The Gracious Invitation of our King - Revelation 22:6-21

““Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”” (Revelation 22:7, NIV). 

In these concluding remarks of John's vision, the reader is faced with the affirmation of the trustworthiness of this Book; and also John includes the Seventh benediction recorded in the Book of Revelation. But the key is that reminder of Christ's "soon" Second Return.

⁶ The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place" . . . ⁹ But he said to me, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!” 

"This is remarkably like the opening verse of the Book of Revelation, where the sequence was as follows:

God → Jesus → angel → John → servants" [1]

"The unique truth and trustworthiness of the revealed word (and words) of God are underscored seven times in the last two chapters of Revelation, as indicated first in 21:5, as repeated in 22:6, 7, 9, 10, and then in the solemn warning in vv. 18 and 19 to anyone who “takes away from the words of this book.” [2]

Here is a summary of the benedictions (blessings in this Book):

Blessed is the one who reads aloud, hears, and keeps the words of this prophecy	1:3
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord	14:13
Blessed is the one who stays awake, keeping his garments on	16:15
Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb	19:9
Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection	20:6
Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book	22:7
Blessed are those who wash their robes	22:14

The promise of Christ's coming, also includes an invitation to come. “The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” (Revelation 22:17, NIV).

The point of the Revelation is assurance -- assurance to the Church that Christ is on the throne and has conquered.  The Church is encouraged to be faithful even unto death.  But the Book is also an evangelistic Book.  In view of God's truth, "Come."  “Surely I am coming soon.”[3]  This promise not only assures the Church of the proximity of Christ's coming but also the assurance that there is no more revelation outside of this Book.  This ends all time.  There is no more.  These words comfort the Church ". . . by guaranteeing that his final advent, which he promised at his first coming, will soon occur and thus bring to completion what he has revealed throughout the book." [4]

"Then listen to the voice from the throne. It is the pleading voice of the Master, His tender, final invitation: ‘And he that is athirst, let him come: he that will, let him take the water of life freely.’ The emphasis is on the word freely. Glorious sovereign grace! This is the love of God, so touching and tender, which is addressed here to all those who have been made conscious of the need of living water. Let them not hesitate. Let them come. Let them take. It costs them nothing. He paid the price. So let them come, take and drink." [5]

Those who hear and head this inspired and authoritative Word from You are blessed seven-fold. This is all of your grace. Those that hear the invitation to come are given eternal life.  May the Church be an intentional voice that recites Your invitation to a lost and perishing world. Maranatha, come Lord Jesus.

“The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.” (Revelation 22:21, NIV)  

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1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (417). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2496). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

3. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 22:20). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

4. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (1155). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

5. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 210). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition

The Glory To Be Revealed - Revelation 22:1-5

"The river of the water of life and the tree of life recall Eden before the fall into sin (Gen. 2:8–10)." [1]  This is truly Eden, restored. The Creation and the New Creation form "bookends" to God's story.

“Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:1–2, NIV)  The picture also hearkens back to Ezekiel’s vision of a future glorious temple (Ezekiel 47:1–12; see Zechariah. 14:8).  With this information it is clear that John did not imagine a literal building of the Temple in Palestine, but understood this eschatological temple as part of the New Heavens and New Earth.

"The garden of Eden had its river and its tree, but it did not contain the throne of God and of the Lamb. For this reason the city surpasses the original paradise. The throne equally belongs to the Father and the Son—God and the Lamb." [2]  Throughout Biblical history God's people were restrained from "seeing His face." Now “they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.” (Revelation 22:4, NIV).   The only group ever mentioned before that bore the name of God were the 144,000.  “Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads.” (Revelation 14:1, NIV).  There is no dispute that this group in Revelation 22 includes the saints of all ages.  Surely this supports the view that the 144,000 are indeed the Church?

Father, to bear Your name forever, to see you face-to-face and to serve You forever is more than my mind can imagine.  Truly Paul was right when he wrote, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18, NIV). My response is simply to remain silent, in awe.  One's only response is worship.   May I live today, by Your grace, in light of this glory to be revealed.  




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1. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2496). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
2, Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (415). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers

The Heavenly City - Revelation 21:9-27

In Revelation 21:2 (NIV), John saw "the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband."   Now he is taken for a better view. "“Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb." [1]   The New Jerusalem is the Church, the bride of Christ.  It is radiant with the glory of God.  It's gates and walls speak of its radiance and its angelic protectors secure it.

"In the wall were set twelve gates. The number twelve here has symbolic meaning, for each is inscribed with one of the twelve tribes of Israel (7:5–8) . . . The perfect security of New Jerusalem is declared in the number twelve. Each layer of the foundation stones is also inscribed, but this time with the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb (Matt. 10:2–4)."[2]

“I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.” (Revelation 21:22, NIV). "No longer need the inhabitants go to the Tabernacle or the Temple, somewhere in the camp or in the city, in order to have fellowship with God. The radiance of God’s majesty and glory, in all its fullness, fills the entire city. It is not limited to any particular place in the city. It manifests itself everywhere. No sanctuary is needed, for the fellowship of believers with their God is direct and immediate." [3]

 “The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it.” (Revelation 21:24–26, NIV)  

Who are the true citizens of this city?  ". . . only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life." [4] 

"The best words that describe this chapter are “beyond imagination” . . . all agree that Scripture’s final presentation of the eternal state of the blessed—the “beatific vision,” to use the old phrase—focuses on perfect access to God and Christ. Their fellowship will be unhindered either by sin or by the limits imposed by living in a fallen world. All marks of the Fall will be erased forever. [5]

Father in spite of this unspeakable vision we still conclude that no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what You have prepared for those who love You.  To live in such beauty and glory is beyond what we can imagine.  It is all by grace through faith in Your Son.  This is our blessed hope.  This is what we long for.  To be in the Presence of Christ.  

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1. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 21:9). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (398–399). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
3. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 203). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
4. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 21:27). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
5. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (403). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

Return to Eden - Revelation 21:1-8

Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” He said to me: “It is done. . . ..” (Revelation 21:5–6, NIV).   Thousands of years before this the Savior cried for Calvary: “It is finished.” (John 19:30, NIV). Now it is done!  John wrote, “Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.” (Revelation 21:1, NIV).

At the beginning of the final judgement "from his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them. [1] Now we know what the plan is.  God has created a new heavens and a new earth. Of course this was prophesied even by Isaiah who recorded these words, ““As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me,” declares the Lord, “so will your name and descendants endure.” (Isaiah 66:22, NIV).  

This new earth has "no sea."  "The allusion to Isaiah 65 and the immediate context suggest a focus on the sea as representing the threat of tribulation for God’s people, which will no longer exist in the eternal state. The assertion that “the sea is not any longer” is further explained in 21:4: “death will not be any longer, neither will there any longer be mourning or crying or pain.” [2]   This is also the culmination of the New Covenant.  “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.” (Revelation 21:3, NIV).  Since Eden God's uninhibited presence with mankind has been non-existent.  Now God and man return to that Edenic experience of walking together in perfect communion and fellowship.

"Only God can make new. People may vainly imagine that by means of better education, a better environment, better legislation, and a more equitable distribution of wealth they are going to usher in a new era, a golden age, the Utopia of man’s ardent desire. Their dream remains a dream!" [3]

The One of the throne is God. “He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.” (Revelation 21:6–7, NIV)

The curse of the Fall is reversed.  The creation is renewed.  God is with man.  Evil is vanquished. "Thus, just as John’s second vision had ended with the solemn note of God’s wrath poured out at a point in time on Babylon the Great (16:17–21), so now his third vision concludes." [4] 

Father it is impossible to imagine a world without sin.  It is impossible to imagine me without sin.  It is such a surreal thought to think of walking with You in the Garden.  Reunion, communion with God. This is Utopia.  What would this world be like, even in its serenity and beauty; even in its absence of sickness and sin, if You were not present?  But You are!  Today You dwell with us as a first instalment by Your Holy Spirit's indwelling.  On that day we will see You face-to-face in the fullness of Your reality and glory.  Amen.

 “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” (1 John 3:2, NIV)  

 

 

  

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1.  The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 20:11). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

2. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (1042). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

3. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 200). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

4. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (397). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

THE Resurrection and THE Judgement - Revelation 21:11-15

The Bible is clear: “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgement,” (Hebrews 9:27, NIV).  John was given a view of the Great White Throne.  The fallen universe "fled from His Presence."  The dead were judged before the prosecuting presence of the "books" and the "Book of Life."  These books are not literal books, but are in fact metaphors of God's perfect memory.  In John's style of recapitulation this scene is a repeat of what he witnessed in the latter part of Chapter 11.

“The nations were angry, and your wrath has come. The time has come for judging the dead, and for rewarding your servants the prophets and your people who revere your name, both great and small— and for destroying those who destroy the earth.”” (Revelation 11:18, NIV)

Everyone is here, saints and sinners alike.  The judgement of the wicked and the judgement of the redeemed. "To emphasize clearly that all human beings will face final judgement, John notes that all temporary places that receive the bodies of the dead gave up the dead. This includes both the watery graves of the sea and those buried in dry-ground graves (Greek hadés)." [1]  The judgement is based what we have done. John repeats this for emphasis. "God keeps an accurate record of every human deed, and will reward and punish with perfect justice." [2]

Names found in the "Book of Life" will enter the "new heaven and earth."   Is it because of their deeds? No.  “All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.” (Revelation 13:8, NIV). Names are found in the "Book of Life" because of the foreordained, predestined will of God before the earth was created -- those of whom the Lamb was slain for their sins. "The “life” granted the saints in association with the book comes from their identification with the Lamb’s righteous deeds, and especially his death, which means likewise that they are identified with his resurrection life (cf. 5:5–13)." [3]  Their deeds will garnish rewards; the deeds of the wicked will incur wrath.

The final disposition of all sin and all evil is the Lake of Fire.  “Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:14–15, NIV).

All experience the resurrection, but those who reject Christ experience the Second Death of which there is no resurrection. John views but one judgement where all are judged, rewarded or condemned. "The entire Bible teaches but one, general resurrection (read Jn. 5: 28 f.). This one and only and general resurrection takes place at the last day (Jn. 6: 39 f., 44, 54)." [4]

Father like all Your plans since the Fall of mankind, there is a severity mixed with mercy, perfectly blended in Your perfections.  We don't like to think of judgement.  We don't like to imagine wrath.  But Father, you will judge the unrepentant; and You will do it is justice and to Your glory.   The manifold grace of Your salvation removes all hint of pride.  Even the works of the redeemed are non-consequential to final glory.  Our names are in the Lamb's Book of Life, only by Your sovereign grace. You reward our deeds because You have incurred them in us. You receive all the glory.    

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1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (380). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2493). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

3. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (1037). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press

4. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 196). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

The Logic of Election

The Final Defeat of the Devil - Revelation 20:7-10

“And when the thousand years are ended, Satan will be released from his prison and . . .  the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” (Revelation 20:7–10, ESV)

We were already told that Satan had been bound in the abyss “. . .  so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while.” (Revelation 20:3, ESV).  We now know why he will be released. He will be gathering his cohorts to do battle.  This is the same battle as the one described in 16:13–16 and 19:17–21. The gathered armies are called Gog and Magog. "The reference to Gog and Magog deliberately directs readers to think about Ezekiel’s prophecy of an Israelite battle in which a northern enemy led by “Gog” whose land is “Magog” is utterly defeated." [1]  "In the passage which we are studying ‘Gog and Magog’ are identified with ‘the nations which are in the four corners of the earth’. This expression, however, does not mean the most distant nations. The term ‘the four corners of the earth’ simply means ‘the whole world’. The entire wicked world is going to persecute the Church. The opposition will be world-wide." [2]

This is a world-wide battle.  A world war of unbelievable proportion.  John writes that they "surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city, but fire came down from heaven and consumed them." [3]  "The allusions to Ezekiel continue in vv 9–10. Ezekiel provides the unique parallel of the multitudinous, end-time enemy (38:15, 22) that will “ascend upon the land” (Ezek. 38:11, 16 [ἀναβαίνω]; 39:2; Targ. Ezek. 38:9) and be judged by fire from heaven (39:6) and by “fire and brimstone” (38:22)." [4]  In keeping with the symbolism of the Book, the camp of saints and the beloved city can only mean the people of God, the Church. This is synonymous with the "whole world" doing battle against the Church.  

"This battle turns out to be as much a nonbattle as the one of chapter 19." [5]  The enemy is destroyed by fire and the deceiver will be thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur.  The eternal consequences of rebellion from God are described as being "tormented day and night forever and ever." [6]

Father, the world, particularly Your Church is facing perilous times.  Your Beloved people are and will be the object of great derision and even death.  Yet we know the end.  The time will be short, comparatively.   Satan will be destroyed.  No more sin.  No more sickness.  Thank you for letting us see the final chapters.  Without this knowledge we would be a people with little hope.  But You are God and You have set Your King on Zion, a Kingdom that can never be destroyed.  

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1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (377). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

2. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 194). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

3. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 20:9). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

4. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (1026). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

5. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (378). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

6. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 20:10). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

One Foot on Earth, the Other in Heaven - Various Scriptures

There are really on two timelines (despite dispensational charts and drawings :-)) in the New Testament.  There is "this age" and there is the age to come.  As noted in Ephesians 1:20–21 (ESV),

²⁰ that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, ²¹ far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

For example:

• 1 Corinthians 2:8 (ESV)⁸ None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
• 1 Corinthians 2:6 (ESV)⁶ Yet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away.
• 1 Timothy 6:17 (ESV)¹⁷ As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
• Luke 18:30 (ESV)³⁰ who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life.”

But this age and the age to come overlap.  We are in a transition.  Some theologians describe our current condition: Already but not yet.  For example we read in Hebrews 6:5 (ESV) about the miracles of this age actually be part of the "age to come." (⁵ and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come.).

So as we look at Revelation 20 it is important to keep that truth in mind. Actually this diagram is a helpful summary of what we have studied so far in this difficult chapter:

The New Testament is very clear about the end of this age. 

1. God's judgment is at the end of this age.  Mat 13:39
2. The resurrection is at the end of this age. Mark 10:30; Mat 13:39-40,49
3. The elect are gathered at the end of the age. Mat 24:1-31

Therefore the last trumpet, the rapture, the resurrection and the return of the Lord all occur at the end of the age.  1Cor 15:52; 1 Thess 4:16-5:11. This leaves no room for either a secret rapture or a physical earthly millennium.   

Father, in Christ you have permitted us to taste of the age to come.  We already have the deposit of the Holy Spirit.  We enjoy forgiveness and acceptance. We are already seated in the heavenlies with You. Yet we are also in this present age -- and age of sin and struggle.  Thank you Father for the promises of overcoming grace.   We stand, as it were, with one foot in Heaven, while yet here on earth.  Grant continuing mercies this day as we seek to live well in this age, yet experience the power of the age to come. Amen.

The Faithful Reigning With Christ, Now! - Revelation 20:1-6

In yesterday's Blog the Scriptures revealed that the symbolism in Revelation 20:1-3 indicated that Satan would be bound for a perfect number of years (1000) and saints would reign for a perfect number of years (1000); and that both events are synonymous. The binding of Satan is the direct result of the victorious life of Christ and God's complete satisfaction of His death and resurrection.

This binding of Satan probably follows the pattern of Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2:6–8 (ESV),

⁶ And you know what is restraining him now so that he may be revealed in his time. ⁷ For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. ⁸ And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming.

The victories of Christ do not restrict Satan in every way.  The text is quite clear that he is restrained in deceiving people.  In other words the Gospel has power to save and redeem.  “Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”” (John 12:31–32, ESV)

The 'abyss' is not an actual place, but is more likely a spiritual sphere.  "It is wrong to picture the devil being “cast out of the earth” in some spatial sense, so that he is no longer present on earth . . . Rather, like “heaven” throughout the Apocalypse, it represents a spiritual dimension existing alongside and in the midst of the earthly, not above it or below . . . The abyss is one of the various metaphors representing the spiritual sphere in which the devil and his accomplices operate." [1]

From the binding of Satan, John sees another scene recorded in Revelation 20:4–6 (ESV) ,

⁴ Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. ⁵ The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection. ⁶ Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.

The heavenly scene that is concurrent with the 1000 binding of Satan is the 1000 year reigning of "souls" in Heaven.  The parallel between Revelation 12:7-11 and 20:1-6 is profound:

12:7–11	20:1–6
(1) heavenly scene (v 7)	(1) heavenly scene (v 1)
(2) angelic battle against Satan and his host (vv 7–8)	(2) presupposed angelic battle with Satan (v 2)
(3) Satan cast to earth (v 9)	(3) Satan cast into the abyss (v 3)
(4) the angel’s evil opponent called “the great dragon, the ancient serpent, the one called the devil and Satan, the one deceiving the whole inhabited earth” (v 9)	(4) the angel’s evil opponent called “the dragon, the ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan,” restrained from “deceiving the nations any longer” (vv 2–3), to be loosed later to deceive the nations throughout the earth (vv 3, 7–8)
(5) Satan’s expression of “great wrath because he knows he has little time” (v 12b)	(5) Satan to be “released for a short time” after his imprisonment (v 3)
(6) Satan’s fall, resulting in the kingdom of Christ (v 10) and his saints (v 11; note the “conquering” theme)	(6) Satan’s fall, resulting in the kingdom of Christ and his saints (v 4)
(7) the saints’ kingship, based not only on the fall of Satan and Christ’s victory but also on the saints’ faithfulness even to death in holding to “the word of their testimony” (v 11)	(7) the saints’ kingship, based not only on the fall of Satan but also on their faithfulness even to death in holding to “the testimony of Jesus and the word of God” (v 4)

This means that there is a direct interpretation of what is going on here with these souls reigning during this Gospel age.  These are those that have been faithful until death and are now reigning with Christ awaiting the resurrection.  This would also mean that those that propose a physical, earthly 1000 year millennium at the end of time are woefully in error.  This is the millennium.  It is in heaven.  It is God's people reigning with Him even now.  This reigns continues until He returns.

These martyrs represent all Christians because all Christians suffer with Christ and all Christians are the "overcomers" who will reign with Him.  “and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” (Romans 8:17, ESV)  “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” (2 Timothy 3:12, ESV)  

“. . . They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:4b, ESV).  They came to life.  Their souls entered into the presence of God after death.  "It is ‘the first resurrection’. The first resurrection is the translation of the soul from this sinful earth to God’s holy heaven. It is followed at Christ’s second coming by the second resurrection when the body, too, will be glorified." [2]  Here's is the promise of God's Word in 2 Timothy 2:10–13 (ESV),

¹⁰ Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. ¹¹ The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him; ¹² if we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us; ¹³ if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself.

Father we often wonder about our believing loved ones and friends who have gone before us.  We see most clearly that their souls are in Your Presence and they, with the angels, are gathered with You in glory -- reigning with You, just as You promised.  They have gone through the blessed first resurrection and are awaiting the Day when You come again and all the dead are united to their bodies.  Indeed to be with Christ is far better.  We look for that day desiring to remain faithful today.  

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1. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (987–988). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

2. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 192). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

The Binding of Satan - Revelation 20:1-3a

In the last blog I noted that the events in Revelation 20 appear chronologically after Revelation 19 but in fact are a recapitulation of the events of Christ from His life through to His Second Coming.  Indeed they are compressed but since Revelation 19 already refers to the Battle of Armageddon, and so does chapter 20, we assume that the this is a recap, not the next sequence.

If we fail to view Revelation 20 as a recapitulation then we must be forced to conclude that there are two battles of Armageddon.  This is not plausible.  It is likely that John is following the same pattern as Ezekiel 38-39, which is the same pattern as Revelation 19:17-21, which is the same for Revelation 20.

Dr. Beale shows us the clear structure of these verses:

  A      judgment of the harlot (17:1–19:6)
    B      the divine Judge (19:11–16)
      C      judgment of the beast and the false prophet (19:17–21; cf. Ezekiel 39)
         D      Satan imprisoned for 1,000 years (20:1–3)
         D′      the saints reign/judge for 1,000 years (20:4–6)
      C′      the judgment of Gog and Magog (20:7–10; cf. Ezekiel 38–39)
    B′      the divine Judge (20:11–15)
  A′      vindication of the bride (21:1–22:5; cf. 19:7–9).  [1]

The point to be made is that the 1000 years that Satan is imprisoned is the same 1000 years that the saints reign.  Now what are we to make of these 1000 years?   It is critical to recall the genre of Revelation.

The number 1000 is an ideal number, ten cubed. In fact this passage in Revelation is all symbolic and one would err to take this woodenly literally.  "This view has the great advantage of offering a simpler explanation of what will happen when Christ returns. The binding of Satan and the reign of the martyrs happen before the Second Coming, so the Second Coming (19:11–21) is followed immediately by the last judgment (20:11–15) and the final state (21:1–7)." [2]

So it is important as we read this literature to see chain,” “abyss,” "key," "chain," “dragon,” “serpent,” “locked,” “sealed,” “beast”, and so on, figuratively and symbolically.  So we read: “Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain.” (Revelation 20:1, ESV).

Who is this angel?  This would appear with Revelation to be an angel that is a direct emissary of Christ executing His authority.  The abyss is probably the realm of "death and Hades" as in chapter 1 with the keys being Christ's sovereign rule even over the dead. "The same “keys” are referred to in ch. 3 to show that Christ has authority not only to raise the dead at the end of the age but also to impart spiritual life in the present age." [3]

So again the text says: “And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while.” (Revelation 20:2–3, ESV).

The plainest way to see these events is that an angelic agent of Christ has bound Satan specifically that "he might not deceive the nations" for 1000 years.  Do not think of an actual binding with material, nor think of an actual pit or an actual 1000 years.  The clearest interpretation is that from the ministry of Christ to His Second Coming, Satan's activities have been curtailed so that he did not have unlimited freedom to deceive the nations. This should be of no surprise.  In Matthew 12:26–28 (ESV) we read,

²⁶ And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? ²⁷ And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. ²⁸ But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.

"Please notice that exactly the same word ‘binding’ is used here in Matthew as in Revelation 20. This work of binding the devil was begun when our Lord triumphed over him in the temptations in the wilderness (Mt. 4: 1– 11). As a result, Christ begins to ‘cast out’ demons. The power and influence of Satan over the deluded masses was beginning to be curtailed." [4]

Father you offered Your Son the Nations.  You set Him on Your holy hill. When He defeated Satan in His Life and His Death, You inaugurated His Kingdom.  Now the Gospel can go forth in the power of the Holy Spirit.  People's eyes can be opened to the glory of the Gospel.  Since Pentecost this has been happening.  Millions see, hear and respond to the Good News because Christ reigns and Satan has been bound.  Send the Gospel in power to those in our families and in our neighbourhoods, I pray.  Grant evangelistic fervor to me and others in Your Church.  For Christ's glory.






_______________________________________________
1.  Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (983). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (373). 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 (984). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
4.  Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 187). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition

The History of Satan - Revelation 20:1-10

“And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain . . . “I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge . . . “When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth—Gog and Magog—and to gather them for battle . . ..” (Revelation 20:1, 4, 7–9, NIV)

"These verses are among the most controversial in Revelation. Responsible scholars disagree regarding the meaning . . .." [1] In this passage there are three particular sights that John sees, as noted above.  He saw a binding of Satan for 1000 years; then He saw people on thrones for 1000 years; and then he saw the nations gathered for the battle of Armageddon. This latter vision is the same battle that we witnessed in Revelation 16:14 (NIV)

¹⁴ They are demonic spirits that perform signs, and they go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them for the battle on the great day of God Almighty.

That battle occurred prior the Seventh Bowl.  And its the same battle that we saw in Revelation 19:19 (NIV)

¹⁹ Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and his army. 

This alerts us to the fact that the three movements in Revelation 20 must be some synonymous recapitulation (see my previous Blog). Before I delve into the sequence of events and what the 1000 years means, let's examine some of the details.  We note at the beginning an angel throws Satan into the Abyss.  Revelation gives us good information about Satan.  We learn that [2]:

    1.      The dragon begins in the heavens (12:3).

    2.      It fails in its effort to destroy Christ at his first coming (12:4).

    3.      It is thrown down to the earth (12:12).

    4.      It is thrown into the Abyss for a thousand years (20:3).

    5.      It is released for a little while and deceives the nations (20:8).

    6.      It is thrown into the fiery lake forever (20:10).

It is interesting that we are told of Satan using his four titles (the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan [3]).  These names contrast with the four names of the conquering Christ, just previously in chapter 19 (Faithful and True; the Word of God; King of kings; Lord of lords).  The demise of Satan is established.  The enduring reign of our Lord will be eternal. 

Father, Satan is real. He is that ancient Serpent.  He is the Devil.  He is also defeated.  Father, Your Christ and our King reigns today in the midst of His enemies.  Some day all opponents will fall in humble acknowledgement that You are King of kings and Lord of lords.  Today I bow my heart before Your sovereignty and Your majesty.  Reign and rule today in my life.  

_______________________________________________

1.  Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2492). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (370). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

3. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 20:2).Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

The Anticlimactic, Climatic Battle - Revelation 19:11-21

“And I saw an angel standing in the sun, who cried in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God,” (Revelation 19:17, NIV).  Before we read of this great supper we are given the glorious vision of the conquering Christ coming in glory:

“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war.” (Revelation 19:11, NIV)  "The identity of the rider is crystal clear. He is called by four different titles in six verses . . . First, he is Faithful and True . . .." [1] “Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He is called is The Word of God . . . On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: king of kings and lord of lords.”  

"The heavens opened to reveal not only “Faithful and True” but also the armies of heaven . . . That these armies will include redeemed humans is further indicated by their attire: fine linen, white and clean, the same apparel as the “bride of the Lamb” (v. 8). [2]  "Jesus is the Messiah who will rule the nations with a rod of iron, judging justly and striking down the wicked. As the Divine Warrior who treads the winepress of God’s wrath, his robe is dipped in his foes’ blood (cf. Isa. 63:1–6). [3]

“Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and his army.” (Revelation 19:19, NIV) "Rev. 19:19 thus refers to the same prelude to the last war as in 16:14 and 20:8." [4] 

We would anticipate an amazing description of this last and final battle - the Battle of Armageddon, and without further description, it's over! Christ is the Victor.  The Beast and False Prophet are thrown into the Lake of Fire along with the kings of the earth and their armies. The great Supper of God is really feeding the flesh of His enemies to His forces - a horrible and disturbing metaphor. "The invitation to come “to the great supper of God” is a “macabre parody” of the invitation to come “to the supper of the Lamb’s wedding.” [5]

Father, there is a such a build up in the media and some literature. But what surprises me is that it will be over almost before it starts.  We, Your saints will come clothed in white, ready for battle -- but it is You that does battle and it is You that defeats Your enemies before they can mount any defence.  It's over before it starts!  You are God.  You are mighty.  None can stand in Your Presence.   

 

_______________________________

1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (352). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (354). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

3. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2491). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

4. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (965). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

5. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (967). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

Are You Betrothed to the Bridegroom? - Revelation 19:1-10

“After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are his judgments. . . “Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.” ” (Revelation 19:1–2, 6 NIV).

With the enemies of Christ and the Church destroyed, the Church gathered in Heaven rejoices. "The first word he hears is Hallelujah. This is an untranslated Hebrew word (rather than Greek). When hallelujah appears in the Old Testament, the New International Version correctly translates “praise the LORD.” [1]  "With the prostitute destroyed, the Lamb’s pure Bride is announced, arrayed in purity. it was granted. Her gown of righteous deeds is her groom’s gift of grace (cf. Isa. 61:10; Rev. 6:11; 7:14). On the church as bride of Christ, see 21:2, 9; 22:17; 2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 5:25–27." [2]

This is the end game.  This is what all creation has been waiting for.  This is the "Marriage Supper of the Lamb."  “Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.”” (Revelation 19:9, NIV)

 

"In the Old Testament the people of Israel were called the wife of the LORD, yet in the New Testament the church is the wife of Christ as the apostle Paul taught so explicitly (Eph. 5:25–32). The best way to picture verses 7–9 is to remember the two important steps in ancient Jewish marriage. First came betrothal in which there was an agreement to marry. During this extended period, the groom and bride called each other “husband” and “wife” and remained faithful to each other, but there was no consummation of the relationship (see Matt. 1:18–19) as a specific illustration). This period of betrothal corresponds to the present extended era of church history. The second step was the wedding ceremony itself. At this time the groom went in procession to the bride’s house and then escorted her back to his home for an elaborate wedding feast of several days (see Matt. 22:1–10; 25:1–13 for parables of Jesus illustrating this). The text at hand announces that at last the church and her Lord have been united for eternity." [3]

"The feast lasts not one or two weeks but throughout all eternity! This feast is the climax of that entire process by means of which the Bridegroom, Christ, comes to His bride, the Church. It is the goal and purpose of that ever-increasing intimacy, union, fellowship, and communion between the Redeemer and the redeemed. In Christ the bride was chosen from eternity. [4]

Father, even as that great and wicked enterprise of Babylon is destroyed for eternity, so too Your Church is united to You for Eternity.  This Father is Your great salvation, uniting sinners, saved by grace, to Your Son, in intimate, glorious fellowship, forever and ever.  The day will come when the robes will be actually white, sin will be gone, faith will be sight -- and eternal, unquenchable joy defines our life for trillions upon trillions of years.  Thank you, Father.

________________________________________

1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (346). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers. 

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2491). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (349–350). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

4. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (pp. 180-181). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Babylon is Fallen - Revelation 18

Another angel comes now with a strong proclamation: "Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!’"  Verses 2-3 describe why she is fallen.  Babylon is the home for every impurity, every immorality, and excessive wealth.  "Here Babylon’s fall is announced as if it had already occurred; so certain is its fall. Let this serve as a warning for all! The utter desolation of Babylon is vividly described when it is said that even the unclean spirits and the unclean and hated birds consider it a prison (cf. Is. 13: 20 ff.; Je. 50: 39, 45; 51: 37, 42; Zp. 2: 14)." [1]

“Then I heard another voice from heaven say: “ ‘Come out of her, my people,’ so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues; for her sins are piled up to heaven, and God has remembered her crimes.” (Revelation 18:4–5, NIV)

Such address to Christians is unexpected here.  So this again is a reminder that this foretelling of doom and the calling out of God's people is not strictly future but indeed encompasses all the Last Days. "God’s people in every generation, however, must be careful not to compromise with secular civilization. The apostle Paul put the warning this way: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” (2 Cor. 6:14)." [2]

"In perfect equity, God will pay (Babylon) back as she herself has paid back (see Ex. 21:23–25). The double portion (see Isa. 40:2; Jer. 16:18) from her own cup is the just retribution that duplicates the violence she inflicted on the saints, whose blood she wantonly shed (Rev. 19:2)." [3]  “Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.” (Revelation 18:8, NIV)

Everyone who has loved and fully participated in Babylon's pleasure and profits will mourn for her. "Their cry, “What city was like the great city?” no longer ascribes incomparable excellence (13:4) but mourns incomparable destruction (Ezek. 27:32)." [4]  "Then a mighty angel picked up a boulder the size of a large millstone and threw it into the sea, and said:

         “With such violence
         the great city of Babylon will be thrown down,
         never to be found again. [5]

Notice the fact that the phrase ‘no more at "all’ (verses 21– 23) occurs six times. Observe also the climax in the arrangement of the six: ‘No more at all’ shall Babylon be found. The city as such is gone." [6]  “In her was found the blood of prophets and of God’s holy people, of all who have been slaughtered on the earth.”” (Revelation 18:24, NIV).  God will avenge the blood of those who have been martyred by this wicked system.

This chapter shows us clearly that "when God destroys the final product of civilization, a great wicked city, its commerce, religion, and culture will vanish forever because it enticed people away from true religion and holiness and into false religion and impurity." [7]   "Babylon is not just one Satanic nation but a corporate, depraved worldwide system spanning the ages from the cross to the final parousia [coming of the Lord]." [8]

Father, this world and the things of this world will be destroyed.  Father, by Your Spirit help us who know Your love and Your mercy to use this world for your glory and not love this world.  Anyone who loves the world does not have Your love in them.  You alone in Christ are what is valuable.  You alone are our great treasure.  You alone bring joy unspeakable and full of glory.  You are God.  You are God alone.






___________________________________
1. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (pp. 173-174). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (328). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
3. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2488). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
4. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2489). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
5. The New International Version. 2011 (Re 18:21). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.
6. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 177). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
7. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (337). Nashville,
8. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (924). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.




 TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

The Cancer of Worldliness - Revelation 17

Sometimes we wonder where the world's governments and economic systems are heading.  John gives to us the answer.   The very systems that support our immoral and idolatrous living, as empowered by Satan, will by God's design find that their customers ally with Satan and destroy the very system they have served.  This is amazing!

“The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.”” (Revelation 17:18, NIV)

"Two women symbolize two cities. First is the lewd prostitute, Babylon the Great; second is the pure bride, New Jerusalem. The first is the finest product of human technology and achievement, one final terrible display of civilization apart from God. The second is the finest product of divine grace, the eternal flowering of God’s people. Sandwiched between John’s view of the two cities is the coming of the Bridegroom and his wedding—presented in just those terms (19:6–10)." [1]  It would be wrong to view this vision as some future event, entirely.  These events in Chapter 18 encompass perhaps of all time even up to the present and into the future.  The battle between these two cities has been the story of the ages.

 “Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries. The name written on her forehead was a mystery: babylon the great the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth. I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus. When I saw her, I was greatly astonished.” (Revelation 17:3–6, NIV)

John also saw this woman riding on a beast.  This beast mimics Christ the one “who is, and who was, and who is to come”(1:4). But his power is from the Pit. “The beast, which you saw, once was, now is not, and yet will come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because it once was, now is not, and yet will come.” (Revelation 17:8, NIV). "The beast … was and is not and is to come; it had received a mortal wound yet came back to life (13:12–14). The prediction that the beast was about to rise from the bottomless pit (11:7) and go to destruction means that its present power to persecute Christians is inhibited, and that its future appearance in unprecedented violence will be short-lived (see 19:19–21; 20:7–10)." [2]

This alliance of evil, the world government/economic system allied with Satanic powers is designed to destroy God's people. “They have one purpose and will give their power and authority to the beast. They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”” (Revelation 17:13–14, NIV).  Although we know they will be conquered.  Although we know that it will be temporary, we need to always keep in mind that the "world" and the wicked power behind it is intent to destroy you.   But what a shock!  Notice what destroys it?

 

"Surprise. We expected the final Antichrist and his federated powers to hate the Lamb, but we could not anticipate that the beast and the ten horns will hate the prostitute. This reflects, however, an observation readily verified from history: evil often turns on itself, carrying the seeds of its own defeat." [3] "The meaning is that there will come a time when these same worldly people who together with their antichristian governments constitute ‘the beast’ and who were infatuated with the ‘harlot’, that is, with the seduction of this world, its pleasures and allurements, its culture and luxury, come to see what great fools they have been." [4]  This reversal of outcome is God's idea. “For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose by agreeing to hand over to the beast their royal authority, until God’s words are fulfilled.” (Revelation 17:17, NIV)

 

"The satanic alliance of prostitute and beast will disintegrate, and military power will ravage the economic system it once supported. When the beast and its allies strip the prostitute naked, and devour her flesh and burn her up with fire, they will imitate the judgment pronounced by God on Israel, his unfaithful bride (Ezek. 16:39–41). God sovereignly uses even his enemies to carry out his purpose and fulfill his words, both for the salvation of his own people (Acts 2:23; 4:24–28) and for the destruction of the enemies themselves." [5]

Father, as we start this day, we are confronted with the "Woman".  She rides on the "Beast".  Her intent is to destroy us.  Through the lure of pleasure, power and immorality she is bent on destruction.  She has devised all forms of institutions and structures to capture God's people and turn our hearts toward her wicked devices.  Ironically she will someday self-destruct by the same power that motivates her today. Grant to your saints a wartime mentality.  We go into this day armed and ready for war.  We are being seduced at every turn.  Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the Evil One.  For Thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever.  Amen.

 

  

___________________________________

1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (304). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers. 

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2487). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (313). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers. 

4.  Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (pp. 172-173). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

5. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2487). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles

How Will the World End? - Revelation 16:17-21

We read the words, “. . .  a loud voice from the throne, saying, “It is done!”” (Revelation 16:17b, NIV).  To the Christian, there is an immediate recall from a hill outside Calvary where the Savior of the world cried, “. . . “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:30, NIV). The latter provided redemption, the former condemnation.  "The final fall of Babylon is the crushing blow for those who bear the mark of the beast. All that delights them now collapses. It is utterly ruined. This bowl is emptied upon the air." [1]

"A great earthquake of unprecedented severity will shatter the great city, the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and the murder of his martyrs (11:7–10). It is Babylon the great, which rules the “kings of the earth” (17:18). Human civilization will disintegrate when the Lord comes with lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder (11:19). This is the earthquake foreseen in the sixth seal (6:12–17), which darkens sun and moon, shakes stars from their places, rolls up the sky like a scroll, and displaces the mountains and every island (cf. 6:14 with 16:20)." [2]

Some wonder what Peter wrote when he said in 2 Peter 3:10 (NIV), But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare; but now we know.  This is a direct corelation with Revelation 16.  This is the end of the earth -- the first earth.  What will occur is an earthquake of a proportion that will destroy the earth.  Of all the horrible tragedies that we have witnessed, this will be of tantamount horror. "The prophet Haggai is the only Old Testament writer to write about an earthquake at the end of the world (Hag. 2:6, 7, 21)." [3]

If this isn't bad enough, John writes, “From the sky huge hailstones, each weighing about a hundred pounds, fell on people. And they cursed God on account of the plague of hail, because the plague was so terrible.” (Revelation 16:21, NIV).  Even under the terrible hand of Almighty God people blaspheme God because of the sinful sinfulness of their heart.

Father, there is an aspect to "it is finished" that brings so much joy; but there's another aspect that brings unspeakable horror. To call the destruction of this earth cataclysmic seems such an understatement;but we know that the new heavens and new earth will be indescribably wonderful.  Oh the wickedness of man to curse You even in the midst of judgement!  God help us for our sinfulness. Father, the days will be far from Your elect, but they are given to us to know that we might spend our time with evangelical fervour.  “Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others . . ..” (2 Corinthians 5:11a, NIV).

 

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1.  Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 164). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2486). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (291). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.