The Mediator of Judgement - Revelation 8:1-5

Since the death, resurrection and ascension of Christ, the four horsemen of the Apocalypse have been riding.  The risen Saviour, Lord of all has been opening the six seals, unveiling the future and setting the final timetable in motion. The seventh seal which encompasses the seven trumpets and seven bowls (to come) is at the starting gate.  Then we read:

“And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all God’s people, on the golden altar in front of the throne. The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of God’s people, went up before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.” (Revelation 8:2–5, NIV).

The Seventh Seal indicates that time is at the end of the end.  There are no more Seals.  But this seems to be a parenthetical vision.  "Another angel" who has a golden censor stood by the altar. He has in his hands the prayers (metaphorically) of all God's people. What were these prayers? These must be the same prayers that have been described in 6:9-10, “When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?””

Interestingly in both places (Revelation 6 and 8) right after the mention of the prayers of the saints there is a depiction of scenes of judgement. Note:

Revelation 6:12–17

Revelation 8:4-5

“I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of goat hair, the whole moon turned blood red, and the stars in the sky fell to earth, as figs drop from a fig tree when shaken by a strong wind. The heavens receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place. Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and everyone else, both slave and free, hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?””

“The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of God’s people, went up before God from the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.”

So judgement is depicted as response to these prayers.  But this time it is an angel taking these prayers to the altar.  As Beale points out: [This] . . . indicates that the petition of 6:10 is now being formally presented before God with angelic favour and authority. The angel also represents the saints as he bears their prayers before God’s presence . . . The fact that the angel presents the saints’ request implies that the request has not only angelic but divine approval. Consequently, the angel is an agent of God whose actions merely indicate prior divine decision." [1]   Very likely this angel is Christ Himself. "This angel is entirely separate from the seven angels mentioned in verse 2, not so much because of added description, but by the very nature of the work involved. It is undoubtedly the Lord Jesus Christ. The Bible knows of no other than Him who does the work of mediating the prayers of all saints, symbolized by the incense . . .." [2]

"Therefore fire from the altar, from which the saints’ prayers rise, will be flung to earth in judgement, indicating that the judgements to follow answer the prayers of the saints." [3]

Father, in times of persecution and trouble, the saints of all ages have cried, "How long, Oh Lord."  These prayers do not fall on deaf ears.  Thank you for this insight into Heaven's court that allows us to see that at the right time, Christ Jesus our Mediator will take these prayers to the altar and they will be answered swiftly and decisively.  Judgement will come.  Justice will come.   Your servants will be vindicated and glorified.  Amen!




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1.  Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (455). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
2. KJV Bible Commentary. 1994 (E. E. Hindson & W. M. Kroll, Ed.) (2676). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
3. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2475). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

 

Silence Is Not Golden - Revelation 8:1-2

“When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them.” (Revelation 8:1–2, NIV)

Just as Christ had opened the other six seals (6:1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12), now He comes to open the last seal. But this time there is a dramatic pause -- a time of silence -- for one half an hour. "But an ominous silence pervades all nature, which is indicative of the solemnity of the things that are about to take place. It is the calm before the storm." [1]  Why 1/2 hour?  Well this must indicate brevity not an actual time from.  It also reminds us of the imagery in the Book and a warning not to read it with a "wooden literalism."

Notice Zephaniah 1:7 (NIV)

⁷ Be silent before the Sovereign Lord, for the day of the Lord is near. The Lord has prepared a sacrifice; he has consecrated those he has invited.

Just prior to that call in Zephaniah we have these sombre warnings: 

“I will sweep away everything from the face of the earth,” declares the Lord. “I will sweep away both man and beast; I will sweep away the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea— and the idols that cause the wicked to stumble.” “When I destroy all mankind on the face of the earth,” declares the Lord, “I will stretch out my hand against Judah and against all who live in Jerusalem. I will destroy every remnant of Baal worship in this place, the very names of the idolatrous priests— those who bow down on the roofs to worship the starry host, those who bow down and swear by the Lord and who also swear by Molek, those who turn back from following the Lord and neither seek the Lord nor inquire of him.”” (Zephaniah 1:1–6, NIV).

A call to silence is a sobering call just before God punishes.  I am reminded of one of the most mis-used passages in the Bible. It is found in Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

¹⁰ He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”  

So many take this verse as intended for comfort to the people of God.  It is not intended.  It is the dramatic pause before God makes Himself known in power and judgement. "The promise of God’s subduing the nations is fulfilled in Christ (Matt. 28:18–20; Luke 24:47; Eph. 1:20–22; Rev. 5:9–10)." [2]

As this Seventh Seal was opened "seven trumpets were given" to seven angels (Notice the use of 7). The 7th Seal is actually the unfolding of the 7 trumpets and 7 bowls of wrath. "Another way to think about this is that the seven trumpet judgments (and seven bowl judgments of chapter 16) are what is written on the scroll. After the seventh seal is broken, the scroll unrolls to reveal its contents." [3]

Father, it is easy to read Your Word callously and carelessly.  The "Sela" pause is intended to make us think of the horror of Your wrath.  Your punishment will fall on real people, in real time.  It is very, very real.  We do not gloat.  We do not lift our heads in contention.  We stop and think. How horrible it will be for those who reject the Savior. “How shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him.” (Hebrews 2:3, NIV).  Lord turn the hearts of our loved ones to Christ. That is the only hope.  Save them, Lord Jesus.

 

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1.  KJV Bible Commentary. 1994 (E. E. Hindson & W. M. Kroll, Ed.) (2676). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (995). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (142). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers

The Great Tribulation - Revelation 7:14

“I answered, “Sir, you know.” And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” (Revelation 7:14, NIV)

"The elder identifies them as redeemed ones, they which came out of great tribulation (Gr ek tēs thlipeōs tēs megalēs, out of the Tribulation, the great one). [1]  There are two views of this phrase: the great tribulation.  "Some understand the definite article (Gk. hē, “the”) to refer to one great final period of suffering, but others take this to represent the sufferings of the church throughout all history." [2] 

What is in mind here is related to Daniel 12:1 (NIV), “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. We know because the only other time in the New Testament that the phrase is used is in Matthew 24:21 where the context is from Daniel. 

". . . the tribulation consists of pressures to compromise faith, these pressures coming both from within the church community through seductive teaching and from without through overt oppression." [3] This time of tribulation is a general way was already set in motion at the time of Christ. ““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”” (John 16:33, NIV).  A consistent understanding of the New Testament would suggest that the time of tribulation already has started but one can expect it to intensify as we draw closer to the Lord's return.

"“There will be great distress [Greek thlipsis, tribulation], unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again. If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive” (Matt. 24:21–22). As Revelation 8–16 describes the unleashing of the trumpet and the bowl judgments, we can see that Jesus’ words are not an exaggeration." [4]

For Christians to presume that they will escape this period of tribulation is a misunderstanding of Scripture. But Christians will be saved (sealed, 7:3) in it and from it as the vision compels us to see.  Those that are faithful will be victorious.

Father our only comfort in life and in death is that in sovereign electing love You have set Your affection on the Church and the Church will be preserved from the wrath to come.  Even the sufferings of this life cannot be compared to the glory that is to be revealed.  Grant perseverance to all of us who wait patiently on the coming of the Lord; and give to us Your grace that we might remain faithful unto the end.

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1.  KJV Bible Commentary. 1994 (E. E. Hindson & W. M. Kroll, Ed.) (2675). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

2.  Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2474). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. 

3. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (433–434). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press

4. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (130). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

Was Doris Day right?

In the late 60s and early 70s Doris Day made popular a song originally recorded in 1956: "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be) [1]. The words are:

When I was just a little girl
I asked my mother what will I be
Will I be pretty will I be rich
Here's what she said to me

Que Sera Sera
Whatever will be will be
The future's not ours to see
Que Sera Sera
What will be will be

This is the essence of determinism or fatalism and is often associated with Calvinism. As one who embraces Calvinism, I'm often accused of holding to a doctrine where people are rendered puppets and God is rendered unjust.   Nothing could be further from a true apprehension of Calvinism.  Actually what is referred to as the doctrine of John Calvin is actually Augustinianism. Of course, with tongue-in-cheek I would argue that both of these systems of doctrine as they relate to God's sovereignty and the doctrines of grace are Biblical Christianity!

The big issue seems to be the correlation and relationship of God's sovereignty and the will of man.   Here's my one paragraph take on this:

God is gloriously sovereign and presides over all creation, for all time, in such a way that nothing occurs apart from His pre-determined plan; AND, God is just, He demands that we act responsibly and morally, and will hold us responsible for our choices in such a way that our choices do impact our destiny.  AND, He is also mercifully receptive, for in His compassion and condescension He welcomes our prayers, our pleas and our petitions – not to make us feel good, but to actually & really effect change; AND in the mystery of all mysteries he folds your desires, your needs and your prayers into His pre-ordained, fixed purposes and does it in a way that neither damages His divinity nor harms your humanity.

It is my view that if you can comprehend and embrace that definition it will keep you biblically sane.  




























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1. http://youtu.be/xZbKHDPPrrc 

Glimpses of Glory - Revelation 7:9-17

Making sure John knew who this multitude of people in Heaven were, an angel asks, “. . . who are they, and where did they come from?”” (Revelation 7:13, NIV).  John wisely answered that he did not know.   The angel responded:

“These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” (Revelation 7:14, NIV).

"The words have come are more correctly translated “are coming” (present tense in Greek). This crowd has been arriving in heaven from earth and has continued to increase throughout the period of tribulation. There is no indication that these are martyrs, though some surely must be." [1]

"Some assume that the people are a select group who have been martyred for their faith because they have died during the tribulation. But it is not clear that martyrdom is in mind. Nevertheless, even if these people are martyrs, it would be best to view them as representative of all believers who must suffer." [2]

 “Therefore, “they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. ‘Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat down on them,’ nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”” (Revelation 7:15–17, NIV)  

The similarity with the end of Revelation is profound.  There we read in Revelation 21:2–4 (NIV)

² I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. ³ And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ⁴ ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

These are those who "have washed their robes and made them white [3] in the blood of the Lamb."  "Christ’s blood cleanses us from sin, hence the paradox of red (blood) making white (pure and/or victorious)." [4]

John saw the saints of God who have endured, in great number around the throne.  They have displaced, in a sense, the Living Creatures (Revelation 5:6) and are worshipping, serving and enjoying God's blessings. This is the end-game.   This is the hope of the Church.

Father, what a glorious sight to see.  Your redeemed Church forever free from sin and forever in Your Presence. “Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to You our God for ever and ever."  All the promises that You made have come true for this multitude.   They are in perfect health.  Thank you Lord!  Today as I step into a world that is afflicted by pain and suffering, sin and despair may this picture be imprinted on my mind.

When we've been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise,
Than when we first begun.

 

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1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (130). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.  

2. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (432–433). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press

3. The white garments of all the redeemed (cf. 6:11; 7:9, 13; 19:8, 14), speak of holiness and purity. Such white robes are reserved for Christ (Matt. 17:2; Mark 9:3), holy angels (Matt. 28:3; Mark 16:5), and the glorified church (19:8, 14). [The MacArthur Study Bible. 1997 (J. MacArthur, Jr., Ed.) (electronic ed.) (1996). Nashville, TN: Word Pub.]

4. Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Re 7:14). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software

 

A Great Multitude - Revelation 7:9-10

We see in Revelation 6 a look into heaven and hear the cries of "the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained." [1]  Then we got a glimpse of the 144,00 on earth, sealed with God's protection.  Now we get a glimpse of greater magnitude:

 “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.” (Revelation 7:9, NIV)

This great multitude were exclaiming: “And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”” (Revelation 7:10, NIV)

I think we see a progression and a different image of the Church:  We see Christians who are martyred before God's throne experiencing His response: “Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been.” (Revelation 6:11, NIV).   This issue of the "full number" calls upon the image of 144,000 in 7:4.  Now we see the saints in heaven,  the same group as "vv. 1–8  . . . with their suffering in vv. 1–8 turned to joy and reward in vv. 9–17. [2]

"The phrase ὄχλος πολύς, ὃν ἀριθμῆσαι αὐτὸν οὐδεὶς ἐδύνατο (“a great multitude, which no one was able to number”) evokes the promise to Abraham and Jacob that God would multiply their descendants, “who will not be numbered for multitude” (ἣ οὐκ ἀριθμηθήσεται ὑπὸ τοῦ πλήθους; cf. the LXX of Gen. 32:13[12]; 16:10 above all, as well as the LXX of Gen. 13:16; 15:5; 22:17; 26:4; Hos. 2:1[1:10]; Jub. 13:20; 14:4–5; Heb. 11:12)." [3]

These people were "from every nation, tribe, people and language,standing before the throne. "When this phrase is used in reference to people other than the people of God, it is representative of the whole empire or the world’s population (as in Dan 4:1)." [4]

"Their first praise is for full salvation. Salvation from sin. Salvation from all sorrow and sadness. Salvation from the trials that they endured. Such salvation is wholly God’s; they cannot take credit for it. God Almighty on his throne, by his sovereign grace, and Jesus the Lamb by his redemptive work have provided full salvation." [5]

Father, the anticipation of terror and martyrdom must have evoked great fear in your Church. But to witness that You are in control and that victory and vindication were guaranteed must have brought much comfort.  The response of praise to Your salvation would be the most natural response. Salvation is all of You. Not one of Your redeemed can take credit for anything of our redemption.  All praise. All glory.   All honour goes to You. 

 

 

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1. The New International Version. 2011 (Re 6:9). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.
2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2474). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
3. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (426). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
4. Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Re 7:9). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software.
5. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (128–129). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

When Is A Jew, a real Jew? - Revelation 7:4f

If I am going to interpret the 144,000 from "every tribe of Israel" to be the entire Church on earth; all the living "servants of our God, then the question must be posed: When is a Jew, a Jew?   I get this from Revelation 2:9 (NIV):

⁹ I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan.

This is similar language to Paul in his letter to Romans: “It is not as though God’s word had failed. For not all who are descended from Israel are Israel. Nor because they are his descendants are they all Abraham’s children. On the contrary, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.”” (Romans 9:6–7, NIV).

In verse 8 of Romans 9, Paul adds another description. “In other words, it is not the children by physical descent who are God’s children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham’s offspring.” (Romans 9:8, NIV).  So we conclude that a real Jew, a real Israelite, a real child of Abraham is also a child of promise NOT PHYSICAL DESCENT.   

Paul, when writing to the churches in Galatia makes is abundantly clear in Galatians 3:7–9 (NIV),

⁷ Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham. ⁸ Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.” ⁹ So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.

So a true Israelite is a Jew or Gentile who has faith.  This faith, is a faith in Jesus Christ.  “He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.” (Galatians 3:14, NIV).  It is Christians of all ethnicity that are the true Israel -- the "Israel of God."[1]

All Christians who have faith in Christ are descendants of Abraham.  All Christians have become real Jews. There is no dividing wall (Ephesians 2:12-14).  “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28, NIV).

SO ooooooo?

1.  There is but one "people of God."   There always has been and always will be.  Interestingly when Peter wrote the scattered Jews he also said this: “Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” (1 Peter 2:10, NIV).

2. "The biblical view (which is sometimes mistakenly called “replacement theology”) does not say that the church “replaces” Israel. Rather, it affirms that true Israel always was, always is, and always will be comprised of those who trust in Christ alone for salvation." [2]  [I would write it this way: Who trust in the promised Messiah for salvation.  Just a thot!]

 

3.  With the establishment early in the Book of Revelation that what John sees is "true Israel" -- the Church, this ought to frame our thinking when references to Israel, the prophets and the Temple emerge further on in the Revelation.  

[A helpful clarification of God's future for ethnic Israel and the promises of God to the nation, in a sermon by John Piper is located HERE.]

 

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1.  “Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule—to the Israel of God.” (Galatians 6:16, NIV)

2. http://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/people-god/

 

 

 

 

 

The Precision of the Elect - Revelation 7:4-8

Revelation 7:4–8 (ESV)

⁴ And I heard the number of the sealed, 144,000, sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel: ⁵ 12,000 from the tribe of Judah were sealed, 12,000 from the tribe of Reuben, 12,000 from the tribe of Gad, ⁶ 12,000 from the tribe of Asher, 12,000 from the tribe of Naphtali, 12,000 from the tribe of Manasseh, ⁷ 12,000 from the tribe of Simeon, 12,000 from the tribe of Levi, 12,000 from the tribe of Issachar, ⁸ 12,000 from the tribe of Zebulun, 12,000 from the tribe of Joseph, 12,000 from the tribe of Benjamin were sealed.

Who are the 144,000 to be sealed? Well the text is clear: "from every tribe of the sons of Israel."

Turn on your TV or read popular books on eschatology and the interpretation would go like so: "The church is raptured prior to the great tribulation. During the time when the church is gone, a remnant of 144,000 ethnic Jews is converted (12,000 from each tribe). These Jewish converts, in turn, evangelize the Gentiles who make up the great multitude in white robes in v. 9." [1]   This group is not a group of especially holy or law-abiding Adventists or Jehovah Witnesses.   "Many interpreters have noted that 144,000 is both mathematically precise as well as an ideal number easily factorable into smaller numbers: twelve squared times ten cubed. The precision of the number suggests the doctrine taught elsewhere: God’s election of a precise number of individuals."

"The equal status of Gentiles and Jews in the seven churches (Eph. 2:11–22) and the promises associated only with the 144,000 (9:4; 14:1–5) confirm this." [3]  "The 144,000 is likely a figurative representation of the whole assembly of the redeemed (the fourth view). This is supported by the use of “slaves” in v. 3 (see 1:1; 2:20; 6:11; 10:7; 11:18; 19:2, 5, 10; 22:3, 6, 9) and the connection with the believers in 3:12; 22:4 who have been written on or marked (see also 14:1, 3–4)." [4]

So if the 144,000 refers to the entirety of the Church then why would the Holy Spirit couch this description in reference to the Twelve Tribes?    "The physical tribes of Israel lived through ten plagues in Egypt, experiencing the anger of Pharaoh but the protection of God. So now, spiritual Israel is destined to live though a time of terrible judgment on earth, experiencing the anger of humanity and the devil but the protection of God." [5]

What is the "devotional" application in understanding that the 144,000 represents the precision of the elect of God?   "According to vv. 1–8, the saints are known by God individually, and none slips by His care (Matt. 10:30); according to vv. 9–17, no human can count their number." [6]

Father the sealing protection of Your servants includes every single one of Your chosen people. There is none they go beyond Your gaze.  The Church, the true Israel, is without number yet You know the individual right down to the hair on their head.   Thank you that today my life does not pass by Your providence unnoticed and unaware.  Thank you that I am part of a glorious multitude of un-numbered saints.  Thank you that when You unleash Your righteous and holy fury on the wicked, Your Church will be preserved.  

NB:

a. See Kevin DeYoung's blog (Footnote 1.) for more on why the 144,000 refer to the Church - the true Israel.

b. Is election to salvation about individuals?  See Footnote 7.

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1. http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2012/01/17/who-are-the-144000-in-revelation/

2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (125). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

3.  Whitlock, L. G., Sproul, R. C., Waltke, B. K., & Silva, M. (1995). The Reformation study Bible: Bringing the light of the Reformation to Scripture: New King James Version (Re 7:4–8). Nashville: T. Nelson.

4. Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Re 7:4). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software
5. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (127). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

6. Whitlock, L. G., Sproul, R. C., Waltke, B. K., & Silva, M. (1995). The Reformation study Bible: Bringing the light of the Reformation to Scripture: New King James Version (Re 7:4–8). Nashville: T. Nelson.

7. http://www.reclaimingthemind.org/blog/2010/10/eleven-reasons-why-romans-9-is-about-individual-election-not-cooperate-election/

Sealed from the Seals - Revelation 7:1-8

Here we have a parenthesis. There is a pause to view something before the picture of the Seals of Revelation 6 continue on in Revelation 8. "There are three interludes (vv. 1–17; 10:1–11:14; 20:1–6) explaining the place of the saints in the events of Revelation." [1] This pause shows four angels holding back the events that are unfolding on the earth and answers the question in the previous chapter: “for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?”” (Revelation 6:17, ESV).Who can stand?  The 144,000 can stand.  Why?

"Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.”” (Revelation 7:3, ESV).

"Here the seal protects God’s people from the destructive effects of the judgment angels who will harm the land or the sea through their powerful winds." [2]

Who are these ones that are sealed with protection against the Seals of God's wrath?  They are described by John as "servants of our God."  This sealing is very similar to the events of Ezekiel 9:3–4 (ESV),

³ Now the glory of the God of Israel had gone up from the cherub on which it rested to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed in linen, who had the writing case at his waist. ⁴ And the Lord said to him, “Pass through the city, through Jerusalem, and put a mark on the foreheads of the men who sigh and groan over all the abominations that are committed in it.”

This also stands in contrast to the famous mark of the beast of Revelation 13:16.  As this is symbolic so too is the mark of the beast.  This is also reminiscent of the plagues of Egypt.  For example:

“But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where my people dwell, so that no swarms of flies shall be there, that you may know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth. Thus I will put a division between my people and your people. Tomorrow this sign shall happen.” ’ ”” (Exodus 8:22–23, ESV)  

 “And the next day the Lord did this thing. All the livestock of the Egyptians died, but not one of the livestock of the people of Israel died.” (Exodus 9:6, ESV)

“Only in the land of Goshen, where the people of Israel were, was there no hail.” (Exodus 9:26, ESV)

This is also reminiscent of the protection that God put on Cain: “Then the Lord said to him, “Not so! If anyone kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord put a mark on Cain, lest any who found him should attack him.” (Genesis 4:15, ESV)

 

"Vv 1–3 must be referring to a time immediately preceding the plagues of 6:1–8, a time when God gives believers a seal to protect them against the onslaught of the woes." [3].  Indeed even as this seal protected God's servants from His wrath and the onslaught of evil, so too believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13); delivered “. . .  from the wrath to come.” (1 Thessalonians 1:10b, ESV); and “who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:5, ESV).

Father, You are in Heaven reigning over all.  It is clear You permit many of us to suffer.  It is clear that some of Your children will die of martyrdom -- most of us will die.  But all Your servants are forever protected from Your wrath.   We do not fear those who kill the body.  We fear the One, You Lord, who can destroy both body and soul.  Thank you for Jesus.  Thank you for the grace of His redemption that has forever snatched us from Your eternal and righteous wrath.

 

 

  

 

___________________________________________
1. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2473). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (124–125). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
3. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (408). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

Who Can Stand? - Revelation 6:12-17

The opening of the Sixth Seal shows John events that are far more terrifying than before.  This is one of the reasons I believe that even though theses Seals reveal events between the first and second coming of Christ, they also reflect an increasing intensity and violence as the end approaches.

• ¹² . . . there was a great earthquake, and 
• the sun became black as sackcloth, 
• the full moon became like blood, 
• ¹³ and the stars of the sky fell to the earth . . . 
• ¹⁴ The sky vanished like a scroll that is being rolled up, and 
• every mountain and island was removed from its place.

Without a doubt this anticipates the Day of the Lord, the Day of His Second Coming.  Note the reaction of the earth:

“Then the kings of the earth and the great ones and the generals and the rich and the powerful, and everyone, slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains, calling to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?”” (Revelation 6:15–17, ESV) 

"Language of natural phenomenon, like in vv. 12–14, is typical when referring to God’s judgment. It normally refers to the end of the age (see Isa 13:10; 34:4; Ezek 32:7–8; Joel 2:10, 31; 3:15; Mark 13:24–25)." [1] "But in that day there will be no escape. None will be exempt. The terror will be universal." [2] 

The cause of this disaster of all disasters is not lost on those who are in great terror.  They know this is the day of God's wrath.  They know the end will come.   The terror of such events inspires the author to ask rhetorically: "who can stand?"

Father, the anticipation of such events strikes such horror that my mind cannot conceive of the terror that awaits those who have not trusted You.  I am reminded of Your words through Paul that because we, we Christians, know the terror of the Lord, we persuade others.  May these events not paralyse me, but in fact mobilize me to be a messenger of reconciliation today.  May my message be, "Be reconciled to God."  Who can escape if they neglect so great a salvation?  

__________________________________________

1.  Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Re 6:12). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software. 

2. KJV Bible Commentary. 1994 (E. E. Hindson & W. M. Kroll, Ed.) (2673). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

A Badge of Honor - Revelation 6:9-11

"If the first four seals preview human life in general between the first and second comings of Christ, what about Christ’s people during this time? The opening of the fifth seal gives the divine answer." [1]

 “When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been.” (Revelation 6:9–11, NIV).

John saw the souls of the martyrs under the altar.  Drawing from Jewish worship John viewed the lives of the slain those who had given themselves as a sacrifice.  Paul viewed his life in a similar way when he wrote, “But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” (Philippians 2:17, NIV); and again: “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near.” (2 Timothy 4:6, NIV).

Why had these Christians died?  They died because of the Gospel; because of their consistent testimony to it. As they cried out to the Lord -- the Sovereign Lord, they were given white robes. "Although many white-clothed beings appear in Revelation, the only ones specifically said to have white robes are these martyrs and the “Great Tribulation” multitude before God’s throne (7:9, 13). The white robes, then, may be a badge of honor reserved for martyrs." [2]  They appealed to the Lord of their martydom who is also the Judge.  They cried for justice.   They cried for justice to Him who knows the limits of the persecution.

God is sovereign. He is Lord. He is holy and true.  He hears the cry of the slain.  He will answer.  "This assurance also becomes a basis for glorified saints in heaven being able to “rest” in peace until the punishment is executed (cf. 14:9–11 with 14:12–13!). The final judgment will begin when all believers whom God has decreed to suffer finally fulfill their destiny." [3].

Father, thank you for the example of those who have given their lives for the Gospel.  Thank you for the vision that they are with you.  But Lord thank you that they too have a sense of unrest until You bring peace and justice to earth.  Lord there are many who are still being killed for the sake of Christ.  Strengthen those today who are suffering for the cause of the Gospel.  Grant to them grace that exceeds human understanding.  I am humbled and perplexed at the ease of my life.  These persecuted brothers and sisters cry, "How long?"   I cry, "Why?"  Why have I been given such peace?  Grant me a humble and grace-filled response by standing true to Your Word today.  It's the least I can do.

_______________________________

1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (109). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

2. Ibid, (110).

3.  Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (394). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

Global Contractions - Revelation 6 Part 2

Some of us have heard lots about the "horses of the apocalypse." But a careful look at the text reveals that John was more interested in the riders!

 “I looked, and there before me was a white horse! Its rider held a bow, and he was given a crown, and he rode out as a conqueror bent on conquest.” (Revelation 6:2, NIV).

“Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make people kill each other. To him was given a large sword.” (Revelation 6:4, NIV)

“When the Lamb opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come!” I looked, and there before me was a black horse! Its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand.” (Revelation 6:5, NIV) 

“When the Lamb opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say, “Come!” I looked, and there before me was a pale horse! Its rider was named Death, and Hades was following close behind him. They were given power over a fourth of the earth to kill by sword, famine and plague, and by the wild beasts of the earth.” (Revelation 6:7–8, NIV).  "There is an additional departure from the first three horses: this rider has a companion. Probably the picture is of the companion following on foot rather than being seated on the pale horse behind the rider. The companion is named Hades—the grave." [1]

Undoubtedly the horse color symbolized something important but what was unleashed on the world was the activity of the riders. The first rider is obviously given the power to conquer nations.  The second rider is a war-monger.  The third and fourth riders are given power to cause famine and death.

Again it is no small point to see the ultimate cause of these events.  “I watched as the Lamb opened the first of the seven seals.  . . . When the Lamb opened the second seal . . . When the Lamb opened the third seal . . . When the Lamb opened the fourth seal . . .”  (Verses 1, 3, 5 and 7).   Clearly in this text we see two phenomenons.  There is an ultimate cause or primary cause and there is a secondary cause.  All war, famine and death occurs ULTIMATELY by the permissive will of Christ, the Lamb.   But the riders are the secondary cause and the source of evil.  They are Satanically and demonically driven.  "In Zech. 1:8–15 and 6:1–8 the horses are identified together as being the same in nature, and this must also be the case in Rev. 6:1–8, since Zechariah 1 and 6 are an influential model in the author’s mind (Targ. Zech. 6:1–8 identifies the horsemen as the evil angels of the four pagan kingdoms of Daniel 2 and 7; cf. Targ. Zech. 4:7)." [2]

What we have before us in Revelation 6:1-8 is the working out of Christ's sovereignty over the nations.  The four horsemen also correspond to the four evil kingdoms in Daniel 7. 

Mark 13:7–8 (NIV) records the words of Jesus, "⁷ When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. ⁸ Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains." We are leaving in the time of birth pains.  

“We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.” (Romans 8:22–23, NIV) 

Father today I groan.  I groan with the earth.  I see pollution environmentally, politically and morally.  I see pollutants in me that cause me to cry, "Who can deliver me from this body of sin?" Father the evidence that we are approaching the end is in sight.  Wars and famines have increased. We look forward to the revealing of Your Son the Righteous One.   Come Lord Jesus, come! 

 

 

 

 

_______________________________

1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (108). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers. 

2.  Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (376). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

Hear Now the Hoof Beats - Revelation 6 Part 1

“Now I watched when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice like thunder, “Come!”” (Revelation 6:1, ESV).   These events are not simply events of the future or events described for some great event of tribulation.  No, these events are occuring as I write.  I believe that for the following reasons:

1. There is a direct correlation between these events in Revelation 6 as in Jesus' teaching of the Mount of Olivet (Matt. 24–25, Mark 13; Luke 21).  At that time Jesus was not describing events that were at the end.  He was describing events between His first and second coming that had to take place “. . . These are but the beginning of the birth pains.” (Mark 13:8, ESV)

2. There is also a contextual bridge between Chapter 5 and 6 of Revelation.  Previously the Lamb was given the scroll at His ascension and now He opens the seals. He has started opening the Seals and is opening the Seals!

3. The most obvious background is Zechariah 6:1–8 (cf. also Zechariah 1:8–15).  Remember the cryptic language of Revelation relates to other Old Testament prophecies which the reader would be aware of.  So just as Zechariah depicted the horseman representing God's nations of justice on Israel, these horseman represent God's judgement of all nations, but also His protection and vindication of His Church.  In the midst of all these natural, political and religious disasters, God is on the throne.

4. The Seals of Revelation 6 encompass all the Last Days.  Notice as the Sixth Seal is opened that the events unfolding are described by John as “the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?”” (Revelation 6:17b, ESV).  

5. "Rev. 6:1–8 is intended to show that Christ rules over such an apparently chaotic world and that suffering does not occur indiscriminately or by chance." [1]

These four horsemen are symbols of events that have and will take place up to the coming of Christ.  Again the overall point of Revelation is to show that Jesus Christ reigns.  He is sovereign and He is in control.

Father it not only proves Scripturally accurate to describe these events in the here and now; it also brings us great comfort. You have a plan to protect Your Church.  Your people are sealed.  Your Son does reign -- and there are no accidents.   Lord as I even hear the hoofbeats today, may it bring this certain knowledge: Our God reigns.  Comfort and add grace to Your Church around the world that is suffering today.   Amen! 

___________________________________________

1.  Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (370). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

   

The Legal Deed to the World - Revelation 5

The never-ending, always praising theme in Revelation 4 of the majesty and glory of the Creator now shifts to another drama.  There in the heavenly courts the LORD is holding a scroll.  “Then I saw in the right hand of him who was seated on the throne a scroll written within and on the back, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?”” (Revelation 5:1–2, ESV).

The scene changes again as we see a Lamb as if He had been slain step forward as the only One able to open the scroll and all Heaven bows in praise before the Lamb, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.  “And one of the elders said to me, “Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals.”” (Revelation 5:5, ESV)

What is the scroll; and why could only the conquering Savior, Jesus Christ open it?  "Such a doubly inscribed scroll would resemble a Roman will or contract deed, with the contents written in detail inside and summarized briefly outside, then sealed with seven seals. The scroll John sees could symbolize a will that is to be opened and its contents executed; . . . in a broader sense, the scroll contains God’s purposes for history, but its seven seals prevent the full disclosure and enactment of its contents." [1]  The deed or contract was clearly specified in Psalm 2:7–9 (ESV)

⁷ I will tell of the decree: The Lord said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you. ⁸ Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. ⁹ You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.”

This is clearly the plan of God to give the nations to His Son in both redemption for some and judgement for others.  Only the Son, only God's Christ can open the scroll.  It is only He who died and purchased with His blood the nations of the world. Thus Paul wrote: “For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.” (1 Timothy 4:10, ESV)

Jesus Christ has gained the legal right of possession of the whole world through His victory on Calvary some vessels of wrath prepared for destruction [and some] vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory—” (Romans 9:22–23, ESV).

Christ holds the deed to the whole world and He alone is worthy to unveil the plan.

“And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”” (Revelation 5:9–10, ESV).

Father there is not one person or thing in this Universe that is not sovereignly owned by Your Son. Today, I am His.  I am His purchased and legal possession.  I belong to Jesus. Someday every one will know that.  Every knee will bow and confess Him as Lord.  Even the events of this day are ordered and ordained by Christ, for His glory.  May I live today as a vessel prepared for glory and reflect Your glory in what I say and do.


________________________________
1.  Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2470). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Good News Authority - Revelation 4 (Part 2)

Revelation 4:4 (NIV)

⁴ Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads.

"The twenty-four elders are an otherwise unknown class of heavenly beings created for the express purpose of worshiping God in his heavenly court," so writes K. Easley. [1] There are other interpretations of these 24 elders but Beale rightly concludes, I think that "the elders certainly include reference to OT and NT saints. They are either angels representing all saints or the heads of the twelve tribes together with the twelve apostles, representing thus all the people of God." [2]

If the four living creatures are representative of all creatures, then it seems that the twenty-four elders probably are or represent the Church from all ages.  The whole Church is dressed in white and has received crowns.  "“Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders . . ..” (Revelation 4:4a, NIV).  The Church represented in this image is not only clothed in white and having received their crowns -- they are seated on thrones.

Paul understood this reality as recorded in Ephesians 2:4–8 (NIV)

⁴ But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, ⁵ made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. ⁶ And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, ⁷ in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. ⁸ For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—

"Believers have been “made alive together” (v. 5), “raised together” (v. 6), and now “seated together” with Christ. Believers share Christ’s position of authority at the right hand of God by virtue of their union with Christ." [3] "God has allowed his people even now to share in a measure of the authority that Christ has, seated at the right hand of God (cf. 1:20–22; 6:10–18; James 4:7; 1 John 4:4)." [4]

In a world of rebellion and false philosophies, Christ still reigns and He reigns with and through His Church. The Church shares in Christ's authority and particularly in ways wherein the Gospel is given liberty to go into all the world. “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” (Matthew 28:18–19, NIV).

The Church has "evangelistic authority."   The Church has Καλή νέα αρχή -- good news authority.

Father You are eternal.  I am a creature of time. There are some things You have done that are done, yet are not done yet.  You have promised that we will reign with Christ, yet we reign today -- not as we will, but yet we do.  You, Father, reign in the midst of Your enemies, even as we do.  We have many enemies.  But we are more than conquerors and the Gospel has authority and power to transform enemies into friends.  Help me today to go out with confidence in Your authority.  May souls be translated into the Kingdom of Christ, for the glory of Your Son and for our eternal joy.

______________________________
1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (76). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
2.  Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (322). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
3. Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Eph 2:6). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software
4. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2264). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Who Am I? - Revelation 4

The same Christ whom John witnessed in the Spirit on earth among the Churches and speaking to him; is the same Christ who is in this vision of the heavenly throne room. What John witnesses is the glorified experience of the God of all creation receiving worship at the throne.   Revelation 4 is not a new passage to me.  It is probably been preached and taught myriads of times and places.   One of the unique impressions that I have of this chapter is the sole and singular attention that all heaven gives to God.

Imagine being at a function where one person present is constantly holding the attention of everyone else.  All the words and behaviours are directed towards this one person.   I might think at some point, why am I here What's the point of me? Now I don't mean this is a self-serving, narcissistic way.  What I mean, from the point of view of God, is that all heaven is giving him glory therefore earthly attention seems pale if not unnecessary.  To ask this different I could pose the question as the psalmist did?

“What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” (Psalm 8:4, NIV).

A glimpse at the glory of God is a death-blow to human pride.  All the fanciful ideas that "God created man for relationship;" or "God needs me-kinda-theology" falls like dandruff on the floor.   One glimpse of God enthroned in Heaven begs the question, "Who am I?"  That question will be answered in Revelation 5, but for now we should allow it to rip and tear all the human pride from our existence and stand nakedly humble before God.  It is all about Him.

Father, what an amazing picture You gave to John about your existence.  You sit enthroned in Heaven.  All creation worships you.  All the hosts of heaven give you continual and ongoing praise. As Creator worship is what happens to You.  There is no human pride, no human accomplishments, no human merits in Heaven.  It is all about You.  

"Who am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again?
Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rainAnd calm the storm in me?" - Casting Crowns.

  

Twin Truths That Make Us Useful - Revelation 3:14-21

What is the definition of usefulness?  Well according to Jesus, usefulness is:

a. Having wealth and knowing it; or being poor and knowing it.
b. Having integrity and knowing it; or not having integrity and knowing it.
c. Having spiritual insight and knowing it; or not have spiritual insight and knowing it.

But to say you own one of these qualities and to actually NOT have it is beyond hypocrisy; beyond one's self-conscious ability; it renders you useless. "Laodicea was near two other cities. Hierapolis had hot medicinal waters; Colossae had cold, pure, refreshing water. Both were wonderful. What was terrible was the useless water of Laodicea." [1]

The indictment to this Church from our Lord was “For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.” (Revelation 3:17, ESV). There is value in being one or the other and admitting it with the purpose of doing something.  To pretend to be rich and to be poor renders a person unprofitable. There is a need for “. . .  salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see.” (Revelation 3:18b, ESV).  "They could “purchase” these necessities only by his grace, as the Lord had once invited thirsty spiritual paupers to “buy wine and milk without money” (Isa. 55:1–4)." [2]

"Their trouble was that they had never really seen themselves as sinners."  These were people loved by our Lord (v19).  The problem was they forgot what Luther later understood. We are "simul justus et peccator." We are simultaneously Christian and sinner at the same time.   By remembering that we are Christians we remember how rich we are.  By remembering that we are at the same time sinners, we remember how poor we are.  A person of that standing is useful to Christ.  Those that promote a triumphant theology that fails to deny that we are still sinners are of no value to the work of Christ.  Those that are sinners but forget the Gospel and the richness afforded them are of no less profit to the Kingdom.

It is in communion and fellowship with Christ that we learn of our amazing riches in grace and our deep poverty of sin.  So Jesus says to us, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20, ESV)

John Newton:  “I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world; but still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am . . .  Although my memory's fading, I remember two things very clearly: I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.”

Father, Your love and Your wisdom is amazing.  You sent Your Son to be my Savior and in fellowship with Him I am always reminded what a great sinner I am, but what a great Savior He is.  With that insight in my life I believe, by God's grace, I am some use to the Kingdom.  Grant me the mercies to never forget both truths.  Cause me to be profitable in Your Service for Your sake, today.

  

__________________________________
1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (59). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2469). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
3. KJV Bible Commentary. 1994 (E. E. Hindson & W. M. Kroll, Ed.) (2667). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

My Favorite iPhone Apps, etc.

Here are some of my favorite Apple Apps in no particular order:








1. Kindle Reader.  I have a Kindle.  I read a lot on Kindle.  Why?  Because they are cheaper. Every day Amazon gives deals on even Christian books.  There's a large selection and it automatically syncs across any device. I can read on my iPhone, put it down and pick up right where I left off on my laptop or back to my Kindle.  I also like that I won’t lose my library because my books are all stored on the web.

2. Feedly.  Feedly is my favorite blog reader. It helps me select some great blogs of Christian authors like Tim Challies and Justin Taylor, etc.  I also love the functionality to save articles for later or share them on Twitter, Facebook, or wherever.

3. Logos Bible Software.   I have used Logos for years on my PC.  Now they have come up with an iPhone App.  The iPhone app is actually called VYRSO.  Again I have access to hundreds of Bible translations and books, including reference books.   It synchronizes completely with my PC and devices.  Downloads are a breeze.  There are amazing reading programs available and helps. 

4. My PrayerMate.  This is a great tool to help me be disciplined and effective in my prayertime.  I schedule my family, friends and church folks in a way that I can be praying for everyone.  It's a great help to my prayer life.  There is a charge for this App but its worth it.  I think it's under $10.



5. I use Genius Scan to turn my iPhone into a pocket scanner. I use this app to go paperless at home and at church. So this app takes a pic of the document and exports it into a program that I use for wordprocessing called DocsToGo.  I also use it to immediately scan receipts so I don’t lose them.  

6. Skydrive is great.  I don't think it's better than other cloud type drives that save your work online, but it's the one I use. It is basically an online hard drive. I use it to back up all of my important files and documents. Simply drop your files in the folder on your desktop and it automatically syncs to your iPhone, PC, and the web. I also upload my sermons so I can work on them wherever I am if I have time.



7.  I use the Apple App for Podcasts and the other Apple features for my Calendar and Address Book. But all this is syncronized with iCloud.  When I'm at the computer I keep this open all the time.  Another neat thing with the Calendar app is if I schedule an appointment with someone I can send them (through iCloud) an automated email to remind them of our appointment. 

8. I Facebook and I Tweet.  A great App that helps send updates to both locations through one means is HootSuite.  Why do it twice when you can do it once!


9. Last but not least is I love the App for SKYPE.  My iPhone "skypes" really well.   With the iPhone ability to reverse the camera you can not only let the person see your face but you can let him or her see what you're doing, or what problem you have.  Love it!