The Lamb and His Sheep - Revelation 14:1-5

“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).  Mount Zion is the New Testament name for Heaven (Hebrews 12:22).  Around the throne of God in Heaven are the 144,000 glorified saints.  These are the same number sealed in chapter 7, verse 3.  We now know the essence of their sealing:  They had the name of the Lamb and the Father's name on their forehead.

"Now we see precisely the number that were sealed appearing in heaven with their Savior. No text in Scripture could more clearly teach the security of the true believer’s salvation than comparing the two passages in Revelation which present the 144,000. If God will keep safe the tribulation believers that must endure the most furious satanic onslaughts of all time, then he will keep safe his people that have followed him during less desperate days."  [1]

The voice of God and the voice of the redeemed blend together in great praise (Revelation 14:2–3). "The new song celebrates God’s triumph over sin through the Lamb (5:9; 15:3), just as the Lord’s prior victories were celebrated in new songs (Ps. 96:1; 98:1; 144:9). Their song belongs only to those who have experienced the Lamb’s redemption (Ps. 107:1–3), into whose salvation angels “long to look” (1 Pet. 1:12). This is another indication that 144,000 should not be taken as a literal number; they represent those who have been redeemed (see notes on Rev. 7:1–17; 7:4–8)." [2]

We are then given further description of the glorified saints: “These are those who did not defile themselves with women, for they remained virgins. They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among mankind and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb. No lie was found in their mouths; they are blameless.” (Revelation 14:4–5, NIV)

Most would take the sexual metaphors as symbolism of purity. "These 144,000 are virgins, that is, they are not defiled. They did not become unfaithful to Christ. They follow Him wherever He goes (cf. 2 Cor. 11: 2)." [3] 

These glorified saints are called, using biblical descriptions, firstfruits. They are those presented and belonging to God. "The Epistle of James expressed the same idea, though with the notion that all Christians are firstfruits: “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created” (Jas. 1:18)." [4]

They are blameless.  No longer can any accuse.  No longer is there condemnation.  They are forever clean. "Like their Lord; they reflect His character and fidelity."

Father, as the hymwriter wrote, "And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,Even so, it is well with my soul."  

 

_____________________________________________

1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (246). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2482). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles

3. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 152). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

4. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (248). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

5. Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Re 14:5). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software.

The Dreaded Six, Six, Six - Revelation 13:11-18

 “Then I saw a second beast, coming out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb, but it spoke like a dragon.” (Revelation 13:11, NIV) 

This second monster looks like a lamb but has the voice of its true master: Satan.  It has the authority of Satan and he does miracles in the sight of people. He "makes" people worship the Beast and "and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain." [1]  "God’s people had been sealed as a sign of his protection (7:3). Now the beast’s people are marked as well . . . People from all stations (small and great), economic conditions (rich and poor), and ranks (free and slave) will be included." [2]

This mark not only shows loyalty to the Beast but it also becomes a means "“so that they could not buy or sell unless they had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of its name.” (Revelation 13:17, NIV).  

The number of the beast is 666. "The invitation to one with understanding to calculate this number, however, suggests the use of gematria, an ancient code using the numerical values of letters." [3] "This second beast, accordingly, is the lie of Satan dressed up like the truth. It is Satan masquerading as a shining angel (2 Cor. 11: 14). It symbolizes all false prophets in every era of this dispensation. They come disguised as sheep, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves (Mt. 7: 15)." [4]

These two personages of the wicked trinity work in perfect harmony.  An anti-christian government and an anti-christian religion bring people into falsehood and captivity. So what of this infamous mark; this 666? Well it is clear in this passage this "mark" is impressed upon people while they worship.  The mark is put on the forehead or the hand.  It reflects an imprint on one's mind and deeds. "This interpretation harmonizes entirely with our explanation regarding the seal which the believer receives on his forehead. This seal indicates that he belongs to Christ, worships Him, breathes His spirit and thinks His thoughts after Him." [5]

You are what you worship.   What we believe is valuable; what we love; what we cherish, we worship.  What we worship we give our allegiance to.  We think after what we embrace and we do what we think.  The number of the beast is the superlative value of man.   This is the essence of false religion -- it exalts man -- it is all about "me".

Father, it is so easy because of this horrid indwelling sin to even make the worship of Your Son about me -- about what I get.  Lord I pray that this truth will invade our lives -- we are what we love -- we are what we give "worth" to.  Lord forgive me for giving greater value to the things of man rather than the things of God.  Turn our eyes upon Jesus.   Help us to look fully into His face.  May the things of this earth go dim in the light of His glory and grace.

 “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV)  

_______________________________________

1. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 13:15). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (233). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.  

3. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2482). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

4. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 148). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

5. Ibid, (p. 150).

Water Monster - Revelation 13:1-10

"The dramatic scenes of Revelation 12 underscored the ongoing and bitter hatred of the devil (the antagonist, presented as a dragon) against the redeemed people of God (the protagonist, presented as a glorious Woman) and Christ (the hero, presented as the woman’s ascended child). The last episode showed the dragon rushing off to prepare for war against those who obey God. He does so by calling up two vile monsters to serve him." [1]

The first beast arose from the sea.  “It was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation. 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 13:7–8, NIV).

Again we are reminded by John the time frame that we are looking at.  Consistent with previous references to this time frame (See note Rev 11:1–2; also 12:6), this wicked assault lasts for 42 months (i.e., 1260 days or 3 1/2 years - all depicting a time frame between Christ's first and second coming.  "To this monster the dragon gives his power and authority. John now notices, looking closely, that one of the seven heads seemed to have received a mortal wound, but the wound has been healed. The whole world follows the beast in wonder and amazement, in the spirit of adoration and worship. . .."[2]

"As those beasts symbolized kingdoms (Dan. 7:17, 23), so this beast, a composite of them all, represents every human empire." [3]  The nations with their evil governments that assault the Church rise and fall but they are all still pawns in the hands of Satan.   Interestingly John shows us that the rise and fall of empires and the allegiance they demand; and their hatred to Christianity is all part of the end time story.   Also we learn that "he beast falsely imitates the Lamb, “standing, as though it had been slain” [4]  One might think that the success of the Gospel has obliterated the war on Christ, but it has not.  It is the role of Satan to imitate Christ.  Saints must be aware of that.

God’s Reality		Satanic Imitation
the real Trinity (Father, Son [Lamb], Spirit)	1:4–5	the false trinity (dragon, beast, false prophet)	16:13; 20:10
Lamb standing, as though it had been slain	5:6	many-headed beast with mortal wound healed	13:3
sealing of the saints	7:2–3	mark of the beast	13:16–18
Bride in white	19:7–8	prostitute in purple and scarlet	17:1–6

We note that this beast was "allowed" to make war on the saints.  Ultimate power is still in the hands of Almighty God. And in light ". . . of the coming imprisonment and death of even more Christians, the readers are to maintain patient endurance and faithfulness." [5]

What a remarkable revelation to us as we see world governments rise up and claim to be our savior.  The state will keep you.  The state will help you. We also see the state demand our allegiance.  We God's people remain true to the Gospel, the state assaults them.  All this power is demonic. "In John’s day the imperial cult in Asia fostered “worship” of the empire and the emperor as divine savior and lawgiver. The abuse of religious devotion to manipulate thoughtless allegiance to the state is an ageless phenomenon." [6]

Whenever we see these evil nations fall we can be sure that in the power of Satan they will rise again to do their evil.  Christ's people must remain vigilant and faithful.

Father, evil does not come to me clothed in satanic garbs but in christly garments.  Evil comes posing as my savior; calling for my loyalty; and demanding my worship.  Grant to me and all whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life, the discernment to see the reality of evil even in our governments.  Help us to persevere in truth and remain faithful to the Gospel.   All this for the sake of Jesus our true King and Messiah.









______________________________________
1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (226). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
2. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 145). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
3. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2481). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles
4. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2481). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
5. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (230). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
6. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2482). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

Satan IS Cast Down - Revelation 12:7-17

In this passage we learn fascinating details of even more behind-the-scenes events of this Gospel age. We start to see a picture emerge behind this time when the Church is preaching the Kingdom of God to all the nations.  In spite of the persecution and tribulation that the Church is going through there is a story behind the story.

John sees Satan in a great battle with Michael, the archangel. The result was that Satan was "thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him." [1]  When did all this occur? Well it seems contextual that it occurred prior to the 1260 days -- prior to the sealing -- prior to the Church being left in the wilderness for protection and provision. This seems clear by what follows in Revelation 12:13–14 (NIV)

¹³ When the dragon saw that he had been hurled to the earth, he pursued the woman who had given birth to the male child. ¹⁴ The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be taken care of for a time, times and half a time, out of the serpent’s reach.

So this is not future, but it is in fact the current situation as John wrote.  Satan has been expelled from Heaven and the Gospel has been given victory.  What was the result of Satan being thrown down?

“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.” (Revelation 12:10, NIV).

"The woman received the two wings of the eagle (Ex. 19: 4; Dt. 32: 11; Is. 40: 31) so that she flew to the wilderness. In that wilderness God had prepared a place for her (verse 6). Here she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, that is, for a thousand two hundred and sixty days (verse 6)." [2]

This casting of Satan to earth occurred, according to our Lord, while He was on earth.  We read in Luke 10:17–18 (NIV),  ¹⁷ The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.” ¹⁸ He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.

This also gives the background for another parallel later in the Apocalypse where were read of the binding of Satan with the purpose of restraining him from deceiving the nations. 

 “And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time.” (Revelation 20:1–3, NIV)  

 We know that Jesus bound Satan during His ministry for He told us in Matthew 12:29 (NIV),²⁹ “Or again, how can anyone enter a strong man’s house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house. Jesus teaches us the power of this Strong Man and what happens when he is bound in Luke 11:21-22:

“When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder." According to Colossians 2:15, this is what Jesus did on the Cross:“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” (Colossians 2:15, NIV)

 

It is obvious that the casting down and the binding of Satan do not render him passive.  We see in Revelation 12 that he pursued the "woman" and "her offspring."   The binding of Satan is simply a way of saying that for the present age the Gospel is free to go to all the nations, and the redeemed of God are no longer accused by Satan as they once were.  Those who have trusted Christ are "are justified by his grace as a gift,through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." [3] Those who have been justified are free from all condemnation (Romans 8:1).

"The dragon’s expulsion from heaven shows that Satan cannot press charges as the accuser of our brothers because the Lamb shed his blood for them and they maintain their testimony of trust even unto death. Although “conquered” by the beast physically in death (11:7; 13:7), in fact the martyrs have conquered both the beast (15:2) and the dragon that empowers it." [4]

Father, You are the Lord of Hosts, the angels are at Your command.   You are sovereignly in charge. Christ has bound the strong man and taken away his right to accuse.  The Cross has forever robbed Satan of this privilege.  Your blood has conquered.  Your blood has set Your people free.   Apart from justification there is no Gospel and apart from opening the doors of the nations there is no hope to hear the Gospel.  Today we have all that.  Cause us to rejoice in our salvation; and because we view it with such preciousness, let us take it to all the Nations. Amen.

                                           

_______________________________________
1.  The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Re 12:9). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
2. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 142). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
3. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Ro 3:24). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
4. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2480). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

We Are Pilgrims on a Journey - Revelation 12:6

“and the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, in which she is to be nourished for 1,260 days.” (Revelation 12:6, ESV)

This verse is filled with imagery and staggering encouragement.  The "woman", the believing community is seen on earth, fleeing into the wilderness; and there she was cared for and nourished for 1260 days -- the days between Christ's ascension and His final return.  Notice, apart from the motif of wilderness, that the Church is in a place "prepared by God." 

We immediately bring to mind the sending of Israel into the wilderness. Many of the prophets had wilderness experiences: Moses, Elijah, Isaiah.  Of course Christ as a baby was sent into the wilderness and again by the Spirit to be tempted. Paul met Christ in the desert.   When Peter wrote to the 1st Century Church he called them “. . . elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia,” (1 Peter 1:1, NIV). They were in the desert.  

There may also a future anticipation when the nation of Israel is expected to turn back to the Messiah (Romans 11:25ff).  As Beale writes, "The woman’s flight to the wilderness also recalls the end-time exodus or restoration, when Israel was expected to return in faith to the Lord and again be protected and nourished by him in the wilderness (Isa. 32:15; 35:1; 40:3; 41:18; 43:19–20; 51:3; Jer. 31:2; Ezek. 34:25). Hos. 2:14–15(16–17)." [1]

In that familiar Psalm, David writes, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalm 23:5, ESV).  The Septuigant reads: "you have prepared a table before me, in the presence of the ones afflicting (θλιβόντων) me."  Psalm 78:19–20 (ESV) reads:

¹⁹ They spoke against God, saying, “Can God spread a table in the wilderness? ²⁰ He struck the rock so that water gushed out and streams overflowed. Can he also give bread or provide meat for his people?”

So in Revelation 12:6, "the messianic community is pictured as beginning to experience God’s end-time protection in the wilderness after the Messiah’s ascension." [2]  Deuteronomy 8:14–16 (ESV) sums up the dual nature of being kept by God in the wilderness.   Note:

¹⁴ then your heart be lifted up, and you forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery, ¹⁵ who led you through the great and terrifying wilderness, with its fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty ground where there was no water, who brought you water out of the flinty rock, ¹⁶ who fed you in the wilderness with manna that your fathers did not know, that he might humble you and test you, to do you good in the end.

The wilderness, then is a place for God's protection and His provision."Keeping in mind that this is still a sky-drama, this should not be interpreted as a real place on earth. It symbolizes protection, just as the sealing of the 144,000 had done (7:1–4). In fact, both the sealing of the 144,000 and the fleeing of the woman to a solitary place are different ways of describing the same truth: God sees to it that his people are spared the experience of his wrath, especially in the final time of troubles before the end." [3]

So "throughout the Bible, the wilderness was viewed as a safe haven where the afflicted could hide (see 1 Sam 23:14; Matt 24:16). God often provided safety and sustenance in these circumstances (see Deut 8:15–16; 29:5; 32:10; 1 Kgs 17:1–7)." [4]

The 1260 days is the foretold period of time (going back to Daniel 7:25; 9:27; 12:7; etc.) relating to the period of tribulation.  It refers to the 42 months of Israel's journey from Egypt to Canaan (Num 33:5–49) which symbolized the 42 years or 42 stages of their journey.  It was foreseen in the reign of terror by Antiochus.  It mirrors Jesus own ministry (about three and one half years). It is the time during this Gospel age while the Church is waiting the return of Christ. [4]  We are going through the tribulation now, while in the desert -- while enjoying God's protection and provision.

Father, we are pilgrims on a journey. We live in a desert place. Yet there are springs of refreshment and there are ongoing signs of Your love and protection.  The days are established and will not last forever, but for now we rejoice in Your care.  Father we wait for a better city -- a city not made with hands.  We are today in a place prepared for us, but You are also preparing another place -- Your House.   Grant grace to our pilgrimage today.  Keep us from evil.  Cause us to hunger for Your provision.  Grant to us amazing joy.  Amen.

_____________________________________________________

1. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (643). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

2. Ibid, (645).

3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (210). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

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

CHRISTMAS! - Revelation 12:5-6

"Revelation 12, though covering with a few words the entire previous history of Satan’s warfare against the Christ, refers directly and specifically to the events that took place in connection with Christ’s birth." [1]

 “. . . . The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that it might devour her child the moment he was born. She gave birth to a son, a male child, who “will rule all the nations with an iron scepter.” And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne. The woman fled into the wilderness to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days.” (Revelation 12:4–6, NIV).

These events, of course are recorded in Matthew 2:1–23 (NIV),

¹ After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem ² and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” ³ When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him . . . ¹³ When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” . . .  ¹⁶ When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. ¹⁷ Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: ¹⁸ “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

"He came in the fullness of time from the stock of Israel (Gal. 4:4). Moreover, he is the male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter, who has existed from before the ages. Here is further reference to Psalm 2 (see Rev. 11:15). The “iron scepter” with which this boy child will shepherd the wayward nations is mentioned in Revelation three times (here, 2:27; 19:15)." [2]

John, also see the ascension of Christ and then we have this interesting statement: "The woman fled into the wilderness to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days.” This cannot be speaking of Joseph and Mary's time in Egypt, per se.  What can it mean? "Many interpreters see the 1,260 days mentioned here as a flashback to the entire church age just as the previous chapter flashed back to Christ’s original coming to earth. We see the 1,260 days, however, as a reference to great end-times persecution when believers will need God’s protection even more. Revelation 11:3 identified this final time—however long it lasts—as one of powerful witness and protection for the church prophetic."[3]

This subject requires more examination for there is great encouragement here.  If my interpretation is right, the Church (during these Last Days - 1260 days figuratively) has been placed in the wilderness. The wilderness experiences of Israel are then a foreshadowing of today's Church in the wilderness.  The evacuation of Joseph and Mary to Egypt are also that same symbolism.  Ironically, it is in the wilderness that God protects and nourishes His Church.  More about that tomorrow!

Notice the words of Jesus: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?” (Luke 15:4, NIV).   That word "open country" is the word ἔρημος [er·ay·mos] and is translated "wilderness." [4]

The wilderness is usually not where we want to be.  But it is in the wilderness that God has planned our protection and our nourishment.  

Father, indeed Your ways are not our ways.  I would never take those I love to the wilderness for their good and for their blessings.  But You do! Lord the wilderness is not "milk and honey."  It is often hard.  Draw near to us, Father.  Sustain us.  Keep us safe from the Evil One.   Help us to understand that this is the best place for us.   

___________________________________________

1. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 140). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (209). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (210). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

4. Strong, J. (2001). Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software

The Woman. The Dragon. The Child. - Revelation 12:1-4

So we go back to the "beginning" even before a time prior to the Advent of Christ, in this cycle of visions.   John saw two great signs in heaven: a woman and a dragon. "The woman’s description as a great sign in heaven and her clothing with sun, moon, and twelve stars show that she symbolizes Israel (cf. Joseph’s dream, Gen. 37:9)." [1]  "Who is this sky woman? The only answer that fits is, “the redeemed people of God as God sees them, glorious and splendid.” Only sporadically did Old Testament Israel appear splendid and complete, for example in the days of David and Solomon. Only from time to time in the history of Christianity have God’s people been acknowledged publicly as a mighty force for good, for example in the days of the Reformation. God has always seen his redeemed people collectively as sun-clothed and star-crowned. Thus John—and we—meet the first character in the sky-drama." [2]

Verse 6 gives immediate indication that this is Israel in her glory, the true Israel. This is the believing covenant community.  These are those who have the faith of Abraham. This is the Israel of God, the Church, so to speak. Verse 2 describes the agony of Her birth pangs.  Perhaps this distils the years and years of struggle that the nation of Israel went through. “Then another sign appeared in heaven: an enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on its heads.” (Revelation 12:3, NIV).

This second sign is Satan.  His attire symbolizes great power.  “Its tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to the earth . . .."” (Revelation 12:4a, NIV). Some take this image as of a time when Satan and his rebellious cohorts rebelled against God in the beginning of time.  But "the picture of the dragon’s tail sweeping away a third of the stars and casting them to the earth is taken from Dan. 8:10, which describes an end-time enemy persecuting the forces of God." [3]  "This should probably be understood simply as a figure to represent the dragon's power and not as a reference to Satan's victory over some of the angels. In any event, the stars cast down would, after the analogy of Daniel 8:10, 24, refer to the saints of God who were trampled by Satan and not to fallen angels." [4]

"The picture which John sees is fully explained by the words which he hears. The battle in heaven and the hurling down of the dragon are not to be understood literally. Satan is ‘hurled down from heaven’ in this sense, namely that he has lost his place as an accuser of the brethren. Whereas Christ was born and rendered satisfaction for sin, Satan has lost every semblance of justice for his accusations against believers." [5]

"The second part of v 4 explains that the dragon wants to complete his persecution of the covenant community by readying himself to exterminate the Messiah at the time of his birth. This refers to all the devil’s efforts to tempt Christ during his ministry and to kill him, from his birth until the end of his ministry (e.g., Herod’s massacre of the infants and Luke 4:28–30). At the cross it appeared that the devil had finally succeeded, but the resurrection snatched Jesus from the power of death wielded by the serpent." [6]

Because we know the story there is an anticipation here.  It's like watching a fight where we know the end.  The Cross will empty Satan of his power.   Indeed persecution continues but it does so as an event of conquered defeated foes fighting against an already, but not yet victors!  

Father, again the drama takes on reality.  The mighty tail of Satan has harmed many.  His hatred of Your Son and our Saviour is unbelievable. Yet the Cross has removed all right that he ever had to accuse the people of God.  All of us who have trusted in You are forgiven; are justified; and are made righteous.  Satan fights as a defeated enemy in the last throws of his dying antagonism.  


.

 

_______________________________________
1. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2479). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (208–209). 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 (635). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
4. Expositor's Bible Commentary, The, Pradis CD-ROM:Revelation/Exposition of Revelation/III. Vision of the Seven-Sealed Scroll, the Seven Trumpets, the Seven Signs, and the Seven Bowls (4:1-19:10)/C. The Seven Signs (12:1-14:20)/1. The woman and the dragon (12:1-17), Book Version: 4.0.2
5. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 141). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
6. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (637). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press

Global Conflict - Revelation 12-14

In chapters 1 through to 11 we have witnessed the struggle between the seed of the woman and the offspring of Satan on earth. “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”” (Genesis 3:15, NIV).  Chapter 12 takes us back to a beginning point again, the birth of Christ.  Now we see what is really behind the struggles and assaults upon God's people.   "It is noteworthy that in chapter 12 the dragon is first pictured as purposing to destroy the Christ (verses 1– 12). Failing in this, he persecutes the woman because she brought forth the Christ (verses 13– 17a). Unsuccessful in this also, he makes war with the rest of her seed (verse 17b)." [1]

As Paul wrote, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12, NIV).

Hendricksen rightly point out that this has been the struggle of the ages -- the struggle since Adam and Eve sinned.  Notice the demonic attempts to defeat the "seed of the woman":

a. Adam's son, Abel, Noah's son Seth, through to Abraham's son Isaac all bore the promise of the seed, yet they all came close to being destroyed;
b. Egypt sought to obliterate the offspring of Jacob, but God redeemed them;
c. The struggles of Israel in the dessert both internally with idolatry and externally with the Canaanites brought Israel into near extinction;
d. The son of Jesse who would bring into being the true Son of David who would rule was nearly killed by Saul;
e. The wicked kings of Israel brought the nation into captivity nearly destroying any chance for a promised offspring to arise; and
f. Now wicked King Herod, the "tail of the Serpent" seeks to destroy Christ.

It is the story of God's people that this conflict brings the Church to near obscurity, yet not quite.  Revelation 12:1–6 (NIV),

¹ A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. ² She was pregnant and cried out in pain as she was about to give birth. ³ Then another sign appeared in heaven: an enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on its heads. ⁴ Its tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to the earth. The dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that it might devour her child the moment he was born. ⁵ She gave birth to a son, a male child, who “will rule all the nations with an iron scepter.” And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne. ⁶ The woman fled into the wilderness to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days.

It is worth noting that the Church, the children of the Christ are taken care of for 1260 days.  This is the 42 month period of suffering that Christ will protect His Church in the middle of suffering (“But exclude the outer court; do not measure it, because it has been given to the Gentiles. They will trample on the holy city for 42 months.” (Revelation 11:2, NIV)).  This is the same period of time that God has empowered His Church to prophecy with the spirit of Elijah.  This is the Gospel age.  (“And I will appoint my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth.”” (Revelation 11:3, NIV)).   So we are talking about the same period of time, but from a different perspective. The following chart has been helpfully produced to show this progressive parallelism. [2]

The point to be made is that God will preserve His Church.  He has always kept a remnant of people who love Him and serve Him.

Father thank you that for the last thousands of years not only has this struggle been known to You, but the outcome is certain. All the assaults and the attacks on the people of God are really assaults on Your dear Son, Jesus Christ.  It is our Saviour that this arch Enemy wishes to destroy.  

We are collateral damage. I think you that in the midst of our afflictions, there is hope and comfort for the final chapter has been revealed.   Grant strength to Your persecuted Church.  Grant strength to us all to proclaim the Gospel without fear.  Amen.

 

 

____________________________________________________
1. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 135). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
2. http://waytoshiloh.com/documents/Revelationchart.pdf

 

The Final Curtain Opened - Revelation 11:15-19

“The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.”” (Revelation 11:15, NIV),

"Nearly all futurists and many idealists (see Introduction: Schools of Interpretation) see this trumpet as heralding the second coming of Christ. As with the seventh seal (8:1–6), the scene now shifts from woes on earth to worship in heaven." [1]  This is the end. This is what the world has been waiting for since Genesis 3:15.  Christ rules.  In Revelation 4 and 5, worship was given to Christ for His redemption.  Now worship is given for his ultimate reign and judgement. 

“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)

What was seen in Heaven following the final curtain being opened?  It was Israel's most sacred artefact; lost for many years.  “Then God’s temple in heaven was opened, and within his temple was seen the ark of his covenant . . ..” (Revelation 11:19a, NIV) "That ark of the covenant is the symbol of the superlatively real, intimate, and perfect fellowship between God and His people— a fellowship based on the atonement . . . But for the wicked that same ark, which is God’s throne, is a symbol of wrath.[2]

"Picture this as if a curtain at the back of the stage in a theatre opened to reveal what had before gone unnoticed. Nothing could be more awesome for a mortal than to be given such a glimpse, and this is the only place in Revelation that the ark appears. The curtain is closed quickly, and the full orchestra resounds from the pit in front of the stage. No wonder there came flashes of lighting, rumblings, peals of thunder, and earthquake and a great hailstorm." [3]

Judgement has begun.  This first cycle is over.  

As Hendricksen notes [4], this first view, from the beginning of Christ's asension to the final judgement has been revealed.  In Chapter 12 we start all over again from a different vantage point: the birth of Christ. So what have we witnessed about the extent of the Endtimes?

The struggle on earth. The Church persecuted by the world. The Church is avenged, protected and victorious (Rev. 1– 11). 

     1. Christ in the midst of the seven golden lampstands (1– 3). 

     2. The book with seven seals (4– 7). 

     3. The seven trumpets of judgment (8– 11).

 Father there is no doubt how the story will end.  You have written it from beginning to end.  Your Son is authorized to enact Your plan.  What appears to be persecution and suffering for Your Church ends in glory.  What appears to be victory for Your enemies ends in defeat.  Oh for the day when the kingdoms of this world are indeed forever the Kingdom of our Lord and our Christ. 

____________________________________________

1. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2479). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. 

2. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 133). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

3. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (199). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers

4. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 23). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

How Does Christ Keep Us From the Hour of Trial?

Yes, it's true, we can find no legitimate evidence in the Bible to support a view such as a pre-tribulation rapture of the Church.  Some try to find evidence in 1 Thessalonians 4, but we showed previously that indeed Paul is referring to a wonderful event just prior to the Day of the Lord.  Others will go to such disputable passages as the Olivet Discourse.

“For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.” (Matthew 24:38–41, NIV)

If the above passage refers to a gathering of God's people then surely it must be understood as stated in verse 31 of the same passage: “And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” (Matthew 24:31, NIV). This is the self-same gathering as in Revelation 11.

But what of "sealing" and protection of the Church?  If there are no verses to directly support a secret rapture, then perhaps we find solace in the promises of God such as in Revelation 3:10–11 (NIV),

¹⁰ Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. ¹¹ I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

I think the problem is that we view this from a earthy, man-centred perspective.  Notice the promise of Jesus in Luke 21. When Jesus warns His disciples about future persecution and martyrdom, he makes this promise: “But not a hair of your head will perish.” (Luke 21:18, NIV).  Now immediately we see that in terms of human experience and sense relief that although troubles come, we won't be hurt.  But notice what Jesus says just before that in Luke 21:16–18 (NIV),

¹⁶ You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. ¹⁷ Everyone will hate you because of me. ¹⁸ But not a hair of your head will perish.

 

You will die, but not a hair on your head will perish!  That's sounds like mind-games, but it isn't  The promises of Christ to keep and protect His Church have an eternal viewpoint.  When we think we won't perish, we think in terms of 60, 70, or 80 years.  When Christ thinks we won't perish He thinks in terms of 60, 70, or 80 billion, trillion upon gazillion years. It must be true that the sealing and protection of God's people is so that no final evil can conquer the saints.  

Father You have ordained hundreds and thousands of our brothers and sisters to suffer and die, but they did not die, they live.  Their horrible, frightful death was Your means to bring them into forever life with You.  Oh may I see life as You see it.  Thank you for the hope that no final evil will befall the child of God.

 

The "Not-So-Secret-Rapture" - Revelation 11:11-12.

If the two witnesses are, as I believe, representing the Church on earth, then verses 11-14 of Chapter 11 show the catching up, the rapture of the Church and her glorification. “But after the three and a half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and terror struck those who saw them. Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here.” And they went up to heaven in a cloud, while their enemies looked on.” (Revelation 11:11–12, NIV)

 

This rapture was then co-existent with the Seventh and final Trumpet, the Judgement of God (Rev 11:13ff).  "Strikingly similar to Rev. 11:11–13 is 4 Ezra 6:23–27, which states that at the end of time “the trumpet will sound aloud, at which all people, when they hear it, will be struck with sudden fear. And at the same time, the earth shall be stricken with fear.… And those who have been taken up, who have not tasted death from their birth, will appear.… For evil will be blotted out.” [1]

As noted in the previous blog, the end of the end of the end scenario tends to be described in terms of a strong prophetic Church proclaiming the Gospel and then falling under intense demonic assault, such that almost obliterates it.  But God in His mercy breathes life into His People and evacuates them from the earth at the sound of the last trumpet.  This challenges many modern prophecy teachers.  First there is nothing in this account about a physical Golden Age -- a millennial kingdom on earth.  Secondly there is nothing in this passage about a pre-tribulation, secret rapture of the Church.  In fact Revelation 11, tracks very closely with 1 Thessalonians 4:

“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, NIV) 

Now usually that's where teachers stop.  But there are no chapter divisions in the original.  Notice what follows after this so-called rapture theory:

“Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” (1 Thessalonians 5:1–2, NIV) 

Paul, like John is clearly talking about the events that precede the Day of the Lord, the final Judgement -- the Seventh Trumpet.  The truth of the matter is that there is no biblical evidence for a pre-tribulation, secret rapture of the Church.  So where did that idea come from?

In the 1830 Scottish minister by the name of Edward Irving (who was eventually de-frocked) -- a hyper charismatic was holding a service where a lady by the name of Margaret MacDonald fell into a "trance". After several hours of "vision" and "prophesying" she revealed that "christ's" return would occur in two phases, not just one. "Christ" would first come visibly to only the righteous, then He would come a second time to execute wrath on the unrighteous in the nations.

This "secret rapture" was promoted by Irving claiming he, too, had heard a "voice" from heaven commanding him to teach it. John Darby, an Englishman and pioneer of the "Plymouth Brethren" movement became caught up in the rapture philosophies of Irving. When Darby heard about Irving's activities, he travelled to Scotland to talk with Irving and his followers about the "secret rapture".

It was Darby who became the master architect of the doctrine finding biblical support, so-to-speak, throughout the Bible. [2]

There will be indeed a rapture of the Church, but as John saw it will occur just prior to the wrath of God being poured out.  A question might be, "Then how do we claim the promises of sealing and protection if the Church is to go through the period of tribulation?"  We will address that next!

Father, all of us need to admit that we too kind find biblical evidence for anything if we try hard enough.  But Father that will always lead us to what is false and destructive. Cause the text of Scripture to speak to us, not the reverse.  Cause our hearts to be changed and forbid our hearts changing Your eternal Word.  Cause us to be great workmen and workwomen of the Word; cutting it straight; cutting it faithfully.   Amen.

_________________________________________

1. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (601). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.

2. http://www.goodnewsaboutgod.com/studies/rapture2.htm 

The Final Curtain - Revelation 11:3-14

During the Gospel age, the time between Pentecost and the Lord's return, it will become clear who the True Church is (Revelation 11:1-2).  During that same time frame the Church (olive trees and lamp stands) will have a powerful prophetic ministry. The Church will have the powers of Moses and Elijah, proclaiming the Word of the Lord.

"We are plainly being sent back to Zechariah 4:1–14. There a single, gold seven-branched lampstand—the nation Israel—accompanied by two olive trees that “are anointed to serve the Lord of all the earth.” The lampstand in the Old Testament symbolized the Old Testament people of God; in Revelation the lampstand is his new people. Zechariah’s vision also included two olive trees (Zerubbabel and Joshua), distinct from the lampstand. In Revelation olive tree and lampstand have merged. Nevertheless, Zechariah 4 again provides a key, for the olive trees there provided oil to light the lampstand. Further, the oil is the power of the Spirit of God: ‘ “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty” (Zech. 4:6). The church prophetic is powerful not only when it is a Humble church but also when it is enabled by the Holy Spirit." [1]

But sometime before the Seventh Trumpet, before the End, the Church will lose it's power.  The Beast will rise from the Pit and war on the Church, rendering many impotent.  "The picture of the witnesses’ bodies lying on the “street of the great city” probably does not indicate literally that the entire church will be exterminated so that it cannot bear witness any longer. Rather it emphasizes by hyperbole that the true church will seem defeated in its role of witness, will appear small and insignificant, and will be treated with indignity." [2]

The Church will be mocked. The Church will be derided.  But only for a short time, for again, God will come to the aid of His People.

“But after the three and a half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and terror struck those who saw them. Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here.” And they went up to heaven in a cloud, while their enemies looked on.” (Revelation 11:11–12, NIV).

This is the "not-so-secret-rapture" of the Church! Looking ahead, we see that immediately after these events, judgement comes.   The Day of the Lord arrives.

“At that very hour there was a severe earthquake and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the survivors were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.” (Revelation 11:13, NIV)

"Neither the powerful witness nor the tragic death of the prophets had been persuasive, but their resurrection and ascent finally convinced the world that the God of heaven was the true God. That they gave glory to him does not mean that they were converted. They are making a terrified confession. (Compare this with the similar response to the earthquake of 6:15–17.) This marks the initial fulfillment of the time when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess Jesus’ name (Phil. 2:10–11)." [3]

Father you will be glorified.  Your supremacy and glory demand that all you have made will bow before You in awe.   These last days that predict the near demise of the Church are troubling. But Lord the end is better than the beginning.  Grant Your Church a strong prophetic voice in these days. These are the Days of Elijah, may Your Word go forward into all the nations with power and conviction.



_______________________________________________________
1.  Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (191–192). 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 (590). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
2. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (195–196). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.

Who Gets To Decide What We Protest?

Well I have had months and months of various things that Rob Ford has done that strike me as foolish to downright immoral.  But here is one issue I will stand beside him on -- even at an arm's length. 

When it comes to the fight over the flag, he is right.  “This about the Olympics, this about being patriotic to your country,” Ford said.

Any thinking, objective person can see that this is about the LBGT movement getting press and being grossly opportunistic.  Where will we draw the line in future Olympic locations?   Is it the role of the international community to ascertain every issue in the host country and make a statement about it? Of course not.  So why pick this one?  

"According to international human rights organizations as well as domestic press, violations of human rights in Russia include widespread and systematic torture of persons in custody by police, dedovshchina in Russian Army, neglect and cruelty in Russian orphanages, violations of children's rights. According to Amnesty International there is discrimination, racism, and murders of members of ethnic minorities.  Since 1992 at least 50 journalists have been killed across the country." [1]

So why this one?  Why gay rights?   

The issue isn't even whether one agrees or disagrees with gay and lesbian issues.  

The issue is, "Who gets to decide what we protest?"

Rob Ford is right. Let's support sport; let's support Canada.  Unfortunately this Olympics will go down in history as advancing the cause of the LBGT movement and less will be known about fast times, tenacious endurance and the amazing skill of gifted athletes.  

That's sad.





______________________________________________

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_rights_in_Russia

The Measuring Rod - Revelation 11:1-2

In Revelation 11:1–2 (NIV), we read this:

¹ I was given a reed like a measuring rod and was told, “Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, with its worshipers. ² But exclude the outer court; do not measure it, because it has been given to the Gentiles. They will trample on the holy city for 42 months.

There is a direct implication at some level of the assault of Rome on Jerusalem in A.D. 70.  The Siege of Jerusalem in the year 70 CE was the decisive event of the First Jewish-Roman War. The Roman army, led by the future Emperor Titus, with Tiberius Julius Alexander as his second-in-command, besieged and conquered the city of Jerusalem, which had been occupied by its Jewish defenders in 66 CE. The siege ended with the sacking of the city and the destruction of its famous Second Temple." [1] The fact that the Temple was destroyed indicates that what John saw was a parable from that event.  So this is not the siege of Jerusalem.  We need to remember that that as we have already learned, the horsemen and the trumpets are now in effect during this age.  I do not see this as strictly future event.  

The "Temple" is clearly a metaphor for the true Church. This is certainly drawing some symbolism from the A.D. 70, but it is going further back than that.  Notice “In visions of God he took me to the land of Israel and set me on a very high mountain, on whose south side were some buildings that looked like a city. He took me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze; he was standing in the gateway with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand.” (Ezekiel 40:2–3, NIV)

 

"This “measuring” of persons shows both God’s protection and his ownership and suggests that the temple itself symbolizes the saints, as the NT elsewhere affirms (1 Cor. 3:16–17; Eph. 2:20–22; 1 Pet. 2:4–10; see Rev. 3:12; 21:22)." [2] 

So what is this outer court that gets trampled? "The outside court, namely, the court of the Gentiles, is to be rejected. It must not be measured. There were, of course, several additional courts but these are not mentioned; perhaps because they have no symbolical significance." [3]  John has already mentioned this issue in the Letters to the Churches of "Jews who are not Jews."    This appears to be the best interpretation.  He is distinguishing from true Israel and fleshly Israel.  Some take the view that this court are those destined to suffer.   To me, that most natural interpretation is to understand the outside court in a negative light.  They are false believers.  One could also extend the thought to nominal Christianity as Hendrickson does. (Just as in the vision the heathen trample upon Jerusalem and even upon the outside court of the Temple, so the world tramples upon the outside court of merely nominal Christendom. [4])

The measuring, drawn clearly from Ezekiel's eschatological Temple (Ezekiel 40) is again a reminder to the early Church and to us that God protects His own. "Suggestive of God’s protection on the people located within the measured area (see Zech 2:1–5; Ezek 40–42). Their preservation from spiritual harm recalls the sealing activity of chap. 7, where the 144,000 are protected prior to the opening of the seventh seal, the unleashing of the trumpet judgments, and the unleashing of the demonic forces of chap. 9 (see 9:4)." [5]

The message is very clear: in these days of suffering and persecution,only those who are truly redeemed can expect spiritual protection from the forces of evil and destruction.  How sad it is to think that one is a Christian yet not.  Many of the parables of Jesus were His attempt to deal with reality.

This period of 42 months is also drawn from the Old Testament prophets.  This is from Daniel.  This is the length of the tribulation period. (see Dan 7:25; 9:27; 12:7, 11–12).  Again we are reminded that John is being shown things that occur during this Gospel age, prior to the Final Trumpet.  The point I think for the Church, then and now, is to know that this time suffering is defined and known by God.  In comparison to eternity it is small.

Father you have given us again a stark warning to be sure that we are in the faith.  There are many who are Christian in name but not in reality.  May they be quickened to see their plight before it is too late.  May my life be such that I bear witness to my profession of faith in You. 

_____________________________________________

1.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Jerusalem_(70)

2. Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (2478). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

3. Hendriksen, William (1998-06-01). More Than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation (p. 126). Baker Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

4. Ibid, (p. 127).

5. Barry, J. D., Grigoni, M. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible (Re 11:1). Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software.