Jerusalem never ruled over the kings of the earth. You’d be partially right. The closest Israel ever came to leading the world was during the time of Solomon. The kings and queens of the nations came to Jerusalem to seek his wisdom. Here’s the point that John is making: Israel was intended to be the leading nation of the world. She had a covenantal right and responsibility to govern the world (Isa 42:6; 60:15). Israel had the God-given privilege of being a light to the nations. She was supposed to be the leader in wisdom and righteousness. God would even bring the goods of the nations to her as a sign of His blessing. God upheld His part of the covenant, but Israel failed to use what God had given, in His way, to achieve His purposes. As we’ll see, she squandered it all on herself. The result is the light of the nations will become a red light district.

In Rev 18:1-8, we learn that Israel perverted the blessings of God. “After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illumined with his glory. And he cried out with a mighty voice, saying, ‘Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a dwelling place of demons and a prison of every unclean spirit, and a prison of every unclean and hateful bird. For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the passion of her immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed acts of immorality with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich by the wealth of her sensuality.’ I heard another voice from heaven, saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, so that you will not participate in her sins and receive of her plagues; for her sins have piled up as high as heaven, and God has remembered her iniquities. Pay her back even as she has paid, and give back to her double according to her deeds; in the cup which she has mixed, mix twice as much for her. To the degree that she glorified herself and lived sensuously, to the same degree give her torment and mourning; for she says in her heart, ‘I SIT as A QUEEN AND I AM NOT A WIDOW, and will never see mourning.’ For this reason in one day her plagues will come, pestilence and mourning and famine, and she will be burned up with fire; for the Lord God who judges her is strong.’” These eight verses unfold the divine discipline of “Babylon.” This is a call for God’s application of the lex talionis, the law of retaliation (cf. Matt 7:2; Gal 6:7-8). To pay back double is a way of saying to pay back fully (Exod 22:4, 7, 9; Isa 40:2; 61:7; Jer 16:18; 17:18; Zech 9:12).

Let’s look at the specific ways she squandered her blessings.

1. Israel misused her influence (Rev 18:9-10). John states, “And the kings of the earth, who committed acts of immorality and lived sensuously with her, will weep and lament over her when they see the smoke of her burning, standing at a distance because of the fear of her torment, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, Babylon, the strong city! For in one hour your judgment has come.’” Jerusalem had great connections. For a time she was highly respected by other nations. Rather than influence them Israel adopted their corrupt practices. The idea of fornication with the kings of the earth simply means that the Jews adopted the ungodly perspectives and practices of the surrounding nations.

When she was destroyed they didn’t weep because Jerusalem had made a positive spiritual impact on their lives. The kings wept at the ruin of one who led them into idolatry.

We must constantly examine ourselves and our church to see if we are being the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matt 5:13-16). How are you handling your sphere of influence? Are you praying for your family members, friends, co-workers, and classmates who do not know Jesus Christ? Are you intentionally building relationships with unchurched people? Have you been taking steps toward sharing your verbal witness with the people you know are without Jesus Christ? How is your conduct away from church? Think about those people in your sphere of influence who haven’t believed in Jesus. Now imagine seeing that person trust in Christ. Or envision that person who has difficult questions that you feel unable to answer. You prayed for them, loved them, and invited them to Emmanuel on a Sunday morning. Picture them seated next to you. Although your eyes should be closed at that point, watch them raise their hand signifying their acceptance of Christ.

How are you handling your sphere of influence with other believers? Parents, are you raising your children in the fear and admonition of the Lord? Husbands, are you loving your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for it? Wives, are you respecting your husband’s God-given leadership in the home? Are you encouraging other believers and pushing others to go to the next level spiritually? Are you living the authentic and caring life that characterizes a member of the family of God?

Imagine the people in your life becoming all that God equipped them to be. Kids grow up to be adults who are completely sold out to Christ and His cause. They stand up for Christ regardless of the assaults that come against them. Spouses grow in their faith and marital relationships are rock solid. They’re growing in love and intimacy. Imagine Emmanuel becoming a place where real community is happening. We’re able to share our darkest sin or deepest wound because we know we’re truly accepted no matter what. Lost people and the multitudes that only show up on Sunday morning are drawn to this genuine community.

[Israel not only misused her influence…]

2. Israel misspent her affluence (Rev 18:11-19). John writes, “And the merchants of the earth weep and mourn over her, because no one buys their cargoes any more—cargoes of gold and silver and precious stones and pearls and fine linen and purple and silk and scarlet, and every kind of citron wood and every article of ivory and every article made from very costly wood and bronze and iron and marble, and cinnamon and spice and incense and perfume and frankincense and wine and olive oil and fine flour and wheat and cattle and sheep, and cargoes of horses and chariots and slaves and human lives. The fruit you long for has gone from you, and all things that were luxurious and splendid have passed away from you and men will no longer find them. The merchants of these things, who became rich from her, will stand at a distance because of the fear of her torment, weeping and mourning, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, she who was clothed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls; for in one hour such great wealth has been laid waste!’ And every shipmaster and every passenger and sailor, and as many as make their living by the sea, stood at a distance, and were crying out as they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What city is like the great city?’ And they threw dust on their heads and were crying out, weeping and mourning, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, in which all who had ships at sea became rich by her wealth, for in one hour she has been laid waste!’” Her resources were misspent. Rather than use God’s blessing to bless the world and spread His message further abroad, Israel spent it all on herself. Notice that the poor aren’t lamenting over the destruction of the city. The merchants and sea traders cry because their “cash cow” is dead. How do you see the luxury of this world? Do you see it as it really is? Can you use it without getting it into your heart?

How would you feel if the luxuries in your life that you have come to consider necessities vanished? Would it break your heart if you saw the things of this world go up in smoke? Or is your heart in heaven, fixed on Christ? How are you managing the money and material possessions God has placed in your hands? Where are your financial priorities? Does God have first place in your checkbook? Picture this: The ministries of Emmanuel Baptist Church reach all over the world, positively changing the lives of millions. You can’t walk into a school or a business or a subdivision in Thurston County without bumping into at least one saint who is passionate for Jesus Christ and who loves lost people because of the influence of Emmanuel Baptist Church.

3. Israel trashed her testimony (Rev 18:20-24).[39] John writes, “‘Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, because God has pronounced judgment for you against her.’ Then a strong angel took up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, ‘So will Babylon, the great city, be thrown down with violence, and will not be found any longer. And the sound of harpists and musicians and flute-players and trumpeters will not be heard in you any longer; and no craftsman of any craft will be found in you any longer; and the sound of a mill will not be heard in you any longer; and the light of a lamp will not shine in you any longer; and the voice of the bridegroom and bride will not be heard in you any longer; for your merchants were the great men of the earth, because all the nations were deceived by your sorcery. And in her was found the blood of prophets and of saints and of all who have been slain on the earth.’” The righteous are told to celebrate the demise of Jerusalem and its temple and its worship practices. The list of things that are said to be no longer found in the city speak of the testimony of unbelieving Israel. There is no more life. Just like Israel we have a choice with all that God has given us. Unbelieving Israel has been irresponsible over its history, yet the Lord still has a plan for His people. In the last days, He will raise them to a position of prominence…only to bring them down in discipline.[40] He will then draw many to Himself. I pray that we will not have to be like Israel. May you and I learn from her example and seek to avoid God’s discipline. May we not have to be brought low in order to get serious about God.

You can “use it or lose it.” Today, will you begin to maximize your life? Will you be faithful to use your time, talents, treasure, truth, and relationships to be God’s man or woman? That’s how you use it so you won’t lose it.

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com.

[2] These two illustrations came from Joel Smith, “Use It or Lose It,” Rev 17-18: http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=42019&ContributorID=2857.

[3] Rev 17-18 gives further supplementary information about matters referred to in the chronological sections (7:1-17; 10:1-11:14; and 12:1-15:8).

[4] The Lord also devoted two focused chapters to write to the seven churches in Asia Minor (Rev 2-3).

[5] It was one of the angels who poured out the bowl judgments who served as John’s guide as he viewed these events in his vision.

[6] There is similarity between this angel’s invitation to John and the one in Rev 21:9. This is the first of many clues that the New Jerusalem (21:9-22:5) is the divine counterpart of humanistic Babylon.

[7] It is probably better to translate the Greek preposition epi as “beside” rather than “on” many waters since she sits astride the Beast (17:3). Evidently the Beast and she were on the shore in John’s vision (cf. John 21:1). See Thomas L. Constable, Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation (www.soniclight.com: 2003 Edition), 156.

[8] The “wine” of the harlot’s immorality is her one world religion. She will assault any system of belief that holds to a mutually exclusive doctrine. Everyone must conform to a religiously correct viewpoint. Christians will not be able to claim that Jesus is the only way to heaven without persecution (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

[9] The woman’s clothing was purple, symbolic of royalty, and scarlet, representing luxury (cf. Matt 27:28; Mark 15:17, 20; John 19:2, 5). Her ornaments included gold, precious stones, and pearls, jewelry that made her look like a queen. The cup in her hand added to her royal appearance, but it contained idolatrous abominations (cf. Deut 18:9; 29:17; 32:16; Jer 51:7), namely, unclean things connected with her spiritual immorality. The harlot wore expensive, attractive garments and accessories that made her externally appealing, but she is a counterfeit beauty. What is inside her is unclean.

[10] It is not clear whether this woman’s name was on a headband or on her forehead (cf. Rev 7:3; 9:4; 13:16-18; 14:1; Jer 3:3).

[11] Her name was a “mystery,” namely, something not previously revealed but now made clear. A name in Scripture represents everything about the person who bears it, often the person’s reputation. The content of the mystery is what John revealed here, especially the new revelation about its evil character and judgment (17:17-18).

[12] Some translations consider the word “mystery” (musterion) a part of the name written (“Mystery Babylon the Great,” so KJV, NIV), but the gender of both onoma (“name”) and musterion are neuter, while the gender of “Babylon” is feminine. This strongly suggests that musterion should be understood as an appositive to onoma (“a name, i.e., a mystery”). See NET Study Bible: http://netbible.bible.org/

[13] “The great harlot” is the personification of spiritual fornication or idolatry (Isa 23:15-17; Jer 2:20-31; 13:27; Ezek 16:17-19; Hos 2:5; Nah 3:4). In Old Testament prophetic discourse the imagery of the harlot is commonly used to denote religious apostasy. A harlot offers sexual satisfaction outside of marriage. Apostate religion offers religious satisfaction outside the principles of God’s Word.

[14] “The kings of the earth” committed immorality with Babylon by uniting with her in power, material possessions, false worship, and pride.

[15] For a fuller understanding of the resurrection of the Beast, please see my sermon on Rev 13.

[16] In Rev 13:8 the Book of Life belonged to the Lamb who has been slain from the foundation of the world, emphasizing God’s plan to redeem humanity. Here, the emphasis shifts slightly. Not only did God plan to redeem humanity from the beginning, He planned who would be redeemed from the beginning. No stronger statement of the sovereignty of God in things pertaining to salvation in found in the entire Bible. See Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Holman, 1998), 309.

[17] “Mountains” can be symbolic of the rule or power of kingdoms/governments (see Ps 30:7; 68:15-16; Isa 2:2; 41:15; Jer 51:24- 25; Dan 2:35, 44; Hab. 3:6, 10; Zech. 4:7).

[18] The call for special wisdom in Rev 17:9a probably has in view the ability to grasp this double meaning of the mountains [i.e., as individuals and kingdoms].

[19] One view that is satisfying to most is that the seven heads are seven kingdoms. John writes, “Five have fallen” (Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, and Greece), “one is” (Rome), and “the other is yet to come” is the Antichrist’s final world empire. The next statement is rather confusing. The Beast that was and is not is himself also an eighth and is one of the seven. This statement is made clear by the phrase, “was and is not.” The Antichrist’s kingdom will be the seventh world power in this vision (Dan 7:19-25), but when he dies and is resurrected then he also becomes the eighth and it is at that point that he is on his way to destruction as mentioned earlier.

[20] What is the difference between the seven kings (represented by seven heads) and the ten kings (represented by ten horns)? Simply this: The seven kings (17:10) are successive kingdoms because they rule one after another over centuries of time. The ten kings (17:12) are contemporaneous kings who rule at the same time in history. This verse tells us the ten horns are ten kings who “have not yet received a kingdom” when Revelation was written in 96 A.D. Because the ten horns are on the seventh head, these ten kings will come to power during the tribulation. Daniel 2:44 tells us “and in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which will never be destroyed…” That means when Jesus returns to earth to set up His millennial kingdom, he will destroy the Antichrist and the kingdom he rules.

[21] These “ten kings” have one purpose and will. They give their military power and political authority to the Beast. This is an amazing phenomenon, that ten powerful nations will all voluntarily surrender their sovereignty and their military forces to one man! It gives us insight into how extremely brilliant and intimidating this man will be a man of extraordinary charisma and political insight, inspiring both awe and confidence in a world shaken by the judgment of God.

[22] Evidently he will have to put down three of them who revolt against him (Dan 7:24; cf. Rev 12:3; 13:1; 17:3).

[23] Water is a common symbol for people in the Old Testament (e.g., Ps 18:4, 16; 124:4; Isa 8:7; Jer 47:2).

[24] “Many waters” represents humankind: “peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues” (17:15), not a specific geographical site. This fact indicates that it is Babylon as a symbol that is in view here rather than the physical city. The phrase “sits on many waters” indicates the harlot’s authority to rule. She dominates the world religiously. People from all over the world will buy into her religion. This whore reigns over a worldwide religion at this point, which dominates the one-world government.

[25] Lit. “Having a kingdom over.”

[26] See 1 Kgs 21:23-24; 2 Kgs 9:30-37; cf. Ps 27:2; Jer 10:25; Mic 3:3; Zeph 3:3.

[27] Cf. 16:13-14, 16; Judg 7:22; 1 Sam 14:20; 2 Chron 20:23; Jer 25:9-11; Ezek 38:21; Hag 2:2; Zech 14:14.

[28] Relatively few Bible scholars hold this conclusion. The reason may be because many have been persuaded by various extra-biblical historical arguments and commentary traditions.

[29] I have been greatly helped by the work of Bob Deffinbaugh, God’s Final Word on the Last Times (unpublished notes) and D. Ragan Ewing, The Identification Of Babylon The Harlot In The Book Of Revelation (http://www.bible.org/docs/soapbox/st-essay/ragan/toc.htm, July 2002).

[30] There are other great cities in the Bible; such as Nineveh (cf. Jonah 1:2; 3:2; 4:11; Nah 3:1, 4) and Tyre (Isa 23:15-17) but in the Bible only Jerusalem can rightly claim to be the great city. Jeremiah thus prophesied that the nations would refer to Jerusalem as this great city (Jer 22:8).

[31] We are compelled to conclude that “the great city” is Jerusalem, both by the context (11:1-2) and the crime of the city, which was the crucifixion of Christ (11:8).

[32] D. Ragan Ewing, The Identification Of Babylon The Harlot In The Book Of Revelation (http://www.bible.org/docs/soapbox/st-essay/ragan/toc.htm, July 2002), 4:9.

[33] Rev 3:12; 11:2, 8, 13; 14:20; 16:19; 17:18; 18:10 (twice), 16, 18 (twice), 19, 21; 20:9; 21:2, 10, 14-15, 16 (twice), 18-19, 21, 23; 22:14, 19.

[34] It is critical to note that “harlot” imagery is only used of two other nations other than Israel: Tyre (Isa 23:15-18) and Nineveh (Nah 3:4-5), both of which had formerly been in covenant with the Lord.

[35] The harlot is symbolic of the high priest, the temple and also of the city of Jerusalem. Much of the imagery can also be found in Jer 3:1-3 where the Lord condemns Jerusalem or Judah for her unfaithfulness. Remember that God’s covenant people, Israel, were considered His wife. When they turn to pagan religions He describes them in these terms: “‘If a husband divorces his wife and she goes from him and belongs to another man, will he still return to her? Will not that land be completely polluted? But you are a harlot with many lovers; yet you turn to Me,’ declares the LORD. ‘Lift up your eyes to the bare heights and see; where have you not been violated? By the roads you have sat for them like an Arab in the desert, and you have polluted a land with your harlotry and with your wickedness. Therefore the showers have been withheld, and there has been no spring rain. Yet you had a harlot’s forehead; you refused to be ashamed’” (see also Jer 3:6-10).

[36] See also Jer 7:6; 19:4; 22:3; Ezek 7:23; 11:6; Acts 7:51-53; 1 Thes 2:14-15.

[37] I do acknowledge that John would have been astonished if “the great city” was referring to a future rebuilt Babylon. However, this view is unacceptable because it is clear from the OT that Babylon will not be rebuilt (Jer 50:11-17, 28-29, 33-34; 51:10-11, 24, 35-36, 49, 56).

[38] I will be the first to acknowledge that every view has inherent weaknesses. My goal is to adopt the view that has the least amount of problems.

[39] One of the hurdles in adopting the Jerusalem position is Rev 18:21: “Then a strong angel took up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, ‘So will Babylon, the great city, be thrown down with violence, and will not be found any longer.’” Zech 14:1-8 (esp. 14:4) reveals that there is going to be an earthquake, which will radically transform the landscape/terrain of the Mount of Olives and Jerusalem area. This could be the destruction of the “old Jerusalem” in preparation for the new. In that sense, we would expect something to become of the old, to make way for the new.

[40] We must not overlook that Israel’s time of “ruling over the kings of the earth” (17:18) is still future.  Students of prophecy who looked for the literal fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel believed that Israel would once again be a nation and dwell in the Promised Land. This was a prophetic necessity that in 1948 became a historical fact. If biblical prophecy says that Israel will assume a place of power among the nations, we can be assured it will be so. The fact that Israel is the geographical center of the earth, and that the Middle East is laden with natural resources (not the least of which is oil), makes such prominence very believable.

“Eater or Eaten?”[1] (Revelation 19:1-21)

There is a well-known story about a man who bought a donkey from a preacher. The preacher told the man that this donkey had been trained in a very unique way. The only way to make the donkey go is to say, “Hallelujah!” The only way to make the donkey stop is to say, “Amen!” The man was pleased with his purchase and immediately got on the animal to try out the preacher’s instructions. “Hallelujah!” shouted the man. The donkey began to trot. “Amen!” shouted the man. The donkey stopped immediately. “This is great,” said the man. With a “Hallelujah!” he rode off, very proud of his new purchase.[2]

The man traveled for a long time through some hills. Soon he was heading towards a cliff. He could not remember the word to make the donkey stop. “Stop!” said the man. “Halt!” he cried. The donkey just kept going. “Bible...Church...Please stop!” shouted the man. The donkey just began to trot faster. He was getting closer and closer to the cliff edge. Finally, in desperation, the man said a prayer. “Please, dear Lord. Please make this donkey stop before I go off this cliff; in Jesus’ name, Amen.” The donkey came to an abrupt stop just one step from the edge of the cliff. “Hallelujah!” shouted the man.

This funny story introduces the “hallelujah” chapter. In Rev 19:1-21,[3] all of heaven breaks out in praise.  The “hallelujah’s of heaven” are a response to three events: the judgment of the “great harlot” (19:1-5), the “marriage supper of the Lamb” (19:6-10),[4] and Christ’s return in judgment (19:11-21).[5] In 19:1-5, we are called to exclaim…

1. Hallelujah for God’s judgment (19:1-5). Verse 1 begins with the familiar “After these things.”[6] This phrase looks back to God’s judgment upon Babylon. John’s attention turns to heaven, where he hears “the voice of a great multitude.” Rev 7 informs us that this multitude consists of tribulation martyrs (7:9-10, 14).[7] This remnant shouts, “Hallelujah!” There’s our key word. Can you say, “Hallelujah?” This expression comes from a Hebrew word that means “Praise Yah,” that is, “Praise the Lord.” This term appears in the New Testament only in Rev 19, where it occurs four times.[8] These martyrs praise the Lord for His attributes and His actions. In 19:1, three of God’s attributes are noted: First, God is praised for “salvation,”[9] which means “deliverance.” In this context, “salvation” is referring to God delivering His people from her enemies. Second, God is praised for His “glory,”[10] that is, His moral excellence, which is seen in His judgment of sinful Babylon. “Glory” is the manifestation of God’s essence. These saints understood who and what God is, in His work of bringing creation to a meaningful conclusion. Third, God is praised for His “power,”[11] which is seen in His overthrow of Babylon. They clearly understood God’s ability to do whatever He chooses to do. These three things should awaken worship on the part of believers today too. God’s salvation should awaken gratitude; His glory should awaken reverence; and His power should awaken trust. Can you say, “Hallelujah?”

In 19:2, God is also praised for His actions. The word “because” introduces the reason for the great outburst of praise. The multitude in heaven will praise God for His destruction of wickedness. God has executed a “true” (fitting) and “righteous” (deserved) judgment[12] on the great harlot because she was leading the earth astray with idolatry and killing God’s bond-servants. This verse reminds us that in the end, all obstacles to the inauguration of God’s kingdom will be obliterated: Babylon’s “smoke rises up forever” (19:3). This will lead all those in heaven to again cry out, “Hallelujah!”

In 19:4, “the twenty-four elders”[13] (representatives of the glorified church) and “the four living creatures”[14] (angelic cherubs that serve before God’s throne) reappear. They fall down and say, “Amen” (“yes, so be it!”) and “Hallelujah!” These worshippers echo Jesus’ words, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt 6:10). Then, in 19:5, John hears a voice from the throne, likely that of the four living creatures encouraging all to “give praise[15] to our God, all you His bond-servants, you who fear Him, the small and the great.” This means everyone!

On this side of eternity, people like to think of praise in the sense of George Handel’s, “Hallelujah Chorus,” in which “hallelujah” is the triumphant worship of the reigning King. Such a chorus will be seen in 19:6, but first there will be the equally triumphant rejoicing over the downfall of evil at the hand of God. It is unfortunate that many Christians do not want to hear of God’s judgment and wrath. They want to hear only of His love and kindness.[16] What a reminder that heaven’s estimate of things differs from this world’s. The things the world loves most fondly are the objects of God’s most intense wrath. Believers should be struck by the reverence and awe of heaven. Unfortunately, many of us have lost a sense of awe and wonder, which is the basis of worship.[17]

Some may ask, “Is rejoicing at the judgment of the great harlot a godly thing to do?” After all, the Bible cautions us not to rejoice over the downfall of our enemy (Prov 24:17-18). Yet, in the Scriptures, the righteous do pray for the judgment of the wicked (e.g., the “imprecatory psalms”). They also rejoice when God judges those who are His enemies (Prov 11:10; 21:15).[18] The answer to this question is found in Rom 12:18-20: “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,’ says the Lord. ‘BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.’”

[We are called by God to exclaim, “Hallelujah for God’s judgment.” Now in 19:6-10, we will be called to exclaim…]

2. Hallelujah for God’s marriage supper (19:6-10). In 19:6,[19] John writes, “Then I heard something like the voice of a great multitude and like the sound of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder,[20] saying, ‘Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty,[21] reigns” (1 Chron 16:31). Again, the tribulation martyrs (“a great multitude”) express their praise to God. This is the last song of praise in Revelation. These saints shout, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns.” They praise the Lord because He has begun to rule. This is what all of human history has been building up to.

In 19:7-8, these martyrs call the reader of Revelation to “rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him.” Why? The word “for” gives the reason: “for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride[22] has made herself ready. It was given to her to clothe herself in fine linen, bright and clean; for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.” These great verses look forward to the most spectacular wedding of all-time. The Bridegroom, Jesus Christ, is identified as “the Lamb.” It is significant that the heavenly wedding is not called “the marriage of the Creator,” “the marriage of the Lord,” or “the marriage of the King.” The title “marriage of the Lamb,” more than any other, draws attention to the fact that “Christ…loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (Eph 5:25). The Lamb’s “bride” is the church.[23] In 19:9, John writes, “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb…These are true words of God.” This seems to suggest that all the redeemed saints of all ages will be present for this marriage supper.[24] The marriage supper takes place in the millennium[25] and will celebrate the union between Christ and His people, that is, the church and Israel.[26]

John writes that the bride “has made herself ready.” This is no reluctant bride. Her wedding gown of “fine linen” is described as “the righteous acts [lit., “righteousnesses”] of the saints.”[27] To be a part of the bride, one must have believed in Christ as his or her personal Savior from sin. But the primary emphasis here relates to the issue of true spirituality that results in rewards or preparation for eternity. Men must personally and responsibly believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior, and then, as believers and as part of the bride of Christ, they must choose to walk by the Spirit of God, according to the Word, by faith, so they can bear fruit or reproduce good works. This is what the statement means, “makes herself ready.”

In Revelation, believers are “made ready” by remaining “faithful” (2:10, 13; 13:10; 14:12; 17:14), maintaining their “testimony for Jesus” (1:9; 6:9; 12:11, 17; 20:4), enduring hardship (1:9; 2:2-3, 19; 3:10; 13:10; 14:12), and obeying God’s commands (12:17; 14:12).[28] This is where the book of Revelation gets intensely practical (and personal). In your school, are you maintaining your testimony for Jesus? Are you refusing to succumb to peer-pressure? Are you faithfully persevering in the midst of rejection and persecution? In your workplace, are you obeying God’s commands to be a person of integrity? Are you committed to honoring God instead of seeking a promotion or raise? Are you being faithful in your family and church responsibilities? Are you steadily maturing as a disciple? It is wishful thinking to assume that we will be the disciples that God calls us to be in the future when we are not faithful in the present.

After the angel finished sharing this incredible news, John “fell at his feet to worship him” (19:10). John was so awed by the message he heard from the angel that he bowed down to worship him.[29] John did this again (22:8-9), and in both instances the angel rebuked him and asserted that God alone must be worshipped. Why did John record these failings on his part? The lesson is twofold: He wanted to show his readers how idolatry can infiltrate one’s life through even innocent means. John was about to turn a messenger of the truth into an idol.[30] Idolatry is more than burning incense before a man-made statue. It is giving absolute worth and devotion to anything or anyone other than God, even a good cause.

Our natural human tendency is to worship other people. When I was growing up, I had many idols. My first idol was my next-door neighbor, Leonard. He was a big, bad Marine who took a special interest in me when I was between the ages of 3 and 5. From Leonard, I moved to Hans Solo and Luke Skywalker. Then I began to worship athletes, body builders, and rock musicians. Today, all that seems far removed from my experience. But is it really? Even today, I can find it effortless to idolize a great biblical scholar or pastor. It’s easy to place people on a pedestal, isn’t it? Maybe you worship an athlete, an actor/actress, a friend, a spouse, a child, or a boyfriend/girlfriend. Maybe you don’t like me using the terms “worship” or “idolize,” but let’s honestly acknowledge that’s what it is.

The angel that spoke to John responded, “Do not do that; I am a fellow servant[31] of yours and your brethren who hold the testimony of Jesus; worship God. For the testimony of Jesus[32] is the spirit of prophecy” (19:10). There is no place in Christianity for the worship of any but God: not angels, not demons, not dead saints, and certainly not pastors or spiritual leaders, no matter how godly they may be.[33] We must always remember the greatest people on earth are no more than God’s servants. Only Jesus Christ “is the spirit of prophecy.” This means that the prophecy ultimately reveals Him.

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine invited me to go to a Seattle Mariner’s baseball game. Now I could have spent my time watching the ticket takers. I could have frequented the concession stands and watched. I could have counted rows of seats. But I went to the game to watch the Mariners.[34] Prophecy is like this. It’s easy to get caught up in sensationalism and mysterious knowledge, yet the goal of prophecy is JESUS. He is prophecy’s central feature. He is the main attraction! The goal of the book of Revelation is for you and me to know and love Jesus more.

[We have been called to “rejoice, be glad, and give the glory to God” because of the marriage supper of the Lamb. Now in 19:11-21, we are to exclaim…]

3. Hallelujah for God’s great supper (19:11-21). In 19:11,[35] John sees another vision: “And I saw heaven opened,[36] and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. John sees the glorified Lord Jesus on a white horse. Today most people think of horses as either farm animals or runners on the racetrack. However, in the ancient world horses were thought of as military machines used in war (Isa 63:13; Jer 12:5; 8:6). Three short observations should be made about the symbolism[37] used here of Christ as the warrior King on a white horse.

First, the picture contrasts sharply to that of His first coming. In Jesus’ procession into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, He rode on a donkey, a lowly beast of burden (Matt 21:5; cf. Zech 9:9). At Christ’s second coming the little domestic animal will be exchanged for the military steed. Second, the scene in Rev 19 stands in contrast to the scene in Rev 6, which refers to another rider on a white horse. That rider is Antichrist, who will bring new levels of evil to the earth, but the rider in Rev 19 will remove that evil. Third, He will ride a white horse. In Revelation the color white symbolizes judgment (20:11) and victory.

In the 1986 film, Crocodile Dundee, the Australian hero is in New York with his girl friend. A group of hoodlums tries to rob them. One of them carries a switchblade knife. “Watch out! He’s got a knife!” the young woman exclaims. Crocodile Dundee reaches to a sheath at his back and pulls out a monstrous knife and smiles, “That’s not a knife; this is a knife!” The hoodlums flee. In Rev 19, Almighty God considers the False Christ on the white horse who has terrorized the earth during the tribulation period. “That’s not the Christ,” He proclaims. “THIS IS THE CHRIST!” And our Lord appears to conquer His enemies.

In 19:12-13, John further describes this rider as “Faithful and True.” Jesus is faithful (trustworthy) and true (righteous, the real Messiah; cf. 3:14). He came out of heaven to judge the Beast and to make war with him on earth (cf. Isa 11:3-5). The warrior King from heaven will judge and wage war “in righteousness.” John writes, “His eyes are a flame of fire.” This speaks of the Lord’s ability to see through all pretenses. Nothing can be hidden from the penetrating gaze of the Messiah. He is omniscient (cf. 1:14; 2:18). Many things in human experience are mysteries and unsolved riddles. But the eyes of Christ search and understand all things. There are sins in the lives of people that no one else can see. Yet He sees them all. People rationalize many sins and crimes, refusing to censure them as evil. Christ sees the innermost heart and evaluates everything by the perfect standard of His holiness.

On the Warrior’s head John saw “many diadems.” The diadem was a royal crown.[38] At His crucifixion Jesus received a crown of thorns (Matt 27:29; Mark 15:17; John 19:2, 5). To the soldiers it was an attempt to mock royalty. To His followers, however, it testified of His true kingship, and it anticipated His victory over death and His return to rule the world. The accumulated crowns on Jesus’ head speak of accumulated victories and dominions—the greatest of all, by far, being His victorious passion. It says He is the winner of many mighty battles and the holder of much sovereignty. John added that Jesus “has a name written upon Him which no one knows except Himself.” John means that the human mind cannot grasp the depth of Christ’s being. There is a lesson here in humility. This name is purposely left in obscurity so people will remember that it is God the Son, of whom John was speaking, and be reminded of the wonder and reverence due Him.[39] John wrote, “He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood.” This is a reference to the blood of Messiah’s foes (see Isa 63). The bloodstained garment points in two directions: ahead to the victory at Armageddon and back over many enemies already vanquished.[40] John then mentioned the third name of the Warrior in this section, “His name is called The Word of God” (cf. John 1:1, 14). This name is a name that we can know with absolute confidence.

As I reflected on Jesus’ name, “The Word of God,” I couldn’t help but be challenged. If I had to choose one focus of my Christian life over all others, I would choose the reading and study of God’s Word. If a disciple is committed to God’s Word, he/she will inevitably become a person that will worship God, serve in the local church, fellowship with other believers, and be involved in telling others about Christ. It is the Word that changes peoples’ lives. Today, will you commit to spending daily time in God’s Word?

In 19:14, John writes, “And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean,[41] were following Him on white horses.”[42] The Bible is clear that angels accompany Christ at His second coming.[43] But Christ’s bride is also a part of this army. In 17:14, the Lamb goes to war with an army identified as “the called and chosen and faithful.” Furthermore, in 19:8, the bride is dressed in “fine linen, bright and clean,” that is, in the same clothing as this army. Those who have been Christ’s companions in His rejection now accompany Him at the judgment.

In 19:15-16, John writes, “From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty.[44] And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, ‘KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.’” Christ will strike down His enemies with His Word, symbolized by a long, tongue-shaped sword (cf. 1:16; Isa 11:4; 49:2). He will destroy His enemies with inflexible righteousness that the iron Shepherd’s rod pictures (cf. 2:27; 12:5; Ps 2:9; 45). He will execute the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty that these enemies must drink (cf. 19:13; 14:8, 10, 19-20; 16:19; Isa 63:1-6). God will judge Israel, namely Jews, living when He returns (Ezek 20:33-38), and the Gentiles living then (Matt 25:31-46). The name that Christ bears is the sign of universal sovereignty (cf. Phil 2:9-11). When Jesus Christ returns, He will come with authority to punish rebels and evildoers.

In 19:17-18,[45] John “saw an angel standing in the sun, and he cried out with a loud voice, saying to all the birds which fly in midheaven, ‘Come, assemble for the great supper of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings and the flesh of commanders and the flesh of mighty men and the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them and the flesh of all men, both free men and slaves, and small and great.’” The “birds”[46] will be invited to “the great supper of God” (19:17), a terrible counterpart to “the marriage supper of the Lamb” (19:9).[47] Jesus told a parable of a big dinner to which all were invited (Luke 14:16-24). That dinner is a picture of the kingdom of heaven. For 2,000 years men and women have been invited to come. Many have accepted the invitation, but many have refused. That feast and the wedding supper of 19:9 picture the same thing. It is a supper of joy. The supper in 19:17, however, will not be one of joy; it will be a supper of judgment.

In 19:19-21, our chapter reaches its climax as “the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies assembled to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army.[48] And the beast was seized, and with him the False Prophet who performed the signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image; these two were thrown alive[49] into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone. And the rest were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh.” God originally prepared the lake of fire for Satan and his angels (Matt 25:41). They will be the first inhabitants. Nevertheless, God permits men and women who reject Him to spend eternity separated from Him. This epitomizes the justice of God. People of the world have many answers to the problems confronting society. For some the answer is progress, growth, and development. They say the only thing people need is time and solutions will come, for they have the tools, namely education, science, and democracy. For others the answer is found in various religions and the development of spiritual forces. However, the Bible repudiates all human answers. The solution to the problem of evil in the world is not through some sort of improvement or development of the present order. The solution is the complete rooting up and throwing over of the present order.

Jesus Christ is coming back. Because He is coming again:

1.      We should refrain from judging others (1 Cor 4:5).

2.      We should remember the Lord’s Table (1 Cor 11:26).

3.      We should relate to one another in love (1 Thess 3:12-13).

4.      We should restore the bereaved (1 Thess 4:16).

5.      We should not neglect the church (Heb 10:25).

6.      We should remain steadfast (Jas 5:8).

7.      We should reach the lost for Jesus Christ (Jude 22-23).[50]

[1] This unique sermon title is an abbreviated revision from Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2002), 694.

[2] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[3] Revelation 19:11-22:5 is the classic NT passage on Christ’s return. These chapters set forth seven major motifs of biblical eschatology: the second coming of Christ (19:11-16), the defeat of the Antichrist (19:17-21), the binding of Satan (20:1-3), the millennial kingdom of Christ (20:4–6), the loosing of Satan and his final defeat (20:7-10), the last judgment at the great white throne (20:11-15), and the new heavens and new earth (21:1-22:5). The first ten verses of Rev 19 are an introduction to these great subjects. Besides introducing the seven last things, this passage focuses on worship and awe before God and gives Christians reason for looking eagerly for the coming of the Lord. This is the climactic expression of praise in Revelation (cf. 4:8, 11; 5:9-10, 12-14; 7:10, 12, 15-17; 11:15, 17-18; 15:3-4; 16:5-7). The four songs in 19:1-5 look back to the judgment of Babylon, and the song in 19:9-10 looks forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb. The harlot dies, but the bride begins to enjoy new life. See Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 355.

[4] For a helpful study on this section, see David J. MacLeod, “Heaven’s Hallelujah Chorus: An Introduction to the Seven ‘Last Things’”: Bibliotheca Sacra 156:621 (Jan-Mar 99), 72-84.

[5] “Hallelujah” is implicit in the text.

[6] Cf. Rev 1:19; 4:1 (twice); 7:9; 9:12; 15:5; 18:1; 19:1; 20:3.

[7] Some understand this “great multitude” to be a throng of angels. E.g., Leon Morris, The Revelation of St. John: TNTC (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1969), 224; Thomas, Revelation 8-22, 355–56. It is argued that they must be angels because earlier songs of thanks involve angels (Rev 4:8-11; 5:11-14), and human believers are called to add their hallelujah in 19:5.

[8] “Hallelujah” (hallelouia) is only used in the NT in Rev 19:1, 3, 4, and 6. It is found in the OT exclusively in the Psalms (Ps 104:1; 105:1; 106:1; 110:1; 111:1; 112:1; 113:1; 114:1; 115:1; 116:1; 117:1; 118:1; 134:1; 135:1; 145:1; 146:1; 147:1; 148:1; 149:1; 150:1, 6).

[9] “Salvation” (soteria) is also used in Rev 7:10 and 12:10.

[10] “Glory” (doxa) is used in Rev 1:6; 4:9, 11; 5:12-13; 7:12; 11:13; 14:7; 15:8; 16:9; 18:1; 19:1, 7; 21:11, 23-24, 26.

[11] “Power” (dunamis) is used in Rev 1:16; 3:8; 4:11; 5:12; 7:12; 11:17; 12:10; 13:2; 15:8; 17:13; 18:3; 19:1.

[12] God’s judgments are also called “true and righteous” in Rev 16:7. Significantly the first occurrence of “Hallelujah” in the Bible is in Ps 104:35, where the context is also judgment. E. W. Bullinger, The Apocalypse, 3rd ed. (London: Eyre and Spottiswoode, 1935; reprint, Grand Rapids: Kregel, 1984), 584.

[13] The 24 elders are found in Rev 4:4, 10; 5:5-6, 8, 11, 14; 7:11, 13; 11:16; 14:3; 19:4.

[14] The four living creatures are found in Rev 4:8; 5:6, 8, 14; 6:1, 6; 7:11; 14:3; 15:7; 19:4.

[15] The verb “give praise” (aineite) is a command that indicates the giving of continual praise.

[16] Of all the places in the New Testament we might expect to find “Hallelujah,” Rev 19 seems most unlikely. Heaven’s rejoicing at the harlot’s fate is in contrast to the laments of Rev 18:1.

[17] See Warren W. Wiersbe, Real Worship, rev. ed. (Nashville: Oliver Nelson, 1990), 43–44.

[18] Bob Deffinbaugh, God’s Final Word on the Last Times (unpublished notes).

[19] Rev 19:6–8 have been called “the wedding march of the Church.”

[20] Cf. Ezek 1:24; 43:2; Dan 10:6.

[21] “The Almighty” (pantokrator) appears in Rev 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7, 14; 19:6, 15; 21:22.

[22] Rev 19:7 actually says “wife” (gune) and not “bride” (numphe). English translators usually render the Greek word gune, translated “bride,” as “wife,” yet here the context clearly shows that a wedding is in view. In the NT the bride/wife metaphor is used of the church in two kinds of passages. In some (Rom 7:1–4; 1 Cor 6:17) the church is seen as the wife married to Christ. In others (e.g., 2 Cor. 11:2) she is seen as a virgin and the marriage is future.

[23] See Matt 22:2ff; 25:1ff; Mark 2:19; John 3:29.

[24] See Isa 54:6; Ezek 16:8ff; Hos 2:14ff; Matt 8:11. In the OT, Israel is viewed as the unfaithful wife of Yahweh, who was put away (Hos 2:2) but one day will be reunited to Him (2:19-20; cf. Isa 62:1-5).

[25] Bible teachers differ widely over the symbolism of the wedding feast, or “marriage supper of the Lamb.” There are at least three views: (1) The marriage supper is millennial. (2) The marriage supper will take place after the millennium in the eternal. (3) The marriage supper will take place in heaven before the return of the Lord to the earth. Several factors suggest “the marriage supper of the Lamb” will occur in the millennial kingdom. This is the feast of which the Savior spoke when He said, “I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom” (Matt 26:29). He said of the Passover Feast, “I shall never again eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God” (Luke 22:16). Jesus also spoke of the day when “many shall come from east and west, and recline at the table with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 8:11). That the feast will be millennial is also suggested by Luke’s parable of a wedding feast (12:35–37) in which the Lord serves supper when He returns from the wedding.

[26] See Robert L. Saucy, The Case for Progressive Dispensationalism (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1993). However, it could be argued that Israel cannot be this bride or part of this bride because this bride comes to earth with Christ, but OT saints will not experience resurrection until Christ returns to the earth (Dan 12:1-2). The fact that the bride in 21:12 and 14 includes Israel indicates that the bride will be a growing body of people that will eventually encompass Israel as well as the church. There the bride is the New Jerusalem. However at this time, just before Christ returns to the earth, the figure of the bride must describe the church alone.

[27] Scholars have debated the expression “the righteousnesses of the saints.” Some say it refers to the doctrine of justification, whereby a person is acquitted or declared righteous in God’s courtroom. It speaks, they say, of the church’s holy state before God. Others say John referred to two kinds of righteousness, justification and sanctification. One is the righteousness believers have the moment they exercise faith in Christ. The other is the righteousness believers acquire as they respond in daily obedience to the heavenly Bridegroom. Still others say the “righteousnesses” should be viewed in the context of rewards. They point out that the rapture of the church and the judgment seat of Christ will have taken place. They see the bride clothed in her rewards or awards. Other expositors say the “righteousnesses” refer to the innumerable acts of faithful obedience that characterize the bride. In other words it speaks of the good works (“righteous deeds of the saints”) performed after salvation, good works enabled by the indwelling Spirit of God. The fact that the same noun (dikaiomata) is used of God’s righteous acts in 15:4 favors this fourth view. The bride receives the garment as a gift, but she must put it on. A transformed life is the proper response to the call of the heavenly Bridegroom.

[28] Grant R. Osborne, Revelation: ECNT (Grand Rapids, 2002), 673-74.

[29] I believe that John was awe-struck by the realization that the words the angel spoke were a word from God. Since we have never experienced a message directly conveyed from God, we will never be able to fully appreciate John’s response.

[30] Angels, like humans, can only bear witness to the testimony borne by Jesus (cf. Rev 1:2, 9; 6:9; 12:17; 20:4; 22:9, 20; cf. Col 2:18; Heb 1:14).

[31] The lowliness of a slave is emphasized in the Greek text with the emphatic position of sundoulos (“fellow slave”). This term is used in Rev 6:11 and 22:9.

[32] The basic question here is precisely what is meant by the expression, “the testimony of Jesus.” This can mean either that Jesus is the source of prophecy (“the testimony which is from Jesus”) or that He is the subject of prophecy (“the testimony which is about Jesus”). Both expressions are true. The “Revelation of Jesus Christ” in Rev 1:1 is the revelation “which God gave Him to show to His bond-servants.” Thus, the “Revelation of Jesus Christ” is the revelation from Jesus Christ. Other passages, such as 1 Pet 1:11; speak of our Lord as the source of prophecy. Surely we must also agree that prophecy has Christ as its subject as well as its source.  It would seem to me that we are not far from the truth to understand the angel’s words to convey both ideas that the testimony, which John and the saints hold, is that which has come from Christ and is about Him. See Thomas L. Constable, Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation (http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf, 2003), 175.

[33] This was a problem that Paul addressed in 1 Cor 1:12-13. Paul wrote, “‘I am of Paul,’ and ‘I of Apollos,’ and ‘I of Cephas,’ and ‘I of Christ.’ Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?” We can appreciate God’s gifts and work through one another (1 Thess 5:12), but our worship is to be reserved for God alone.

[34] The basic idea for this illustration came from Tony Evans, The Best is Yet to Come (Chicago: Moody, 2000), 29.

[35] David J. MacLeod, “The First ‘Last Thing’: The Second Coming of Christ (Rev 19:11-16),” BibliothecaSacra 156:622 (Apr-June 99), 203-220.

[36] Previously in Revelation, John saw just a door open (4:1) or the heavenly temple open (11:19).

[37] Kelly writes, “None, I trust, would be so foolish as to imagine that, when this blessed scene really comes, it will be a question of horses literally. It is the symbol that passed before the eye of the prophet” (William Kelly, Lectures on the Book of the Revelation, rev. ed. [London: Morrish, 1874], 399). As Beasley-Murray put it, “There is no cavalry kept in heaven” (George R. Beasley-Murray, The Book of Revelation [London: Oliphants, 1974], 278). Johnson points out that although the horse is not one that might be entered in the Kentucky Derby, the apostle was nevertheless describing a literal, historical event (S. Lewis Johnson Jr., The Old Testament in the New [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1980], 13). Incidentally, Seiss and Thomas do argue for literal horses in Revelation 19:11, 14 (Seiss, Lectures on the Apocalypse, 3:249–50; and Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8–22: An Exegetical Commentary [Chicago: Moody, 1995], 387–88). See Constable, Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation, 177.

[38] Earlier in Rev, the Dragon, Satan, wore seven diadems (12:3). The Beast or the Antichrist wore ten of them (13:1; 17:12): one for each of the ten kings who will be subservient to him in the tribulation.

[39] MacLeod, “The First ‘Last Thing,’” 213.

[40] Christ will come to this final great war not as a raw recruit, but as a veteran in battle. He is the One who fought for Israel (Isa 51:9). He fought the kings of Canaan at Taanach (Judg 5:19–20). He won a great victory over Satan and his hosts at the cross (Col 2:15). He is the One who will have brought down the great powers mentioned earlier in the book (Rev 17:10; cf. Dan 2:21). So He will come wearing the garment worn and stained on many “battlefields.” And He will come in the same invincible power. See MacLeod, “The First ‘Last Thing,’” 214.

[41] The clothing of the cavalry that will accompany the warrior King is “white and clean.” Their garments are not “dipped in blood” (cf. 19:13). They do not wear armor, nor do they carry weapons. They are still wearing the apparel of festivity, for they are on their way to a wedding feast! On their way they will watch their Commander single-handedly engage in mortal combat. He alone will win the victory against evil.

[42] Jesus Christ will return to earth. MacLeod has collected some impressive quotes from the early church fathers. For example The Epistle of Barnabas, probably written in Alexandria between A.D. 70 and 100, states, “When His Son comes He will destroy . . . the wicked one, and will judge the godless, and will change the sun and the moon and the stars, and then He will truly rest.” Clement of Rome, writing about A.D. 96, said, “Therefore we must be prompt in well doing: for all things are from Him. For He warns us, ‘Behold the Lord cometh, and His reward is before His face, to pay to each according to His work.’ ” A later church father, Justin Martyr, writing to the emperor in the second century (ca. A.D. 155), said, “Hear, too, how He was to ascend into heaven according to prophecy…And how also He should come again out of heaven with glory.” Irenaeus (ca. 130-ca. 200), wrote this in a famous work on heresy: “But when this Antichrist shall have devastated all things in this world, he will reign for three years and six months, and sit in the temple at Jerusalem; and then the Lord will come from heaven in the clouds, in the glory of the Father, sending this man and those who follow him into the lake of fire.” The African church father, Tertullian, who lived in the second and third centuries (ca. 160-ca. 225), alluded to 1 Thessalonians 4:17 when he said, “For we shall, according to the apostle, be caught up into the clouds to meet the Lord (even the Son of man who shall come in the clouds [i.e., in glory]).” For citation information, see MacLeod, “The First ‘Last Thing,’” 205.

[43] See Matt 13:41; 16:27; 24:30-31; Mark 8:38; Luke 9:26; 2 Thess 1:7.

[44] John’s subject in Revelation 19:11–16 is the revelation of Jesus Christ and not the rapture or translation of the church. In the one event (the rapture) God’s people will meet Christ in the clouds (1 Thess 4:16–17); in the other (the revelation) they will come with Him to the earth. In the rapture Christ will return with His saints to heaven; at the other He will come with them to earth and will establish His kingdom. At the rapture the saints will put on immortality and incorruptibility (1 Cor 15:53); at the other they will be displayed in glory (Rom. 8:21–23).

[45] For a greater paper, see David J. MacLeod, “The Second ‘Last Thing’: The Defeat of Antichrist (Rev 19:17-21)” Bibliotheca Sacra 156:623 (July-September 1999): 325-35.

[46] Jesus referred to the same battle and mentioned vultures (aetoi) being present (Matt 24:28; Luke 17:37).

[47] The word “supper” (deipon) is used for both suppers.

[48] How could such an army be assembled to make war on Christ? John wrote of “spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the whole world to gather them together for the war of the great day of God, the Almighty” (Rev 16:14). No leader could single-handedly bring about such a vast combination of demons and kings for such a purpose. Clearly Satan will be behind this movement. The second explanation is divine. In 2 Thess 2:11 Paul spoke of a “deluding influence” sent by God to blind the followers of the Antichrist.

[49] The present participle “alive” (zontes) stands in an emphatic position in the Greek to add horror to the picture: “Alive the two were cast.” The fate of the beast and the false prophet contrasts dramatically and miserably with the fate of two great OT heroes. Both Enoch and Elijah were taken to heaven without dying (Gen 5:24; 2 Kgs 2:11). The Beast and his False Prophet will be cast into the lake of fire without physically dying first. As God intervened and showed mercy to Enoch and Elijah in bringing them alive to heaven, so He will intervene in judgment in casting these two evil ones into the lake of fire.

[50] See David Jeremiah and C.C. Carlson, Escape the Coming Night (Dallas, TX: Word, 1997 [1990]), 226-27.

“Pay Day Some Day” (Revelation 20:1-15)

This past week my brother-in-law and I moved some unbelievably heavy furniture. We moved kitchen cabinets, a bathroom vanity, a Corian countertop and sink, and an immense oak entertainment center. Now I’ve helped move some very heavy things but this job was different because the furniture was all tucked away in a cluttered garage. So we transported these heavy pieces as we straddled and hurdled various pallets of lumber and heavy machinery. It was if we were moving through an obstacle course, to say the least. We were working in 90-degree heat, so we were hot, bothered, and weary. Why did we do this? Lori’s (my wife) parents are preparing an apartment for her grandparents. We needed to move these heavy pieces so that they could move in. It was a labor of love that we wanted to persevere through.[1]

It dawned on me that my experience parallels our passage in Revelation 20. This chapter is filled with heavy-duty biblical furniture. There are many awkward obstacles that must be hurdled. The process can be mentally painful and exhausting. Yet, the overall purpose and motivation is clear: We are called to persevere in a life of pleasing and serving God.

After the devastation of Armageddon (19:11-21), several matters must be resolved in our prophetic understanding. What is going to happen to planet earth now that the political, religious, and economic systems have been destroyed? What will happen to Satan? What will happen to the righteous dead and those that survived the tribulation period? What will happen to unbelievers? These questions become key issues in Revelation 20. In these 15 verses, we will see four future events come to pass. First, …

1. Satan’s power is limited (20:1-3). John writes, “Then[2] I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding the key of the abyss[3] and a great chain[4] in his hand. And he laid hold of the dragon,[5] the serpent of old,[6] who is the devil[7] and Satan,[8] and bound him for a thousand years; and he threw[9] him into the abyss, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he would not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were completed; after these things he must be released for a short time.”[10] The word “then” (20:1) moves the chronological account forward. In 19:20, God judged the Beast and the False Prophet. Now He deals with Satan himself. He does so by assigning an unnamed angel to “man handle” (or “angel handle”) Satan. In history’s most sensational arrest, the cosmic criminal is put in chains and “bound” for a “thousand years” (20:2).[11] This serves to remind us that Satan is not Jesus’ equivalent. Rather, he is the counterpart of the archangel Michael. The principle is this: God has full sovereignty over Satan. Therefore, we have nothing or no one to fear. This will not only be true when the events of Revelation 20 unfold, it is also true today.

In 20:2-3, four definitive actions take place: (1) The angel lays hold of the Dragon, (2) he binds him, (3) he throws him into the Abyss, and (4) he shuts the Abyss and seals it over him (cf. Isa 24:21-22). These are future events. These events did not take place at the cross.[12] Scripture describes this present time in which we live as an evil age and Satan is called “the god of this world” (2 Cor 4:4). Today Satan is free and walks about as a roaring lion seeking someone to devour (1 Pet 5:8), but because of Christ’s victory on the cross, Satan and his forces are even now a defeated lot. Consequently, during Christ’s reign on earth, Satan (and this includes his demon hosts) will be bound and put out of action until the very end of the thousand-year reign of our Lord (cf. John 12:31; Col. 2:15).

The reason for this heavy-handed response to Satan is given in 20:3: “so that he would not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were completed.” It is crucial to note that Satan’s great ploy is deception.[13] We could call it his “bread and butter.” He deceived Eve in the beginning[14] and will go down in flames still working his deception game (cf. 20:7-10).

For my sister-in-law’s last birthday, we wanted to buy her something special. My wife, Lori, decided to get online and purchase a bottle of perfume. She came to a web site that advertised bottles of perfume at reduced prices. The glossy and slick pictures were larger than life. Lori was taken in so she ordered a bottle of perfume that was slightly above our normal price range. She was very excited about her purchase. She couldn’t wait for the memorable gift to arrive. A few days later the UPS driver came to the door and dropped off the package Lori had been anxiously waiting for. Lori quickly tore into the large box and threw out all the popcorn and packing materials. At the bottom of the box she found the bottle of perfume. But it was not the large extravagant bottle that she saw online. It was this [show the congregation a .16 oz. bottle of perfume]. Can you feel our pain? Can you imagine presenting your sister-in-law with this gift? Lori was so embarrassed. She felt that she had been deceived [suckered!]. She wanted to return the perfume but the shipping and handling was $7.00 so we ended up buying another gift to include with this bottle of perfume.

Have you ever ordered something online and been burned like this? Or maybe you’ve ordered a product out of a mail-order catalogue only to be sorely disappointed? We are all prone to deception. How does Satan deceive you? Does he whisper in your ear that your sin is okay with God? Does he tell you that it’s not really important for you to read the Word, just as long as the Spirit leads you? How does Satan deceive your family? Does he tell you that divorce is the way out of your marriage woes? Do you hear him say that one day you’ll have plenty of time to invest in your children? How does Satan deceive our church? Do you hear him whisper that everything is just fine the way it is? We don’t need to change. We don’t really need to reach the next generation. That responsibility should be left to other churches.

In the last phrase of 20:3 John writes, “After these things (i.e., the one thousand years) he must be released for a short time.” It is significant to note that Satan “must be released.” The word “must” (dei) points to a logical as well as a moral necessity. Why is Satan not permanently bound or cast directly into the lake of fire? Why is it necessary for him to once again be released? This is an important question, but since 20:7-9 are devoted to his release; we will save the answer for then. But let’s not miss the fact that his release is “for a short time” only.

[Satan’s power is limited. We will now see that…]

2. God’s reign is fulfilled (20:4-6). Beginning in 20:4, John now sees another vision: “Then I saw thrones,[15] and they sat on them, and judgment was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received the mark on their forehead and on their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.”[16] Verse 4 is a very controversial verse because John sees a group (“they”) sitting on thrones but he does not bother to tell us who they are. Fortunately, we can put the pieces of this puzzle together. John informs us in 20:4 that the martyred tribulation saints will be resurrected[17] and will reign with Christ. These saints are the only group expressly mentioned in this context.

Christ especially cherishes those who become martyrs for His sake. Psalm 116:15 says, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones.” God loves all believers but there is special blessing and honor that comes to those that lay down their lives for Christ. When you contemplate these tribulation martyrs, how do you stack up? Are you willing to be beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and because of the Word of God? Are you willing to stand in the face of a ruthless one-world government, religion, and economic system? Are you willing to pray for Christians who are facing martyrdom?

So are the tribulation martyrs the only ones that reign? I think not. One of the primary themes in Revelation is the perseverance of God’s people. Therefore, in this context, I believe that the tribulation martyrs[18] are representative of all faithful believers that will rule and reign with Christ.[19] This was predicted back in Daniel 7:9-10, 22. Then in Matthew 19:28, Jesus told His disciples that they will sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel (cf. Luke 22:30). In 2 Timothy 2:12, Paul tells faithful believers that they will reign with Christ (cf. Rom 8:17). These truths are also confirmed in Revelation. In 2:26-28, he who overcomes and keep Christ’s deeds until the end will be given authority to rule over the nations. Again in 3:21, the overcomer will sit down with Christ on His throne. In 4:4, the 24 elders will be seated upon 24 thrones (cf. 11:16). Again in 5:10, believers will be “a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth.” Reigning with Christ is linked with reward.

Yesterday, we had a family workday. After being gone for a week, our yard was a bit overgrown. So Lori and I told our three children that they would each work, to the best of their ability, in the yard. We also informed them that there was the potential for reward. Usually our three-year old, Jena, is our best gardener (she takes after her mom). But yesterday, this was not the case. Our oldest son, Joshua, served faithfully for two hours while his younger brother and sister played. When our work was complete, we rewarded Joshua with $4 and his very own adult-sized homemade Italian crème soda. I love to reward my kids. I pay them $1 every time I use them in a sermon. I pay them for memorizing Scripture and reading books. I do this because I want to honor them and make them love these things. A reward like money can change my kids’ attitude from: “I have to do this” to “I want to do this.” This doesn’t always work out perfectly, but it works the majority of times. The reason being, God has wired us for reward. He has instilled this drive within us. He wants us to find significance, fulfillment, and pleasure but HE wants to be our chief reward.

You may be asking: How will I earn rewards? I can’t see myself reigning and ruling with Christ. To carry the above illustration further, Lori (our family grounds-keeper) gave me the garden job of hoeing. Now from my perspective, there is nothing real fun about hoeing for several hours in 90-degree heat. It’s tedious and mundane. Nevertheless, this can be a picture of our lives. God rewards His people for persistent faithfulness in the midst of the daily grind. Mothers, as you serve Christ changing dirty diapers, cooking meals, and caring for young children, it may seem like a lot of hoeing but great is your reward. Singles, as you honor God with your purity and maximize your life for Him, great is your reward. Maybe you’re unfulfilled at work but you’re faithfully serving your employer and being a person of integrity. Great is your reward.

John further explains the chronology of events in 20:5. He writes, “The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed.” “The rest of the dead” refers to the wicked who are physically dead that God will raise at the end of the millennium[20] (20:12). This second resurrection will be to judgment (see John 5:28-29). This will be developed further in 20:11-15. John then mentions the “first [21] resurrection”[22] (20:5b). This refers to the first of the two resurrections John spoke of in the context (20:4-6, 12).[23] This includes the resurrection of the tribulation martyrs at the second coming of Christ (20:4) and other believers resurrected at the same time (i.e., Old Testament saints; Dan 12:2; John 5:28; cf. 1 Cor 15:23).[24]

In 20:6, John declares, “Blessed[25] and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection;[26] over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign[27] with Him for a thousand years.”[28] There is great blessing and joy in our salvation. The “second death” has no power over us. The “second death” is separation from God in the lake of fire (cf. 19:20; 21:8).[29] Instead of experiencing this fate, we will reign as priests for a thousand years.

We must note that in 20:2-7, “thousand years” is used six times in connection with a number of chronologically interrelated events.[30] John appears to be setting up a definite timetable of events relative to the 1,000 years. As someone wisely suggested about interpreting the Bible, “When the plain sense makes good sense, seek no other sense.”[31] There are four good reasons why Jesus Christ’s reign will be a physical, earthly reign, rather than a spiritual, heavenly one.[32] First, Christ will be on earth after He returns (19:11-16). Second, at the end of His reign, the saints, who reign with Him, will still be on the earth (20:9). Third, God promised the saints an earthly reign (5:10). Fourth, the Old Testament messianic prophecies anticipated an earthly kingdom (e.g., 2 Sam 7:10-16; Ps 2:8; Isa 65:17-66:24; Dan 7:27). The thousand-year reign of Christ will be a time when the suffering servant, Jesus Christ, and His faithful followers will celebrate His victory.

What has been the most satisfying moment in your life? When you signed a contract that secured your financial future? When you sold a house that everyone said you could never sell? When you received your diploma after having worked your way through school? When your child was born? When your care made a sick person happy? There will be no more disease, no more fear, no more dishonesty, no more crime, no more war, no more racism, and no more poverty and starvation. This will be a time like no other. It will be the best years of your life!

The Marines use the Latin expression, “Semper fidelis” (always faithful). That is what God is. He will always remain true to what He promises. He will fulfill His promise to reign. Count on it.

[In the same way that God’s reign is fulfilled…]

3. Satan’s judgment is required (20:7-10). John explains, “When the thousand years are completed, Satan will be released from his prison, and will come out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth,[33] Gog and Magog, to gather them together for the war; the number of them is like the sand of the seashore.[34] And they came up on the broad plain of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints[35] and the beloved city,[36] and fire came down from heaven and devoured them. And the devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are also; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”[37] At the end of the millennium,[38] God will release Satan from the Abyss (20:7). Satan will then attempt his final revolt. He is able to gather nations from all over the world. The huge size of this army isn’t hard to explain when you think about all the babies that will be born over a thousand-year period. And the fact that people will live a lot longer means that the population in the millennium will be enormous.[39]

The phrase “Gog and Magog” (20:8) evidently refers to the world’s rulers and nations in rebellion against God. People will come from all over the world to rebel against Christ (Ezek 38:3-6). It seems quite clear that the total invasion by Gog described in Ezekiel 38 and 39 is not in view here, though part of it is.[40] In view of its description in Ezekiel, Gog’s invasion of the Promised Land finds fulfillment in two events. These names are used to describe the nations though they are used without any explanation; they are simply introduced as a description of the nations from the four corners of the earth. So why use this term here? Because, from its use in the Ezekiel passage, these names stand symbolically for a rebellious and war-like people and for the nations in rebellion against God and His people (Ps 2) who will be crushed. As Walvoord suggests, it may be used like we use “waterloo” to express a disastrous battle, but one not directly related to the historic situation. The ties are: (1) the nature of the people, rebellious, and (2) their defeat, complete disaster! This battle ends up being the shortest war in human history. The Lord incinerates all of the armies.

Why does God release Satan from the Abyss? No explicit answer is given. However, three reasons are implied in the text: (1) to demonstrate the wickedness of Satan, (2) to demonstrate the depravity of humanity (cf. Jer 17:9), and (3) to demonstrate the justice of hell.

Stop and think about these truths. Even after being bound for a thousand years, Satan still comes out fighting and deceiving. With one last bit of strength, he leads a final revolt against the Lord. He’s mad! There is no end to his wickedness. Clearly, Satan deserves it and the justice of God demands it (20:10).

But humanity is every bit as rebellious and wicked. We blame many things on the Devil but people in the millennium will not be able to do that because he will be bound. There is thus no way that anyone can say, “The Devil made me do it.” People then will live in a perfect environment and still they will commit sin.[41] There will be perfect government, perfect health, perfect climate, and even formerly wild animals like lions will be tame. There will be perfect justice. Yet, a perfect environment will not keep man from sinning because a perfect environment cannot produce a perfect heart. A perfect environment will not solve humanity’s problems; only personal trust in the person and work of Christ will change a person’s heart. Nothing else can permanently change man.

You don’t have to go to the millennium to find this out. This is a human trait today. The better life becomes for some people, the better the possibility that they will conclude they don’t need God; but that any effective and lasting change must come from within, through God’s grace plan of salvation.

Lastly, one of the purposes of this passage is to justify the necessity of eternal punishment. This section proves that even the equivalent of 14 lifetimes (based on the current life expectancy of about 70 years divided into a thousand years) is not enough to overturn man’s allegiance to Satan. Therefore, the eternal lake of fire is a necessity.[42]

[The Bible teaches that Satan’s judgment is required. It also predicts a time when…]

4. Man’s judgment is completed (20:11-15). In 20:11, John sees “a great white throne.” First, it is called “great.”[43] It is great for three primary reasons: (1) Here each unbeliever’s eternal destiny is determined and declared with ample proof and reason. (2) It is great because it is the final judgment putting an end to all judgment for all time. (3) It is great because all the unbelievers of all time, from Cain to the final revolt at the end of the millennium, will be here assembled to face the bar of God’s perfect justice. The only exceptions will be the Beast and False Prophet and perhaps those of the judgment of the Jews and Gentiles, at the end of the tribulation, who have already been consigned to the lake of fire. Second, it is called “white” because it will be the supreme, undimmed display of the perfect righteousness, justice, and purity of God (cf. Ps 97:2; Dan 7:9). Throughout history God has taught man that he must have God’s kind of righteousness, that God is of purer eyes than to approve evil, or to accept or look upon wickedness (Hab 1:13), that all have sinned and come short of God’s glory (Rom 3:23), and that the penalty of sin is eternal death, separation from God (Gen 2:17; Rom 6:23; Eph 2:2). Now these facts will become evident to each individual and proven without question. Third, it is called a “throne” [44] because here the Lord Jesus Christ will sit in absolute majesty and sovereign authority to consign these eternally to the lake of fire.

The one sitting on this throne is Jesus Christ (cf. John 5:22-23, 26-27). John saw earth and heaven flee from Christ’s presence (cf. Ps 114:3, 7).[45] This seems to indicate that we have come to the end of God’s dealings with this earth, as we know it (cf. 2 Pet 3:7, 10-12). The flight of the present earth and heaven from Christ’s presence strengthens the description of Him as the ultimate Judge.

In 20:12, John continues his vision with these words, “And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing[46] before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds.”[47] The dead before this throne are evidently the unsaved of all ages[48] that now stand resurrected (20:5; Dan 12:2).[49] They come from all classes and groups of humanity. The identity of the books is not specifically revealed. We can only speculate from a comparison of other Scriptures and from the nature of these verses. The first book opened will probably be the Scriptures, which contains the revelation of God’s holy character, the moral law, the declaration of the sinfulness of man and God’s plan of salvation by faith in the Savior. This book also reveals that even when men do not have the written Word, they have (1) the law of God written in their hearts (Rom 2:14-16) and (2) the revelation of God consciousness in creation (Rom 1:19-20). Because of this they are without excuse (Rom 1:20; 2:12). All men are responsible for the revelation they have and stand at this judgment because of their own negative volition to God’s grace (Rom 1:18; 2:4, 14; John 7:17). So then, Scripture will be used to demonstrate the clearness of the plan of God and that man is without excuse (cf. also John 12:48-50; and 1 John 3:23).

The “Book of Life”[50] contains the names of God’s elect. God will condemn those raised to face this judgment because of their works including failure to believe in Jesus Christ (John 6:29). Since He will evaluate their deeds, there seems to be a difference in degrees of punishment as there will be differences in rewards for believers (cf. Matt 11:20-24).

The second book will be the Book of Works (deeds). Verses 12 and 13 state that the unbelieving dead will be “judged according to their deeds” (works).[51] The principle here is that Jesus Christ died for their sins, for their evil deeds, to forgive them, and to provide them with a righteousness from God so that they might have a perfect standing before Him. But when men reject the knowledge of God and His plan of salvation, they determine to stand on their own merit or in their own righteousness. So the Book of Works will contain a record of all their deeds, good and bad, to demonstrate Romans 3:23, that they fall short of God’s righteousness and have therefore no basis upon which to stand accepted (justified) before God. This judgment proves them sinners and in need of Christ’s righteousness by faith.

The issue at the great white throne judgment is the degree of punishment. All unbelievers will suffer forever; however, the suffering will be in direct proportion to how one lived and how much light he or she rejected (cf. Matt 10:14-15; 11:21-24; 12:36; Rev 20:13). Exceedingly wicked men like Hitler, Idi Amin, and Pol Pot will experience the utmost in suffering. So too will men like Judas, who rejected the greatest degree of light.

The great white throne will be nothing like our modern court cases. There will be a Judge but no jury, a Prosecutor nut no defense attorney, and a sentence but no appeal. None of these things will exist in this courtroom because Christ will judge the unbelieving world with absolute justice. Nothing will be missed or overlooked as unsaved people from throughout history appear before Christ in the final judgment of the ages.

In 20:13-14, John writes, “And the sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead which were in them; and they were judged, every one of them according to their deeds. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.” “Death and Hades” represent the fact of dying and the condition entered on after death. When non-believers die before the great white throne judgment, they go to hades.[52] “Hades” is not the final judgment. The holding cell for a death-row inmate is not the final step. Execution is that prisoner’s final judgment.

These are temporary hells, a holding place until the final judgment. At the final judgment, God will raise non-believers out of these temporary hells to be judged at the great white throne. Then He will cast them into the permanent lake of fire. The idea of “giving up the dead” has to do with restoring physical bodies to their spirits. Their physical bodies long died but their spirits were in hades. Although the sea swallowed up a person hundreds of years ago, God will restore that body to judgment in hell. From this point on, there will be no more death (cf. 1 Cor 15:24-28). God will cast death and hades into the lake of fire. This is hell, the place of eternal punishment.[53]

In 20:15, John concludes this chapter with some very sobering words: “And if[54] anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown[55] into the lake of fire.” The names of the wicked will be absent from the Book of Life. This will confirm their eternal fate (cf. 14:11). Eternal punishment is a doctrine that is becoming increasingly unpopular in our day. Notice that Jesus Christ, the Judge, spoke very plainly when He affirmed it.[56] If we once saw sin as God sees it, we would understand why a place such as hell exists.

No other verse in the entire Bible should cause us to flee God’s wrath and run into His grace and forgiveness as does 20:15. Yet, the vast majority of Americans are in denial. Barna Research recently conducted a nationwide poll about belief in life after death, heaven and hell, and who might end up where. Three-quarters of us believe in heaven, nearly that many believe in hell (71%) — and only one half of 1% say that they’re heading for the hot place after the closing bell.[57]

C.S. Lewis was an atheist who tried to prove that God didn’t exist. In the process of doing so, he became one of Christianity’s boldest defenders. In clarifying his view that hell is a choice, Lewis said, “Sin is a person’s saying to God throughout life, ‘Go away and leave me alone.’ Hell is God finally saying to that individual, ‘You may have your wish.’”

There is a book written by a cardiologist at the University of Tennessee that corroborates this biblical truth. In the course of their emergency room work, Dr. Maurice Rawlings and his colleagues interviewed more than 300 people who claimed near-death experiences. What made Rawlings’ study distinct is that the interviews were not conducted months or years later but immediately after the experiences had allegedly occurred—while the patients were still too shaken up in the immediacy of the moment to gloss over or to re-imagine what they had experienced.

Nearly 50 percent of them reported encountering images of fire, of tormented and tormenting creatures, and other sights hailing from a place very different from heaven. In follow-up interviews much later many of these same people had changed their stories, apparently unwilling to admit to their families, maybe even to themselves, that they had caught a glimpse of something like what the Bible calls hell. Dr. Rawlings concludes, “Just listening to these patients has changed my life. There is a life after death, and if I don’t know where I’m going, it is not safe to die.”[58]

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] The first word, “then” (kai) supports the idea of chronological sequence. It implies a continuation from what John just revealed (cf. Rev 19:11, 17, 19; 20:4, 11, 12; 21:1, 2, 22).

[3] In Jesus’ day the demons begged not to be sent back to the Abyss (Luke 8:31). Also, it was a place of gloomy confinement (2 Pet 2:4). From it came the locust plague (Rev 9:1-3) and the Beast that killed the two prophets of God (11:8).

[4] The binding of Satan is real, though the chain must be figurative since it is impossible to bind spirit beings with physical chains (cf. Rev 9:14).

[5] The Dragon is his most frequent name in Revelation (12:3, 4, 7, 13, 16, 17; 13:2, 4, 11; 16:13).

[6] This is a reference to Gen 3:1-15, where Satan takes on the form of a serpent (cf. Rev 12:9).

[7] See Rev 2:10; 12:9, 12; 20:10. The word “devil” (diabolos) means “slanderer, accuser.”

[8] See Rev 2:9, 13, 24; 3:9; 12:9. The word “Satan” (satanas) means “adversary.” The above four names contrast with the four names of Christ in Rev 19 (Faithful and True, the Word of God, King of Kings, Lord of Lords). See Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Holman, 1998), 370.

[9] Gk. ebalen. This is from the same verb translated “he was thrown down” (eblethe) in Rev 12:9.

[10] Some understand Rev 20:1-3 to describe Satan being “bound” during the church age. However, this is highly unlikely. As Mounce comments, “The elaborate measures taken to insure his custody are most easily understood as implying the complete cessation of his influence on earth (rather than a curbing of his activities).” See Robert H. Mounce, The Book of Revelation: NICNT (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1977), 353.

[11] Previously, God cast Satan out of heaven (Rev 12:9), now He casts him out of the earth. This is the end of Satan’s “short time” in which God allowed him to spread havoc on the earth (12:12).

[12] Some hold that Mark 3:27 suggests that Satan was bound through the work of Christ on the cross. Yet, the NT demonstrates that Satan is alive and well. He is certainly experiencing little restraint.

[13] Satan frequently deceives the nations (cf. Rev 12:9; 13:14; 18:23; 19:20; 20:3, 8, 10).

[14] See Gen 3:1-13; 2 Cor 11:3; 1 Tim 2:14.

[15] The word “thrones” (thronous) is used in the plural only one other time in the NT (cf. Rev 4:4).

[16] Many other passages in Scripture indicate that a reign of peace and righteousness on earth will follow the second coming (Ps 2; 24; 72; 96; Isa 2; 9:6-7; 11-12; 63:1-6; 65-66; Jer 23:5-6; 30:8-11; Dan 2:44; 7:13-14; Hosea 3:4-5; Amos 9:11-15; Micah 4:1-8; Zeph 3:14-20; Zech 8:1-8; 14:1-9; Matt 19:28; 25:31-46; Acts 15:16-18; Rom 11:25-27; Jude 14-15; Rev. 2:25-28).

[17] Cf. Rev 20:5; 1:18, 2:8; 13:14; John 11:25; Acts 1:3; 9:41.

[18] Cf. Rev 6:9; 12:17; 18:24; 19:2.

[19] Johnson writes, “I feel somewhat more comfortable with the view expressed earlier (see comments at 6:9)—viz., that the martyrs represent the whole church that is faithful to Jesus whether or not they have actually been killed. They constitute a group that can in truth be described as those who ‘did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death’ (12:11). As such, the term is a synonym for overcomers (chs. 2-3). Thus John could count himself in this group, though he may never have suffered death by the axe of the beast. In 2:11 those who during persecution are faithful to Christ even to the point of death are promised escape from the second death, which in 20:6 is promised to those who share in the first resurrection, i.e., the beheaded (v. 4). In fact, a number also of the other promises to overcomers in the letters to the seven churches find their fulfillment in chapter 20 (compare 2:11 with 20:6; 2:26-27 with 20:4; 3:5 with 20:12, 15; 3:21 with 20:4).” Alan F. Johnson: Revelation: EBC, Electronic Ed. Cf. Osborne, Revelation, 704-05.

[20] “Millennium” comes from the Latin word for a thousand years.

[21] “First” (protos) refers to rank or degree, first, foremost, most important of persons. See BDAG, Electronic Ed.

[22] The word John employs for “resurrection” is anastasis. In 42 uses in the NT, with only one clear exception (Luke 2:34), anastasis always refers to bodily resurrection. Other names for this “first” resurrection are the resurrection of the just (Luke 14:14; Acts 24:15), the resurrection from among the dead (Luke 20:34-36), the resurrection of life (John 5:29), and the resurrection to everlasting life (Dan 12:2).

[23] The times when God will raise the righteous are as follows. First, He raised Jesus Christ who is the Firstfruits of those who sleep (1 Cor 15:23). Second, He raised some saints near Jerusalem shortly after Jesus’ resurrection (Matt 27:52-53), though this was probably a temporary resuscitation like that of Lazarus. Third, He will raise Christians at the rapture (1 Thess 4:13-18). Fourth, He will raise the two witnesses during the great tribulation (11:3, 11). Fifth, He will raise the tribulation martyrs at the beginning of the millennium (vv. 4-5). Sixth, He will raise the OTsaints, probably at the same time (Isa 26:19-21; Ezek 37:12-14; Dan 12:2-4). Seventh, He will apparently raise the saints who die during the millennium (cf. 20:12-13). The idea that the resurrection of believers takes place in stages also finds support in 1 Corinthians 15:23.

[24] Amillennialists usually take the first resurrection as a reference to spiritual regeneration. They believe the second resurrection describes a general resurrection of all the dead at the end of time. This view is inconsistent in that it takes “resurrection” figuratively in one case but literally in the other.

[25] This is the fifth of seven beatitudes (“blessings”) found in Revelation (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14).

[26] If, in a passage where two resurrections are mentioned, where certain psuchas ezesan at the first, and the rest of the nekron ezesan only at the end of a specified period after that first, if in such a passage the first resurrection may be understood to mean spiritual rising with Christ, while the second means literal rising from the grave; then there is an end of all significance in language, and Scripture is wiped out as a definite testimony to anything. If the first resurrection is spiritual, then so is the second…but if the second is literal, then so is the first. See Henry Alford, The Greek Testament, rev. Everett F. Harrison, 4 vols. (Chicago: Moody, 1958), 4:732.

[27] Note that many of the promises to the overcomers in the letters to the seven churches find their fulfillment in the millennium (cf. 2:11 with 20:6; 2:26-27 with 20:4; 3:5 with 20:12, 15; and 3:21 with 20:4). This seems to indicate that the rewards Christians receive from the Lord at the judgment seat will also involve serving under Him in the millennium (cf. Matt 25:14-30; Luke 19:11-27) and beyond (Rev 22:3, 5). See Thomas L. Constable, Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation (http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf, 2003), 187.

[28] Nothing is mentioned here or elsewhere about the resurrection of millennium saints; that is those who go into the millennium with mortal bodies or who are born during this time. Some have taught that: because there is no mention of this resurrection, because of the lifting of the curse (Isa 11:6-9; 35:1-2, 9), and because of the healing and lack of sickness in the millennium (Isa 35: 5-6; 29:17-19; 33:24; Ezek 34:16), there will be no death in the millennial age. But Isaiah 65:20 appears to teach otherwise. This verse indicates: (1) The normal life span will be over 100 years, but death will evidently occur. (2) Evidently there will be no shortened life span because of sickness or old age, but (3) there will be a shortened life span through divine discipline for sin and rebellion (cf. Isa 11:4; 65:20b). (4) Otherwise people will live out a long life span and then death will take them. Except for those who die by divine discipline, it will undoubtedly be very peaceful and without fear—perhaps even with immediate resurrection. (5) It also appears that when men do die, they will die, not from old age, but as a youth, young of body and mind (Isa 65:20b). See Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Foundation, 1997), 357.

[29] Keathley writes, “Man is born (physical birth) spiritually dead. He needs a second birth (spiritual birth) by faith in Jesus Christ (Eph 2:1-8; John 3:3-6, 16). If only one birth, then because man is spiritually dead, he must face two deaths (physical death and the second death—eternal  separation from God). If man has two births, (physical and spiritual), then because he has been made spiritually alive in Jesus Christ, he may face physical death (if he dies before the rapture), but he can never face the second death by virtue of the first resurrection. The second death can have no power over believers because the Lord Jesus has ‘rendered powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil’ (Heb 2:14).” Keathley III, Studies in Revelation, 357.

[30] As McClain notes, “In each recurrence the expression [a thousand years] is connected with a distinctive idea: First, Satan is bound for a thousand years (vs. 2). Second, the nations will not be deceived for a thousand years (vs. 3). Third, the martyred saints reign with Christ for a thousand years (vs. 4). Fourth, the rest of the dead live not again till the thousand years are finished (vs. 5). Fifth, all who have part in the first resurrection will be priests of God and reign with Christ a thousand years (vs. 6). Sixth, Satan will be loosed after the thousand years (vs. 7).” Alva J. McClain, The Greatness of the Kingdom: An Inductive Study of the Kingdom of God (Chicago: Moody, 1959), 492.

[31] Robert Jeffress, As Time Runs Out (Nashville: Broadman, 1999), 110-111.

[32] Among premillennialists there are two main groups. “Historic premillennialists” believe that God will fulfill His promises to Abraham (Gen 12:1-3, 7) through the spiritual seed of Abraham, namely, believers whom the OT writers called Israel and the NT writers called the church. “Dispensational premillennialists” believe that God will fulfill His promises to Abraham through the physical seed of Abraham, namely, the Jewish people whom the writers of both testaments referred to as Israel. See Constable, Dr. Constable’s Notes on Revelation, 189.

[33] Cf. Rev 7:1. This phrase is drawn from the OT (cf. Isa 11:12; Ezek 7:2).

[34] This image is common in the OT for an innumerable group of people (e.g., 2 Sam 17:11; Job 29:18; Ps 78:27; Isa 10:22), often for a huge army (e.g., Josh 11:4; 1 Sam 13:5).

[35] “The camp of the saints” suggests that all believers are present throughout the millennium.

[36] Jerusalem will be the capital city that Jesus rules from (see Isa 24:23; Jer 3:17; Ezek 43:7; Mic 4:7; Zech 14:9-11).

[37] The phrase “for ever and ever” is very strong and literally means “unto the ages of the ages.” The Beast and the False Prophet are still there after a thousand years; they are not annihilated. Mark 9:43-48 shows that it does not end. Matthew 13:41-42; 8:12; 22:13; and 25:30 speak of weeping, etc. This shows there is not annihilation, but continual torment. Matthew 25:46 states the punishment is everlasting punishment and looks at what the person suffers. In Matthew 10:28, the reference to the destruction of the soul does not refer to its annihilation, but to the loss of its meaning and purpose of existence.

[38] There are three prevalent millennial views. “Premillennialism” is the belief that Jesus Christ will yet rule over this earth with His capital in Jerusalem. At this time, He will fulfill His earthly promises to Israel. “Amillennialism” is the belief that there is no future millennium. All the kingdom promises to Israel are either conditional, or they are being fulfilled to the church in this present age. “Postmillennialism” is the belief that the church will usher in the kingdom on earth.  A fourth and relatively rare view is called “Promillennialism.” This view is a hybrid of Premillennialism and Amillennialism holds that the martyrs are the lone recipients of the millennium discussed in 20:4-6. The best defense that I have seen for this view is found in Easley, Revelation, 381-82. I subscribe to Premillennialism.

[39] Apparently, those that die at 100 will be considered young (Isa 65:20).

[40] Though expositors disagree in their understanding of Gog and Magog, this is not the same as Ezekiel 38 and 39. This is evident from several things: (1) The invasion in Ezekiel comes from the north, but this one comes from all directions; (2) Ezekiel’s battle seems to occur about the middle of the tribulation when the people of Israel are trusting in the treaty with the Beast, but this battle occurs over a thousand years later, after Christ comes to earth; (3) In Ezekiel, Gog and Magog are the names given the ruler from the north and his land, a territory now occupied by Russia, but according to Ezekiel these will be decisively wiped out in the tribulation.

[41] Adam and Eve had a perfect environment in the Garden of Eden (Gen 2-3).

[42] Osborne, Revelation, 698.

[43] Gk. megas connotes: (l) the size of something, the extent, (2) the intensity or degree of something, and (3) rank, dignity, or standing. In essence, all of these ideas have application here.

[44] In Rev 4:2, John beheld a throne set in heaven from which the tribulation judgments proceeded. The word “throne” (thronos) is used 47 times in the book, but this throne, the great white one, is to be distinguished from all others because it is the most significant of all. Interestingly, the word “throne” only appears 16 times in the rest of the NT.

[45] The present heaven and earth will one day disappear (Matt 24:35; Mark 13:31; Luke 16:17; 21:33; 2 Pet 3:10-13).

[46] “Standing” before God indicates that they are to be sentenced.

[47] Some believe there is only one general judgment of all persons, believers and unbelievers. However, such a view does not fit the facts. The resurrection of believers occurs before the millennium while the resurrection of unbelievers occurs after the thousand years (Rev 20:4-6). The only judgment that takes place after the thousand years is the judgment of unbelievers.

[48] This excludes the Beast and the False Prophet (Rev 19:20), and perhaps those unbelievers judged at the judgment of the Gentiles and Jews (Matt 25:41) because they are seen to be sent directly to the eternal lake of fire.

[49] There is no revelation about what will happen to mortal believers who are alive at the end of the millennium. Perhaps Satan and his followers will kill them all before God judges the rebels. Another possibility is that they will live through this rebellion and God will give them immortal bodies with which they will be able to enter the new earth. Neither is there information about the divine judgment of these believers. There will probably be a judgment of them since God judges everyone else who has ever lived at one time or another. Probably He will judge them at the end of the millennium. A resurrection of those of them that died during the millennium is also probable (cf. Isa 65:17-20).

[50] See Rev 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:15; 21:27; Isa 4:3; Ps 69:28; Dan 12:1; Luke 10:20; Phil 4:3.

[51] “Deeds” (erga) refers to anything that is done, a deed, action, or work. It is used of good deeds (Matt 26:10; Mark 14:6; Rom 2:7), of evil deeds (Col 1:21; 2 John 11), of dead works (Heb 6:1; 9:14), of unfruitful deeds (Eph 5:11), of ungodly deeds (Jude 15), of deeds of darkness (Rom 13:12; Eph 5:11), and of works of the Law (Rom 2:15).

[52] Or in the OT, Sheol.

[53] Evidently the wicked too will receive resurrection bodies that are different from their former mortal bodies. They will be indestructible. Those who are born once will die twice; those who are born twice will die once.

[54] From the English rendering it might be inferred that John is doubtful whether anyone will be thrown into the lake of fire. The Greek construction, however, is not so indefinite. John uses a first-class condition, which assumes the reality of the first clause and shows the consequences in the second clause. Thus we might paraphrase the verse: “If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, and I assume there were such, he was thrown into the lake of fire.” See Johnson: Revelation, Electronic Ed.

[55] Admittedly, the Bible seems to indicate that God “throws” people into hell (Luke 12:5).

[56] See also Rev 20:10; 19:20; 14:10; Matt 18:8; 23:15, 33; 25:46; Mark 9:46.

[57] All told, 81% of Americans firmly believe in some type of life after death, with 9% considering it a possibility and only 10% believing that death brings utter finality, the survey found. And while 43% of respondents said that Christianity is their passport to glory, 15% say that they will get to heaven because they “have tried to obey the 10 Commandments.” Another 15% expect to gain admittance because “they are basically a good person.” Among the others, 6% believe that God is letting everyone in, no matter what.

[58] Preaching Today Citation: Daniel Meyer, “The Light at the End of the Tunnel,” Preaching Today No. 238.

“It Just Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This!” (Revelation 21:1-22:5)

How many of you enjoying flying? How many of you struggle with anxiety or physical problems when you fly? My wife Lori grew up in a family that loved to fly. Her dad and grandpa both flew small airplanes. A favorite family outing would be to take the plane out. If Lori was especially privileged, her granddad would sometimes let her steer from the co-pilot’s seat. Because it had a special place in their family, Lori has always desired to get her pilot’s license like her grandfather and father before her. Unfortunately, since Lori was a very small girl she has always experienced excruciating inner ear pain. She compares it to having someone thrusting knives into her ears or eyes! This happens every time she is in an airplane, regardless of its type or size. It has gotten so bad that now Lori doesn’t like to fly. She almost refuses to fly at all. Whenever a circumstance is presented where she might have to board an aircraft, she has to weigh the destination with the pain she will encounter along the way. Sometimes the final destination is worth the pain.[1]

Life is like Lori on a plane. Life can sometimes only be endured in light of the destination. Revelation 21:1-22:5 is our heavenly destination. This passage teaches us that the destination is worth the trip. In 21:1-8, John insists…

1. Prepare for your destination (21:1-8).[2] John writes, “Then I saw[3] a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away.”[4] The expression “heaven and earth” is a biblical designation for the entire universe (cf. Gen 1:1). So John sees a transformation of the entire universe.[5] The first heaven and earth will “pass[ed] away”[6] (cf. Matt 24:35). This does not mean extinction or annihilation, but transformation.[7] It will be a dramatic change in quality from one level to a higher form.[8] In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new (kainos) creature; the old things passed away (parerchomai); behold, new things have come.” This doesn’t mean that when we were converted to Christ, we ceased to be. I was not annihilated altogether, but transformed from the inside out. Likewise, the heavens and earth will be radically altered and gloriously reborn. This present universe will undergo a vast renovation—a rebirth or remaking (see Acts 3:21).[9]

The result of this renovation will be a “new earth” that will be our eternal home. What I am saying is: We are not going to live in heaven forever. No, this is not a misprint. The Bible teaches that we will be in heaven for an appointed time, we will then rule with Christ on earth, and finally we will experience the eighth-day of creation and live on a new earth (cf. 21:5). This teaching startles most people because many have wrongly assumed that believers will spend their lives in the sky. However, the Bible teaches that man’s ultimate destiny is an earthly one. Yes, we will one day return to God’s original plan as revealed in the garden of Eden.

Most Americans are familiar with ABC’s hit show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. It is remarkable how motivated people can remodel and restore a run-down house in seven days.[10] It is also moving to see the sheer joy of the beneficiaries. Well, can you fathom what the God of this universe can do when He remodels and restores our eternal home? For the past 2,000 years, He has been preparing a place for you that will stagger your imagination (cf. 21:9-21). When you see the finished product you will shout and scream with joy inexpressible!

Another striking statement is made in 21:1b: “and there is no longer any sea.”[11] Remember, at the time of this writing, John is exiled on Patmos, separated from his church by the Aegean Sea. For John, the sea was a painful barrier and wall of isolation from fellowship with his beloved flock.[12] To the ancient peoples, the sea was frightful and fearsome, an awesome monster, a watery grave.[13]

They had no compass to guide them in the open sea. On a cloudy day, their ships were absolutely lost without the stars or the sun to guide them. Their frail ships were at the mercy of the tempestuous ocean’s fearsome, angry storms. The loss of human life was beyond calculation. So the sea represented a vast barrier for nations, continents, and people groups. The sea was a separator of mankind around the globe…a destroyer of human life.[14] But no more! No more geographical barriers to separate us. No more violent sea storms to bury victims in watery graves.[15] God will renovate the world, as we know it.[16]

In 21:2, John sees “the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride[17] adorned for her husband.” “The holy city, New Jerusalem” is in contrast to the former Jerusalem.[18] As the old Jerusalem was Jesus Christ’s capital during the millennium, so the New Jerusalem will be His capital for eternity. This is the place that our Lord is preparing (John 14:1-3). The “New Jerusalem” describes both the saints (21:3-7, 24-27) and their eternal dwelling (21:2). The city is everything the bride is; the bride is everything the city is. In this simile, Christ is the husband (21:9-10; cf. 3:12). It is a glorious relationship.

The most glorious aspect of eternity is that God will be present. In 21:3, John writes, “And I heard a loud voice[19] from the throne,[20] saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people,[21] and God Himself[22] will be among them.”’ Two times in this verse, the Lord states that He will dwell among His people. The supreme blessing of the New Jerusalem is that God will dwell among His people, and they will experience intimate fellowship with Him (cf. Ezek 37:27; 48:35).[23] Any previous intimacy with God will be blown away by what we experience in eternity.

In our technological age, we often do much of our communication via email. This can seem impersonal. An improvement to email can be a phone call. A phone call allows the receiver to hear tone of voice and even envision the person on the other end of the line. It seems more personal. However, due to the rise of cell phones, a phone call can lack value. A step up from email and a phone call is a hand-written note. These dinosaurs are a treasure in our day and age. Email, telephone, and written notes are wonderful mediums of expression and communication, but nothing compares with face-to-face fellowship to communicate love, sympathy and support, or encouragement.

This verse tells us that God is going to dwell with us. He’s going to hang out with us! He’s going to be ever-present. This is mind-boggling! Unfortunately, we are finite creatures. When we hear of this incredible blessing, we check our watch to see when church ends. Yet, what makes heaven heavenly is God’s presence! He alone is the only One that can satisfy us. Therefore, we must pray that God helps us to realize our inner desire to know Him. Since He has placed this yearning within us, He will merely have to help us rediscover our neglected or untapped desire.

Another glorious aspect of eternity is that evil and suffering will be absent. In 21:4, John promises us that “He [God] will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away” (cf. 7:17; Isa 25:8). Verse 3 describes the benefits of the New Jerusalem positively, and verse 4 does so, negatively. This reference to wiping away tears highlights God’s compassion for His people. Sorrow, death, and pain will all end along with the tears, mourning, and crying that result from them. This is a final reversal of the curse (Gen 3). All these former experiences will be gone forever then. However, note that the removal of tears will take place after the judgments, including the judgment seat of Christ, when some Christians will suffer the loss of reward (1 Cor 3:15; cf. 1 John 2:28). The “first” things are the former things, the things associated with the old creation.

In 21:5, John says, “Out with the old and in with the new.” John records, “And He who sits on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’ And He said, ‘Write, for these words are faithful and true.’” John turned from describing the New Jerusalem briefly to describe some of God’s utterances (cf. 1:8; 20:11). “Behold” introduces a special pronouncement, namely that God will bring a new creation into existence (cf. 21:1). He assures us that His words are “faithful and true.” The Lord then said to John, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost” (21:6). The judgments of the tribulation (cf. 16:17) and of the whole, old creation stood accomplished (cf. 21:5). Jesus said, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.” Alpha, the first letter of the Greek alphabet, suggests that the Lord God Almighty is the initiator of creation, the source and origin of all things. Omega, the last letter of the Greek alphabet, points to the fact that He is the end of everything, that is, He is the goal or aim of all things (1:8; 22:13; cf. Isa 44:6).

His promise of abundant satisfaction for the thirsty is metaphorical, symbolizing His ability to meet the deepest needs of His people (7:17; cf. Isa 55:1; John 4:13-14; 7:37-39). This is an invitation to anyone, including believers, to come to God to receive freely from Him, what is truly satisfying. It is a beautiful Gospel invitation (cf. 22:17). Besides this promise being guaranteed by God’s faithfulness (21:5), it is also guaranteed by His power (21:6).

In 21:7, the Lord states, “He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.” The overcomer will inherit the blessings of the new creation.[24] The phrase “I will be his God and he will be My son”[25] is defined elsewhere as a statement of special honor, not of salvation. The Davidic covenant promised to David’s son, Solomon, “I will be a Father to him and he will be a son to Me” (2 Sam 7:14). The intent of this phrase was to signify a special, intimate relationship. It is a special honor associated with the Davidic covenant, including privileged intimacy and ruling authority. A person can be a son and not necessarily behave as a son. A true son reflects a life of obedience (Jer 7:23; 11:4). A willingness to yield to the leading of the Holy Spirit is characteristic of the sons of God (Rom 8:14).[26]

During the terrible Chicago fire of 1871, D. L. Moody’s house burned down. As Moody surveyed the ruins, a friend said, “I hear you lost everything.” “Well,” said Moody, “you understand wrong. I have a good deal more left than I lost.” His friend asked, “What do you mean? You are not a rich man.” Mr. Moody then opened his Bible and read to him Revelation 21:7, “He who overcomes shall inherit these things, and I will be His God.”[27]

In contrast to the overcomer, the Lord utters these frightening words: “But for the cowardly[28] and unbelieving[29] and abominable[30] and murderers[31] and immoral persons[32] and sorcerers[33] and idolaters[34] and all liars,[35] their part will be in the lake that burns[36] with fire and brimstone, which is the second death” (21:8). This verse serves as a description of the individuals thrown into the lake of fire as a result of the great white throne (20:11-15). These eight particular evils especially characterize the unfaithful during the period of the great tribulation. These are also the very evils which are most tempting to the believer, during the intense persecution and evil of the last days. In this verse eternal sinfulness is in view. It is a mistake to think that this verse is describing the way the unsaved behave here and now. The verse says nothing about the current behavior of believers or unbelievers. Rather, it concerns the eternal sinfulness of unbelievers (cf. John 8:24). Unbelievers die in a state of sinfulness. Forever they remain sinners. Believers, however, do not remain in a state of sinfulness because they are justified by faith (Rom 4:1-8; 8:33-34). There will be no sinners and no sin in the new heavens and the new earth.[37] According to 1 John 3:2, “when He [Jesus] is revealed, we shall be like Him.”

The reason that you must “book your destination” is because the costs are high. Heaven or hell awaits every person; the choice is yours. Will you trust in the finished work of Christ to secure your destination? If so, you will spend eternity with God.

[John’s initial interest in the New Jerusalem was in its citizens. In 21:1-8, we are told who will inhabit the New Jerusalem, as well as those who will be excluded. When we come to 21:9-21, we find John taking a closer look, as it were, at the city itself].

2. Upgrade your destination (21:9-21). One of the blessings of our eternal destination is that everyone will experience an upgrade. What is the most beautiful place you have ever seen? Can you describe the physical features of the city? That’s what John does in 21:9-21. These verses make me wonder if John was an interior designer on the side. In 21:9-11, John likens our eternal home to a gem. He writes, “Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and spoke with me, saying, ‘Come here, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.’[38] And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the holy city,[39] Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven[40] from God[41] having the glory of God. Her brilliance was like a very costly stone, as a stone of crystal-clear jasper.” The first and most important characteristic that John noted was its radiant glow. It shone with the splendor of God Himself because He was in it.[42] John compared the glory of the city to that of a beautiful gem. Jasper stones were very beautiful but not always clear. As mentioned earlier (cf. 4:3), this is probably a crystal-clear gem with many facets of brilliance; probably what we call a diamond. This stone described God Himself earlier (4:3), so its brilliance is a further reflection of God’s presence in the city.

In 21:12-21, John further explains the greatness of our eternal home. But this is a most challenging task. The great pastor and writer, Ray Stedman (now with the Lord) used to say, “For John to try to explain to finite humans what this new state is like is similar, said, to trying to explain the concepts of relativity and quantum physics to a two-year-old.” This is the truth! John writes, “It had a great and high wall,[43] with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels; and names were written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel. There were three gates on the east and three gates on the north and three gates on the south and three gates on the west.[44] And the wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.[45] The one who spoke with me had a gold measuring rod to measure the city, and its gates and its wall.[46] The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width; and he measured the city with the rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal.[47] And he measured its wall, seventy-two yards, according to human measurements, which are also angelic measurements.[48] The material of the wall was jasper; and the city was pure gold, like clear glass.[49] The foundation stones of the city wall were adorned with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation stone was jasper [light green]; the second, sapphire [blue]; the third, chalcedony [gray or green]; the fourth, emerald [green];[50] the fifth, sardonyx [brown and white]; the sixth, sardius [red]; the seventh, chrysolite [yellow]; the eighth, beryl [blue-green]; the ninth, topaz [yellow-brown]; the tenth, chrysoprase [apple green]; the eleventh, jacinth [blue]; the twelfth, amethyst [purple].[51] And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; each one of the gates was a single pearl.[52] And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.”[53] Why would John spend so long with a description of the various precious gems out of which the city is built? The length of this section suggests that there is an important lesson to be learned here. I would like to suggest three areas of application that this section suggests: (1) For those saints whose lot is poverty, like the saints in Smyrna (2:9), John’s description of the splendor of the New Jerusalem is great encouragement.

Whatever material benefits have been forfeited for their faith, the eternal riches of the New Jerusalem will more than adequately make up for.[54] So if you feel like you’re barely making ends meet, remember the eternal home that awaits you.

For his first sermon in an elementary preaching class, Lawrence, an African student, chose a text describing the joys we’ll share when Christ returns and ushers us to our heavenly home. “I’ve been in the United States for several months now,” he began. “I’ve seen the great wealth that is here—the fine homes and cars and clothes. I’ve listened to many sermons in churches here, too. But I’ve yet to hear one sermon about heaven. Because everyone has so much in this country, no one preaches about heaven. People here don’t seem to need it. In my country most people have very little, so we preach on heaven all the time. We know how much we need it.”[55]

(2) For those who are anti-materialistic, and who feel that all that is beautiful and priceless is to be disdained, this section reminds us that there is nothing evil about what is beautiful or expensive, or else heaven would not be made of such precious and priceless material things. Some Christians give the impression that heaven will be made out of second-hand materials; that everything is from the Goodwill or Salvation Army, and painted that ugly greenish-brown. Beautiful and priceless materials are absolutely appropriate in heaven, for God is worthy of that which is most beautiful.[56] Don’t disdain the beautiful things of this world. Celebrate them for what they are. Nothing is evil in and of itself.

(3) For those who are rich in this world’s goods, or who are striving to become so, the splendor of heaven is a healthy antidote for materialism. The Laodicean saints thought that they were rich, but they were informed that they were poor (3:17-18). No matter how much wealth these saints could have accumulated, it would pale into insignificance in comparison to the wealth of heaven. And even if it were possible to “take it with you” to heaven, it would be of no value. After all, if the streets of the New Jerusalem are paved with such pure gold (21:21), the impure gold which we now possess would not even be suitable for road paving. Let those who would suppose that they are rich compare their wealth with that of the New Jerusalem.[57]

A man who has a layover at an airport does not go into the bathroom, frown at its decor, and start redecorating! Why? Because he doesn’t live there. He has a home in another place. While he is away he will get by with only what he absolutely needs, in order to have more money with which to furnish his permanent home. Why do we Christians work so hard at trying to make our life in this world more comfortable? This is just the airport and we are in transit. We should spend our energy on enhancing our eternal reward, and not worry so much about the bare walls in the airport restrooms.[58] Let us invest our lives in what will really last and matter for all of eternity.

[As we come to the concluding verses of Revelation 21, John is careful to describe for us what will not be in heaven. That may sound negative, but it is entirely positive. Heaven will be heaven as much for what will not be there as what is there. Having told us what and who will be there, John will now tell us what and who will be missing].

3. Appreciate your destination (21:22-22:5). In 21:22-27, John describes the character of the new city. It is known by what is not there. John writes, “I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God the Almighty[59] 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. In the daytime (for there will be no night there) its gates will 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.” In 21:22-27, we discover the five blessed absences of heaven. (1) There will be no sanctuary or temple because God and Jesus are the temple (21:22). The whole city will, therefore, be a virtual temple. The Lamb will play the central role in this temple along with Almighty God.

(2) There will be no sun or moon because God is her light and the Lamb her lamp (21:23). The need for created light sources will end when the Creator Himself lives among His people. God illuminated the camp of Israel with His presence in the pillar of fire, and He lit the Holy of Holies with His presence between the cherubim. He will similarly dispel all darkness of all kinds in the new city. The Lamb is the radiance of the Father’s glory (Heb 1:3), but the Father is also the light (22:5). No more flashlights. No more changing light bulbs (the one mechanical thing that I can do). The vast wattage of God will supply all the light that is needed. It will be the Jesus Christ Light and Power Company.

(3) There will be no self-glory. Nations and kings will “bring the glory and the honor of the nations” into the New Jerusalem. There will be no reveling in past success or greatness; the glory will all be given to God. The identity of these nations and kings is difficult to determine.[60] It is clear from the context that John is talking about a group of people who have access to the New Jerusalem but who don’t live there. There is only one group of people left on earth to go into eternity in their physical bodies—believers that served Christ during His millennium kingdom. They go into eternity in their physical, glorified bodies, not spiritual, glorified bodies like we will have because they did not experience death and resurrection. These people will go into eternity with bodies like Adam and Eve had at their creation before they were flawed by sin.[61] Their physical bodies will be maintained through a special provision from God (“the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations,” 22:2b). In the New Jerusalem the gates will never close; anyone can enter anytime (21:25-26). These nations and kings, therefore, may enter whenever they wish, pay homage to God, and seek out the leaves of the Tree of Life for their continued health and well-being.[62]

(4) There is no sin. Nothing unclean will enter the New Jerusalem (21:27a).

(5) There are no sinners—only glory and honor, nothing defiling (21:27b). Only the blood-bought have the ticket. Only believers will enter the city. The unsaved will in no way be able to do so.[63] Evidently, any believer will be able to enter the city since the contrast is with those whose names are not in the Lamb’s Book of Life (i.e., the lost). This verse warns the reader that the only way to gain entrance into this city is to have one’s name recorded in the Lamb’s Book of Life (cf. 20:15).

The late, great Bible teacher, Vance Havner once said, “There are a lot of questions the Bible doesn’t answer about the Hereafter. But I think one reason is illustrated by the story of a boy sitting down to a bowl of spinach when there’s a chocolate cake at the end of the table. He’s going to have a rough time eating that spinach when his eyes are on the cake. And if the Lord had explained everything to us about what’s ours to come, I think we’d have a rough time with our spinach down here.”[64]

In 22:1-5, John explains the restoration of Paradise (cf. 2:7; Gen 2; Luke 23:43; 2 Cor 12:2). Up to this chapter, the New Jerusalem seems to be all mineral and no vegetable. Its appearance is as the dazzling display of a fabulous jewelry store; we wonder if there is no soft grass to sit upon, no green trees to enjoy, and no water to drink or food to eat. However, here are introduced the elements which add a rich softness to this city of elaborate beauty. John writes, “Then he showed me[65] a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations” (22:1-2).

The pure river seems to be symbolic of the refreshment and sustenance that God provides,[66] though it, like the city itself, is probably also a literal river (cf. Gen 2:10, 14).[67] John described the river he saw as bright or clear as a crystal; it was a shimmering, sparkling stream of unpolluted water. This river proceeded from the throne that belongs to God and the Lamb.[68] This throne evidently stood at the head of the main street of the city so that looking down this street the throne appeared to be in its middle.[69] The point of the passage is to teach that, in the eternal state, God’s people will live at the source of the life-giving stream, the very presence of God Himself.[70] This lone river signifies power, purity, and eternal life, in the eternal city that has its constant source of life in God.

In 22:2, John also saw the Tree of Life. When Adam and Eve fell, they lost their access to the Tree of Life in the garden of Eden (cf. Gen 2:9; 3:22-24). In the eternal city the residents will have access to the Tree of Life there.[71] This tree was perpetually, rather than seasonally, in fruit; it produced a new crop of fruit each month of the year. Evidently the new creation will not have a lunar calendar, since there will be no moon (21:23), but another type of calendar will define months. Most fruit trees in the old creation bear fruit only a few months each year at most. In contrast, God’s blessing of fruitfulness will mark life in the new earth. The Tree of Life in the garden of Eden could perpetuate life forever (Gen 3:22, 24). Evidently that will be the function of this tree in the new earth as well, to sustain immortality.

In 22:3-4, John goes on to write, “There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; they will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.”[72] John tells us there will no longer be a curse. The curse in view is probably the curse that God pronounced on the old creation at the fall (cf. Gen 3:14-19; Zech 14:11; Mal 4:6). God will have intimate fellowship with His people because this curse has now been lifted. In this perfect place, we will serve Him.[73]

Last week I was talking with another area pastor. We were discussing the great challenge of enlisting people to serve (e.g., nursery, children’s Sunday school, prayer ministry, etc.). Then it dawned on me that, like most pastors, I was guilty of not regularly challenging our people to serve outside of our church walls. I realized that I was likely guilty of not stretching our people by encouraging them to serve in an area in which they are particularly gifted. So if you ever hear me implying that ministry or service is primarily inside these church walls, please, slap me silly! I release you to serve with Child Evangelism Fellowship and Union Gospel Mission. I urge you to have a felt-needs neighborhood Bible study. God wants many of us to serve Him outside the walls of this building.

In 22:4, we also learn that God’s bond-servants will see God’s face; we will enjoy personal, intimate fellowship with Him. We will be able to do this because we will be pure in heart, righteous, and holy then (cf. Ps 11:7; 17:15; Matt 5:8; 1 Cor 13:12; Heb 12:14). Adam and Eve’s sin broke their fellowship with God, and they hid from Him (Gen 3:8; cf. Exod 33:20, 23). Our ability to view God’s glory is limited now (cf. Job 19:25-27; 2 Cor 3:18; Heb 9:7), but then it will be unhindered (1 John 3:2).

Our section closes in 22:5 with these words: “And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illumine them; and they will reign forever and ever.” The final point John stressed was the great glory of God that will illuminate the whole new earth (21:23-25; cf. Zech 14:6-7). Previously he mentioned this to show how glorious the city will be, but now he did so to emphasize what delight this will result in for the city-dwellers (cf. Num 6:22-27). He added that His bond-servants will reign with Him forever, not just in the millennial kingdom (20:4, 6). This is the fulfillment of God’s desire and command: that man should rule over His creation (Gen 1:26). Evidently, faithful believers will have more authority in the new creation than unfaithful believers, as will be true during the millennium (cf. Matt 25:14-30; Luke 19:11-27).

Our faithfulness in life prepares us for higher service in heaven. Who knows but what He will give to each saint a world or a solar system or a galactic system to operate. Remember that Adam was given dominion over the old creation on this earth.[74] Thus the prophecy of things that shall take place after present things (1:19), which began in 4:1, closes with a picture of God’s servants worshipping around His throne and ruling under His authority.[75]

I’d like to introduce you to one of my best childhood friends [take out a VCR and remote]. Most of you know that I’m a sports fan. I’m sad to say that when I was growing up I wasn’t just a sports fan, I was a sports addict. I would always videotape the games that I would miss when I was not at home. But I was different than many sports fans. I didn’t rewind the tape to the beginning to view it. Instead, I rewound to the climax to discover who won and who lost. If my team lost, I wouldn’t even watch the game. In fact, I would tape over the game. But if my team won, I’d rewind the game back to the beginning, get out some snacks, and watch the whole game. Some people think that this method can’t be much fun. On the contrary, no matter how bad things look for my team, I don’t have to worry because I know how the game ends.

Life is like that. If you have placed faith in Christ, you know the final score. God has given us a remote control (the Bible) that fast-forwards to the end of the age. The book of Revelation tells us that, in the end, we win! No matter how bad things look, if you have a VCR mentality you know you have a glorious destination and future.

Parallels in Genesis 1-3 and Revelation 20-22

Genesis

Revelation

In the beginning (1:1)

I am. . .the beginning and the end (21:6)

God created the heavens and the earth (1:1)

I saw a new heaven and a new earth (21:1)

Let there be light (1:3)

God gives it light (21:23)

The darkness He called “night” (1:5)

There will be no night there (21:25)

The gathered waters He called “seas” (1:10)

There was no longer any sea (21:1)

God made the two great lights (1:16)

Does not need the sun/moon (21:23)

He also made the stars (1:16)

The morning star (22:16)

Subdue [the earth]. Rule over (1:28)

And they will reign forever (22:5)

God blessed the 7th day (2:2-3)

7 angels, 7 bowls, 7 last plagues (21:9)

[God] made it holy (2:3)

The Holy City (21:2, 10; 22:19)

Tree of life (2:9)

He must not take from the tree of life (3:22-23)

Tree of life (22:2)

God will take away His share in the tree of life (22:19)

A river watering the garden (2:10)

River of the water of life (22:1)

The free gift of the water of life (22:17)

There is gold (the gold of that land is good) (2:11-12)

A measuring rod of gold (21:15)

The city was. . .pure gold (21:18)

The street. . .was pure gold (21:21)

The bdellium stone (pearls) (2:12)

Pearls, each gate made of a single pearl (21:21)

Onyx (2:12)

Sardonyx (21:20)

You will surely die (2:17)

Or you will die (3:3)

No more death (21:4)

A man will. . .be united to his wife (2:23-25)

The bride of the wife of the Lamb (21:9-10)

The serpent. . .was crafty (3:1)

The devil, who deceived them (20:10)

Shown a garden into which sin entered (3:6-7)

Shown a city into which sin will never enter (21:27)

The Lord God. . .was walking in the garden (3:8)

Nations will walk by His light (21:24)

Walk of God with man interrupted (3:8-10)

Walk of God with man resumed (21:3)

I was ashamed [naked] (3:10)

Anyone who does what is shameful (21:27)

Initial triumph of the serpent (3:13)

Ultimate triumph of the Lamb (20:10; 22:3)

Cursed. . .cursed (3:14, 17)

No longer. . .any curse (22:3)

Eve’s offspring (3:15)

The offspring of David (22:16)

I will greatly multiply your pain (3:16-17)

No more. . .pain (21:4)

The Lord God made garments of skins and clothed them (3:21)

Blessed are those who wash their robes (22:14)

God banished him (3:23)

They will see His face (22:4)

He drove the man out of the garden (3:24)

I saw the Holy City (21:2)

Cherubim. . .to guard the way (3:24)

With 12 angels at the gates (21:12)

A flaming sword (3:24)

Fiery lake of burning sulfur (21:8)

The Significance of the Parallels in Genesis 1-3 and Revelation 20-22

1. Immutability: While we are prone to change, God does not change (Mal 3:6a). Even when we are faithless, He remains forever faithful (2 Tim 2:12). In His first dealings with mankind, He provided the sacrifice to meet the needs of the fallen Adam and Eve (i.e., animal skins, see Gen 3:21). In later events, He provided the sacrifice for the needs of His people (i.e., the Lamb, see 1 Pet 1:18-19).

2. Restoration: The world as we now know it is not what God intended. Rather, our world is a result of man’s fall (Gen 3:1-24; Rom 5:12-21). Yet, Revelation 20-22 promises us that God’s original plan for mankind will one day be fulfilled.

3. Progress: The new heavens and the new earth are actually an improvement over the Garden of Eden in that there is no sea, no night, no sun, or moon, etc. (Rev 21:1, 23-27).

4. Triumph: God’s purposes are never thwarted by anyone or anything (Rom 9:6-29). Although things may have looked bleak in Genesis 3, Revelation 20-22 proves that God ultimately and forcefully triumphs over the Serpent. Eventually, the big three (sin, suffering, and death) will be forever dealt with. This is one of the reasons the book of Revelation is so crucial. Without it, we would be left hanging. But fortunately, God relieves our apprehension and shares with us His glorious future.

5. Beginning and End: In Revelation 21:6, God says, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.” Any comparison of these two passages corroborates that He is the controller of all things from eternity to eternity. As Jesus said, “Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last” (Rev 1:17). We can relax in our great God’s sovereignty.

6. Unity of God’s Plan: Genesis 3:15 points out the plan that God has to defeat Satan through the offspring of the woman. Revelation points to the consummation of that plan in the finished work of the Lamb (5:6-14). Thus, if God has a plan from the beginning and is able to actually carry it out at the end of history, then He must be in control of human history. And He must be who He claims to be!

7. Unity of Scripture: By these extensive parallels (both similar and contrasting), we see that there is very close literary connection between two biblical books written centuries apart, by different human authors, who were recording the words of a greater, overseeing author, God. Only God Himself could have orchestrated this unity of the Scriptures.

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] For an excellent treatment of these verses, see David J. MacLeod, “The Seventh ‘Last Thing’: The New Heaven and the New Earth” (Rev. 21:1-8). BibliothecaSacra 157:628 (Oct 2000), 439-51.

[3] Forty-fives times in Revelation John notes, “I saw” (eidon) something. Thirty-two of these are preceded by the Greek word kai (“and” or then”), suggesting a chronological sequence.

[4] See Gale Z. Heide, “What Is New about the New Heaven and the New Earth? A Theology of Creation from Revelation 21 and 2 Peter 3,” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 40:1 (March 1997): 37-56.

[5] Is the new heaven and earth that John saw the same new heaven and earth that Isaiah predicted? (Isa 65:17; 66:22; cf. Ps 102:25-26; Isa 51:6). We would normally assume that the entities are the same since the terms that describe them are almost identical. However the descriptions of these places vary. Isaiah wrote that people will die in the new earth (Isa 65:17-20), but John said there will be no more death there (Rev 21:4). Isaiah predicted that the moon will shine in the new heavens (Isa 66:22-23), but John implied that there will be no moon there (Rev 21:23). Apparently, Isaiah spoke of both the millennium and the eternal state generally, as new heavens and a new earth (Isa 65:17-66:24), which is accurate since even in the millennium the world will experience renovation. John, in the progress of revelation, distinguished these two aspects and applied the name “new heaven and earth” only to the eternal state, which is appropriate since God will eventually destroy the present world and create a new world (cf. 2 Pet 3:10). Isaiah’s view of the future was more general while John’s was more specific.

[6] Gk. aperchomai, cf. Rev 9:12; 10:9; 11:14; 12:17; 16:2; 18:14; 21:1, 4.

[7] There is a debate among scholars as to whether the present earth is destroyed or renovated. Some scholars argue that John described a renovation of the old creation. Five arguments are suggested. (1) The exegetical argument. They argue that a proper exegesis of verse 5 (as well as of Matt 19:28; Acts 3:21; Rom 8:19-22; and 2 Pet 3:10) suggests a renewal and refining of existing materials. In Matthew Jesus spoke of the “regeneration,” in Acts Peter spoke of “the restoration of all things,” and in Romans Paul wrote of the renewal of the old creation. (2) The theological argument. The view that the old universe is to be utterly destroyed and replaced suggests that the divine purposes will be frustrated by sin. (3) The christological argument. It is difficult to believe that the earth that was sanctified by the presence and works of the incarnate Son of God is to be destroyed. (4) The soteriological or anthropological argument. There is an analogy between redeemed man and the redeemed earth. Just as there is continuity between the earthly body and the resurrection body, so there is to be continuity between the old earth and the new earth. (5) The scientific argument. The intense heat of the final conflagration will not destroy matter but will only give it a new form. Other scholars believe God completely destroys this earth and recreates a new earth. The decisive factor, says Thomas, in favor of an entirely new creation is “the language of Rev 20:11 which depicts an entire dissolving of the old, a vanishing into nothingness, followed by a new creation in 21:1 without any sea.” Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22: An Exegetical Commentary (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 440. See also John F. Walvoord, The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Chicago: Moody, 1966), 311.

[8] The Greek word for “new” (kainos) emphasizes qualitative newness, not temporal newness (neos). The main emphasis is its uniqueness; it is quite different from the old.

[9] See Steven J. Lawson, Heaven Help Us! (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1995), 104. I highly recommend this resource to study through Rev 4-5 and 21-22. Dr. Lawson is an extraordinary writer.

[10] For more information see http://abc.go.com/primetime/xtremehome/show.html

[11] The word “sea” (thalassa) refers to a lake, sea, or body of water. Most of the earth is covered with water which is vital to man’s survival, but in the new earth there will be no bodies of water except for the one river mentioned in 22:1-2. All life on earth is dependent upon water to survive. Human blood is 90% water and human flesh is 65% water. Life however, in the new heaven and earth, will not be based upon water. We will be in glorified bodies not in physical, fleshly bodies and, therefore, will not need to depend upon water for our existence.

[12] Some believe that the vast amount of water that covers 90% of our globe’s surface is the result of the flood. It is believed that the water that remains serves as a “scar” to remind us of God’s flood due to man’s sinfulness.

[13] In the book of Revelation, “the sea” is normally a negative image. Beale lists five negative images: (1) the origin of evil (12:18; 13:1); (2) the nations that persecute the saints (12:18; 13:1; 17:1-6), (3) the place of the dead (20:13); (4) the location of the world’s idolatrous trade activity (18:10-19); and (5) a body of water, part of this world (5:13; 7:1-4; 8:8-9; 10:8). See G.K. Beale, The Book of Revelation: NIGNTC (Grand Rapids: Erdmans, 1999), 1042.

[14] It is also worth noting that the sea represents the disorder, violence, and unrest that mark the present creation (Ps 107:25-28; Isa 57:20; Ezek 28:8).

[15] Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 108.

[16] The new earth will have no seas, but oceans will exist in the millennium (Ps 72:8; Jer 11:9, 11; Ezek 47:8-20; 48:28; Zech 9:10; 14:8).

[17] The use of the bride figure to describe the New Jerusalem should not lead us to conclude that the New Jerusalem is identical with the church. The bride figure elsewhere describes the church (e.g., Rev 19:7; 2 Cor 11:2), but here the city is the bride. The bride figure describes different entities in intimate relationship to Christ. The OT also used the bride as a figure to describe Israel’s relationship to God (Isa 62:5; Jer 2:2; 3:20; Ezek 16:8; Hos 2:19-20). This does not mean that Israel, the church, and the New Jerusalem are three names of the same entity. However, this bride of Christ, the New Jerusalem, now evidently encompasses two previous brides of Christ, Israel and the church.

[18] Cf. Rev 11:8; 17-18; Isa 52:1; Matt 4:5; 27:53.

[19] For the last of 20 times in his vision, John heard a loud voice signifying the importance of the proclamation that followed.

[20] This voice is probably one of the four living creatures mentioned in Rev 4:6.

[21] Lit., “peoples,” not “people.” In the old Jerusalem there was one elect nation, Israel. In the New Jerusalem, however, many different peoples, nations, and races will make up redeemed humanity and will dwell with God in glory (cf. 5:9). God promised Abraham that He would bless many peoples through the patriarch (Gen 12:3; cf. Gal 3:8, 16, 26-29). This is the ultimate fulfillment of that promise.

[22] Gk. autos (“Himself”) is emphatic in the Greek text.

[23] This fellowship existed to some extent when God walked with Adam in the Garden of Eden and when He dwelt among the Israelites in the tabernacle and then in the temple, hence the reference to the tabernacle (cf. 13:6; 15:5). It also existed partially when Jesus Christ “tabernacled” (“dwelt”) among people (John 1:14, 18; Col 2:9). It exists today in a spiritual sense as God inhabits the bodies of Christians individually (1 Cor 6:19-20) and the church corporately (Eph 2:21-22).

[24] If we look closely at Rev 21:6-8, we will discover that three groups of people are in view: (1) all that have received the free gift of eternal life, (2) those who have received the free gift and who also overcame the world in their Christian experience, and (3) all who did not receive the free gift of eternal life. The text can be laid out as follows: All believers: “I will give...freely...” (21:6b); overcoming believers: “He who overcomes shall inherit...” (21:7); and all unbelievers: “But the cowardly...murderers...shall have their part in the lake which burns...” (21:8).

[25] Paul used the two Greek words huioi, “sons,” and tekna, “children,” synonymously, but John distinguished their two meanings whenever he used them: mature sons and simply children. See Joseph Dillow, The Reign of the Servant Kings (Hayesville, NC: Schoettle, 1992), 472.

[26] Earl Radmacher, Ronald. B. Allen, H. Wayne House, New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: Nelson, 1999), 1765.

[27] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1989), 2:622.

[28] I.e., Those who gave in to the threats of the Beast and served him.

[29] I.e., Those who were unfaithful and lacked belief in Christ.

[30] I.e., Those who polluted themselves by worshipping the Beast.

[31] I.e., Those who killed the saints during the Beast’s rule of terror.

[32] I.e., Those who gave themselves over to great harlot (Rev 17-18).

[33] I.e., Those who were involved in Satan’s false religion (cf. Rev 9:21).

[34] I.e., Those who worshipped the Beast’s image. This also refers to worshippers of any false god.

[35] These are earlier condemned in Rev 3:9; 14:5.

[36] The verbal form (te kaiomene, a present passive participle) indicates that the lake’s fires will never be exhausted. It will be a most terrible form of agony.

[37] It is interesting to note that this basic message is found three times in Revelation 21-22 (21:8, 27; and 22:15), the section of the book dealing with the eternal kingdom. A comparison of these three passages, and particularly the first and last, supports the conclusion that the sinful state of those in hell is what is in view.

[38] This is the first of seven references to the Lamb in this section (Rev 21:9, 14, 22, 23, 27; 22:1, 3). He becomes increasingly prominent as the book draws to a close.

[39] Cain built the first city apart from God (Gen 4:17); God builds the last city apart from man.

[40] One day we will go to heaven, yet one day God will also bring “heaven” down to us.

[41] Since Rev 21:9-10 is similar to 17:1-2, it seems that the Lamb’s wife, the New Jerusalem, is being contrasted with Babylon, “the great harlot” (17:1, 5).

[42] Cf. Exod 40:34; Num 9:15-23; 1 Kgs 8:11; 2 Chron 5:14; Isa 24:23; 60:1; Ezek 43:5; John 12:41; Acts 26:13.

[43] The city’s wall with 12 gate-towers was what caught John’s attention next. The city evidently looked square (21:16). Its high walls suggest its security and inviolability. Certainly its inhabitants will need no defense from attacking enemies there. The 12 gate-towers (Gk. pulon, cf. Luke 16:20) stood three to a side (21:13). The gate-towers provided access into the city. In the case of this city, the many gate-towers also suggest great freedom of access. The angelic guards also present a picture of great security (cf. Gen 3:24; Isa 62:6). The names were apparently on the gates, not on the angels stationed beside them (cf. Ezek 48:31-34). Note: Ezekiel 48:31-34 describes Jerusalem in the millennium, not in the new earth. The fact that each gate tower bears a name of one of Israel’s tribes probably indicates that Israel will have a distinctive identity and role in this city as it had through history (cf. 7:1-8). God will perpetuate the memory of Israel throughout eternity.

[44] Evidently directions will exist in the new creation as they do in the old, suggesting that space will exist throughout eternity as well as time (cf. 20:10). Which names will be on which gate-towers remains to be seen.

[45] Since there are foundations to the city (cf. Heb 11:10, 13-16), it will be a permanent abode for the righteous in contrast to temporary dwellings that lacked foundations. The foundations may be one on top of each other in layers, but probably each section of the wall, between the gate-towers, has its own foundation. As the walls and gates represent protection, so the foundations speak of permanence. Evidently the church, represented by the apostles (cf. Eph 2:20), will be in the New Jerusalem as will Israel (21:12). However, assigning the name of each apostle to a particular foundation stone is as impossible as matching the names of Israel’s tribes with the gates. Note the distinction between Israel and the church even in the eternal state (cf. Matt 19:28; Luke 22:30). God had a role for each group and an identity separate from the other in the past as He does in the present. The combination of the twelve tribes in 21:12 and the twelve apostles is a way of saying that Israel of old and the Christian church are united in God’s final scheme of things.

[46] The fact that the angel’s measuring rod was gold reflects the dignity of the task of measuring this city’s gate-towers and walls (cf. Ezek 40:3). The temple that Ezekiel described being measured in Ezek 40-43 is the millennial temple. Only the utensils used in the Holy of Holies were gold in the tabernacle and temple, but even this measuring rod is gold suggesting the high value of the city.

[47] John described the shape and then the size of the city. The dimensions of this city were 12,000 stadia (approximately 1,500 miles) on each of its four sides and 1,500 miles high (This is approximately half of the distance of the United States). This description could allow for either a cube or a pyramid shape. The fact that the Holy of Holies was a cube tempts one to conclude that the New Jerusalem will also be a cube in shape, but this is speculation. Probably we should interpret these dimensions literally.

[48] The city wall was evidently 144 cubits (about 216 feet or 72 yards) thick (cf. Ezek 40:5; 42:20). An American football field is 100 yards long. John explained that even though an angel was doing the measuring he was using human units of measure. Thus, these measurements meant the same to John as they would have meant if something else in his day was being measured. To grasp something of the enormity of the city, consider that this figure is 40 times the area of England, 20 times that of New Zealand, and 10 times the area of Germany or France. The ground floor alone would provide enough living space for far more people than have ever lived in the history of the world. And this is just the first floor. Never of course was there a city like this! If it were to be superimposed upon the United States, its area would cover all the way from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico, and from the Atlantic Ocean to Colorado.

[49] The walls appeared to be glistening (cf. 21:11; 4:3). The word “material” (endomesis) means “building in” and suggests that the material on the wall was jasper, not that the wall was solid jasper. Perhaps John meant that the walls were overlaid with this brilliant material, suggesting further the radiance of God’s holy presence. The whole city appeared to shine as a mass of pure gold. Clear glass was the best quality glass in John’s day, so when he compared the gold to clear glass he probably meant that there was no impurity in the city. John apparently described the New Jerusalem by using similes and metaphors to communicate its ineffable glory.

[50] The apostle further explained the foundation stones of the city (21:14). The foundation of a building is usually completely functional and not decorative, but these stones, which were at least partially visible above ground, were adorned with gems. These stones were of many different colors, suggesting the extreme beauty of the city. We cannot identify all of them exactly today, but they were obviously precious gems in John’s day. Our God is a God of beauty, and He will lavish His beauty on the city He is preparing for His people. The Israelite high priest carried 12 gems representing each of the twelve tribes on his breastpiece (Exod 28:17-20). Perhaps there is some symbolic connection between these 12 jewels and those, though only eight of them appear in both lists. In the new order everyone will have the privilege of access to God that was the unique privilege of the high priest in Israel.

[51] The beautiful gems in verses 19–20 are mixtures of blue, yellow, and green, and many of them adorned the breastplate of the priest in the OT (Exod 39:8–14). It is as though the city is one vast place of worship; fulfilling Isaiah’s prophetic words that Jerusalem would be established in righteousness and built of jewels (Isa 54:11–14). How else could someone describe heaven pictorally, except in lavish terms of fabulous wealth, dazzling color, and indescribable beauty? God is the city’s light and the Lamb is its lamp (Rev 21:23), emphasizing the equality of Christ with the Father. This too fulfills Isaiah’s words (Isa 24:23; 60:19–20). Echoing Isaiah’s prophecies again, John describes the way in which the city’s splendor is acknowledged (Rev 21:24; see Isa 60:3, 5, 11, 20). Such divine splendor excludes anything that is unworthy (Rev 21:27; see comments on 21:8). The unworthy are those whose names are not in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Rev 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12, 15).

[52] Who can imagine an oyster large enough to produce a pearl so magnificent as to house a city gate? The pearls are at least 200 feet in diameter. Again, our imaginations are stretched past the breaking point.

[53] Evidently each gate-tower that John saw (21:12-13) had been carved out of one huge pearl. John further described the street or pavement of the city (probably referring to all the streets since all would be connected). These were pure gold (21:18), as pure as transparent glass. Old Testament priests who ministered in Solomon’s temple walked on a gold floor (1 Kgs 6:30).

[54] The encouragement given by the account of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 is the same as that given by the description of the Holy City which will come down from heaven.

[55] Preaching Today Citation: Bryan Chapell, The Wonder of It All (Crossway, 1999); quoted in Men of Integrity (January/February 2001).

[56] The story of Mary’s anointing of the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume (John 12:1-8) is an excellent illustration of the utilitarian mindset of some saints. It was Judas Iscariot who protested that Mary foolishly wasted her expensive perfume. It is only natural that Judas would be the one to object, for he alone, of all the disciples, failed to appreciate the Lord Jesus for His worthiness. The riches of heaven remind us that there is nothing wrong with beautiful and expensive things, so long as they are utilized for noble purposes. There is no more noble use for that which is precious and beautiful than to beautify the bride of God.

[57] These three application ideas come from Bob Deffinbaugh’s unpublished notes.

[58] Michael P. Green, Illustrations for Biblical Preaching (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1989), Electronic Ed.

[59] For the final time, John uses the threefold name “Lord God Almighty” (Rev 1:8; 4:8; 11:17; 15:3; 16:7; 19:6).

[60] Thomas, Revelation 8-22, 476-78, summarized 10 suggested identifications.

[61] Paul makes it clear that God has created different kinds of bodies (1 Cor 15:38-41).

[62] See also Tony Evans, The Best is Yet to Come (Chicago: Moody, 1999), 272-273.

[63] Gk. ou me eiselthe; cf. Rev 22:15.

[64] Green, Illustrations for Biblical Preaching, Electronic Ed.

[65] “Then he showed me,” signals new aspects of the city that John’s angel-guide proceeded to point out.

[66] Cf. Jer 2:13; 7:13; Ps 36:9; Prov 10:11; 13:14; 14:27; 16:22; Zech 14:8.

[67] We should not confuse this river with the one flowing from the Jerusalem temple during the millennium (Ezek 47:1, 9, 12; Zech 14:8).

[68] Cf. 21:3; 3:21; Ezek 47:1; Zech 14:8; Heb 1:3.

[69] Rev 22:1 and 2 make better sense if we take the clause “in the middle of its street” as describing the location of the throne. In this case it completes the thought begun in 22:1. The other option is to take it as describing the location of the tree. In this case it begins the thought that continues through 22:2.

[70] Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 482.

[71] It seems possible therefore to understand participation in the Tree of Life as a regular experience of fellowshipping with God, i.e., eating of this monthly fruit. Dillow, The Reign of the Servant Kings, 474.

[72] Having God’s name on our foreheads means that we will be His and will reflect His divine glory in our persons. Having a name on one’s forehead appeared three times earlier in this book (Rev 3:12; 7:3; 14:1). In each case it was a great privilege indicating ownership and protection as well as identification.

[73] The word for “serve” (latreuo) suggests priestly service in view of its other uses in this book (cf. 1:6; 5:10; 20:6).

[74] Thomas L. Constable, Dr, Constable Notes on Revelation 2003 edition (http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf), 209.

[75] As seen in the book of Revelation, worship today should involve adoration of God’s being, declaration of the Lamb’s worthiness, a celebration of God’s presence, submission to His authority, and fearing and serving Him. See Mazie Nakhro, “The Meaning of Worship according to the book of Revelation,” Bibliotheca Sacra 158:629 (January-March 2001): 85.

“Famous Last Words” (Revelation 22:6-21)

I’ve always been intrigued by famous last words. The following famous last words have either led to injury or death.[1]

You wouldn’t hit a guy with glasses on, would you?

Bikers are wimps!

Nice doggy.

No, Guido, I don’t have your money.

I’m making a citizen’s arrest.

Trust me, I know what I’m doing.

That’s a cute tattoo.

Which wire was I supposed to cut?

I can pass this guy.

You look just like Charles Manson.

I double dog dare you!

Does this car go any faster?

This tribe is peaceful.

I don’t need to go to the hospital.

Don’t worry. We outnumber them.

Give me liberty or give me death.

The famous last words in Revelation 22:6-21 can also lead to death…eternal death. Yet, unlike the humorous last words that I just shared, these famous last words can also lead to life…eternal life. In these final verses, John concludes his book by giving us the bottom line. He states that we must trust Christ’s words and expect Christ’s return. These two themes run throughout these 16 verses.[2] Interestingly, the book of Revelation could have ended with 22:3-5. In these three verses, John explained that the curse is over and believers will reign forever. This seemed like the perfect conclusion to the Revelation. However, like any good preacher, John wanted to reiterate a few critical exhortations.[3]

1. Trust Christ’s words (22:6-7, 8-9, 16, 18-19). In 22:6, one of the angels who had the seven bowls continues to speak to John (cf. 21:9, 15; 22:1). He says, “‘These words are faithful and true.’” The phrase “these words” is referring to the entire book of Revelation. Revelation is “faithful and true” because Jesus Christ Himself is “faithful and true.”[4] Since Jesus never goes back on His Word, we can believe the words of Revelation. God’s promises always depend on God’s character.

John goes on to record, “and the Lord, the God of the spirits (i.e., the “hearts” or “inner being”)[5] of the prophets, sent His angel to show to His bond-servants the things which must soon take place.” This statement reinforces a futuristic interpretation of Revelation. The book deals with events yet future. It also indicates that God intends the reader to understand this book. It is a revelation (i.e., an unveiling), not an incomprehensible mystery, even though much of the revelation is symbolic and difficult to understand. It is ironic that people have neglected and avoided this book even though it contains more promises of blessing than any other book in the Bible. All of us should continue to study it long after this sermon series is over.

[The second great exhortation is found in 22:7].

2. Expect Christ’s return (22:7, 10, 12, 20). In 22:7a, the speaker here is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself rather than the angel or John. Jesus states, “And behold, I am coming quickly.” This is the first of three times that Jesus declares, “I am coming quickly.” In 22:7 and 12, the promise is preceded by the word “behold.” “Behold” (idou) is a term intended to grab our attention. Jesus is saying, “Give this your undivided attention!” In 22:20, Jesus used the word “yes” (nai) to convey solemn assurance. The word translated “yes” serves as an exclamation point of assurance. By using the words “behold” and “yes,” Jesus intended to do two things: arouse the attention of Christians to the fact that His coming could happen at any moment; and give believers solemn assurance of the fulfillments of His promise of His imminent return.[6]

The word translated “quickly” (tachu) means “at once or suddenly” (cf. 2:16; 3:11; 11:14).[7] The point is that our Lord is coming, and when He comes, He is coming suddenly, without warning, as a thief who comes without announcement.[8] These words of our Lord are in the present tense—not the future tense. Jesus is saying, “I am coming now!” Not, “I will be coming later.” There must be a sense of urgency. That sense of urgency must urge us to rise above the crisis. If we believe that Jesus Christ is coming back today—quickly, imminently, shortly—it will decisively mark the way we live our lives.

How should these words mark our lives? They should motivate us to obey God’s Word. Jesus finished 22:7b by saying, “Blessed[9] is he who heeds the words[10] of the prophecy of this book.” If we read, study, and apply the book of Revelation to our lives, God assures us that He will bless us. The book closes as it opened, with a special blessing for those who pay attention to what it teaches (1:3; cf. 16:5).

The word “heeds” or “keeps” means to guard the words of Revelation by applying it to our lives.[11] We can “heed” the word of Revelation by (a) Observing the warnings of chapters 2 and 3 to the church, warnings against dead, cold orthodoxy, apostasy, immorality, materialism, etc. (b) Living constantly in light of Christ’s presence and imminent return. (c) Carrying on a vital witness, having an open door to the unbelieving world in view of the coming tribulation and the lake of fire, that we might see men snatched from hell (Jude 23). (d) Living as sojourners who refuse to become bogged down with materialism and who live with a view to the Eternal City. (e) Enduring the trials of this life, during this age of darkness, seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, the glory that is to follow. (f) Remembering that God’s plan is being accomplished, that He is sovereign and still on the throne as we see this old world moving farther and farther away from the Lord and the absolutes of His Word.[12] As we heed the words of Revelation in this fashion, the Bible promises that we will be “blessed.”

In 22:8-9, John records: “I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed me these things. But he said to me, ‘Do not do that. I am a fellow servant of yours and of your brethren the prophets and of those who heed the words of this book. Worship God.’” John resumed addressing the reader, which he had not done since 1:1, 4, and 9.[13] John confessed that when he had heard and seen these things he reacted by worshipping the angel who revealed them to him (cf. 19:10). It was the revelation of the new creation that evidently moved John to respond this way a second time.[14] Again, this angel rebuked John for worshipping him (cf. 19:10). He then redirects John’s worship toward God. Notice though, the angel does not say, “This is not the time for worship.” Nor does he say, “Worship is an inappropriate response to the visions of heaven.” Rather he says, “Keep on worshipping! Just worship God.” In other words, “This is an entirely proper activity—just redirect it toward God.” The word “worship” (proskuneo) means to kiss toward, to show affection to, to bow down before a superior and give him the respect, reverence, awe, and adoration due him.[15] To worship God means to ascribe the greatness due His name from a heart of love that is humbled and bowed down before His throne (Ps 2:11-12).[16] Yet, people should worship God, not His servants.

In 22:10, the angel said to John, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near.” This is the opposite command given to Daniel in Daniel 8:26 and 12:4. The reason John was not to seal up the prophecy of this book was that the time is near. The return of Christ is imminent; therefore, the book of Revelation is to be proclaimed. This means that we can understand the book of Revelation. God wants the book of Revelation to be an open book for all to understand. Revelation is no abstruse, esoteric book that is beyond the ability of people to understand. There is nothing nebulous about it. Believers must live in the light of Jesus’ coming. They cannot do that if Revelation is confusing to them. As an artist covers his work when it is under construction, until it is complete, so God covered His picture of the future until He finished it.[17]

In 22:11, we come upon a very unusual verse. The angel says to John, “Let the one who does wrong, still do wrong; and the one who is filthy, still be filthy; and let the one who is righteous, still practice righteousness; and the one who is holy, still keep himself holy.” This verse teaches that whatever a person’s nature, that person will be locked into it for all eternity.[18] There is no moral improvement in hell because hell is not restorative punishment. It will be too late for that. Hell is retributive punishment. Along with the absence of God’s goodness, hell will be torment because sinners will have all of their same evil cravings with no capacity to satisfy them. Picture an alcoholic who can’t get a drink, an addict who can’t get a fix, a greedy person whose greed will never be satisfied, and you have a picture of the torment of hell. The angry person who could not control his anger on earth will be an eternally angry person in hell, and with a far greater degree of anger. A sexually immoral person will burn for sex, but there will be none. A jealous person will burn with jealousy, but there will be no way to fulfill those jealous longings. Sinners will be confined to their evil character and their lostness.[19]

You may wonder why it matters what people will be like in hell. It matters because the Bible is giving us the real deal so no one in his right mind would refuse Christ for eternity in hell. This is a strong warning not to put off becoming a believer in Jesus Christ. When Christ comes, people will not be able to change their destiny. What they are then, they will remain forever. People should not expect some second chance in the future but should make the decision about worshipping God now in the light of what they have read in this book.

Hurricane Charley has destroyed portions of Florida. It has also taken a number of lives. Hurricanes can be devastating. Many native Floridians have what’s called “hurricane parties.” They will stay inside, in the safest place possible, and wait for the hurricane to pass. As the hurricane blows through it will wreak deadly havoc…but then things will grow deathly quiet. You can even begin to hear birds chirp. It’s natural to think that the hurricane has passed. But in reality, you’re in the eye of the storm. The native Floridians will stay put because they know the hurricane is merely changing course and will be coming back the other way. But the tourist from Olympia, Washington may be foolish enough to go outside. If so, he may be struck by a flying garbage can or something far worse.

Almost 2,000 years ago, God’s entire wrath was poured out on the crucifixion. Right now we’re in the eye of the hurricane. You can take His name in vain. You can shake your fist at God. You can tear the Bible apart. You can persecute Christians. God’s judgment is not instantaneous. But one day the winds will be reversed. It will not be in kindness or patience. It will be in wrath. We’re in the eye of the hurricane. But don’t go wandering out into it.[20]

In 22:12, we move to one of the most motivating statements in all of Scripture. Jesus says, “Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.” Jesus Christ repeated His promise to return soon (22:7, cf. 1:3; 22:20). However, instead of promising a blessing, as He did earlier (22:7; 16:5), this time He promised to judge.[21] He will reward both the good and the bad. This prospect strengthens the warning in 22:11. Jesus Christ will judge all people finally, on the basis of their works.[22] Whereas salvation is of grace, rewards are according to works. God gives us His salvation, but He pays us for our good works. In view of Jesus Christ’s soon return, Christians should be diligent to lay up treasure in heaven, while we have the time (Matt 6:19-21).

Jesus Christ offered three titles for Himself that give assurance that He can and will fulfill His former promise to reward. He states, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” Jesus describes Himself with three pairs of titles. All three of these titles are also used of God the Father in Revelation.[23] Jesus Christ is “the Alpha and Omega” (cf. 1:8; 21:6). This title stresses His eternality and sovereignty. “The first and the last” is also a title for Christ (1:17; 2:8) and the Father (Isa 44:6; 48:12). It emphasizes that God is the cause and goal of history. “The beginning and the end” describes God in 21:6 and Christ in Hebrews 12:2. It means that He finishes what He starts. All three sets of titles affirm the same thing: that Jesus is eternal (1:4, 8, 17; 2:8; 21:6). The assertion of His eternity means that we can count on Him fulfilling His promise. He will deliver on what He promises. Jesus consummates and concludes all things. He is God Almighty. Jesus is God’s last word to us.

In 22:14, John writes, “Blessed[24] are those who wash their robes,[25] so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city.” This final blessing in Revelation announces God’s favor on those who cleanse themselves by confessing their sins. The word “wash” is in the present tense and is referring to daily confession for the purpose of experiencing intimate fellowship with Christ (cf. John 13:1-10; 1 John 1:9). The robe one wears is a figure for one’s works, which others see (19:8). People who wash their robes will have access to the Tree of Life (i.e., they will live forever in the new creation). They will also enter the New Jerusalem by its gates (i.e., they will be able to enjoy intimate fellowship with God).

Is there any sin between you and the Lord? Are you keeping short accounts with God? When you sin in word, thought, or deed, do you immediately confess? (Confess: “To say the same thing as, to agree with God”). If you regularly confess your sins, you will experience rich fellowship with Christ on earth and you will be blessed with a rich kingdom entrance (2 Pet 1:10-11).

This blessing is contrasted with the curse of 22:15: “Outside are the dogs and the sorcerers and the immoral persons and the murderers and the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying.” Jesus described the people who will not enter the city by the works that mark their lives of unbelief. “Dogs”[26] is a metaphor for the morally impure, as well as for those who distorted the Gospel.[27] The other types of individuals named here appear in other lists of wicked unbelievers (cf. 21:8). Their fate should warn believers not to fall into apostasy and its associated vices.

In 22:16, Jesus says, “I, Jesus,[28] have sent My angel[29] to testify to you these things for the churches.” Jesus Himself is giving witness, through His angel, of who He is. He is speaking these words to all the churches that will hear or read these words.[30] He says, “I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.”[31] Jesus was the ancestor of David as well as His descendant, the root as well as the offspring of David.[32] Consequently, He fulfills all the prophecies concerning David’s family. Jesus also called Himself “the bright morning star” prophesied to come the second time (cf. 2:28).[33] The bright morning star appears only when night is almost over. Jesus is saying the fulfillment is at hand! Jesus is the One that will burst upon the scene of human history at its darkest hour. Are you ready for His arrival?

In 22:17, “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’[34] And let the one who hears[35] say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.”[36] Three times the word “come” occurs in this verse (cf. Isa 55:1; John 7:37-39). The first two references from the Spirit and the bride are commands for Jesus to return. Again, there is a sense of urgency and longing. Now Jesus turns the invitation around. He invites the thirsty to come to Him and take the water of life freely.[37] Unbelievers obviously need to take their first drink of this living water, which represents Christ, but believers also need to keep their thirst quenched by coming to Him again and again.

The one who is thirsty is the person who senses his or her need (cf. Matt 5:6; John 4:10). “The one who wishes” is broad enough to include every single individual.[38] Notice that the Water of Life costs the one who comes for it nothing. It costs us nothing, but it cost Jesus Christ greatly to give Himself for us. Why do people “come” to Christ? It’s because they are thirsty. Something is lacking in their lives; they are parched because everything else seems so dry and empty. It’s not a coincidence that the Bible calls Christians the salt of the world.[39] [Ask for a volunteer and use peanuts and water to illustrate]. One simple word describes the heart of Jesus’ invitation: “Come.” In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Again in John 6:37, Jesus says, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out.” Every person that has ever lived or is living must come.

A certain preacher and an atheistic barber were walking through city slums. The barber said, “This is why I can’t believe in your God of love. If he was as kind as you say, he wouldn’t permit all this poverty, disease, and immorality. He wouldn’t allow these poor street people to get addicted. No, I cannot believe in a God who permits these things.” The minister was silent until they met a man who was especially unkempt. His hair was hanging down his neck, and he had a half-inch of stubble on his face. The preacher said to his friend: “You can’t be a good barber, or you wouldn’t permit a man like this to continue living here without a haircut and a shave.” Indignant, the barber answered: “Why blame me for that man’s condition? He has never come in my shop. If he had, I could’ve fixed him up and made him look like a gentleman!” The preacher said, “Then don’t blame God for allowing people to continue in their evil ways. He invites them to come and be saved.”[40]

In 22:18-19, we have a warning that contrasts with the invitation that the Lord just extended.[41] John writes, “I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book.” Adding material to, or deleting sections from, the prophecies contained in this book, will result in punishment from God.[42] “If anyone adds to” the words of Revelation,[43] God will visit the offender with the tribulation plagues written in this book (Rev 6-16). This does not imply that anyone who does this will lose his or her salvation. But he/she may lose his/her life. How important it is to understand and communicate God’s truth accurately, especially the truths God revealed in this book. “If anyone takes away from” the words of Revelation, God will “take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city.” Again, this does not mean he will lose his salvation. If the person who corrupts Revelation is an unbeliever, he or she will have no part (share) in the blessings of the new creation. If he or she is a believer, the part (share) lost must be some special privilege in the eternal state.[44] In other words, a believer who perverts the teaching of this book may lose part of his or her eternal reward.

So how does one add to the Bible or Revelation? One way is by claiming new revelation, that the Bible and the book of Revelation are not enough (as with the Book of Mormon or any other religious writing that claims to be from God). Another way is by claiming advanced knowledge in spiritual matters and that the Bible is not the answer or is simply wrong (2 John 9). Liberal humanists are grossly guilty of this. No one is to add to or take away from this book. The various world religions and cults will tell you that there is a need for another holy book. The Bible is a closed book. There will be no further revelation. God’s Word has “a divine copyright.”[45] Don’t tamper with it or God will tamper with you.

The book of Revelation closes with these words: “He who testifies to these things [Jesus] says, ‘Yes, I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen” (22:20-21). Evidently, John now quoted Jesus’ promise to come soon.[46] The things in view are all of the words of Revelation (cf. 1:2). This is the third and final time in this passage that we read that Jesus Christ promised to come quickly (cf. 22:7, 12). How can we doubt His word (see Jas 5:8-9)? Jesus is coming! John testifies that Jesus is ready. He says, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus”[47] (22:20b). John added his “amen” affirming his belief that Jesus would come soon, and he voiced his personal petition that He would do so, as He promised.

Jonathan Edwards, called American’s greatest theologian had a set of resolutions. One of them is this:  “Resolved: Never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life.” We should always live every moment of every day as if Christ were coming now! That’s the only way to live. Are you ready for Jesus’ return? Do you need to share your faith with someone? Do it now! Do you need to be reconciled to someone? Do it now! Do you need to serve the Lord and His people? Do it now! Do you need to be faithful in your financial stewardship? Do it now!

The last words of the Bible are soaked with grace. John exclaims, “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen” (22:21). God wants to make absolutely sure that “grace” (charis) shall have the last word! Grace is God’s unconditional kindness offered to someone who doesn’t deserve it. God’s grace provides faith for the unbelieving reader and faithfulness for the believing reader (cf. 1:4). Grace…don’t live on earth without it. Grace…don’t leave earth without it.

Has God changed you as a result of our study through Revelation? Has He shown you His grace? Do you know Him more? Do you love Him more? I pray that this is so. [48]

Revelation Bookends (Revelation 1 and 22)

Origin of the prophecy: God & Jesus

1:1

22:6

Subject of the prophecy: coming events

1:1

22:6

Mediator of the prophecy: an angel

1:1

22:6, 8, 16

Writer of the prophecy:

John 1:1, 4, 9

22:8

Genuineness of the prophecy: true prophecy

1:3

22:6, 7, 9, 10, 18-19

Vehicle of the prophecy: a prophet

1:1, 9-11

22:8, 9, 10

Addressees of the prophecy: bond-servants

1:1

22:6

Destination of the prophecy: churches

1:3, 11

22:16, 18

Blessing of the prophecy: for obedience

1:3

22:7, 12, 14

Warning of the prophecy: for unfaithfulness

1:7

22:11, 12, 18-19

Center of the prophecy: Christ

1:2, 5, 9

22:16, 18, 20

God of the prophecy: Alpha & Omega

1:17

22:13

Chief character of the prophecy: God

1:5, 7

22:12, 13, 16

Hope of the prophecy: soon return

1:3, 7

22:7, 10, 12, 20

This chart is courtesy of Dr. Thomas L. Constable, Notes on Revelation: 2003 Edition (http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf), 211.

[1] These ideas came from selections from the following web sites, however they have been revised: http://home.att.net/~quotations/famouslastwords.html http://www.jestsandjokes.com/catchall.php3?joke=120

[2] Looking at the paragraph divisions indicated by the translators of the NASB, we find that there are eight different paragraphs. Bible scholars have all recognized the difficulty in identifying a neat logical order, which would best be conveyed by a verse-by-verse exposition of this text.

[3] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[4] Previously in Revelation Christ is called “faithful” (1:5; 3:14) and “true” (3:7, 14; 19:11).

[5] Kendell H. Easley, Revelation: HNTC (Nashville: Holman, 1998), 417.

[6] See Renald Showers, Maranatha Our Lord, Come (Bellmawr, New Jersey: Friends of Israel, 1995), 141.

[7] See also Rev 1:3; 3:3, 11; 16:15.

[8] The second coming is the great climactic event in view through most of this prophecy, but applying this word about imminence to the rapture is certainly legitimate. See Robert L. Thomas, Revelation 8-22 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), 489 and Wayne A. Brindle, “Biblical Evidence for the Imminence of the Rapture,” Bibliotheca Sacra 158:630 (April-June 2001), 150-51.

[9] This is the sixth declaration of blessing in Revelation. The seventh and last blessing is in 22:14.

[10] Keathley III writes, “‘Words’ is plural and it is the Greek term logos which, in the singular, is used of the Lord, the Word (John 1:1) and of the Scripture, the Word of God (Heb. 4:12). The use here of logos in the plural may suggest three things to us: (a) It stresses the importance and need of knowing the details of this book, as well as the rest of the Bible. The more we know and apply, the greater our capacity for real happiness. (b) The plural looks at the individual words, stressing the concept of inspiration down to the very words themselves. The understanding of concepts is based on the understanding of the words. (c) The plural of logos was however, also used of specific sayings, or teachings (doctrines), or parts of a whole work (cf. LXX, Exodus 34:28; Deut 10:4). In this we see the necessity and blessing which comes from knowing the various doctrines or specific teachings of Revelation.” Hampton Keathley III, Studies in Revelation (www.bible.org: Biblical Studies Press, 1997), 387.

[11] “To persist in obedience, keep, observe, fulfill, and pay attention to.” BDAG, Electronic Ed.

[12] Keathley III, Studies in Revelation, 387-88.

[13] John affirmed the angel’s words that the prophecy was genuine. He himself had heard and had seen the things that he had recorded (cf. Dan 8:15; 12:5). He was an eyewitness of these things (cf. John 1:14; 19:35; 21:14; 1 John 1:1-3; 4:14). John’s strong reaction further attests the genuineness of the revelations that he had received.

[14] John’s strong reaction further attests the genuineness of the revelations that he had received.

[15] “To express in attitude or gesture one’s complete dependence on or submission to a high authority figure, (fall down and) worship, do obeisance to, prostrate oneself before, do reverence to, welcome respectfully,” BDAG, Electronic Ed.

[16] See also Steven J. Lawson, Heaven Help Us! (Colorado Spring: NavPress, 1995), 175-176.

[17] See Thomas L. Constable, Dr.Constable’s Notes on Revelation (http://www.soniclight.com/constable/notes/pdf/revelation.pdf, 2003),

[18] This verse does not teach that for some people repentance and conversion are impossible (cf. 22:17). It is a guarantee of personal responsibility for one’s decisions (cf. Ezek 3:27; Matt 11:15; Rev 2:7; 13:9).

[19] Tony Evans, The Best is Yet to Come (Chicago: Moody, 2000), 239-240, 291. See also Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 177.

[20] I heard a similar illustration once from Tom Nelson, Pastor of Denton Bible Church in Denton, TX.

[21] The idea of being “judged according to your works” occurs often in Revelation (2:23; 11:18; 14:13; 20:12; 22:12).

[22] Cf. 2 Chron 6:23; Job 34:11; Ps 28:4; 62:12; Prov 24:12; Isa 40:10; Jer 17:10; Ezek 18:20; Hos 12:2; Matt 16:27; Rom 2:6; 14:12; 1 Cor 3:12-15; 2 Cor 5:10; 11:15; 2 Tim 4:14; 1 Pet 1:17.

[23] These three titles are also used in Isaiah to refer to God the Father (41:4; 44:6; 46:9-10; 48:12).

[24] The word “blessed” (makiros) occurs 50 times in the NT, seven of those occurrences in the book of Revelation. See Matt 5:3-11; 11:6; 13:16; 16:17; 24:46; Luke 1:45; 6:20, 21 [twice], 22; 7:23; 10:23; 11:27-28; 12:37-38, 43; 14:14-15; 23:29; John 13:17; 20:29; Acts 20:35; 26:2; Rom 4:7-8; 14:22; 1 Cor 7:40; 1 Tim 1:11; 6:15; Titus 2:13; Jas 1:12, 25; 1 Pet 3:14; 4:14; Rev 1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14.

[25] “Some translations read ‘who do His commandments’ instead of ‘who wash their robes,’ but the older manuscripts have the reading of the NASB and NIV. This is also the most accurate theologically. The reference here is to those who qualify for entrance into the city where they have the right to the Tree of Life. Though obedience to the commandments of the Lord should be a characteristic of believers, and may even give evidence of one’s faith, entrance into eternity is obtained by faith alone, in the person and work of Christ, not by obedience or works (Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; John 3:16).” Keathley III, Studies in Revelation, 390.

[26] Dogs in the first century were not domestic animals as they are in our day. They were wild, aggressive scavengers. Generally, they were not man’s best friend, they were hated creatures. The people of this verse are bestial who live like dogs. They know little more than what they taste, feel, hear, see, and smell. They cannot see eternal things.

[27] Cf. Deut 23:18; 2 Kgs 8:13; Ps 22:16, 20; Isa 56:10; Matt 7:6; 15:26; Mark 7:27; Phil 3:2-3.

[28] The combination “I Jesus” occurs nowhere else in the NT. Here Jesus used it to stress His role in producing this book and so to strengthen its authority (cf. Rev 22:7, 12).

[29] “My angel” is the main angel who revealed this material to John (cf. 22:6). The angel gave the whole revelation to John, but it was ultimately for all the churches, not just the seven churches of Asia Minor (cf. 1:4; chs. 2-3).

[30] This is the first occurrence of the term “church” (ekklesia) since chapter 3. This implies that the church is not in the tribulation. The tribulation of Revelation 6-19 deals with Israel. It is the time of Jacob’s trouble and Daniel’s 70th week. For this reason the church is not present or mentioned. Note: Those that are not pre-tribulationalists suggest that this is an argument from silence.

[31] The “root” is buried in the ground where no one can see it, but the “star” is in the heavens where everyone can see it. Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1989), 2:625.

[32] David founded old Jerusalem, but David’s greatest son will establish the New Jerusalem.

[33] The appearance of the morning star heralds the dawn of a new day. Similarly, the Lord’s second coming will herald the dawn of a new day in history. He is the brightest of all personal stars, as the morning star is the brightest physical star in the sky. He is the star that shall come forth from Jacob (Num 24:17).

[34] The verb translated “come” (erchou) is in the imperative mood, indicating that the Spirit and church were so eager for Christ to come that they commanded Him to fulfill His promise to come quickly. In addition, individual Christians, who through the public reading of Revelation heard Christ’s promise to come quickly, were commanded to demand Him to fulfill that promise. See Showers, Maranatha Our Lord, Come, 141.

[35] “The one who “hears” is everyone who hears this book read in the churches, as was common in John’s day. This includes modern readers of it, of course. These individuals, as well as the bride gathered corporately, should likewise pray for the Lord’s return (cf. Matt 6:10; Luke 11:2).

[36] The absolute freeness of God’s provision of eternal life, we see by the usage of the adverb graciously (dorean), which denotes what is freely given, without cost, without paying. See Johannes P. Louw and Eugene A. Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament based on Semantic Domains, Electronic Ed.

[37] Cf. Rev 22:1; 7:16; 21:6; Isa 55:1; Matt 5:6; John 6:35; 7:37.

[38] “Whoever wishes to come to Christ must do so today. The invitation is extended to every soul that has ever lived. The offer is as wide as the world is wide. It is as broad as the human race is broad.” Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, 179.

[39] David Jeremiah with C.C. Carlson, Escape the Coming Night (Dallas: Word, 1997 [1990]), 254.

[40] Preaching Today Citation: Brett Kays, Brownstown, Michigan.

[41] Cf. Deut 4:2; 7:15; 12:32; 28:27, 60; Prov 30:5-6; Jer 26:2.

[42] Jesus is not concerned about possible mechanical errors in transmission or mistakes of judgment in interpreting His message, but in deliberate distortions and perversions of it.

[43] This warning surely applies to the whole of Scripture because the book of Revelation is the last book of the Bible. Jude tells believers to “contend earnestly for the faith once and for all received.” Jude was saying there was a completed body of truth; a body of truth, which became preserved, and a completed canon of Scripture. Revelation is the final book of the Bible. All the major themes of Scripture find their end and culmination in this book. No other is needed. It wraps up the revelation of God and brings man into the glorious eternal state. Thus, to tamper with Revelation is in essence to tamper with the whole.

[44] To say that a true child of God would never tamper with these Scriptures is simply naive. “Anyone” means anyone.

[45] I got this idea from my friend Bob Deffinbaugh.

[46] Christ’s promise to come soon was His response to the prayers of the Spirit, the bride, and the faithful hearers (22:17).

[47] This verse and the next are the only ones in Revelation that refer to Jesus Christ as the “Lord Jesus,” though this title is common in other NT books. It acknowledges Jesus’ deity and thus, His right to judge.

[48] This is an unusual way to end an apocalypse, but it was a common way to close a first-century Christian letter (cf. Rev 1:1).

“A Rave Review” (Revelation 1-22)

How many of you are good with directions? How many of you like to read maps? [Choose a volunteer to come up and find directions on a Thurston County map. Have the volunteer locate a valid street]. This volunteer is gifted at reading a map.[1]

I have an embarrassing confession to make. I’m directionally impaired. My mind doesn’t think like a compass. I have no real north, south, east, and west bearings. In fact, I struggle to accurately read a map. Without a navigator, I would be continually lost. Fortunately, I’m married to a woman who is more directionally inclined than MapQuest. Therefore, when it comes to directions, I take my cue from Lori.

The book of Revelation is like a map. Even if you know how to find your way around the Bible, the book of Revelation humbles all Bible students to dust. That’s why it is so important for us to have a good navigator. The only navigator worth trusting is the Holy Spirit. He alone can direct us through the maze of Revelation.[2] If you have been feeling a bit confused or even overwhelmed by our study of Revelation, I hope and pray that the Holy Spirit will enlighten you through this review and summary. Please open your Bible to Revelation 1:1.

As we begin our walk-through, it is important to understand that the title “Revelation” (apokalupsis) means “a disclosure or an unveiling.”[3] The stated purpose of Revelation is to reveal Jesus Christ (1:1): His person, His power, and His plan for the future. The first truth that we must grasp is that Revelation is all about Jesus. He is the leading character, the director, and the producer. When the credits are rolled…Jesus is the focus. When the Oscar awards are given out, He is on center stage. If we fail to remember this, we will lose sight of the big picture.

Chapter 1:1 also informs us that Revelation was written to “bond-servants.”[4] It does not say that God gave this book to biblical scholars or prophecy junkies. Those that will understand Revelation best fear God and are devoted to Christ. Are you a bond-servant of Christ? Have you trusted in Jesus as your Savior? Have you then said, “Jesus, I want to become a bond-servant…I want to deny myself, take up my cross daily, and follow You? (see Luke 9:23; 14:26-35).

Another important consideration is that a blessing is promised to those who heed the words of Revelation.[5] In 1:3, John writes, “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near” (cf. 22:7). Revelation is the only book of the Bible that promises us a blessing for reading, hearing, and heeding its contents. This should result in Revelation being thoroughly studied and applied. Have you determined in your heart that you will return to this great book? Are you willing to teach this book to your children and teens? Are you willing (with the help of great tools) to take a small group through this book? If so, you are ready for the key to unlock the book of Revelation.

Please look at 1:19. As far as interpretation goes, 1:19 is the single most important verse of Revelation. This outline is God’s intended outline for the book and shows us that we should have a futuristic approach to the great majority of Revelation. The simple three-point outline is as follows: (1) “The things which you have seen” (the things past). The past things refer to those things which John had seen from 1:9-19 including 1:20, which is an explanation of part of the vision of the glorified Christ (1:9-20). (2) “The things which are” (the things present). The things present deal with the message to the seven churches and the state of the church of the church age (2:1-3:22). (3) “The things which will take place after these things” (the future things). This dominant section looks at the events that will occur after the church: the tribulation, the millennium, and the eternal state (4:1-22:21).

This outline simplifies the structure of the book. When you’re on the verge of being lost, keep this outline in mind so that you have a map to guide you.

In chapters 2-3, John records seven messages from Jesus directed to seven churches.[6] The seven churches existed in John’s day in Asia Minor (what is now Turkey). In the Bible, “seven” is the number of completeness, perfection, and fulfillment. These seven churches perfectly represent the strengths and weaknesses that have been and will be characteristic of various churches throughout history. The warnings and exhortations given to the above churches apply to us today. Though each letter is written to a specific church, all seven letters close with the words, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”[7] John is writing for all who will listen!

In these two chapters, two principles stand out. First, God’s people are called to persevere. At the conclusion of each of the seven letters, Jesus speaks to the one that “overcomes.”[8] In these chapters, the overcomer is one that does not lose his love for Christ (2:4-5), holds fast the faith (2:13, 25; 3:11), and is faithful to death (2:10). Unfortunately, many Christians struggle with perseverance and fail to overcome. Perseverance can be a struggle for us in many intentions and commitments. Did you know that only 8% of the people who start a fitness program in January are still doing that program just three months later? Did you know that 25% of the people who enter a college to get a degree leave with one four years later? When we do not exercise self-discipline and persevere in seemingly small areas of our lives, we will fail to be spiritually disciplined and will lack staying power.

Harvard University once did a long-range study tracking the long-term progress of its graduates all the way to their retirement. It turned out that only 5% of them had reached retirement with a nest egg that allowed them to retire without any dependence on social security or any other program. The interesting thing is that they could only find one factor that the 5% had in common with each other and didn’t have in common with the 95% back when they graduated. And that was this: they wrote down their goals.[9]

Will you stop for just a moment and write down a perseverance goal? You may want to write a general goal (e.g., I will persevere in the Christian life by finishing strong). You may want to write a specific goal (e.g., I will read the Bible with my family three times a week). Write down whatever goal the Lord prompts you with. Then review that goal again and again. It is likely that you will accomplish the goal that the Lord lays on your heart.

[Display a large blue and gold can of WD-40]. You may have a can of WD-40 around the house. Do you know what the WD stands for? It stands for “water displacement.” Do you know what the 40 refers to? That’s how many times they tried to develop an effective formula. They failed 39 times but succeeded on the 40th try. The message is: don’t give up. Don’t quit when you are tired. Don’t quit when you fail. Don’t quit when you meet obstacles.[10]

The second principle is this: The faithful will receive their eternal reward. Jesus promises eternal rewards to the one that overcomes. These rewards include The Tree of Life, the crown of life, hidden manna, a white stone with a new name, ruling over nations and receiving the morning star, being clothed in white, having one’s name confessed before God, being an eternal pillar in the temple with new names, and ruling with Christ. This reality reminds us that our earthly lives are very significant.

We are living right now in Revelation 2-3. But beginning in Revelation 4 through the end of the book, everything is future and has not yet been fulfilled. In chapters 4-5, the theme of worship is accentuated. In chapter 4, God the Father is the focus and in chapter 5 Jesus Christ is the focus. Both chapters resoundingly declare that believers are called to a life of worship. True worship is simply acknowledging God’s true worth. It is praising Him for all that He is.

I hope that our study through Revelation has caused you to love and worship Jesus more. If it hasn’t, I have failed. The goal of Revelation is for you to love and serve Jesus more. It is for you to understand Him more intimately, and passionately.

In chapters 6-18, the events and personalities of the tribulation are revealed. Most people struggle with why God spilled so much ink describing the tribulation. Yet, we acknowledge that God has a purpose in everything He writes (2 Tim 3:16-17). We will just briefly touch upon the dominant themes. First, we must note that the tribulation demonstrates that God is completely sovereign. After all, Jesus is the One that opens up the tribulation seals (ch. 6). He is also responsible for the trumpet and bowl judgments (chs. 8-9 and 16). He uses these judgments to bring unbelievers to Himself. God is so sovereign that He ensures people from “every tribe, tongue, people, and nation” will eventually trust in Him and be found in heaven (5:9). He also assures us that the tribulation events will draw unbelieving Israel to faith in Christ (see esp. Rom 11:26).

A second principle that is found in these chapters is: Persecution will never destroy God’s church or God’s purposes. Prosperity has often been fatal to Christianity, but persecution never has been, nor ever will be. In 6:9-11, John writes, “When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained; and they cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, will You refrain from judging and avenging our blood on those who dwell on the earth?’ And there was given to each of them a white robe; and they were told that they should rest for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brethren who were to be killed even as they had been, would be completed also.” We see from these three verses that martyred saints have a future home with Jesus, will be rewarded, and will be avenged. Satan cannot thwart God. As Martin Luther said, “The devil is God’s devil.” While he attempts to use persecution to bring about the demise of the church, the church rises up with health and growth when Satan uses this tactic. This is yet another reminder that God is sovereign over human history.

A third tribulation principle is: Evil will be punished in God’s own time. There will come a day when God’s patience with the unbelieving world will expire. At that time, He will judge the world in righteousness. This is seen in the events of the tribulation and later in the destruction of all wickedness (16:19-21; 19:11-21) and the great white throne judgment (20:11-15). Since these events have yet to unfold, many people reject Jesus Christ because of the problem of evil. But one day, Christ will have the final word.

As we conclude our study we must note two very important principles that we find throughout this book. The first is that Christ could return at any moment. We first see this in 1:7. Revelation then concludes with three assurances of “I am coming quickly” from Jesus (22:7, 12, 20). This is a cardinal belief for Christians. The Bible calls us to live like we could be leaving at any time. Are you ready to depart? Are you prepared to meet your Maker? Can you echo John’s words in 22:20, “Come, Lord Jesus?”  If not, the time to prepare for your tomorrow is today. If you have any unfinished business with Christ or another believer, take care of it today. This will ensure that you will not be ashamed when Christ returns (1 John 2:28). It will also ensure that your life counts for much in eternity.

The final and most important principle is this: Salvation can only be found in Jesus Christ. The clearest expression of this is found in 22:17b where John records, “And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.” The good news of Revelation and the whole of the Bible is that a relationship with God is free. It is given “without cost” to the one that thirsts. If you are thirsty, you can entrust your eternal destiny to Jesus. He promises that He will save you and preserve you. Will you do this today?

One evening a woman was driving home when she noticed a huge truck behind her that was driving uncomfortably close. The headlights were shining in her rear view mirror, blinding her eyes. She stepped on the gas to put some distance between her and the truck—but to no avail. When she sped up, the truck sped up. The faster she drove, the faster the truck followed. Her heart began to pound. With sweaty palms, she turned the steering wheel and took the next exit ramp off the freeway. But the truck stayed with her as closely as ever. Now frantic, this woman turned up the main street, hoping to lose her stalking pursuer in the traffic. But the truck ran a red light and continued to chase her.

Reaching the panic point, the woman whipped her car into a service station, threw open the door, and bolted across the pavement screaming for help. The truck driver jumped from his rig and ran toward her. He yanked open her back door and pulled out a man who was hidden in her back seat. The woman has been running from the wrong person! Unknown to her, the truck driver had spotted a would-be rapist in the back seat of her car. The chase was not his effort to harm her. His pursuit was intended to save her, even at the cost of his own safety. His desire was to help the woman escape that which would harm her.

Many people are like that woman. They run from God, fearing what He might do to them. But if they would simply stop running from God, He would give them their escape from what truly threatens them—Satan, sin, and the second death.[11]

[1] Copyright © 2004 Keith R. Krell. All rights reserved. All Scripture quotations, unless indicated, are taken from the New American Standard Bible, © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1977, and 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, and are used by permission.

Permissions: Feel free to reproduce and distribute any articles written by Keith Krell, in part or in whole, in any format, provided that you do not alter the wording in any way or charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. It is our desire to spread this information, not protect or restrict it. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: by Keith Krell, Timeless Word Ministries, 2508 State Ave NE Olympia, WA 98506, 360-352-9044, www.timelessword.com

[2] Jesus said, “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you” (John 16:13-14).

[3] See Luke 2:32; Rom 2:5; 8:19; 16:25; 1 Cor 1:7; 14:6, 26; 2 Cor 12:1, 7; Gal 1:12; 2:2; Eph 1:17; 3:3; 2 Thess 1:7; 1 Pet 1:7, 13; 4:13.

[4] Gk. doulois: “used of God-fearing people.” See Rev 1:1; 2:20; 7:3; 19:2, 5; 22:3, 6; Luke 2:29; 1 Pet 2:16, BDAG Electronic Ed.

[5] There are a total of seven “blessings” in Revelation (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14).

[6] “Seven” is a key word that is used 59 times in Revelation (7 groups of 7).

·         Group 1 - The 7 Churches (Ch. 2-3)

·         Group 2 - The 7 Seals (Ch. 6)

·         Group 3 - The 7 Trumpets (8:2; 11:19)

·         Group 4 - The 7 Persons (Ch. 12:1-14:1)

·         Group 5 - The 7 Bowls (Ch. 15-16)

·         Group 6 - The 7 Dooms (Ch. 17-20)

·         Group 7 - The 7 New Things (Ch. 21-22)

[7] It is important to note, the word “churches” (ekklesiais) is plural. The clear implication is these messages are designed for any church that hears or reads this book.

[8] See Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21 [twice]; cf. 21:7.

[9] Successful Fitness Resolutions, Volume 11: http://www.explosivefitness.com/AdvInfo/Resolve01.html

[10] Preaching Today Citation: Ted De Hass, Bedford, Iowa.

[11] Slightly revised from Steven J. Lawson, Heaven Help Us!, (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1995), 151-152.

In Focus Study Questions #1

Revelation 1:1-3

1.      In the past, how have you felt about the book of Revelation? Presently, what disturbs you the most? What excites you the most? Do you have any specific goals in this study?

2.      What does the word “Revelation” mean (1:1)? Why is this called a Revelation “of Jesus Christ?” Why is this considered the primary purpose of Revelation (1:1)?

3.      What are “bond-servants” (1:1)? Do you consider yourself a “bond-servant?” Why or why not?

4.      How does this Revelation “show” [us] “the things which must soon take place?” What does John mean by the word “soon?”

5.      What were the sources of this angel’s message to John (1:2)? Why does John record both?

6.      What does the word “blessed,” mean (1:3)? How will you be “blessed” from reading, hearing and heeding the words or Revelation? Why does John mention “he who reads” and “those who hear?”

7.      How is this book “the prophecy?” What does it mean to “heed” the contents of this book? Why does John say, “the time is near?”

In Focus Study Questions #2
Revelation 1:4-8

1.      Why does John write to “the seven churches that are in Asia” (1:4)? Is there any significance in the greeting: “Grace to you and peace?” Why is God the Father called “Him who is and who was and who is to come?” Who are “the seven Spirits who are before His throne?”

2.      What three titles are attributed to Jesus Christ (1:5a)? How are these significant?

3.      What three actions has Jesus performed for us (1:5b-6)?

4.      What Old Testament passage is John quoting (1:7)? Is this a reference to the Rapture? Why or why not?

5.      Why does the title, “Alpha and the Omega” mean (1:8)?  Why does the Lord God repeat, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty” (cf. 1:4)?

In Focus Study Questions #3
Revelation 1:9-20

1.      What does it mean to be a “fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus” (1:9)? Why was John “on the island called Patmos?”

2.      Does “the Lord’s day” refer to Sunday or the Day of the Lord (1:10)? How does the word “like” serve this sentence? See eight other occurrences in 1:13-17.

3.      Why is John commanded to “write in a book” what he sees (1:11)? What is significant about the command to “send” his book to the “seven churches?”

4.      How should the “seven golden lampstands” be identified (1:12; see 1:20)? How does this correspond with what is one of the primary purposes of the church (see Matt 5:14; Phil 2:15; Eph 5:8-13)?

5.      Why does John say this person is “like a son of man” (1:13; Dan 10:5-6)? Is there any significance to this man being “clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash?”

6.      Why is the word “white,” mentioned twice in 1:14a? What does this say about Jesus’ head and hair? Why are Jesus’ eyes “like a flame of fire” (1:14b; cf. 1 Cor 3:12)?

7.      Why are Jesus’ feet “like burnished bronze” (1:15a; cf. 2:18)? Why is His voice “like the sound of many waters” (1:15c)?

8.      Why does John refer to Jesus’ “right hand” (1:16a)? What are the “seven stars” (see 1:20)? Do these “stars” refer to spirit beings or human messengers? Why or why not?

9.      What does the “sword” coming out of Jesus’ mouth depict (1:16b; cf. 2:12, 16; 6:8; 19:15, 21)?

10.  What must Jesus’ face looked like if it appeared “like the sun shinning in its strength” (1:16c)?

11.  Why did John fall at Jesus’ feet “as a dead man” (1:17a; cf. Exod 33:20; 1 Tim 6:16)? Why did this experience affect John the way it did when he had already observed the Transfiguration (see Matt 17:1-8)? Why did Jesus immediately place His right hand upon John and speak comforting words (Dan 10:8-10, 15-16; Matt. 17:6-7)?

12.  Why does Jesus refer to Himself as, “I am” (1:17b; see Exod 3:14; Matt 14:27; Mark 6:50; John 6:20; 8:58), “the first and the last” (Isa 41:4, 12-13; 48:12), and “the living One” (1:18a; see Dan 6:26-27; Rev 4:9; 10:6; 15:7)? Why is it significant that Jesus has “the keys of death and of Hades” (1:18b; cf. Heb 2:14-15)?

13.  Is there any significance to the three-fold outline in 1:19? If so, what?

14.  Why does John speak of the symbols of 1:12, 16 as a “mystery” (1:20)? How does this verse serve as a principle in interpreting Revelation?

In Focus Study Questions #4
Revelation 2:1-7

1.      Each letter is addressed to “the angel…” (2:1a). Who is this? Why do you believe this to be true? Who is “the One who holds the seven stars in His right hand” and “walks among the seven golden lampstands?” What are the seven stars and seven golden lampstands (2:1b, see 1:20)?

2.      What did the church in Ephesus have going for it (2:2-3)? What did Jesus have against them (2:4)? Summarize these strengths and weaknesses in your own words.

3.      Why does Jesus use three similar words (“deeds,” “toil,” and “perseverance”) to describe the Ephesian church (2:2a)? What else does He say about this church (2:2b)? How does 2:3 relate back to 2:2?

4.      What does it mean to abandon your “first love” (2:4)? Is it hard to keep your first love for God? What causes you to lose your first love? What was it like in the early days of your relationship with Christ? At what point in your life were you most excited about Christ? What were the specific outside influences that contributed to you living a life on fire for Christ? What decisions did you make that resulted in you feeling on fire for Christ?

5.      How does the metaphor of a couple’s first love for one another relate to our first love for Christ? Why does the “first love” tend to grow cold? If we do the things we did in the early days or our courtship, will we come to feel as we initially felt? Do feelings follow behavior, or the other way around? If we did the things we did in the early days of our relationship with Christ, will we come to feel the way we felt at first? Again, do feelings follow actions or the other way around? Is this first-love issue primarily an issue of feelings or behavior? Is Jesus concerned with our behavior, or how we feel about Him?

6.      Is living a life on fire for Christ largely within our control? Is being on fire for Christ something that God or someone else does to us? How do we stay on fire for Christ? How can we help each other stay on fire for Christ?

7.      What did Jesus ask the Ephesians to do about this first love problem (2:5a)? What would happen if the Ephesian church didn’t follow Jesus’ counsel (2:5b)? Is this verse a threat to the doctrine of eternal security (“once saved, always saved”)? If not, what is this verse teaching? Does God punish Christians? Why or why not?

8.      Who are the “Nicolaitians” (2:6)? What deeds did they commit that were worthy of hatred? What group or teaching could serve as a contemporary parallel?

9.      Each of the seven letters closes in the same way: “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” What is being said here? Why is this so important as to bear repeating?

10.  How will you ensure that you will be one who “overcomes” (2:7b; cf. 2:25-26a)?

11.  If Jesus was writing to our church, what positive qualities might He commend us for? What do you think He might scold us for? On the whole, what kind of grade do you think our church would get? What is the most glaring need for improvement in our church? What can you do to be a part of the solution?

In Focus Study Questions #5
Revelation 2:8-11

1.      How is the title, “the first and the last” used elsewhere in Revelation (2:8; cf. 1:17; 22:13)? Why does John use a death and life motif? How does this motif serve his purposes in the rest of the letter?

2.      What kind of tribulation and poverty did the church at Smyrna face (2:9)? Why does Jesus say, “I know your poverty (but you are rich)?” How can He say they are rich if they are poor?

3.      What is so blasphemous about saying you are a Jew when you are not (2:9b)? Why the reference to “a synagogue of Satan?” How does John 8:39-47 serve as a parallel passage?

4.      What did the future hold for the church of Smyrna (2:10)? What were they admonished to do? What is the stated purpose in their persecution? Is the reference to “ten days” literal or figurative? Is the “crown of life” salvation or a reward? How does James 1:12 help to interpret this phrase? Have you ever been persecuted because you are a Christian? Are you willing to be “faithful until death?”

5.      What does the following phrase mean: “he who overcomes will not be hurt by the second death” (2:11)?

In Focus Study Questions #6
Revelation 2:12-17

1.      Why does Jesus refer to Himself as “the One who has the sharp two-edged sword” (2:12; cf. Rev 1:16; 2:16; 6:8; 19:15, 21)? What does this “sword” represent (cf. Heb 4:12)? How does this indicate the theme of this letter?

2.      Pergamum is referred to as “where Satan’s throne is” (2:13). What does this mean? What city today might be referred to as “Satan’s throne?” What is the church commended for?

3.      What does Jesus “have against” the church in Pergamum? Who are “Balaam” and “Balak” (2:14; see Num 22-25, 31)? What sins do they tempt Israel to commit? What biblical principles are you tempted to compromise? What is the difference between a principle and a preference?

4.      Are the “Nicolaitans” related to Balaam and Balak (2:15)? If so, how?

5.      What course of action does Jesus command the church in Pergamum to take (2:16)? Is this quick “coming” referring to Christ’s second coming or a coming in judgment? How will Christ “make war” against these believers? (Note the change from “you” to “them”). Why will He do this?

6.      What is the “hidden manna,” “white stone,” and “new name” that the overcomer receives (2:17)?

In Focus Study Questions #7
Revelation 2:18-29

1.      How does this vision of Jesus alter your perspective of who He is (2:18)?

2.      Is “love” something you feel or do (2:19)? Can you feel without doing and still call it love? Can you do without feeling and still call it love? What is “faith?” An attitude? A belief? A feeling? Is our “service” to each other, or service to the world? Where is the priority? How are we doing in the discipline of “perseverance?” How do you think God would rate us in these four areas, on a scale of one to ten? How could we do better in our weakest area and our strongest area?

3.      Who was “Jezebel” in the Old Testament (1 Kgs 16:31-33; 2 Kgs 9:22)? What do you remember about her? What was this Jezebel in Thyatira doing wrong (2:20-21)? What specific sins did Jezebel’s false teaching lead people into? What are some examples of false beliefs or teachings popular today? How important is orthodox teaching? Does God care that we believe just so as long as we behave right?

4.      Why does God blame the church for this woman’s false teaching (2:20)? What should they have done? What would you do if someone you know (e.g., a pastor, elder or small group attendee) started teaching things you knew were not congruent with the Bible? What did God threaten to do about Jezebel (2:22-23)? What did He do first (2:21)? What does this teach us about how we treat each other? Was God gracious forever? Should you always be Mister Nice Guy? When should you not be Mister Nice Guy?

5.      What does it mean to “hold fast” (2:25)? Are your small group members holding fast to what they possess? What are you doing to ensure that each member perseveres until Jesus comes?

6.      What does 2:26-27 teach we will be doing in heaven? How is this different from the notion of playing harps and singing in the choir? What does 2:28 mean, “I will give him the morning star?” How is the phrase “morning star” used in Scripture (cf. Rev 22:16; 2 Pet 1:19)?

In Focus Study Questions #8
Revelation 3:1-6

1.      What is significant about the word “has” (3:1)? Why is the word “seven” repeated twice? What do “the seven spirits of God” refer to (cf. Rev 1:7, see also Isa 11:2-5; Zech 4:2, 10)? What about “the seven stars” (cf. Rev 1:20)?

2.      Why is there no commendation for the church at Sardis (3:2)? Why is the church accused of being “dead?” What did Jesus see that caused Him to say they were dead? What does it mean to be dead (cf. 3:4)? Have you ever been spiritually dead? What was that time in your life like?

3.      What does it mean to “wake up” or “watch” (3:2; cf. Rev 16:15; Matt 24:42-43; 25:13; Mark 13:34-35, 37; Luke 12:37; Col 4:2; 1 Thess 5:6, 10; 1 Pet 5:8)? How can you wake up if you find yourself asleep or on the verge of death (see Ps 139:23-24)?

4.      What are “the things” that remain which Jesus calls the church to strengthen (3:2)? Why must they strengthen these things (note: the explanatory “for”)? How important are “completed” works to Jesus (see John 17:4; 19:30; Rev 21:6)?

5.      What are they to “remember” (3:3)? What is the “it” they are to “keep?” What does it mean to “repent?” What are the consequences if the church fails to repent? Is this a reference to the rapture or a coming in discipline?

6.      What does it mean to have “unsoiled” garments (3:4; cp. Rev 22:14; Jas 1:27; Jude 23)? Does walking with Christ in white refer to a positional righteousness or practical righteousness (cf. Rev 19:8)? Are we ever “worthy” of salvation (Eph 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7)? Is there such a thing as a practical “righteousness” (Eph 4:1)? How does Rev 3:4 match up with 16:15? What similar elements do you note?

7.      What is the “book of Life” (3:5)? How do you know that your name is in the book of Life and will never be erased? Will God erase the names of believers who don’t overcome? Why or why not?

8.      What can you learn from a comparison of the following Scriptures: Rev 3:5 with 1 Cor 9:27; 2 Tim 2:12; Rev 2:17, 26 and 3:12, 21?

9.      What does the word “confess” mean (see Matt 7:23; 10:32-33; John 9:22; 12:42; Rom 10:9; 1 Tim 6:12; Titus 1:16; Heb 13:15; 1 John 2:23; 4:2-3, 15; 2 John 7)?

In Focus Study Questions #9
Revelation 3:7-13

1.      Are the churches of Philadelphia and Smyrna (2:8-11) rebuked for their behavior? What do both churches share in common? Is Jesus identified with any of His characteristics found in 1:12-18? What do the words “holy” and “true” mean? What does the description has “the key of David” refer to (see Isa 22)?

2.      What did God promise the church of Philadelphia (3:8)? What does it mean, specifically and practically that they had an open door? Does God give to us an open door as well? Are people today interested in spiritual things? Jesus taught the fields are/were white unto harvest (John 4:35; cf. Matt 9:37; Luke 10:2). Are they still? What are some positive ways you have found to talk to people about Christ? Do you like talking to people about Christ? Do you enjoy it? Do you feel confident talking to people about Christ? Other than witnessing-saying the words of the Gospel, what are some other ways we can contribute to the advancement of the kingdom? How can you help, other than sharing your faith? Why do you think the Gospel is not spreading more rapidly than it is? The Bible teaches that the Gospel is good news. Normally, good news spreads fast. Why isn’t the Gospel spreading rapidly? Read 2 Thess 3:1. What did Paul ask prayer for? Do you want to see the Gospel spreading rapidly?

3.      What does it mean that the church in Philadelphia has “little power” (3:8)? How impressive is it that even with little power the church kept Jesus’ word, and did not deny His name?

4.      Who is the “synagogue of Satan” (3:9; cf. Rev 2:9)? What is the purpose in making these people “bow down” before the church (see Isa 60:14)?

5.      What is the “hour” that Jesus spoke of (3:10; Matt 24:21; cf. Rev 7:14)? Is being included in the rapture dependent upon “perseverance?” If so, how can this verse be harmonized with 1 Thess 5:4-10?

6.      What does the phrase “I am coming quickly” mean (3:11)? If this is a reference to Jesus’ coming, why has He delayed His return so many years? How does this phrase serve as an incentive for Christians (1 John 2:28)? What does it mean to “hold fast” (2:13, 25; 3:3)? Why does Jesus say, “hold fast that no one will take your crown” (1 Cor 9:24)?

7.      How is the church like a “temple” (3:12; cf. Eph 2:19-22; 1 Pet 2:5)? What does Rev 21:22 tell us about a future temple? What is the significance of a “pillar” (Isa 22:23)? What does it mean, “he who overcomes will not go out from it [the temple] anymore.” What do the final three names signify?

In Focus Study Questions #10
Revelation 3:14-22

1.      How do Christ’s three titles span His entire career (3:14)? What is significant about these titles? How do you interpret the phrase, “the beginning of the creation of God” (see John 1:2-4; Col 1:15-18; Heb 1:2)?

2.      Is there any commendation in this letter? Why or why not? Is there any mention of persecution or trial? What does this suggest?

3.      Why does God prefer that we are either “cold or hot” (3:15)? Why would God want us “cold?” How can this term be understood?

4.      How distasteful is lukewarmness to God (3:16)? Why is lukewarmness so distasteful to God? Could you describe a time in your life when you were lukewarm toward God? What is the appeal of being lukewarm? Why do people sometimes live lukewarm lives? How can you avoid lukewarmness?

5.      In 3:17 John says that the Laodiceans think they are rich when they are, in fact, poor. What dangerous mindset develops as a result of wealth? What does this have to do with being lukewarm?

6.      Why does Jesus advise believers to “buy from Me gold refined by fire” (3:18)? How is refined gold used in the Bible (cf. Job 23:10; Prov 27:21; Mal 3:2-3; see also Zech 13:9; 1 Pet 1:6-9)? What might be the purpose of “eye salve” (see John 14:26; 1 Cor 2:14-16)?

7.      How does God treat those He loves (3:19; cf. Prov 3:11-12; 13:24; Heb 12:5-6)? Is God all cookies and smiles? Can you give an everyday example of this?

8.      How does 3:20 relate to being lukewarm? What is God’s remedy for the tepid soul? Is this verse a call to salvation or fellowship?

9.      Although Jesus’ sternest rebukes and condemnation are directed toward Laodicea, He reserves for her the most glorious and precious promises given to any of the seven churches (3:21). What is so significant about reigning with Christ (see 2 Tim 2:12; cf. Phil 2:6-11)?

In Focus Study Questions #11
Revelation 4:1-11

1.      When and where is John writing (4:1)? What does the phrase “After these things” refer to (4:1 [twice]; cf. 1:19)? Is there any significance to the repetition of this phrase? What is the position of the door that John saw? What does an open door suggest? Who does the “first voice” belong to? Why is the voice said to be “like the sound of a trumpet?”

2.      What does John mean by the explanation, “I was in the spirit” (4:2)? Wasn’t he also on Patmos? What happened here? Had he entered another dimension, or what (cf. 2 Cor 4:18)? What did John see when he peered into the spirit world? What does “a throne” suggest? What does an occupied throne in heaven suggest? Who was sitting on the throne? If God is sitting on the throne, what is He not doing? How does this relate to John’s situation? Why was this vision important to John at this time? Have you ever gone through a time in your life when you thought the world was running out of control? Have you ever needed the assurance of a reminder that, “there is a throne in heaven and someone was seated on it?” How can we keep this picture of a throne in heaven and someone sitting on it in our minds when we are tempted to believe that our world is running recklessly out of control?

3.      What was the appearance of the One sitting on the throne (4:3; cf. Dan 7:9-10)? What are “jasper” and “sardius” like? Why does John refer to a “rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance?”

4.      Why does John see around the throne “twenty-four thrones” (4:4)? Who are the “twenty-four elders?” Are they angels, representatives of Israel and the church, or representatives of the church? What helpful clues are present in the description of these elders?

5.      Why is there so much commotion in heaven (4:5)? Who are “the seven Spirits of God?” Why are they called “lamps of fire?” Why are they “burning before the throne?”

6.      Why is there “something like a sea of glass, like crystal” (4:6)? Why are there “four living creatures” “in the center and around the throne?” Who or what are these?

7.      What is the meaning of the descriptions of these four creatures (4:7-8a)? What are their tasks (4:8b-9)? What were the creatures saying about the one who was seated on the throne? What does “holy” mean? Why do you think they said it three times?

8.      What are the twenty-four elders doing in heaven (4:10)? If the elders “will cast their crowns before the throne” does this mean that rewards in heaven are temporal?

9.      What was the dominant activity of heaven? Some have said that worship is the most important activity of the church. Do you agree? What is worship? Why is worship important? Can you tell about a time of really incredible worship for you? How does worship benefit the individual believer? How does worship strengthen the church as a whole? How does worship affect the devil?

In Focus Study Questions #12
Revelation 5:1-14

1.      What does the phrase “I saw” signify (5:1, 2, 6, 11 [“then I looked”])? Why does John mention a “right hand?” Who is the one that sits on the throne? What is the purpose of the “book” (“scroll”)? How is the scroll in Ezekiel 2:10 similar? Why is it “written inside and on the back, sealed up with seven seals” (Dan 12:4, 9)?

2.      Who is this “strong angel” (5:2; cf. 10:1; 18:21)? What does the strong angel’s “loud voice” indicate (cf. 1:10; 5:12)? Why is opening the book conditioned upon “worthiness?”

3.      How exhaustive is the angel’s search in 5:3?

4.      Why did John begin to “weep greatly” (5:4)? Didn’t he know that Jesus was “worthy?”

5.      What do the titles “the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah” and the “the Root of David” mean (5:5; see Gen 49:9-10; 2 Sam 7:13, 16; Isa 11:1, 10; Jer 23:5; 33:15; Matt 22:42-43; Luke 1:32-33; Rom 15:12; Rev 22:16)?

6.      Who is the “Lamb” a symbol of (5:6; Isa 53:7; John 1:36; 21:15)? What is worth noting about the phrase “standing, as if slain?” What is significant about His “seven horns and seven eyes” (Zech 4:10; Isa 11:2-4)? How would you describe the difference between Jesus as the lamb and the lion (see Ps 2)?

7.      What does Jesus’ act in 5:7 symbolize? Why is this act important?

8.      Why does each elder have a “harp” (Ps 33:2; 98:5) and “golden bowls” (5:8)? What is the significance of each of these? How do these two tools serve the believer in his/her Christian life? Why are the prayers of God’s people a fragrant aroma of burning incense to Him (cf. Ps 141:2; Luke 1:10)?  What types of prayers are collected (cf. 5:10; 6:10; 8:3-5; Matt 6:10; Luke 18:7-8)?

9.      Why does heaven sing a “new song” represent (5:9-10)? In this song the Lamb receives honor as being worthy in view of four things. What are these four things and why are they significant?

10.  How large of a crowd is “myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands” (5:11)?

11.  In 5:12 the angels use seven expressions (the perfect number is probably significant) to indicate the wonder of the Lamb. Can you name and define these seven expressions? Which is the most meaningful to you? Why?

12.  Why does this passage close with universal praise to the Father and the Son (5:13-14)? How would you distinguish chapters 4 and 5 of Revelation?

In Focus Study Questions #13
Revelation 6:1-17

1.      What is the significance of “seven seals” (6:1)? What similarities for you observe in the first four seals (6:1-8)? How are the fifth and sixth seals distinct (6:9-11, 12-17)? What is the purpose of the seventh seal (see 8:1)?

2.      Who opens all of the seals (6:2f)? Who gives these horses and riders their authority? What biblical principle does this teach?

3.      What does each horse represent (6:2f.)? Who rides the “white horse” (6:2)? Is it Jesus Christ (cf. Rev 19:11-19) or the coming Antichrist (Dan 9:26-27; 1 Thess 5:3)? How did you arrive at your conclusion? What does “a bow” signify? Why is there no mention of arrows? Does this imply a “peaceful conquest” (cf. 6:4)? Why or why not (see Isa 41:2)? How then do you understand the phrase, “conquering and to conquer?”

4.      What do the scales represent (6:5-6)? What do you make of the phrase, “Do not damage the oil and the wine” (6:6)? At first glance, what do you think this means?

5.      What did John see in 6:9? Why are the martyrs “underneath” the altar? Why were they slain? What question did these martyrs have on their mind (6:10)? What should our attitude be toward those who persecute us? Should we forgive and forget, or should we say, “Get ‘em, God!” What happens to those who are martyred (cf. Rev 3:5; 7:9, 14)?

6.      How does the world you live in view Christians? Do they tend to look down on you because of your faith, respect you, or make fun of you? Have you ever been persecuted because of your faith in Christ? Do you find it easy to go public with your faith in God, or are you tempted to want to keep faith a secret?

7.      On a percentage basis, how much of the pain you have experienced in life has been due to things within your control, and what percentage have been things outside of your control? Why does God allow His loved ones to be persecuted? Is all the pain in our lives God’s will? How would you respond if a skeptic asked you this question?

8.      What six cosmic catastrophes do you note in 6:12-17? Which of these is particularly disturbing to you?

9.      What groups of people constitute the seven classes of society (6:15)? Why does John include this list? What is the overarching principle in this verse?

10.  What is the response of the earth-dwellers (6:16-17)? Is this response adequate? Why or why not?

In Focus Study Questions #14
Revelation 7:1-17

1.      What is significant about the phrase “after this” or “after these things” (7:1, 9, cf. 4:1, 7:1, 7:9, 15:5, 18:1, 19:1)? What purposes do angels fulfill (7:1-2)?

2.      Why does God want to hurt the land and the sea (7:3)? Why does God want to hurt anyone or anything? During the tribulation does God punish everyone, or just the God-rejecting world?

3.      Who are the “bond-servants” in 7:3-4? How does the Bible use the phrase “sons of Israel” (Gen 32:32; Exod 1:1; Lev 1:2; Num 1:2; Deut 3:18; Josh 1:2, et al)? It has often been noted that John’s list of the 12 tribes varies somewhat from the usual listing in the Old Testament. Why might this be?

4.      Why were the 144,000 “sealed…on their foreheads” (cf. 7:3-4; 9:4)?

5.      These 144,000 Jewish believers are mentioned also in Rev 9:4 and 14:1-5. In 14:4 they are referred to as “first fruits to God and to the Lamb.” What does this mean (cf. Jer 30-31; Rom 11:25-32)? Since all believers are gone when the tribulation begins, just how will the 144,000 be saved?

6.      Verse 9 speaks of “a great multitude” dressed in white robes and waving palm branches. Who are these people (cf. 6:11)? What is the significance of “white” (cf. 1:14)? What about “palm branches” (cf. Lev 23:40; Neh 8:15-17; John 12:13)? What were they excited about? What is the activity of heaven? Does an endless worship service sound all that much fun to you?

7.      In 7:11, the angels ascribe to God “blessing, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and strength” (cf. Rev 5:12). Why do they rattle of seven attributes of God? Which of these is the most meaningful to you?

8.      Verse 14 says the ones who have the white robes came out of the tribulation and were washed in the blood of lamb. Why is being “washed in the blood of the lamb” necessary? Why can’t you just get to heaven by being a good person? What would you say to a co-worker who said, “I have lived a pretty good life? I think God will let me in.” What exactly does it mean to be washed in the blood? Do you think most non-Christians understand this? What is the most likely way for them to come to understand that peace with God is all about accepting the fact that through the blood, God accepts us?

9.      This chapter concludes in 7:15-17 with ten eternal blessings enjoyed by this great multitude. Can you list these ten blessings? Which blessing will you appreciate the most?

In Focus Study Questions #15
Revelation 8:1-13

1.      Why is there “silence in heaven for about half an hour” (8:1; cf. Hab 2:20; 3:3; Zeph 1:7-8, 15, 17-18; Zech 2:13?

2.      What is so significant about “trumpets” (8:2; cf. Exod 19:16; 20:18; Isa 27:13; Jer 4:5; Joel 2:1; Zeph 1:16; Matt 24:31; 1 Cor 15:51-52; 1 Thess 4:16)?

3.      What does God enjoy about the prayers of the saints that (8:3-4; cf. Rev 5:8; cf. 2 Cor 2:14-16)?

4.      Is there a connection between the prayers that go up and the judgment that comes down (8:5; cf. 6:9-11)?

5.      What is the purpose in a judgment that involved hail (8:7; cf. Josh 10:11; Job 38:22-23; Ps 78:47; 105:32-33; 148:8), fire, and blood (Isa 9:5; Ezek 21:32; 38:22; Joel 2:30-31)? Hoe devastating is the damage?

6.      Did the Old Testament prophets understand that the miracles of Egypt were to be repeated in the future (see Isa 10:22-25; 11:12-16; 30:30; Jer 16:14-15; 23:7-8; Ezek 38:22; 15; Amos 2:10; 4:10; 8:8-9; 9:5-7; Joel 2:30; Mic 7:15)?

7.      Why do you think God judged the waters of this world so severely (8:8-11)?

8.      How does Psalm 46:2-3 help you grapple with this passage?

9.      Is there precedence for an animal speaking (8:13; 9:12; 10:14; cf. Gen 3:1-5; Num 22:28-30)?

In Focus Study Questions #16
Revelation 9:1-21

1.      What is the “bottomless pit” (9:11; 11:7; 17:8; 19:20; 20:1-3, 10; cf. Luke 8:31; 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6)? Why is this section framed with the beings of the “bottomless pit” or “abyss” (9:1, 11)? Why is the angel “given” the key of the bottomless pit? What is God’s point?

2.      Are these “locusts” insects or demons (9:3; cf. 9:11)?

3.      How is God sovereignty revealed in 9:4-5? What can you learn from these verses?

4.      How scary is 9:6 (cf. Job 3:21)? What can we learn from this verse?

5.      Why does John spend five verses (9:7-11) describing the locusts? Which of the eight characteristics are especially notable? What can we learn from this section?

6.      How is Satan revealed in 9:1-11? What have you learned about him?

7.      Who are the “four angles” (9:14)? Are they good or bad? Why are they “bound?” What does this suggest (cf. Rev 20:1-3; 2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6)? Why does God bring up “the great river Euphrates” (cf. Gen 2:14)?

8.      Is the army of 9:16 human or demonic? What do you base your argument upon?

9.      Why are 9:20-21 two of the saddest in the entire Bible? How does 2 Thessalonians 2:11 parallel these verses?

In Focus Study Questions #17
Revelation 10:1-11

1.      Is 10:1-11 parenthetical or chronological? How does the emphasis temporarily shift in this chapter? What is the purpose of this?

2.      Why does John include a four-fold description of the “strong angel” (10:1b)? What stands out to you in this description?

3.      Has anyone else opened a “book” previously (10:2; cf. 5:1; 6:1)? Do you think the books are the same? Why or why not?

4.      How does Psalm 2:6-8 shed light on 10:2b-3?

5.      Why is John told to “seal up the things which the seven peals of thunder have spoken and do not write them” (10:4; cf. Dan 12:4, 9)?

6.      Why does the angel swear an oath (10:6)? What is the basis for the oath? Why is this important?

7.      What is “the mystery of God” (10:7; cf. Dan 12:7a)?

8.      Is there precedence for a man eating a book (10:9; cf. Jer 15:13-17; Ezek 2:8-10)? What does eating signify? What is God’s Word likened to in Scripture (Ps 119:103; Matt 4:4; 1 Cor 3:1-2; 1 Pet 2:2)?

9.      Why is the book “bitter” and “sweet” (10:10-11)? How does this relate to the contents of God’s Word? Is the Bible a bittersweet book? If so, in what way is true? Why do we need a balance of both bitter and sweet?

In Focus Study Questions #18
Revelation 11:1-19

1.      Why do you think John was given a “measuring rod” to make various measurements (11:1; cf. 2 Sam 8:2; Ezek 40:3-42:20)? Who was the “someone” who spoke to John (cf. 11:3; cf. 10:9-11)? Why was John told to measure “those who worship” in the temple?

2.      Why is John told not to measure “the court” (11:2)? Why was the court “given to the nations?” Why is the specific period “forty-two months” cited (cf. Dan 9:27)?

3.      Who is speaking here (11:3; cf. 11:8)? Why are the Lord’s “two witnesses” mentioned at this point (11:3; cf. Deut 19:15)? What is their purpose? What is significant about a period of 1,260 days (cf. Dan 12:11)? Why are these witnesses clothed “in sackcloth?” How is “sackcloth used in the Scriptures (e.g., Isa 22:12; Jer 4:8; 6:26; Jonah 3:5, 6, 8; Matt 11:21)?

4.      Where do the phrases “the two olive trees and the two lampstands” come from (11:4; cf. Zech 4:2-3, 11-14)? How do these “stand before the Lord of the earth?”

5.      Why would anyone want to “harm” these two witnesses (11:5)? Is the fire that “flows out of their mouth and devours their enemies” literal or figurative? Why must the enemies of the two witnesses be “killed in this way?”

6.      Who had “the power to shut up the sky” in the Scriptures (11:6)? Who had “power over the waters to turn them into blood, and to strike the earth with every plague?” Why are these two witnesses given the freedom to perform these miraculous signs “as often as they desire?”

7.      What is the “testimony” of the two witnesses (11:7)? Why is this particular word used? Why not prophesying or preaching? Who is “the beast that comes out of the abyss” (cf. Dan 7:21)? Why does this beast kill the two witnesses? How can the beast kill the witnesses when they are able to use such miraculous powers whenever they wish?

8.      Why does God permit the dead bodies of His witnesses to “lie in the street” (11:8)? What “great city” is mystically called “Sodom and Egypt?” How are these two terms used elsewhere in the Scriptures? Where was Jesus crucified (cf. Jer 22:8)?

9.      How are “the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations” able to look at the dead bodies of the two witnesses (11:9)? What must technology be like in these last days? Is this possible now? What is significant about the period of “three and a half days?”

10.  Why do the earth-dwellers have a Christmas-like celebration (11:10)? Why are the two witnesses now called “two prophets?” How did they “torment[ed] those who dwell on the earth” (cf. 11:5)?

11.  What was the purpose in the events of 11:7-10 (11:11)?

12.  Why do some interpreters see 11:12 as a reference to the Rapture (cf. 2 Kgs 2:11; Acts 1:9; 1 Thess 4:17)? What is a “cloud” symbolic of in the Scriptures?

13.  Why is there a “great earthquake” (11:13)? What do earthquakes represent in the book of Revelation? Why does only a tenth of the city (7,000 people) perish? What does this tell us about God’s character? Is the response of the people who were preserved sincere? Why or why not?

14.  How is the term “woe” used previously (11:14; cf. 8:12; 9:13)?

15.  What does “the seventh angel” bring about (11:15)? Is this verse suggesting that Jesus Christ is presently not reigning over “the kingdom of the world?” What is significant about this verse? What comfort do you find in the eternal reign of Christ?

16.  Do you remember who the “twenty-four elders” are (11:16; cf. 4:4)? What are they doing in this context? Is this unusual behavior for them?

17.  What is the natural response of these elders (11:17)? What does this mean for you?

18.  How will Christ’s reign be initially exercised (11:18)?

19.  Why does John draw our attention back to “the temple of God” (11:19)? Why does he mention “the ark of His covenant?” What is the meaning of lightning, thunder, earthquakes, and hailstorms (cf. 4:5; 8:5; 10:3; 16:18; Exod 19:16-19)?

In Focus Study Questions #19
Revelation 12:1-17

1.      Where does this “great sign” appear (12:1)? Who or what does the woman represent? What is significant about “the sun,” “the moon,” and “a crown of twelve stars?” Why is this woman about to give birth (12:2)? Is this literal or figurative? How do you know?

2.      Who or what does the “great red dragon” represent (12:3; cf. 12:9)? What is significant about the “seven heads,” “ten horns,” and “seven diadems?”

3.      Who or what do the “third of the stars of heaven” represent” (12:4)? Why did the dragon throw them to the earth? Why did the dragon seek to “devour” the woman’s child? What does that remind you of?

4.      Who does this “male child” seem to represent (12:5)? Who will “rule all the nations with a rod of iron” and be “caught up to God and to His throne?”

5.      Why did the woman flee “into the wilderness” (12:6)? What is significant about the period of 1260 days?

6.      How can there be “war in heaven” (12:7)? Do you think the outcome of this war was ever really in question, or was it like a war game with the outcome determined and orchestrated before it began?

7.      Who is Michael? What encouragement do you find in reading that the dragon and his angels “were not strong enough” to overcome Michael and his angles (12:8)? What does the following phrase suggest: “and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven?”

8.      When did the events of 12:9 occur? Why is the great dragon called “the serpent of old?” Why does John refer to the dragon as both “the devil” and “Satan?” How does Satan “deceive[s] the whole world?”

9.      How would you define the following: “the salvation, the power, the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ” (12:10)? What is Satan’s “bread and butter” skill (12:10b)? How has he adversely affected you and your family in this regard?

10.  How is the devil described (12:10) Have you found this to be true of him? Has the devil ever accused you? Does God ever accuse, or is accusing always the devil’s work? What is the difference between the devil’s accusation and God’s conviction of sin? Do you know people who are big into accusing people? Would you say they are always working for the devil? What is so fun about accusing people of stuff?

11.  How do you get over the feeling of being accused? How big of a problem is this for you? Is it a big problem, little problem, huge problem, or not a problem at all? What advice would you have for the person who said they just couldn’t get over this feeling of condemnation?

12.  Who are the “they” who “overcame” Satan (12:11)? How did they do this? What can you learn from this?

13.  How is the devil’s “great wrath” revealed on earth (12:12)? Why does Satan know that he only has “a short time?”

14.  How and why did the dragon persecute the woman who gave birth to the male child (12:13)?

15.  Who or what does “the great eagle” represent (12:14)?  Why does the woman need to “fly into the wilderness to her place?” What is significant about the period “a time and times and half a time?”

16.  Is the flood description of 12:15-16 literal or figurative? What is worth noting in these verses?

17.  Why did the dragon become so “enraged with the woman” (12:17)? Who are “the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus?”

In Focus Study Questions #20
Revelation 13:1-18

1.      What is the relationship between “the dragon” and the “beast coming up out of the sea” (13:1-2)?  What did this beast look like? How is his appearance similar to that of the dragon (cf. 12:1)? How much “power” and “authority” does the dragon have to give?

2.      What does John mean when he writes, “I saw one of his heads as if it had been slain, and his fatal wound was healed” (13:3)? How do the words “as if” (“like”) help you understand this sentence? Why is the whole earth “amazed?” Why do they follow after the beast?

3.      Why does John repeat that the people “worshiped” the beast because the dragon “gave his authority to the beast” (13:4)?

4.      Who gave the beast his “mouth” and his “authority to act” (13:5)? What is significant about the period of “forty-two months?”

5.      What does it mean to “blaspheme against God” (13:6)? Why does the beast do this? How does it make you feel to hear people blaspheme God? What should your response be when you hear someone blaspheme God? What do you tend to do when you hear someone blaspheme God? Why would the beast blaspheme “those who dwell in heaven?” How should you respond when others blaspheme you (cf. Matt 5:10-12)?

6.      Who gave the beast his “authority” (13:7)? Why was he able to “make war with the saints and to overcome them?”

7.      How can John state that “all who dwell on the earth” will worship the beast (13:8)? Is this to be understood literally? If so, what must the world be like during this time? What one group of people will not worship the beast? What significant observations strike you when you read the phrase, “everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain?”

8.      Do you remember hearing the phrase “If anyone has an ear, let him hear” (13:9)? Where have you heard this phrase before? Why are these words so important?

9.      What does the following phrase mean “If anyone is destined for captivity, to captivity he goes; if anyone kills with the sword, with the sword he must be killed” (13:10)? How does this relate to “the perseverance and the faith of the saints?” This passage pictures an intense time of persecution and spiritual conflict. How do you think you would react to such a time? How should you prepare yourself for such a time? Have you ever sensed yourself in the midst of a spiritual conflict? How did you react? What is the reward for enduring through a time of persecution and spiritual conflict? What is the punishment for those who cave in a time such as is described in this passage? How close is this description to how you think of the persecution in the day when John was writing?

10.  John sees “another beast coming up out of the earth” (13:11)? Where did the first beast come from (cf. 13:1)? How is this beast from the earth different in appearance from the beast from the sea?

11.  What is the primary purpose of this beast (13:12)? What is so significant about the first beast’s “fatal wound [that] was healed” (cf. 13:3)?

12.  Why is calling “fire come down out of heaven to the earth in the presence of men” considered such a “great sign” (13:13)? Who else performed a similar sign (cf. 11:5)?

13.  What is the beast seeking to do (13:14)? How is deception an overall part of Satan’s strategy? What examples can you give? What do 1 John 2:18-23 and 2 John 7 say about the Antichrist and antichrists?

14.  What sin is committed in 13:14b? What takes place in 13:15?

15.  What is “the mark” of the beast (13:16)? Where is it given? What does the mark symbolize (13:17)? How do you see this working out with modern electronics and systems of commerce?

In Focus Study Questions #21
Revelation 14:1-20

1.      Why is it significant that “the Lamb was standing on Mount Zion” (14:1)? Is this usage of “Mount Zion” referring to heaven or earth? Why are the “one hundred and forty-four thousand,” with the Lamb? Why do they have the names of the Father and Son “written on their foreheads?”

2.      Who speaks or sings in 14:2 (cf. 14:6)? Why does John use three descriptions to explain the voice that he heard?

3.      Why did they sing “a new song” (14:3)? Why could no one learn the song “except the one hundred and forty-four thousand?” How does this vision encourage or challenge you?

4.      What does it mean that the 144,000 “have not been defiled with women” (14:4)? What does the word “chaste” mean? Do you think John is literally referring to celibates or symbolically referring to purity here (cf. 2 Cor 11:2)? Why? Does marriage cause defilement? How can these men “follow the Lamb wherever He goes?” In what sense are these men “first fruits to God and to the Lamb?” To what extent are you reserved for God (cf. 14:4 with Jas 1:18)?

5.      Why does John point out “no lie was found in their mouth” (14:5)? How is this a characteristic or definition of being “blameless?” Could it be said of you, “in his/her mouth no lie was found?”

6.      What is the “eternal gospel” (14:6)? Is this a call to salvation or judgment? How does the angel’s proclamation in 14:7 help you answer these questions? How would you summarize the contents of the angel’s message? Notice how the gospel relates to creation. Where do most atheists believe life came from? Why is the gospel the good news?

7.      How does the second angel’s message coincide with the first angel’s message (14:8)?  Who is “Babylon the great?” How was she able to have such power over the nations?

8.      Why do three angels proclaim various messages (14:9)? Why does God frequently use angels as His messengers?

9.      What are the consequences for receiving the mark of the beast (14:9-11)? What is receiving the mark emblematic of (14:9)? Does God exercise wrath and anger (14:10)? Why do these worshippers of the beast suffer “in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb” (14:10)? Is hell eternal (14:11)? Why do some Bible students argue that it is not? Contrast the eternal destiny of the wicked and the righteous (cf. 14:10-11 with Isa 34:8-10; 14:1-6, 13 with 7:15-17).

10.  Why does John mention the topic of the “perseverance of the saints” at this juncture (14:12)? How is “perseverance” defined?

11.  Who is speaking in 14:13 (cf. 14:15)? Why are believers who die from this point forward “blessed?” We read the first beatitude (blessing) in 1:3. Explain in your own words what you think the second beatitude means (14:13). What is the word “rest” a picture of? What is the value of their “deeds?”

12.  What lessons for us do the four prophecies of 14:6-13 offer? What do you think is the meaning of each of these visions?

13.  What is significant about “sitting on the cloud” (14:14)? Why is this character called “one like a son of man?” Is this an angel of Jesus? What does the “golden crown” and “sharp sickle” signify?

14.  What does the “harvest of the earth” refer to (14:15)? How did the son of man reap this harvest (14:16)? How did the angels also participate in the reaping of the harvest (14:17-20)? How ripe do you think the earth is now?

15.  What is going on in 14:19-20? Is this bloodbath to be understood literally? Why or why not?

In Focus Study Questions #22
Revelation 15:1-8

1.      Why is this particular sign called “great and marvelous” (15:1)? What does it mean that the “wrath of God is finished?”

2.      What does the description “something like a sea of glass mixed with fire” point to (15:2)?  What does the term “standing” represent? Why are they “holding harps of God?”

3.      When did Israel sing the “song of Moses” (15:3)? What is the “song of the Lamb?”  What is particularly meaningful to you about these songs (15:4)?

4.      What is “the temple of the tabernacle of testimony in heaven” (15:5)? Why is it “opened” at this specific time?

5.      Why do you think these angels were in the temple (15:6)? Why are these clothed in stunning fashion? What does their attire signify?

6.      Why does “one of the four living creatures” give away the seven bowls of wrath (15:7)? Why does John include the phrase that God “lives forever and ever?”

7.      Why is the temple “filled with smoke” (15:8)? Why is no one able to enter the temple until the plagues are finished?

In Focus Study Questions #23
Revelation 16:1-21

1.      Who told the seven angels to pour out on the earth the seven bowls of wrath (16:1)?

2.      What are these bowls of wrath reminiscent of (16:2-12)?

3.      Why does the third angel worship the Lord (16:5)? How does this angel’s assessment make you feel? How does 16:6 help you to better understand God’s character?

4.      How and why does the altar speak to the third angle (16:7)?

5.      What future experience does 16:8 look to?

6.      How does 16:9 epitomize the response of wicked men to God? Why does God demand “glory” from mankind?

7.      Why do wicked people refuse to repent this side of eternity (16:11)? Do these people acknowledge God and repent of their deeds in hell? Why or why not? Read Philippians 2:6-11.

8.      Is this a reference to the literal “Euphrates” River (16:12)? Who are the “kings from the east?”

9.      Why does God allow the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet the power to perform signs (16:13)? What is the “war of the great day of God, the Almighty” (16:14; cf. 16:17)?

10.  Why is 16:15 in parenthesis? What are the principles that you can derive from this verse? What does it mean to “keep one’s clothes?” How does this serve to avoid shame?

11.  Where is “Har-Magedon” (16:17)? Why does this final world war take place here?

12.  What is the phrase “It is done” reminiscent of (16:17)? Why does Har-Margedon conclude with lightning, thunder, and a great earthquake (16:18)? Where is the “great city” (16:19)? Why did the great city split into three parts? Who is “Babylon the great?” How severe was the earthquake (16:20)?  Why do men continue to “blaspheme” God?

In Focus Study Questions #24
Revelation 17:1-18:24

1.      Do chapters 17 and 18 continue the chronological sequence of events? Why or why not? How does Rev 16:19 help you answer this question?

2.      Who is the “great harlot who sits on many waters” (17:1)? How was she immoral (17:2)? How did she “make” people partake of her immorality?

3.      Why was John carried away into “a wilderness” (17:3)? In other passages, who is described as a “woman?” Why is she “sitting on a scarlet beast?” What previous character had “blasphemous names” and “seven heads and ten horns?” Why is the woman “clothed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls” (17:4)?  Why does this woman have a mysterious name written on her forehead (17:5)?

4.      Who is “Babylon the great” (17:5)? Will this last day Babylon encompass different geographical locations or cities like Rome as well as a rebuilt Babylon on the Euphrates? In other words, will there be two literal cities? Or will it be the same city viewed in different ways under different circumstances?

5.      What made John “wonder greatly” at the sight of the woman (17:6)?

6.      Do you understand the angel’s explanation (17:7-18)?  Who is “the beast” (17:7-8, 11)?

7.      What are the “seven heads” (17:9-10)? The “seven heads” represent “seven mountains” (17:9). “Mountains” often have a figurative meaning in the Scripture (e.g., Jer 51:25). In this context, should these mountains be understood literally or figuratively?

8.      What are the “ten horns” and what is their purpose (17:12-14)? Should the expression “one hour” (17:12) be understood literally or figuratively?

9.      Who are the ones with the Lamb who are the “called and chosen and faithful” (17:14)? Does this refer to every believer or those characterized by faithfulness (cf. 2:10, 13; see also Matt 24:45; 25:21,23; Luke 12:42; 16:10-12)?

10.  What does the “water” represent (17:15)? The “waters” where the harlot sits represents are “peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues” (17:15). If this is to be understood figuratively, what does that imply about other facets of this passage?

11.  What will the beast and the kings do to the harlot (17:16-17)?

12.  Who is the “woman” (17:18)? “The woman” represents “the great city which reigns over the kings of the earth” (17:18). The term “the great city” was used earlier to refer to earthly Jerusalem (cf. 11:8). Why should it refer to Babylon on the banks of the Euphrates here?

13.  What is the angel’s message in 18:1-3? Why is “Babylon the great” fallen (18:2-3)? How is Babylon describes is Isaiah 13:21f.; 35:11-15?

14.  What is the warning in 18:4? What is the principle of this verse? What is a contemporary application?

15.  What does it mean that has “remembered her iniquities” (18:5)? How do you explain God’s expression of vengeance in 18:6-7? What form does God’s judgment take (18:8)?

16.  Why is there a three-fold mention (“one hour”) of Babylon’s quick judgment: (18:10, 17, 19)?

17.  What does it mean that Babylon “will not be found any longer” (18:21)?

18.  How were all the nations deceived by Babylon’s sorcery (18:23)?

19.  Why does this passage close by again mentioning martyrdom (18:24)?

In Focus Study Questions #25
Revelation 19:1-21

1.      What does the phrase “after these things” refer back to (19:1)? How is this phrase used in Revelation (1:19; 4:1 [twice]; 7:9; 9:12; 15:5; 18:1; 20:3)? Why does a “great multitude in heaven” break out in praise (19:1-2)? How is the phrase a “great multitude” used in Revelation (7:9; 19:6)? How does John use the term “salvation” in Revelation (7:10; 12:10)? How does John use the term “glory” in Revelation (1:6; 4:9, 11; 5:12-13; 7:12; 11:13; 14:7; 15:8; 16:9; 18:1; 19:7; 21:11, 23-24, 26)? How does John use the term “power” in Revelation (1:16; 3:8; 4:11; 5:12; 7:12; 11:17; 12:10; 13:2; 15:8; 17:13; 18:3)?

2.      What specific “judgments” is John referring to (19:2)? What Old Testament passage is he drawing from? Is there a distinction between “true” and “righteous?” Who is “the great harlot” (17:1, 15, 16)? How has God “avenged the blood of His bond-servants on her?” What Old Testament passage is John drawing from?

3.      What is the significance of this second worship declaration (19:3)?

4.      What are the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures doing (19:4)? How does their example bring about a universal command (19:5)?

5.      What is the great multitude so excited about (19:6)? What is the “marriage of the Lamb” (19:7)? How does rejoicing and being glad have to do with worship? Is being glad in God the same as worship? Is worship a happy thing for you? Are worship and joy related? How has the bride “made herself ready” (19:7-8)? What is this about fine linen?

6.      What is the “marriage supper of the Lamb” (19:9)? Who is the bride? Who is the groom? Is the invitation to the “marriage supper of the Lamb” for all believers? Why or why not? How does it feel to you to be Jesus’ bride? How do you feel about being the bride of Christ? Why is it important that we see ourselves as the bride of Christ?

7.      Why did John attempt to worship this angel (19:10)? How does the angel respond? What does the following phrase mean: “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy?”

8.      Why does Jesus ride a horse (19:11; see Isa 63:13; Jer 12:5; 8:6)? In Revelation, what does the color white symbolize (see 20:11)?

9.      Describe the appearance of the one riding on a white horse (19:11-17). How does this visual imagery of the coming of Christ make you feel? What difference does the hope of Christ coming make in our every day lives? How does this episode contrast sharply to that of Jesus’ first coming (Matt 21:5; cf. Zech 9:9)?

10.  Who are “the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean” (19:14; cf. 17:14; 19:8)?

11.  How is the “the great supper of God” (19:17) a terrible counterpart to “the marriage supper of the Lamb” (19:9; see also Luke 14:16-24)?

12.  What happens to the beast and the false prophet (19:19-21)? Who did God originally prepare the lake of fire for (Matt 25:41)?

In Focus Study Questions #26
Revelation 20:1-15

1.      In 20:1, an unnamed angel manhandles Satan. What does this suggest? Is Satan Jesus’ equivalent or is his counterpart an angelic being (possibly the archangel Michael)? Where is “the abyss” (20:1; 9:1-3; 11:8; cf. Luke 8:31; 2 Pet 2:4)?

2.      Why is Satan’s most popular name in Revelation “the dragon” (20:2; see also 12:3, 4, 7, 13, 16, 17; 13:2, 4, 11; 16:13)? What happens to the dragon? Is this “binding” literal? Note: Some hold that Mark 3:27 suggests that Satan was bound through the work of Christ on the cross. How would you respond to this in light of 20:2-3; 2 Cor 4:4; 1 Pet 5:8?

3.      What is Satan’s most frequent ploy (20:3; cf. 12:9; 13:14; 18:23; 19:20; 20:3, 8, 10)? How does Satan deceive you? Why is Satan not permanently bound or cast directly into the lake of fire? Why is it necessary for him to once again be released?

4.      Who are the mysterious “they” that reign with Christ during this thousand-year reign (20:4; cf. 20:5; 1:18, 2:8; 13:14; John 11:25; Acts 1:3; 9:41)? Who are “the rest of the dead” that did not come to life until the end of the thousand years (20:5; cf. 20:12; John 5:28-29)?

5.      What is the difference between the first and second resurrections (20:5-6)?

6.      In 20:2-7, “thousand years” is used six times in connection with a number of chronologically interrelated events. Should this be understood literally or figuratively? Why? What are the strengths and weaknesses of each view?

7.      Why does God release Satan from the Abyss (20:7)? Are there any reasons implied in the text or the whole of Scriptures? Satan is successful in his attempt to “deceive the nations.” What does this tell us about the nature of man?

8.      How long have the Beast and the False Prophet been residents in the lake of fire (20:10)? What does this teach us about the duration of the lake of fire? Are individuals ever annihilated? What do the following Scriptures suggest (Matt 13:41-42; 8:12; 22:13; 25:30, 46; Mark 9:43-48)? In light of these passages, how should Matt 10:28 be properly understood?

9.      Who is sitting on the “great white throne” (20:11; cf. John 5:22-23, 26-27)? What is significant about the adjectives “great” and “white?” What characteristic of God does this throne speak to? From your perspective, does it ever look like the throne is unoccupied-that life on planet earth is running recklessly out of control? When did God’s sovereignty became more than an abstract theological concept for you? When has God come through for you when life was a bit of a mess?

10.  Who are the dead who are judged (20:12; 20:5; Dan 12:2)? How are the dead judged? Will there be different degrees of punishment in hell (cf. Matt 11:20-24). If so, what does this seem to be based upon (see Matt 10:14-15; 11:21-24; 12:36; Rev 20:13)?

11.  Is there a difference between the great white throne judgment and the judgment seat of Christ? If so, what is the difference(s)?

In Focus Study Questions #27
Revelation 21:1-22:5

1.      Will we live in “heaven” forever (21:1)? Why or why not? Will the “new earth” be renovated or destroyed? What does it mean, “there is no longer any sea?” Is this a reference to literal bodies of water or nations and peoples?

2.      Where does the “holy city, new Jerusalem” come from (22:2)? How is the word “bride” used in this context? How is it used elsewhere (cf. 19:7; 21:9; 22:17)?

3.      What will it be like to have God “dwell” among us (21:3)? Why is this mentioned twice in this verse?

4.      Why are there tears in heaven (21:4)? Do these tears have anything to do with the various judgments? What are the “first things” that “have passed away?”

5.      What does the phrase “Behold, I am making all things new” mean (21:5)? What is this referring to?

6.      How are the eight evil characteristics of 21:8 especially true of tribulation earth dwellers?

7.      Why does John spend so much time detailing the dimensions of this city (21:12-17)? Why does he spill so much ink describing the various precious gems out of which the city is built (22:18-21)? How do these verses apply to your life?

8.      Can you find the five blessed absences of heaven in 21:22-27? Why are these missing elements so important?

9.      Who are “the nations” of 21:24-26? Why does 22:2 say “the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations?” What does this mean?

10.  What is the focus of 22:1-5? What is the purpose of the “river of the water of life” (22:1-2)?

11.  How will man be able to see God’s face (22:4)?

12.  John writes that saints will “reign forever and ever” (22:5)? Does this mean that God’s rule and reign goes on into eternity? If so, what will this be like (cf. Gen 1:26)?

In Focus Study Questions #28
Revelation 22:6-21

1.      How can these 16 verses be outlined or structured? Note: The translators of the NASB make eight different paragraph divisions.

2.      Why is the Lord called “the God of the spirits of the prophets” (22:6)? What does John mean by thirsty? What does it mean to be spiritually thirsty? Would you describe yourself as spiritually thirsty? When have you been spiritually thirsty? What is the water of life? How do we drink from the water of life?

3.      Why is the phrase “I am coming quickly” repeated three times in this section (22:7, 12, 20)? How is it that Jesus can say He is coming quickly? It has been 2000 years! Is this quick? How should this word be understood?

4.      How does Revelation close as it began (22:7; 1:3; cf. 16:5)? Why is this warning and motivation so important?

5.      Why does John begin speaking directly to the readers again (22:8-9; cf. 1:1, 4, 9)? Why does he fall down and worship another angel (cf. 19:10)? What does the command to “worship God” really mean? What or who are people tempted to worship today, besides God?

6.      How is the command in 22:10 different from those in Daniel 8:26 and 12:4? Does God expect the book of Revelation to be understood? What does 22:10 suggest?

7.      What in the world does 22:11 mean? What possible interpretations can you come up with?

8.      Verse 12 says believers will be rewarded for what we have done. Isn’t this works theology? How can the tension between salvation and rewards be solved? What do you think we will be rewarded for? Does the hope of reward motivate you to serve God? Why or why not?

9.      What does it mean to wash your robes (22:14)? Is this speaking of initial justification or ongoing confession?

10.  Why is there a three-fold repetition of the word “come” in 22:17 (cf. Isa 55:1; John 7:37-39)?

11.  What happens if we add to the book (22:18)? What if we take a way from the book? Do you know any religious groups that either add to or take away from the Bible?

12.  What is the theme of the last words of the Bible (22:21-22; cf. 1:4)?

13.  The practical application of Revelation can be summarized in five words: “Live in light of eternity.” What does it mean to “live in light of eternity?” How can we keep the reality of heaven clearly in our mind on a day-to-day basis? Can this be overdone? Can we be so heavenly minded we are not earthly good?