Revelation Chapters 11-14 Explained

 

 

  

Mouths of Fire 

 

Revelation Chapter 11

 

 

Ancient Chaldean/Babylonian artifact

I shot this at the British Museum

 

What we have in chapter 11 is the continuing account of the little book of prophecy. John was told in the concluding verse of chapter 10 that he must prophecy again concerning global apocalyptic events.

 
Being able to read and write is a blessed thing. Being able to read the Scriptures is most uplifting. We are fortunate to live in a country where education is of primary importance. Jesus Christ has equipped mankind with great learning skills out of His loving grace. The disciples were considered unlearned men, but their writings prove they were most educated. They still educate us in the things of God today. As I contemplate on these facts, I want to instruct concerning the remarkable preservation of the Scriptures through textural facts. The earliest surviving Greek manuscript of the New Testament can be dated around 125 AD, being classified as “Papyrus 52.” There have been many manuscript copies penned to preserve the Word, which is alive, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. God made sure of it. No book in ancient history owns as much verification. This is not by chance. And God secured that John’s prophetical accounts were preserved through the centuries as part of His lasting words.

 
The Bible has more manuscript evidence supporting its reliability and accuracy than any other ancient writing. There are over 5,300 known Greek manuscripts of the New Testament. There are more than 24,000 manuscript copies of portions of the New Testament in existence today. No other document of antiquity comes close to this attestation. Homer’s Iliad arrives second in authenticity with only 643 surviving manuscripts.

 
In verse 1, John is “given a measuring rod” and he is told he must measure the Jerusalem temple and the altar—used for sacrifice and will stand in the court of the priests. Titus of Rome destroyed the previous temple in 70 AD. It was the second temple proper. It was constructed in 515 BC when the Jews returned to the Holy Land after being dispersed in Babylon due to their indulging sins. Zerubbabel was the governor of Israel and supervised the construction.

 
Wicked King Herod the Great through his architectural plans beautified and enlarged the temple beginning in 19 BC and the building enlargement continued and was completed in 63 AD. It then became known as Herod’s temple. This is a reconstruction of Herod’s Temple, showing how the enclosed platform once stood at the temple site. In 1867, a team from the Royal Engineers and financed by the Palestine Exploration Fund, discovered a series of tunnels beneath Jerusalem and the Temple Mount. Some of the ruins came from centuries earlier, and other tunnels which were discovered had evidently been used for a water system, as they led to a series of cisterns. This was likely King Herod’s construction as he built various underground cisterns.

 
Herod the Great was outwardly religious, but he chose to be enslaved to evil. He never knew the true and living God. He may have been the first person to have committed a local infanticidal war—armed against infants only—specifically the God-man, Jesus Christ. People in history sacrificed their babies to idols—false gods, committing vile acts of infanticide. Today people sacrifice their unborn babies to their gods of promiscuous sex and selfishness. Satan’s plan has always been to destroy the human race created in the image of God. He is the great deceiver and promoter of Biblical disobedience. Through his influence and the desires of man’s flesh, 126,000 unborn children are murdered per day in the world. How very sad indeed.

 
The first Jerusalem temple, Solomon’s, was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC. This occurred because the Jews wanted to be styling with society and forsook the God of heaven. They no longer took His Word seriously, completely neglecting obedience to the Old Testament. This resulted in forced foreign captivity, being held 70 years that they might repent. God then allowed them to return to Jerusalem to live and rebuild the temple. This leads us back to the history stated above concerning the second temple and the future temple.

 
We know from Scripture that a new temple will be built in Jerusalem in end times. This is what we are presently viewing in verse 1, the fulfillment of prophecy. The book of Revelation does not tell us when it will be built or the other prophetical books. However, its dimensions and requirements are provided in the book of Ezekiel.
Please watch this interesting temple video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9UmYO0EtfU&feature=related

 
The temple mount—Mount Maria (maria means bitter)—is where Abraham went to sacrifice Isaac (though God prevented him); Genesis chapter 22. It was where David presented oxen offerings to cease God’s judging plague; 2 Samuel chapter 24. He had disobeyed God and took a census of the people of Israel; all done through a proud heart. It is God who gives the increase and it was God who created the multitudes in this nation.

 

Temple mount in Jerusalem; currently housing a Muslim mosque (Dome on the Rock).

 

The text also states, John must measure those who worship in the temple. This may have been done through John counting the worshippers or measuring the space they occupied in the temple enclosure.

 
This video can give you some idea of how the apocalyptic temple will appear: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B37Mp6mhs3A

 
Though John is told to measure the temple, he is commanded not to measure the outside court area, which would be the veranda. God has not given the enclosed temple area to the Gentiles, but the temple portico and city is in their possession. It will be part of God’s plan to allow the Gentiles to take custody of Jerusalem that they may be punished for their wicked disobedient ways.
What we see in verse 2, reminds us of today’s headlines: “Unrest in the Middle East.” Israel’s surrounding nations are continually warring in an attempt to cease the Holy Land:
http://www.truveo.com/Deadly-day-of-fighting-for-Israel/id/3551754142

 
Here, in Revelation’s apocalyptic glimpse, the Gentiles of the earth succeed in their plot to capture the Holy Land. They are governing Israel and Jerusalem will be trod under their feet for 3 1/2 years. Christ referred to this dreadful time in Luke chapter 21. This Luke passage counsels the generation of people who will be present at that time. It encompasses warnings for this tribulation age. Christ stated that the Jews must leave Judea (the area of Jerusalem) and flee to the mountains. Verse 24 of Luke chapter 21 is key, being a sister verse of Revelation 11:2. It addresses those who will fall by the sword and led into captivity, when “Jerusalem will be trampled under foot by the Gentiles, until the time of the Gentiles is fulfilled.” Revelation 13:10 also seems to speak to this arriving deadly period when the antichrists are ruling: “If anyone is destined to captivity, to captivity he goes; if anyone kills with the sword, he must be killed. Here is the perseverance of the saints.”

 
Christ teaches that the eschatological events will produce great fear and it is coming upon the entire earth; Luke 21:25-26. “There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars, and on the earth, dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves.” The powers of heaven will be shaken which will eventually lead to the second coming of Jesus Christ. People will see Him come “in a cloud with power and in great glory;” Luke 21:27. My, how I look toward this glorious day!

 
In verse 3, we are introduced to two godly uncompromising men who will stand as olive trees and lampstands in a society that is doing its own thing. These two godly pillars of God will represent all that is fruitful and holy. We read in the beginning of Revelation how God removes His lampstands from compromising churches. The lampstand appears to represent the righteous power of the Holy Spirit. These expected Christian men will be filled with the convicting power of the Holy Spirit as they will hate all compromising sin with a vengeance.

 
Peering at the church of the last days, we know it will not desire the powerful teaching of the inerrant Word of God as the Bible warns. Believers will listen to so-called Christians who will tell them what they want to hear, those endorsing liberal and sensual cultural teachings. They will want teachers who water down the truth so they can bring in what is styling and simply add a so-called Christian twist. They will desire a non-threatening environment where they can believe what they choose and justify disobedience to God’s Word. They will say Christianity is according to what you think and have experienced and what others think and have experienced. I have heard this far too often.

 
This type of apostasy is in most fellowships today and must be shunned. This is today’s church scenario, which endorses ecumenicalism. Very few pastors will expose the false teachings of false religions and anyone can spout their own doctrines in Christian circles without reproval. New Age philosophies, Yoga and sorcery are also part of the existing church. Every demonic thing has inched its way in. Anyone is allowed in church doors, even those who engage in premarital sex and those who are homosexually orientated, as numbers represent the name of the game. We witness so much of the last days coming to pass; however, the Bible says end times will arrive when we do not expect it; Luke 12:40. Today, the church seems oblivious to the arriving holocaustic catastrophes that will catch those who have not believed. Having fun is far more important than reaching hell bound sinners.

 
If these two witnesses were to come into today’s styling churches to preach in the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, you can well bet they would be hated and ridiculed. They would be mocked for not being contemporary Christians. They would be shoved out the doors for not holding to an ecumenical and tolerant mindset. They would be cruelly despised for taking the Scriptures literally and holding to them.

 
We already know we are viewing Jerusalem in this chapter because of the temple’s presence. We also learn this from verse 8, which states, this is where the “LORD was crucified.” The word “Jerusalem” means “city of peace” and there is no peace at this time nor righteousness. Therefore, God chooses not to refer to Jerusalem by its proper title but as “Sodom and Egypt.”

 
It is to this local that God brings these two Jewish witnesses who are not going to play silly games to win the crowds. We observe here and in other places in Revelation the great hatred for Jews and Christians. Jerusalem’s pagan inhabitants would have killed these two Jewish men quickly if they did not possess God’s powers of retaliation. Many people today would like to see every Jew extinguished and so will earth’s inhabitants during the tribulation.
http://uk.truveo.com/UltraOrthodox-Unrest-Continues/id/2836895925

 
Through the link above, you will witness the homosexual movement in heavy violent battle with Orthodox Jews. The vile, sensually controlled people of the world will win their way during the tribulation as witnessed in Revelation chapter 11. Sometime during the tribulation, the Jews will turn to Christ, their true Messiah. However, persecution will continue to be prevalent and deadly. The spiritual war will continue to be aimed at Christians and Jews during this holocaustic time that will not resemble any previous era.

 
There are even Jewish haters in our churches and I have run into them. Many call themselves Calvinists.

 
Everyone hates these two humble Jewish men dressed in sackcloth. Sackcloth represents a sorrowful state of being. Sackcloth was made of rough goats’ hair and used for holding grain and other produce products. These two godly men will be in sorrow over the sins of Jerusalem’s inhabitants and the fact the city is in the hands of Gentiles.

 
During our study in Revelation, we have turned to Ezekiel chapter 9 on a few occasions because it is crucial. This passage speaks to the 144,000 male virgin Jews who are distinctively marked within the apocalyptic period. And in more ways than one. These male virgin Jews will be spared destruction because they will mourn over the sin present in Jerusalem. Because the Jewish inhabitants walk in vile perversions, God will slay them; Ezekiel 9:8-9. This most likely occurs at the beginning of the ministry of these 144,000 male virgin Jews who are first cited in Revelation in chapter 7. Later the Jewish nation as a whole repents and turns to God. Sometime before Revelation chapter 11, they are forced from the land of Israel.

 
The Gentiles move to ensure the demise of the two prophets. It is obvious that these men maintain the same heart as the 144,000 male virgin Jews. They too mourn over the sinfulness of men as revealed by their clothing. We also should be saddened over this world and all its styling ways. The great man of the Bible mourned over what they witnessed while inhabiting this sinful earth.
The two Jewish prophets will preach the appointed wrath of God upon sinners. As representatives of God, these outstanding Christians will stand opposed to sin. The transgressive people of Jerusalem will not cater to their prophetic holy truths. They are having too much fun! They are rejoicing in the defeat of the Jews, having gained possession of their land.

 
This populace of Jerusalem will be accepting of homosexuality and every sexually deviant way. This is why God refers to this city as “Sodom.” The reason for this referral is God brought judgment on Sodom for its vile homosexual practices; Genesis chapter 19. Sodom was a selfish arrogant society, lending itself to sexual greed; Ezekiel16:49-50. The Homosexual lifestyle is also condemned in Romans chapter 1. God declares in 1 Corinthians 6:9 that homosexuals will not inherit the kingdom of God, nor will those who engage in premarital sex, adultery, etc. Sexual deviancy is condemned throughout the Bible.

 
Homosexuals are sometimes referred to as sodomites, which they are. Even in the news when there is homosexual rape, they refer it to “sodomy.”

 
Jerusalem is also going to be the place of ecumenical worship. The people of this day are worshipping all gods and demons. We learned this when we studied verse 20 of chapter 9. This verse exposes the religious trends of the day. In the book of Jeremiah, the Jews are reprimanded and disciplined for worshipping false gods that were numerous as the number of their cities and streets; Jeremiah 11:13. Humanity believed the more gods the better as each god held power in certain areas. There were fertility, nature, prosperity, and avenging gods. Just to name a few.

 
Egypt was known for its plethora of false gods. I believe this is why God also refers to Jerusalem as “Egypt.” We know from previous lessons this will be a time filled with ecumenical false doctrine; 9:20. The unsaved populace will be worshipping demonic forces as one unit against the God of the Bible. Every belief system will be acceptable, except Biblical Christianity. We find this view broadening even today.

 
These two men are God’s ordained prophets filled with power that consumes those who are sexually and ecumenically oriented. They will kill anyone who comes against them for standing on the Word of God without compromise.

 
These men will be filled with God’s avenging dynamism. Jerusalem’s pagan inhabitants would have killed these men quickly if they had not owned these powers of retaliation. They will exercise the power of dragons—fire will pour forth from their mouths by which they will devour their enemies. I do believe this to be literal as God can do all things; He is the omnipotent creator of all. We know God will manufacture horse-like creatures that will breathe volcanic fiery brimstone; 9:17-18. Throughout the entire Bible, men are warned of this unbelievable approaching time. God does not lie. His Holy Word does not lie.

 
These men will also have authority over the weather as they will have power to thwart all rainfall. They will be able to command drought so no hint precipitation emerges during their tenure of prophetic preaching. If they desire, they can turn water into blood and smite the entire earth with plagues as often as they choose. No historic act can resemble it; yet, it will come to pass! They will not just maintain power over Jerusalem, but over the massive globe.

 
During the time of Israel’s captivity in Egypt, Moses, through the power of God, turned every drop of water in Egypt into blood. He commanded the heavens by turning light into darkness. This darkness was so thick no one could see another and everyone had to stay in his place. Moses also brought forth death. Unfortunately, the majority of people in Egypt never repented. (Exodus chapters 7, 10 and 11)

 
The two witnesses will exhort more of God’s power than Moses who delivered the Jews out of Egypt. Like the Egyptians, the majority of people who will witness the great and mighty works of the witnesses will not repent.

 
When the two prophets complete their testimony of God’ truths, power and coming judgment, satan will come from the abyss and will make war with them as the beast. He will overcome them and kill them. He will probably come in the form of the antichrist and will lead an army against them. Chapter 13 of Revelation, speaks of the beast and his tremendous power and authority on the earth. Daniel chapter 7 lets us know there will be four beasts who will do satan’s bidding. Revelation speaks of two of the four beasts. There will be one religious beast and the other three seem to move in political power. The main antichrist will be the religious beast who is also spoken of in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-6. This Thessalonians passage may be addressing this same Revelation period when satan takes control of Jerusalem, desecrating the temple. He will display himself as being God. Satan is currently restrained by God, but a time will come when he will rule the earth for a period.

 
Because the entire world hated these godly men with a lethal vengeance, it will love gazing upon their dead bodies and rejoicing in their execution. The godless spectators refuse to lay their remains in a tomb because these dead men are the centerpiece of their celebrations. The event invokes a holiday season of sending gifts to one another. The vile people of the earth no longer need to feel conviction for their sin; the Biblical preaching voices have ceased. The world’s populace gladly embraces this non-threatening environment; verses 7-10.

 
After three and half days of celebration, there is a great awakening, an awakening from the dead. God will grant these godly two prophets the breath of life, which will bring them to a full recovery. When they stand on their feet, great fear will come upon those who have been rejoicing in their demise. A loud voice comes from heaven telling the men to “Come up here.” They will then be raptured, arising into heaven in a cloud, with their enemies watching; verses 11-12. My what fear will overtake these wicked sinners. And it will increase when God sends a great earthquake in that very hour. A tenth of the city will be razed and seven thousand Gentile people will be killed as a result. The survivors will be terrified and give glory to God. We hope they not only will give glory, but will also repent unto salvation.

 
The fall of the city will not overtake the religious antichrist. We do not know where he is at this time, but we know he continues in his fight against God, as the book of Revelation and other prophetic books including Daniel reveal.

 
This concludes another period in the tribulation, referred to the second woe or anguishing time, and a third is on its way; verse 14.

 
As we enter a new unveiling, we view heaven once again. A seventh angel is sounding and praising God saying: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.” This verse is The Hallelujah Chorus of Handel’s Messiah. Handel’s masterpiece extensively addresses the tribulation and millennial rule of Christ. The Messiah is composed completely of Scripture—not the words of men. Praise God!

 

Please listen and sing with the choir as you rejoice in verse 15. Words are listed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnHksDFHTQI

The truths of verse 15 explain that Christ rules the world and believers will see Him rule as eternal king. What is unfolded in the book of Revelation is leading to the “kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.”

 
This is a segment of great rejoicing as sinful men nor satan cannot take it from Him.

 
Christ has “begun to reign” as we have seen through the accomplished works up to this time, including the victory rapture of the two prophets. No words are adequate to explain this heavenly ecstasy of praise.

 
Because no one can thwart Christ’s plan the nations rage as we see in verse 18. They are going to receive God’s judgment and they will not like it. All will be judged and no cremation and ash scattering will stop Him from judging everyone. Those who hate God and His Word are referred to as “those who destroy the earth.” The godless who hate God have brought much destruction to the earth as a result. God has had to judge and destroy a great deal of the globe. Eventually the earth will be completely destroyed and a new heaven and earth will appear; 21:1. This will proceed the millennial rule of Christ.

 
At this time God’s servants will be rewarded—the Old Testament prophets and New Testament faithful saints—all who have feared His name.

 
Verse 19 is quite interesting as many want to make assumptions on where the Ark of God’s Covenant is. I can tell you where it will rest. In heaven, as this verse reveals. The temple of heaven will open at this great tribute interlude and the Ark of His Covenant will appear (the holding place of the Ten Commandants given to Moses). This will cause lightening and peals of thunder. It reveals the power of God through the ages. It speaks of His preserved Word.

 
The Ark of the Covenant sat in the Holy of Holies in the temple:

The Bible describes the Ark as made of acacia wood. The Ark was covered with the purest gold. Its upper surface or lid, the mercy seat (Hebrew: כפורת, Kaporet), was surrounded with a rim of gold. On each of the two long sides were two gold rings, wherein were placed two wooden poles (with a decorative sheathing of gold), to allow the Ark to be carried (Num. 7:9; 10:21; 4:5,19, 20; 1 Kings 8:3, 6). Over the Ark, at the two extremities, were two cherubim, with their faces turned toward one another (Leviticus 16:2; Num. 7:89). The Ark was placed in the “Holy of Holies,” so that one end of the carrying poles touched the veil separating the two compartments of the tabernacle (1 Kings 8:8). Contents were the two tablets of stone constituting the “testimony” or evidence of God’s covenant with the people (i.e. The Ten Commandments) A golden jar containing some of the manna from the Israelites’ trek in the wilderness, and the rod of Aaron that budded, were added to the contents of the Ark (Ex. 16:32-34; Heb. 9:4), but apparently were later removed at some point prior to the building of Solomon’s temple, as I Kings 8:9 that there “was nothing in the Ark save the two tablets of stone.”
When Solomon’s temple was destroyed by the Babylonians, there was no further mention of the existence of the Ark of the Covenant.

 

Obviously, God made sure it was not removed by the heathenistic Babylonians. It was not mentioned among the items removed from the temple at that time; Jeremiah chapter 52. These temple items were preserved by God and returned to Jerusalem following the captivity as recorded in Ezra 5:13-15. The temple was then rebuilt, lavished in the time of King Herod, and then destroyed in 70 AD—never again rebuilt. This is when the animal sacrifices were ceased by the Jews. Of course, there was no need for further sacrifices as Christ was the true and sinless sacrificial Lamb. Even though Judaism still does not acknowledge Christ, it is interesting synagogues do not engage in animal sacrifices as commanded throughout the Old Testament. I believe this is due to the fact that the regulated sacrifices point to Christ.

 

(Colossians 3:15-17)

  

Satan the Dragon

 

Revelation Chapter 12

 

This chapter puts us face to face with a wonder, the first wonder presented in this chapter—God’s chosen nation, Israel, holding 12 stars—representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This tribal significance is brought forth especially in the Old Testament and now in the days of prophetic closure. I have noted before that the twelve gates of the New Jerusalem that comes out of heaven will have the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel “written on them;” 21:12. 

 

Israel gave birth to Christ as we see in verse 2. Of course, this was by way of Mary, but she is not placed in the picture presented here, only Israel, as Christ’s birth-way. Of course, the main thrust of Scripture is that He came via the nation Israel, arriving by the line of David.

 

(Catholics claim that the woman in this passage is Mary the “queen of heaven.” They believe this is why she is adorned with stars, sun and moon. God hates the worship of the queen of heaven as preached in Jeremiah 7:18, 44:17 & 25. No such true being exists. 1 Corinthians 10:19-21 and 2 Corinthians 6 reveal Satan is the being who is worshipped in every idol form, through his demonic realm. This pagan false interpretation of Scripture arose through the idolization of the Catholic created Mary—not the Scriptural Mary. Catholics implement this passage for Mary adoration and an excuse or idolatry. It is due to this chapter that you see pictures of Mary with twelve stars above her head. The worship of the Madonna and child is traced back to the time of Nimrod and the origin of ancient Babylon—Babel. Pagans believed Nimrod and his wife Semiramis had a supernatural child called Tammuz and he was gored to death by a wild boar; yet miraculously, came back to life. He and his mother were actively worshiped in ancient times in many cultures. The Romans called them Venus and Cupid and the Greeks dubbed them Aphrodite and Eros. These two demonic gods are still popular names with some today.)

 

We read here in Revelation of God’s benedictions upon His nation, which places Regina loftiness upon her. God not only depicts glorious Israel with a crown of stars, but also “clothed with the sun and having the moon under her feet.” No other nation is so sovereignly depicted in Scripture. Zion is God’s love. Our world will someday revolve around this area of blessing, when Christ rules from His Jerusalem throne. Of course, Gentile believers will be magnified too as God’s chosen children.

 

In verse 2, we see how Israel was in labor with Christ and in pain. Women suffer in childbirth, being cursed due to the sin that arose through Eve. The pain in this verse may be referring to Israel’s travail of servitude, desiring to be delivered from Roman oppression when Christ was born. Today, she still is in massive affliction having rejected her Messiah and being at odds with various nations. The United Nations for the past two years has set up a place and time in Southern Africa, Durban, for Israel bashing. They provoke nations to reconsider the factuality of the holocaust while uplifting Muslim rule. The United Nations has set forth 65 resolutions targeting Israel, slowly shoving her off the land granted her by God. And all the while uplifting the Palestinians, saying they have the right to seize the Holy Land. Today, Satan is turning more and more people against Israel even in the church. Many want to blow this nation off the face of the earth and our current administration and past administrations have funneled money to Israel’s deadly enemies. Satan continually works through Israel’s enemies to seize her God-allotted land and kill her people. Though in history America has stood with Israel, in recent times, American presidents have insisted that Israel forfeit portions of her land. Often when this has occurred, within 24 hours, history-making disasters have hit our land. News headlines have frequently displayed an Israel-slapping title on one side and a massive disaster title of excelled proportions on the other. The news media has even tied such incidents together on occasion.

 

Next appears another wonder, that of Satan, and he is out to destroy as a fire-breathing dragon; verse 3. He is pictured as a great red dragon and he is cited by this title elsewhere in Revelation. Red certainly can be a picture of his bloody wickedness. The seven heads and ten horns represents leaders and countries he will control as we will see in future chapters. This is also revealed in the book of Daniel. We see in Revelation 13:2 that the heads and horns represent great authority over the world. These ten horns or kings will destroy Mystery Babylon; 17:16f. Yes, new Babylon will be Satan’s creation, but he will see to its obliteration as well (all within God’s will). Satan is ruthless and simply desires to wreak havoc, as his hatred for man is unquenchable. He relishes pitting nations for power surges, as he fills the globe with vile wickedness. We see this today as there is no peace on the earth and men slay one another for power dominance.

 

Satan was angry that God’s forecasting was coming to fruition with the birth of God the Son. The dragon, in his fury, swept away a third of the stars in heaven, which plummeted earthward. This is the only place we learn of this happening. It is not recorded elsewhere. These stars obviously did not greatly impact, as there is no recorded history regarding this event.

 

(Falling stars vaporize due to ram pressure from earth’s air, leaving streaks of light that quickly vanish. Few remnants from destructive cosmos activity land on the earth. Between 10 and 50 meteorites crash upon our globe every day, safely landing in the form of small rocks. 70 percent of meteors land in the ocean—representing 70 percent of the earth.  By God’s grace, the remaining land in uninhabited areas. This signifies God protection of the earth. He has also set planets around our globe that protect it from galactic activities.

 

An estimated 25 million meteors fly through the atmosphere everyday. Meteors light up from friction with the air, flying at speeds between 7 and 46 miles per second—25,200 to 165,600 miles per hour! If it’s big and bright, the meteor is defined as a fireball. Scores of fireballs are sighted every year. If the fireball explodes in flight, it’s called a bolide. If chunks of a meteor fall to the ground, they are called meteorites.

 

Twice in the last century, large bolides have come flying into our atmosphere, exploding with immeasurably greater force than the Hiroshima atomic bomb. The first, about 200 feet across, exploded 5 miles up and still leveled 1,200 square miles of Siberian forest around Tunguska in 1908. The other destroyed dozens of square miles of Amazonian jungle in 1930.

 

European explorers in the early 1800’s found the Inuits well-equipped with iron tools, knife blades, harpoon points and engraving tools. All from meteorites. Yes, outer space tools! The Hittites and Sumerians called iron “fire from heaven.” Yes, God’s material blessings can fall from the heavens in the way of rocks.

 

There is a great deal of universal activity that we are blind to. We can rest knowing our omnipotent God oversees the activities in the sky above, on earth’s floor and beneath. God’s exhibited macrocosm managing is incomprehensible and awe inspiring.)

 

I find the dictionary definition (@Dictionary .com) regarding the cosmos quite anti-evolution:  

 

1.	the world or universe regarded as an orderly, harmonious system.

 

2.	a complete, orderly, harmonious system.

 

3.	order; harmony

 

Satan’s sinister planning cannot be fulfilled unless God relaxes His protecting arm. This is only allowed when God recognizes He will be gloried through it all, as with Job. God, at the time of Christ’ world entry as man-child, did not desire the elimination of humanity through Satan’s hateful cosmos crashing deed. He was setting Christ on the earth in the name of grace to save sinful mankind around the globe.

 

Satan’s anger was exhibited at the conception of Christ and he made sure he was present in the stable during Mary’s labor. He was standing before Mary ready to kill Christ right upon His birth. Satan certainly tried to “devour” the Christ-child. This adds more frightful gloom to the nativity setting. Through the omnipotent protection of God, he was not able to stop it.

       

Satan hates the fulfillment of prophecy—the truths of God unveiled; Genesis 3:15, 49:10, Isaiah 7:13-14, 9:6-7, 11:1-2, 2 Samuel 7:12-16, Micah 5:2-3, Jeremiah 23:5, etc. He knew Christ’s birth was the first step in bringing in the kingdom of God upon the earth. He was determined to stop Almighty God through King Herod’s infanticide tactic—an attempt to kill Christ soon after his birth. We know by God’s grace Jesus Christ was protected. Unfortunately, satan was able to kill many young children. Satan is still in the business of infanticide and he does it legally in our country and abroad.

 

We note in verse 5 that the nation Israel succeeded in birthing the Messiah through the omnipotent power of God. This did not usher in the Messiah’s world dominion, though this is what we look toward today, when Christ will rule the earth with a rod of iron as its virtuous dictator. We read of this same rod iron diktat in 2:27. This phrase can also be located in Psalm 2—a Messianic Psalm. Our world will experience a theocracy government in all its purity—a government of and for Christ who is God the Son. 

 

We read in the closing of verse 5, that Christ “was caught up to God and to His throne.” This Revelation exposure puts His death and resurrection in a nutshell.  This is completely potent, amplifying that Christ came to earth, proclaimed His message, was murdered, was buried, and ascended into heaven. No, not all of this is stated here, but we know this verse is proclaiming the Gospel message. Christ’s sacrificial message was incomprehensible to most Jews who held to their sinful hardened hearts. They wanted a delivering Savior who would save them from Roman oppression, not one who proclaimed righteousness and exercised sacrificial forgiving love. Well, there is coming a time when Israel will accept the complete package of Christ. They will come to mourn the fact they murdered their Messiah; 1:7. Everyone in the world will bemoan the fact.

 

Verse 6 takes us to the tribulation period and Israel’s persecution. She is fleeing from the dragon who desires to devour her. God, out of His mercy, is going to sustain His beloved nation. He will have a place prepared on the earth for her where she will be protected from the evil one. The LORD will nourish her the 1,260 days she is placed in exile. God will allow her to be banished 3 1/2 years. This will be the time satan comes against Israel and desecrates the holy place (the temple) and the Holy Land—treading it under foot.

 

We read a portion regarding this time in the previous chapter; 11:2f. You will recall that God will place two Jewish witnesses in Israel that breathe fire through supernatural powers, by which they will devour their enemies. Satan eventually comes against them and slays them after they have presented God’s message for 3 1/2 years. Nonetheless, God’s respire will perfectly restore them before observers and then they will be raptured. God ensues His resurrection miracle by murdering seven thousand rebellious Gentile inhabitants who hate these holy ones. Some of the Gentile occupants will repent and give glory to God.      

 

Verse 7 provides us insight, taking us through the heavens to witness the wars of heaven. Archangel Michael and other angels will wage war at this time as they fight satan (the dragon) and his demons. Michael is a powerful combatant and messenger, the one angel who has always stood in the gap for Israel. He is one who protects this wayward nation to assure Israel is preserved. We observe this in Daniel 10:10-13, where Michael is speaking to Daniel, recalling his fight with the kings of Persia (Iran today) to protect the Promise Land.

 

This Daniel chapter deals with the tribulation period. We also read of Michael in Jude 9 where satan disputed over the body of Moses. Satan may have wanted it for idolatrous worship as Moses was so highly revered. On the other hand, satan may have wanted to destroy it in a most hideous way.  We know one thing for sure; he was up to no good. God hid Moses’ body from satan as Moses was hid from death at his birth. In this Jude verse, we see only God has the power to rebuke satan.  Not even God’s sinless angels have that power. Christ revealed Himself as God on the earth as He rebuked satan without hesitation.

 

In verse 9, we see the defeat of the dragon in this heavenly battle. He is no match for God’s army. Of course, God could destroy satan and his angels in less than a second if He so desired. Lucifer and his demons will be cast down to the earth at this time as stated here. He is the one who deceives the whole earth. It is due to this fact that we must dress ourselves in the full armor of God; Ephesians chapter 6.

 

This earth-casting represents another victory in the tribulation period. Heaven rejoices and God is exalted—“Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, he who accuses them before our God day and night.”

 

Throughout Revelation, hope is offered, as we read here in verse 10 and elsewhere. We know a time is arriving when God’s kingdom will make itself present and all wickedness will be dissolved for a thousand years from the earth. Then, for a short period, it will be allowed to have a fling. Following this, we will never witness vileness again. We certainly look toward that day when satan’s power is completely erased! Perfect peace and perfect holiness will reign through the power of the Almighty.

 

We know satan is trying to defeat us, continually bringing our faults before God almighty. In the book of Job, satan appears before God wanting to destroy Job.  We discern satan wants all Christians and Jews murdered—we being God’s chosen ones. This is why Mohammedans want Jews and Christians wiped off the face of the earth. Muslims speak forth the voice for satan. May these deceived ones come to find truth and salvation in Christ.

 

Satan came before God as he wanted Peter sifted like wheat. Christ disclosed this to Peter—Luke 22:31. Jesus Christ, while on the earth, knew all that was occurring in the heavenlies. Nothing escaped His notice and control. On the earth, He was omnipotent God in the flesh.

 

We see in verse 11, the “blood of the Lamb” magnified. Christ’s shed blood for mankind is key in the spiritual battle against satan. Nowhere are we commanded to claim the blood nor is any such example presented, but we are commanded to proclaim the blood. It must not be abandoned and set aside. We have victory over the world, the devil and our flesh through our redemption, through the sacrificial blood of the Lamb—Jesus Christ. There is no other way. This is why it is proclaimed in this Revelation verse and elsewhere. It is precious to every true Christian. We must recognize the importance of the blood in this day and age when churches want to eliminate its powerful worth and sometimes its significance regarding communion. 

 

The blood’s devaluing can even be witnessed in newer Bible translations that play into satan’s hand. Billy Graham and his family give out the Good News Bible/Translation that has removed the blood and was written by a man who blasphemes Christ and His work on the cross. He does not believe in the inerrancy of Scripture, etc. He is not a Christian. This Bible deliberately does not refer to Mary as a virgin. If you go to this Wikipedia website http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_News_Bible

and scroll down past the empty space, you will read that it is endorsed by Billy Graham and church organizations, including the Catholic Church. Franklin Graham’s states in his publication; this is the Bible he distributes. We live in grievously sad days.

 

The new Bible versions have been created to uplift the dollar sign for so-called Christian publishers and they are not ashamed to say so. Such translations tickle everyone’s ear and make the unredeemed feel good, and therefore sell well.

 

We must be careful that Jesus Christ and His truths are not changed or removed. We have to be Biblically trained investigators (like the Bereans), doing our part to remain steadfast and not swayed to counterfeit beliefs. Jesus Christ is God and any Bible translation that downplays His position and work must be shunned. The NIV Bible version has removed “only begotten” from John chapter 3 and many Greek and Hebrew words that uplift our holy LORD. Most of the new versions have removed “only begotten.”

 

Gandhi stated he could accept Jesus as the son of God, but not as the “only begotten Son of God.” He heretically stated Krishna is the only begotten son of God. You see that we are dealing in the demonic spiritual realm in this area. Satan is having his way by placing lies in the Word of God.

 

The NIV has also removed God’s words that expose sinfulness in its true light. There are deadly warnings concerning removing and adding words in Scripture. There are always ulterior reasons for the altering of God’s Word. Changes seem to always comply to the liberal or apostate minded.

 

It must be noted:

 

Dr. Marten Woudstra, chairman on the NIV committee, was involved in sex perversion. He is quoted as saying that loving monogamous relationships between gay men or women were acceptable to God and that there was nothing in the Old Testament that spoke against the perversion. (Lies)

Dr. Virginia Mollenkott, a literary critic on the NIV translation, was a sodomite. In Episcopal, Witness (June 1991, pp. 20-23), she comes out of the closet by saying, “My lesbianism has ALWAYS been a part of me. . .” This could explain why, “sodomite” is never found in the NIV. (Deut. 23:17, I Kings 14:24, 15:12 , 22:46 , II Kings 23:7) Not only that, but all other references to sodomy are perverted to say something else: 1Cor. 6:9, “. . . neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, . . .” is replaced with the “. . . nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders. . .”

From: Drbible

(I have more NIV information at the bottom of this lesson.)

 

The Message Bible is full of heresy errors throughout to get into every church. Eugene Peterson intertwined his own words, feelings and beliefs into Biblical texts. He, at times, makes joke of holy righteousness and Christ’s work on the cross through his disrespectful worldly wording. The literal Bible text of John 3:18 declare Christ as the only begotten Son of God, but the Message sadly rewrites the Greek to say one-of-a-kind son. Ephesians 1:13 in its true text refers to believers being “made nigh through the blood of Christ.” Message refers to Christ’s work as “dying that death, shedding that blood.” It wavers very far away from the original texts in countless instances. It also does not expose sexual promiscuity and homosexuality in their abominable light. The entire language of the Message is secular and fleshly. Though some verses are somewhat solid, you can scan down a page and take a turn into total heresy. The author is not a Christian! He refers to God as a “green god” and our relationship with God being “organic.” The passages below reveal why it is endorsed by the homosexual community:

 

Literal Greek translation: 1 Tim 1:9-10 …”realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous man, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers and mothers, for murderers and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching.”

 

Message: “It’s obvious, isn’t it, that the law code isn’t primarily for people who live responsibly, but for the irresponsible, who defy all authority, riding roughshod over God, life, sex, truth, whatever!”

 

Literal Greek translation: 1 Cor 6:9-10. “Or do you not know that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”

 

Message: “Don’t you realize that this is not the way to live? Unjust people who don’t care about God will not be joining his kingdom. Those who use and abuse each other, use and abuse sex, use and abuse the earth and everything in it, don’t qualify as citizens in God’s kingdom.”

 

We can’t be using a Bible that is untrustworthy. This is compromise on our part and God hates it. It is sad that even Christians desire to read Bibles whereby they don’t feel they are being placed in a threatening environment.

 

No one is to add or subtract from the Word of God. This is why it is beneficial to own a reliable concordance such as Strong’s or Vine’s that explains the original Greek words. You can also use an online version to research original Bible meanings: http://www.eliyah.com/lexicon.html

 

________

 

Being willing to die for the Savior is emphasized here in verse 11.  Even if we are called upon to die for our faith, we must be willing, not loving our life on this earth. We must be prepared to forfeit it for Christ. Many are doing so today in many parts of the world. We have witnessed in Revelation that the road of death will be a common route for true Christians. For this reason, we must rejoice.  We must celebrate in the fact that God’s people are willing to die for their Savior. These believers will overcome and be murdered. Godly martyrs throughout the centuries have refused to deny Jesus Christ no matter the painful cost. They refused to protect their own hides knowing heaven’s glory awaited them. They did not love their lives on this sinful earth when faced with death.

 

We are called to rejoice here in the authority of God, His power and kingdom. He is worth dying for. The eternal rewards are worth it all. Believers are to exalt in every presented fact that relates to these final days as presented in Scripture.

 

We read in verse 13 that the dragon is now making his abode on the earth, having been cast out of the heavenlies. Since most of the earth allies itself with satan, being its chosen leader, God says “Woe.” He does not make it a secret that everyone will pay the consequences of not giving allegiance to the holy Savior who died for everyone.

 

God reveals in verse 12 that satan will have great wrath, far more than we have personally experienced. He knows his time is short at this point and he is going to make the most of it. He is going to persecute Israel as never before. He hates anyone who is God’s chosen. He hates every true Christian. In these last days, he tries to destroy every follower of the true and living God.

 

We see the dragon’s hated for Israel—called “the woman”—who birthed Christ in this section. One of the reasons he holds enmity towards Israel is the fact Jesus Christ was born a Jew. The LORD will rule from this nation and will exalt this nation and satan knows his forecasted fate and he wants to dislodge it. Of course, satan has tried to destroy Israel throughout history because this kingdom is God’s only chosen nation. Even amidst exile, God has preserved it. Though most Jews are currently following satan in their wicked state of rejecting Christ, God still loves them and He maintains their nation according to His will.

 

In this day of the apocalypse, the Jews will love their Savior, Jesus Christ, and God will guide and protect His prized jewel, keeping it from satan’s harmful ways.

 

We observe in verse 14, that God takes his beloved to a place of protection in the wilderness. He will nourish her for a period of time. Though Israel is in exodus, God will bless her and watch over her. He will keep the Hebrews safe from satan.

 

Even when the Jews did not follow God in obedience during their wilderness walk from Egypt, over three thousands years ago, God still blessed and protected His nation. However, many did perish due to rebellion. This is documented in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. The wilderness time of Revelation will be far more blessed as these Jews will not rebel.

 

In verse 15, we see satan is allowed to attempt to harm the nation of Israel after this peaceful period. He will produce a flood out of the power of his mouth (satan can exercise great ability if allowed, moving as a spiritual, potent being) in an attempt to destroy God’s chosen race. The Jews will be swept away in the mass of water, but the LORD will intervene by causing the strong stream to recess into the ground. It seems the earth will soften any hardpan and drink up this immense flow.

 

Our God is omnipotent and can do all things. When His people fled Egypt, God held back the Red Sea so this enormous nation could pass through on dry ground; Exodus chapter 14. The Jordon waters were held back for Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings chapter 2.  

 

In the concluding verse, we see satan does not give up as he never gives up today in his attempt to destroy Israel. We read here, he hunts other Jews to make war with them, those who were not involved in the wilderness rescue of God. The dragon hates these beloved Middle Eastern people because they are godly, holding to God’s commandments. They hold to the testimony of Jesus Christ.  

 

This closes this chapter. God is gracious to give us an inside look into what is to come through Revelation disclosures. His words always come to pass and never deviate a jot or tittle.

 

_____________

 

Here is more information on the NIV:

 

The NIV omitted thousands of words. It completely omitted “hell”  from the Old Testament where it is stated 31 times and replaced it with “grave.” In the New Testament, it removed it 9 times.

 

Concerning John 3:16 and NIV’s removal of “only begotten”

The John 3:16 passage contains the Greek word monogenh/ß, which the King James Version translates “only begotten.” The fact remains that monogenh/ß has only one “n,” which seems to link it more closely to ge÷noß. And secondly, which is more persuasive, the term monogenh/ß is used in Hebrews 11:17 which states that Abraham “offering up his only (monogenh/ß) son” Isaac. Isaac was the unique son of Abraham, only begotten by he and Sarah—his only wife in God’s eyes. Isaac was the son of promise who continued the Jewish race. From these two reasons “only begotten” is the true understanding for monogenh/ß.

http://www.bringthebooks.org/2009/04/only-or-only-begotten.HTML

 

 

666—What It Could Signify

  

 

Revelation chapter 13  

 

Satan is a beast that blasphemes God and we see this occurring in governments today—powers that hate God. Satan loathes God because He rules. Satan wants God extinguished so he owns dominion over all. Many governments in history have blasphemed God and received His wrath such as Assyria. The LORD references Assyria as a nation that blasphemed Him and He made this nation’s king “fall by a sword in his own land;” Isaiah 37:6-7and 37-38.  

 

God and His Word are severely mocked by satan’s children and we see a great increase of insolence for that which is holy, this being evidenced in our world and in the church—the religious apostasy. Many church attendees are not afraid to blaspheme God outside of church doors and His inerrant Word. They do this in obedience to the dragon who loves every displayed disrespect for God and His immutable truths.

 

In this chapter, we come face to face with the desires of the evil one.  We see in verse 1 that satan will stand on the sand of the seashore. His character being symbolized by a dragon. Mythical dragons represent fear as they breathe fire to consume whomever and whatever they desire. Their entire body being employed for killing with elimination. The Bible also describes satan as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. The dragon figure, set before us by God, is perfect in representation as the enemy of believers and mankind in the last days.  

 

(DNA, ancient languages, ancient calendars, etc., reveal dragons may have lived at one time, being classified among dinosaurs.  Scientists of ancient history disclose legends are usually based on some facts. It cannot be by accident that separated cultures of the world penned references to dragons. Dragon legends and depictions can be located in Africa, India, Europe, the Middle East, and the Orient—on the various points of our globe. Dinosaur-like animals have been drawn and described since the beginning of recorded history. Of course, they have been embellished by man’s imagination; therefore, it is difficult to know their exact materialization.)

 

Satan’s power will increase and be totally evident during the tribulation period. In recent decades, his followers have become more blatant in naming themselves as his faction and unashamed of his teachings and practices. The Satanic Bible was published in 1969, by HaperCollins—owners of Zondervan. It was written by a man who calls himself a black pope. Such satanic blatancy reveals the climate of the world that embraces mystic evil. Continual works that uplift the tempter are being published and writers are rolling in the money due to increasing demand. What is even more distressing is the fact so-called Christians also take part, relishing publications and videos that uplift satan’s maneuverings. This is why the church is turning more and more to the demonic or the New Spirituality.

 

The dragon seems to be waiting for his pal, the beast, who will come up out of the sea; verse 1. This is all being observed by John as he records this prophetical account. The Mediterranean Sea is most likely the local of this vision. It is the world’s cruising hub, providing a sunny climate in an exquisite setting. I believe this is further evidence that the core of apocalyptic events will be the Middle East.

 

Daniel 7:3 informs us all four beasts come out of the sea. Let’s look at some verses in Ezekiel chapter 26, where God proclaims His judgment on Tyre. Verse 16 refers to her “princes of the sea.” The LORD says they “will go down from their thrones, remove their robes and strip off their embroidered garments and clothe themselves with trembling.” He refers to Tyre as being mighty on the sea. Tyre was a great seaport on the Mediterranean. It lay NW of the Sea of Galilee. King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed mainland Tyre and Alexander the Great destroyed the Island of Tyre. Verse 14 states God’s concluding judgment upon her, as she would never be built again and today it is a “bare rock.”

 

It seems probable to me that the beasts arise out of the sea to represent some of their power through world trade. Shipping is a huge industry and the beasts will represent the money gained through sea trafficking. Revelation 11:9f tells us that when Mystery Babylon falls, the merchants will mourn over her because they cannot buy her cargoes anymore. No city on the earth will surpass Mystery Babylon with the wealth she accumulates through her state-of-the-art products being peddled to other nations.

 

This beast maintains ultra regal power. He struts ten horns of authority as well as seven heads, holding ten diadems or crowns. He will hold more power than any other man; he dutifully stands on behalf of the inhabitants of this vile earth and satan, all who enjoy every lewd way.  

 

This beastly man is not a typical man at all. He has supernatural powers being one who walks as satan’s mouthpiece on the earth. He is “like a leopard, and his feet like those of a bear, and his mouth like a mouth of a lion;” verse 2. This man will prevail in evil mastery, which has never been displayed on the earth previous. None like him has ever appeared before. This beast will cause people’s mouths to fall open with what he is able to accomplish.

 

Sister passages to these Revelation verses are located in Daniel, chapters 7 and 11, these texts expound tribulation particulars. Daniel 7:6 speaks of the fourth beast being a “leopard,” same as Revelation. I do find it interesting that this beast is described as a leopard, being the leopard is a powerful swimmer and this beast arises out of the sea. Most cat species detest water, including my two domestic cats.

 

San Diego Zoo:

 

“…A leopard can climb as high as 50 feet (15 meters) up a tree holding a dead animal in its mouth, even one larger and heavier than itself! They stash food up high so other predators like lions or hyenas can’t get it. Then they can return and eat more. One leopard was spotted dragging a 220-pound (100-kilogram) young giraffe into heavy brush to hide it.

 

Leopards hunt at night, using their vision and keen hearing while hunting, not their sense of smell. Leopards stalk and pounce but don’t usually chase their prey long distances. They grab their prey or swat it, using their retractable claws. Prey is killed with a bite to the throat.

 

Leopards are carnivores and will eat any meat item they can find: monkeys, baboons, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, large birds, fish, antelope, cheetah cubs, porcupines, etc…”

 

________

 

Though the antichrist has tremendous animal-like destructive powers, we know that he is a man from Daniel 11, which also reveals he has Jewish blood. In addition, it states he will not have regard for the God of his fathers; verse 37. Some Bibles put gods, but this Hebrew word can be rightly translated in the singular.  It is “Eloheem” and it is used 70 times in the Bible for Almighty God.

 

He will not believe women have any importance nor will he desire to help them as a politician; Daniel 11:37. The Hebrew word reveals he will not see them as owning any worthwhile qualities.

 

Daniel 7:25 states that he will devour the entire earth and tread it down and crush it. Satan wants the entire human race murdered, because man is made in the image of God.  Satan hates God and His creation. He wishes everything associated with the LORD destroyed. He wants his throne set lofty in the heavens so he can be like the “Most High” God; Isaiah 14:12f. This type of teaching is found in Mormonism. Members of this cult do not pray to a god because they believe Mormon men will rule more galaxies than the Creator. They will accomplish this through their forever childbearing wives. Mormon men glory in arrogant exaltation and sensual self-gratification. The slithery serpent promotes self god-making, sexual promiscuity and immodesty even through religion.

 

This type of cultism is crafted to attract the lower nature in man. In Islam, a man is taught he will obtain his every desire. He will be forever immersed in unlimited sensual pleasure. Qur’an 78:31 “Verily for those who follow US, there will be a fulfillment of your desires: enclosed gardens, grapevines, (unmentionable phrase describing their personal seductive women)…maidens of equal age, and a cup full to the brim of wine…”

 

In Daniel, the conniving beast is also described as having four wings of a bird and having four heads, and dominion is given to him. Of course, this mimics the Revelation passage concerning satan empowering him with “great authority.” He will be a world ruler who soars the universe in dictating power and he will be loved by all the people. Every carnal person will follow after this beast.  In verse 7, we learn there will be four beasts, Revelation reveals two of the four.

 

It appears from Daniel 7:7, this forth world-controlling beast or antichrist will be the most terrifying. This leopard-like sovereign will take no guff and will rule in the name of religion. This fourth beast is the same beast of Revelation 13:1-6.  We know this because the man in Daniel and in Revelation displays ten horns. The same beast of Daniel is described as being exceptionally dominant, displaying “large iron teeth.” We see this beast will devour the leftovers, perhaps those nations that did not want satan’s strong hand of rulership under his previous puppets. This fourth beast will destroy those withstanding nations with his army. He will bring the entire world into submission.

 

He will have kings ruling under him. He will have ten horns (kings) in his control for a particular hour in time; Revelation 17:12-13. Revelation always has its key notations to explain the illustrations that capture the essence of events and beings. The ten kings will yield in total submission to the antichrist’s plan. These ten kings will be as wicked as the antichrist. It will all come down to wicked powers controlling the entire world. They will wage war with the Jews and will destroy the word’s beloved sensual kingdom of Mystery Babylon.

 

This makes no sense to us, but it is not unusual for a great and thriving nation to be destroyed by other kingdoms that have shared in that nation’s economical benefits. This is how new world powers have been born. This is what occurred with ancient Babylon so the Media-Persian Empire could arise—all according to God’s will and punishment. The known world mourned over fallen ancient Babylon and they will also mourn over rich and sensual Mystery Babylon when she meets her death sentence; Revelation 18:9f. Someday Hollywood (a type of Babylon) will meet her judgment fate as well.

 

To learn of Mystery Babylon, it is important to study Daniel, Jeremiah, Isaiah and other books that dealt with ancient Babylon. This all attends to the orchestration of upcoming Babylon—her twin sister community. People will not know the name of this city and kingdom until the time of its coming out party.

 

Ancient Babylon was beyond belief in its time in the way of state-of-the-art achievements.

The Greek Historian Strabo:

Babylon, too, lies in a plain; and the circuit of its wall is three hundred and eighty-five stadia. The thickness of its wall is thirty-two feet; the height thereof between the towers is fifty cubits; that of the towers is sixty cubits; the passage on top of the wall is such that four-horse chariots can easily pass one another; and it is on this account that this and the hanging garden are called one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The garden is quadrangular in shape, and each side is four plethra in length. It consists of arched vaults, which are situated, one after another, on checkered, cube-like foundations. The checkered foundations, which are hollowed out, are covered so deep with earth that they admit of the largest of trees, having been constructed of baked brick and asphalt — the foundations themselves and the vaults and the arches. The ascent to the uppermost terrace-roofs is made by a stairway; and alongside these stairs there were screws, through which the water was continually conducted up into the garden from the Euphrates by those appointed for this purpose. For the river, a stadium in width, flows through the middle of the city; and the garden is on the bank of the river.”

 The Greek Historian Diodorus:

“The Garden was 100 feet (30 m) long by 100 feet (30 m) wide and built up in tiers so that it resembled a theatre. Vaults had been constructed under the ascending terraces which carried the entire weight of the planted garden; the uppermost vault, which was seventy-five feet high, was the highest part of the garden, which, at this point, was on the same level as the city walls. The roofs of the vaults which supported the garden were constructed of stone beams some sixteen feet long, and over these were laid first a layer of reeds set in thick tar, then two courses of baked brick bonded by cement, and finally a covering of lead to prevent the moisture in the soil penetrating the roof. On top of this roof enough topsoil was heaped to allow the biggest trees to take root. The earth was leveled off and thickly planted with every kind of tree. And since the galleries projected one beyond the other, where they were sunlit, they contained conduits for the water which was raised by pumps in great abundance from the river, though no one outside could see it being done.”

________

The city of Dubai in Saudi Arabia defies the imagination. It is the fastest growing city in the world, owning the tallest building; plus, unbelievable and remarkably fashioned developments. This architectural city of wonder does love American tourism, but stands with Muslim dominance of the world. They do not permit Christian evangelism and believers have been arrested:

 

http://www.christianaggression.org/item_display.php?type=NEWS&id=1109949444 

 

Jews are totally forbidden in this state-of-the-art city:

 

http://joshuapundit.blogspot.com/2006/03/no-Jews-need-apply-israels-shahar-peer.HTML

 

This land certainly causes us to consider Bible eschatology. It being completely impressive, representing the perfect image of a space-age metropolitan captivation. Christians know in the time of the apocalypse, a city unlike all others will arise. It is Biblically called Babylon. This is the titling God places upon this area that will boggle the mind. It will resemble former Babylon in beauty, commercial wealth and power; Revelation chapters 17 and 18. It will consist of everything disclosed in Revelation in regard. This empire will be the capital of the world. It will be anti-Jew and anti-Christian. It will encompass the heights of wickedness as former Babylon, but to surpassing, infinite degrees.

 

It appears this mecca will be located close to ancient Babylon as the Euphrates River is referenced, which flows in the Middle East. God revealed Babylon will never be rebuilt so we know it will not stand on its burial grounds. 

 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTyks-IRFPY&feature=related

 http://www.mytopclip.com/play.php?vid=5106

 http://www.tigerwoodsdubai.com/  

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eUcRjo9Yv4

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=4696298n

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgYYR3-Syog&feature=related

 http://www.mytopclip.com/play.php?vid=16070

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeMcIKnPLdA&feature=channel

 

_____

 

Daniel 7:8 speaks of one of the horns “uttering great boasts.” Sinful man wants to be number one and envied by all. This attitude is part of many churches that desire to be world famous rock and rolling centers, filled with people who represent the arts and fun entertainment. They want to present a Christian form of the Jay Leno Show; an atmosphere where people can engage in a lot of laughter, fun and star idol admiration.

 

Today pastors do not want the Scriptures telling them what to do. They will state they must be contemporary (worldly), actually not desiring to be dictated by the Word of God. Pastors upholding this new age mentality have acquired new directors. They are famous Christian personalities—those they imitate in hopes of gaining their own fame. They walk in pride believing God cannot save apart from the ways of the world. The god they serve is very small and dependant on their new worldviews—what I think and have experienced.  

 

One of the dragon’s main operation outlets is Hollywood. It is one way he fabricates the desirable, placing behind this facade the actual graveyard on which we live, where most are dead in trespasses and sins; Ephesians 2:1-5. He adds his glittering whore paint so Christian teachers and pastors rarely refer to the lake of fire and it being the destination of all unsaved. He presents the church to the world as a Hollywood-like styling community organization so no distinctions are made between those who go to heaven and those who go to hell.  He has put a tight lip on pastors who do his entertaining bidding. They are definitely antichrists in their own right. Today’s church would be devastated if the whole of Hollywood rolled into the Pacific Ocean. It would act like a comedian who lost his straight man.

 

The stage is being set for the ecumenical apostasy of the last days as I have stated in previous lessons. The apostasy (the church falling away from Bible commands and teachings) must surface first in the chain of events, 2 Thessalonians 2:3, before the beasts begin to take control. Ecumenicalism will rule the world before the true church that has been washed in the blood of Christ is raptured—2 Thessalonians 4:17. It appears what we may be observing today is the early development of a stage setting for the religious beast. When all falls into place for him, everyone will be dancing  their own jig, doing their own idolatrous thing; Revelation 9:20-21. Idols of every sort will be worshipped. The world will return to total heathenism, excepting the tiny remnant of believers.

 

In the end, it will come down to the entire world hating Christ, and not wanting Him to be the Master of all. The world’s residents will actually believe they can take over the universe. They will work with the beast to dislodge God’s power, to remove His convicting truths.

 

Verse 3, back in Revelation chapter 13, notifies us this prevailing antichrist was not loved by everyone. Of course, the thirst for world rulership will always be part of our wicked planet and this type of mentality will legislate until Christ returns. This beast has more regal authority than anyone else on the earth as I mentioned above. It appears a nation will come against him and his kingdom (verse 4). He will be assassinated and arise from the dead—he being a false representation of the true Savior. Verse 3 tells us everyone followed (except the true remnant) the beast, being impressed with the fact his fatal wound was healed. We read in chapter 11 how the righteous two witnesses preached against the teachings of the religious ecumenical beast. These godly, separated ones were murdered by the beast, but miraculously healed and raptured by God in true resurrection power that is unto eternal life. This is not mythology and will take place in the future. God never lies or misleads.

 

Verses 4, 8 and 12 tell us the populace of the world was totally amazed and did not only follow, but also chose to  worship the man-beast. This is the kind of god that most people crave today, one that fulfills the sensual, fleshly man minus any soul-convicting harassment. An unthreatening environment is their cup of “green” tea.

 

We see how easily people would follow and worship one who arose from the dead if he tickled their ears. I believe most people in churches today would adore such a man if he was handsome, charismatic and intelligent. We note the truth of this by the fact so many church attendees voted for Obama who stands for sensuality—homosexuality, premarital sex, abortion, immodesty, on and on. I often pray for the LORD to bring true Christians into my life—those who have been born again by the Spirit and exhibit the discernment of the Spirit.

 

Another reason the antichrist will be adored is he loves to engage in vile and blasphemous speech patterns; verse 5. He will not always convey lovely and pure words as we see of Naphtali, the son of Jacob, who gave “beautiful words.” Of course, this oration pattern is the calling for all believers and what we need to endlessly pray for. We should never engage in questionable conversation that does not reveal we are wholesome. Ephesians 4:29 commands us not to allow any unwholesome words to proceed from our mouths, but only those that edify and provide grace to all how hear. We are not called to be cool and styling in our address. We do know satan is in the business of appearing to be the most styling dude of the universe and in the apocalypse it will be no different—he being of the world and in the world.  It will be all about him and him being number one. Christ is the example for believers. While on earth, He displayed meekness and lowliness of heart; Matthew 11:29. Fame and fortune is not what we are to desire. Our hearts must display the opposite of satan’s example. He is the enemy of the cross.

 

We also note from verse 5 the tenure of the dragon. We note he will own the “authority to act for forty-two months” or simply 3 ½ years.  The city of Jerusalem will be trodden under foot this same amount of time by the Gentiles.  This is when the world will be following and worshipping the antichrist as described here. These times will be deadly for Jewish and Gentile believers.

 

Verse 6 also reemphasizes the antichrist’s hate for God. He will verbally abuse the holy Savior with blasphemous swear words as we also read concerning in verse 1. This type of discursiveness is not uncommon for national leaders, but this will go beyond what we have heard, as it will come from the father of swearing. This vile conversation will encompass God-hate and Bible-hate.  Our own president, Obama, has condemned the Word of God:  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXcvbnzNIjg&feature=related

I have never witnessed this from any previous president.

 

The beast will also attack God’s heavenly realm—those who dwell in heaven (in His tabernacle). This will include those of us who are Bible believing and obeying Christians, as we will have been raptured by this time, being kept from the wrath of God; 1 Thessalonians 5:3 & 9, 4:13-18, and Revelation 3:10.

 

Through verse 7, we further consider the hate the antichrist pours forth for Jewish believers as he makes war with them to overcome them. I believe this is directed to the Jews, they being the persecuted subject matter during the tribulation as we read in chapter 12. Satan is referred to also as being “the dragon” and “the serpent” in this chapter where he attempted to murder the Jews with a flood. 

 

We note also in verse 7, back in Revelation chapter 13, that he is the global ruler.  He has authority over every one on the earth. This will be the one world order that is truly under satan’s total command.  We have heard of the new world order from recent presidents and political spokespersons and this certainly paves the way for the acceptance of this future episode. Today, many hope President Obama will be that world ordering man. We know for a fact he is not the religious beast, but he is certainly a type of the antichrist. May he repent and come to submit to God’s ways.

 

Verse 8 reemphasizes the fact all will worship the religious beast. This is an important point being restated by God, having been first announced in verse 4 and will be brought forth again in verse 12. The only ones who will not worship the dragon will be those who are saved unto eternal life and they will pay with their lives. This verse addresses predestination and the fact, believers who have been washed in the blood of Christ were chosen before the foundation of the world. This truth is also stated in Ephesians 1:4. What also is precise, is anyone who calls on the name of the LORD can be saved and Christ died for all. This is one area that is a mystery because both are true. Our finite minds cannot grasp the total scope of our Creator’s ways that reach far beyond our thoughts and reasoning.

 

We know this will be a small remnant at this point in the tribulation, because the road to heaven is narrow and few follow. These are the ones who do not love their lives unto death; 12:11.  We must not love our lives unto death, being those who are willing to die for our faith having counted the cost before we chose to follow the “Lamb” of God. We knew we had to take up our own cross of death and follow in all holy behavior. Of course, only a small portion of believers die for their faith, but still we must be willing, not loving our lives on this wicked, vile earth. The Smyrna church attendees were commanded to be faithful unto death that they might receive the crown of life; 2:10.  

 

Verse 9, commands every believer to hear the facts of Revelation. Those who read, believe and heed are blessed; 1:3.

 

Verse 10 informs us that it will be as in the times of ancient Babylon, during the time of Jeremiah. Those who were destined to captivity, to captivity they went.  Those destined to die by the sword were killed with a sword; Jeremiah 15:2. We know this arriving captivity incited by the antichrist will be the last enslavement of the earth. God’s chosen people, the Jews, will eventually be freed from the tyranny of man. I love Ezekiel 34:22-25 where God speaks of His covenant of peace made with the Jews in end times. This verse explains harmful beasts will be eliminated from Israel enabling the people to live securely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods, this being when Christ reigns over them.

 

This will be a significant time of faith and perseverance of the true saints who will not compromise with the dazzling showcase of Babylon. The Holy Spirit will dwell within them and they will understand the times. They will discern their lives on this earth cannot even begin to compare to their heavenly home—its worth infinitely exceeding the price of their own blood.   

 

Verse 11 introduces us to the second beast.  It seems he does not own as much power as the first as he only has two horns or kingdoms at this time. Two kings rule under him. However, owning a form of the vice presidency, he can exercise as much authority as the main antichrist when he is present; verse 12. I guess as long as the religious beast can see him, he can do all he desires. This verse reminds us again that the antichrist arose from the dead as another sign he deserves worship in his own eyes.    

 

This man is certainly another antichrist as he rules like “a lamb.”  He desires to appear meek and lowly like our Savior to deceive the world. Antichrists like to appear in a saving mode so people will view them as a messiah. Hitler presented himself as German’s messiah. He promised to save Germany from its financial collapse and transform the people into an affluent superior Aryan race that would rule the world. The media sold Adolph Hitler to the German people as one who could do no wrong and they bought every promise. If anyone spoke ill of him, “The de Fuhrer,” it meant imprisonment or death. This mad occultist made sure his photo sat at the altar in Third Reich area controlled churches and had a prominent place in every home. President Obama is viewed as the world’s true savior today and messiah by some. He has been called “messiah.”

 

Islam leader, Louis Farrakhan, (to whom Obama’s church presented their yearly “Trumpeter” award) stated when Obama talks, “the Messiah is absolutely speaking.”

http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=96417

 

People have even pointed to Obama’s messiah complex even Joseph Biden, though in a kidding way:

ttp://www.usnews.com/blogs/god-and-country/2009/03/23/joe-biden-ribs-obama-on-alleged-messiah-complex.html

 

President Obama refers to himself and his followers as “the ones.” I am not saying he will become a world ruler or that he will never be voted out of office, but his self-image is unconquerable in his eyes. He views himself as the peacemaker of the world. Of course, peace is what everyone wants to hear and “peace and safety” will be falsely peddled during the apocalypse; 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Our president agreed with Russia’s president, Medvedev, on July 6^th, 2009, to cut nuclear weapons as if world peace is now obtainable:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31757474/ns/world_news-europe/

 

I viewed a political video on the internet made by a famed rap secular singer. Everyone was chanting “Obama” as if in worship, even choir-like in places and included loud proclamation just like one would uplift a god. This performing group uplifts Obama in worship as well: http://blip.tv/file/1338283

This video magnifies Obama as one who will stay in our hearts and will reign as our world peacemaker (not the God of the Bible). I have seen three musical videos where people sing in worship to this man.

 

Never has this type of worship-hype been witnessed for any other candidate or president in our country’s history. It seems the path is being strongly pre-paved for future destiny.

_______

 

A twisted personality is present with the second beast as we note on our return to Revelation; verse 11. It seems he presents himself like a lamb yet speaks as a dragon. The “lamb” personality could represent the submissive attitude he has toward the first religious beast. One could interpret it as meaning his nice personality is deadly poison. He may come across as one who wouldn’t hurt a lamb, but he sells every evil entrapping thing under the sun. He, possibly like our president, governing liberals, and the Hollywood crowd, will come across very nice before the video camera, being pleasantly presented without flaws. With deceptive smiles, liberals feel free to endorse every demonic sensual way under the sun. They hide the corruption of their ways in superficial love and concern for those who sincerely listen. They then tether the masses by sounding vogue. They classify every opponent as old fashioned. Yielding Americans never want to be viewed like those from the archaic past. This has always been the mentality of Americans. Their greatest fear is to appear out-of-date with satan’s post mod squad and it will be no different during the tribulation.

 

We see in verse 13 that the religious antichrist, the first who appeared, “even causes fire to come down out of heaven to the earth.” What a great way to entertain and grab hold of the world at the same time. People love miracle workers and this man certainly is one. He is not a typical magician who awes audiences through trickery. This man will actually perform signs and wonders through satan’s power. Christ warned us in Mark 13:22-23 that in closing times many false antichrists will perform powerful miracles, even deceiving some of the elect. This is why we must painstakingly study the Word of God as Christ warns! We must not be led astray by ecumenical religious leaders who may perform mighty miracles, even in our future. We were reminded in verse 12 again that the antichrist arose from the dead as a another sign he deserves worship.    

 

Of course, we know our Savior is the Lamb of God and the antichrist will have to falsely bear some resemblances to the true Christ of Scripture. Most every false religious leader that is worshipped today or is followed, attempted to bear some resemblance to the Biblical Jesus Christ to deceive the masses. The antichrist will be falsely convincing as the savior and miracle worker of the world; verse 14.

 

Verse 14 restates verse 12 regarding the fact that the signs are performed by the religious beast when the politically controlling beat is present.  God wants us to definitely understand this fact as well. This is a two-man show. The one will not perform without the other being present.  Obviously, the political beast is the publicity agent and hit man for the religious beast.  The political beast produces the caveat that if anyone does not worship the religious der fuehrer they will be killed.   

 

We know idol worship is what pagans crave; idols of all kinds, endless or so it appears from 9:20.  We know idolatry is even being endorsed by our current president as he uplifts paganism as a valid religion in America. To him it has just as much influence as Christianity. Fifty years ago, no one would have dreamed such a thing could become reality in our nation.

 

God explains the stupidity of idols throughout His Word. In Jeremiah 10: 5, He reveals they are simply like a scarecrow in a cucumber field. Yes, we do see God’s sense of clever humor in this verse. They cannot speak and must be carried; they are so lifeless they cannot even walk. Of course, we know anyone can hit an idol off a table and it will not get back up. The next verse in Jeremiah declares there is none like God! How anyone can have knowledge of the Creator God and worship an idol is beyond me.     

 

The New Testament deals with idolatry as well. People wanted to kill Paul as he stated idols made by hands are not idols at all; Acts 19:26. We see in Acts chapter 19 and 2 Corinthians 6 that idolatry and demon worship walk hand in hand.

 

Revelation 13:15 deals with pagan idolatry in its fullest. The inhabitants of the earth are not only told they must worship the beast but also his image.  Yes, he has his own personal idol, just as King Nebuchadnezzar possessed his; Daniel chapter 3.  Remember this is the time of Mystery Babylon. This religious beast is going to act like King Nebuchadnezzar and make everyone worship his personal idol.  

 

However, satan is going to make this personal idol more impressive than King Nebuchadnezzar’s, it being presented for grandeur upscale times. This image is going to have life or “breath” and talk, yes talk! Now who will not want to worship a talking image? Folks will see it is alive and owns more power than any of their average, everyday idols.

 

Of course, even this false speaking image will not cause God’s people to worship the antichrist.

 

Verses 16-18 represent the most renowned of Biblical verses.  We have now reached the “Mark of the Beast.”  These two beasts will make the inhabitants of the earth receive a mark on their “right hand” or “forehead.” We know this represents the religious beast and his number, which is 666 or “six hundred and sixty-six;” verse 18.  No one will be able to buy or sell without this number.  This will make it very difficult for the nation Israel and Gentile believers as they will not be able to obtain food or goods from sellers.  

 

God asks for those who have understanding or discernment to calculate the number of the beast. The number does represent the religious antichrist; verse 18. It could deal with the size of his idol, possibly being 666 cubits tall. Wow! This idol fully personifies the religious antichrist’s desire for self-worship. The image is manufactured to bring glory to the beast. If one does not worship this idol, they will be murdered. This was exactly the way it was in Daniel’s time, everyone had to worship King Nebuchadnezzar’s idol or be annihilated. Future Jewish believers will hold the hearts of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego who were willing to be placed in a furnace 7 times hotter than normal in order not to disobey God and His inerrant Word that condemns any type of idolatry. These men respectfully, yet boldly, informed the king, “O king, we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up;” Daniel 3:18. This king knew idolatry was wrong and Jeremiah had preached to this nation and prophesied doom for its idolatry and all the sins that accompany heathenism the first year of King Nebuchadnezzar’s reign; Jeremiah 25:1f, chapters 50, 51, etc.        

 

We observe in Daniel 3:1 the size of the first Babylonian imperial idol, being sixty cubits by six cubits (about 90 feet high). Isn’t that interesting? I simply wanted to know at this moment the size of this idol and this is what I discovered. The 666 might simply represent the massive size of the talking idol that is part and parcel of the religious antichrist. This would be quite observable if it was the cubic height. Of course, I am simply guessing as an ignoramus and it is most likely more complex than that.

 

We do know Mystery Babylon is going to resemble ancient Babylon. Yes, I have stated this time and again. One might figure out the meaning of 666 through studying King Nebuchadnezzar’s makeup and his idolatrous kingdom. The antichrist is certainly going to imitate his ways to a degree. I will also add that King Nebuchadnezzar was never a pope. I say this, as many believe the antichrist will be a Catholic pope.

 

We have seen numbers used previously as John was told to measure the temple, altar and those who worship there; 11:1-2. We see the number length provided for this time, being 3 ½ years, when the antichrist has the Gentiles running wickedly wild in the holy arena of Jerusalem. Now, if the number 666 symbolizes days, we know this would be less than two years.

 

It unlikely represents the square cubits of the temple mount that the religious beast desecrates. Somehow, God is going to move and the Muslim Mosque, Dome of the Rock, is going to be destroyed and replaced with the LORD’S temple that will again rest on the temple mount. If the temple mount holds to its original footage of 500 cubits square by 500 cubits square, not added to, we know it holds no relationship.

http://www.recoveredscience.com/const308TempleLayout.htm  

 

This number could delineate endless things including the number of countries under the control of the beast or his managed commerce industries. It seems unfeasible for this number to represent mapped areas of control, since there are only 195 countries at this time. Everything at this point is total speculation, but as events progress and Jewish believers observe the operations of the antichrist, some will probably figure the calculus.

 

Revelation Chapter 14 

The Sickle of His Wrath 

What a twist from the negative to the positive! We left verse 18, which advised the calculating of the number of the beast who will be wicked beyond imagination. Nothing that we have observed thus far in this self-seeking world can truly compare with what is to come. The beast will be a murderous man who will have no regard for human life. If anyone does not worship and adore him, his fate is lethal.

In verse 1 of chapter 14, we are encouraged through it all. We are reminded who is still ruling on His throne. This is a time for us to take a breath and praise the Lamb of God, who will one day reign from His throne in visual omnipotence. He who was despised and forsaken of men will receive the worship of all the nations of the world.

This is a glorious interlude where we observe the 144,000 male virgin Jews standing with Christ on Mount Zion in Jerusalem during kingdom come. They will be with Christ at the temple of Jerusalem.

I recently saw a photo overlooking the city of Jerusalem and I was surprised by how many mosques where within the inner city. There seemed to be one every mile. There will be no Muslim mosques in the Holy City when Christ rules the earth.

These 144,000 who were willing to die for the Lamb will be rewarded for their anchored steadfastness and remaining unconquerable in their faith. They will be the uncompromisers. Christ’s name and the father’s name will be written on their foreheads.

They will be ones who hate this world and the things of this world; 1 John 2:15-17. They will abstain from all earthly lusts; 1 Peter 2:11.They will be loyal to God alone as His holy chaste servants.

James states through God, that whoever makes himself a friend of this world is hostile to God. He is an enemy of God. God commands that we come out and be separate; 2 Corinthians 6:17.

John 12:25 offers blessing to the one who hates this world. “He who hates his life in this world will keep it unto eternal life.”

James 1:27 commands we keep ourselves unstained by this world. We are not to allow it to persuade us in disobedience to the Scriptures. We must be found by God to be in peace, spotless and blameless; 2 Peter 3:14.

Verse 2 places us face to face with the omnipotence of Almighty God. John hears a voice from heaven like the sound of loud thunder. Job 37:2-6 reveals storm rumblings are the “thunder of His voice.” “Thunder goes from His mouth.” It is consoling to know during a tempest we are listening to the vocalization of the Creator who reins in omnipotent power. He is not to be questioned or belittled. These verses also refer to Christ’s lightening bolts that reach to the ends of the earth. Nothing regarding what God has formed environmentally simply occurs through scientific cause and effect.

Lightning strikes the earth 100 times per second. This equates to 6000 strikes per minute, 360,000 per hour and 8,640,000 per day. Wow! What a mighty God we serve!

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2006/05/0504_060504_lightning_video.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKPwkau0Dh0&feature=related

We also attain from these verses the fact God does not restrain the lightning when His voice is heard—that being the accompanying thunder. It states “God thunders with His voice wondrously.” This poetic-like phrase is something to keep in mind during a frightening onslaught. It is interesting to note that the LORD came to Job out of the storm and asked…who has a voice like God? (40:6-9) His bellowing omnipotence should cause us to fear and tremble before Him; Philippians 2:12.

When in Aruba, we experienced a fright-filled night. We had survived Hurricane Ivan the night previous though we had been flooded out of our room. We wrongfully believed Ivan had completely departed, as all was calm the following day. However, we were ignorantly misguided by the signs, he returned in the night in the lightning might of God. It was the very tail end of Hurricane Ivan—a surprise attack. We were too fearful to draw our drapes even a few inches to observe. It sounded like bombs were dropping all around us and the bright light in the night never dimmed or vanished, being witnessed through a tiny crack in our curtains. Due to our dread, we probably missed one of the best lightening shows displayed on this earth.

Last year, 2008, California “experienced 8,000 lightning strikes coming out of nowhere to torch a cumulative land mass the size of Los Angeles, the second largest city in America.”

Christ addresses His return to the earth in Matthew 24:27, stating, “For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.”

Verse 2, back in Revelation chapter 14, continues by adding, the voice John heard “was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps.” It is interesting that the only instrument implemented for singing we observe in heaven is the lovely harp. God commands we dwell on those things that are lovely, pure and true. The harp produces a lovely sound that is beautiful. It is not a noise representing pride and rebellion nor is it loud and wild. It is not classified as sexy. Rock music has always fit into this niche no matter the words. I personally enjoy listening to the harp and I appreciate it more knowing this is what I will hear in heaven when it is plucked in perfect purity.

Verse 3 informs us that during this time the 144,000 male virgin Jews will sing a new song before God’s throne, before the living creatures or cherubim (four commanding angelic beings who have faces representing Christ; 4:6-9, 19:4, etc.), and the 24 elders. No one will be allowed to learn the song these godly Jews will sing who will have been purchased from the earth. 1 Peter 1:18-19 reveals believers were redeemed or purchased with the precious blood of Christ.

These men will most likely spill their own life’s blood by refusing to take the mark of the beast. Thus revealing, they were willing to follow Christ unto death, refusing the walk of compromise. Adding earthly years will hold no value for these pure men who will hate this lustful world that is passing away. The “purchased” mentioned here may be in reference to their deaths for the Gospel sake and the eternal life that awaited them. Of course, it also would engage the fact they were bought by Christ’s sacrificial blood.

Verse 4 commends them for their holy living. They will refuse to be defiled with women, choosing chastity over lustful and vulgar behavior. They will be those who keep their thoughts and actions pure as righteous prudes. Prude is a good word in the sight of God Almighty. They also will not marry, offering all their efforts to the cause of Christ.

These holy men will follow Christ the “Lamb wherever He goes.” The chaste lives of these men will far surpass most who have lived; whereby, they will be blessed in such a way as to walk with Christ in Jerusalem. What a miraculous sight to gaze upon during the millennium! These Christians will be tremendously blessed with the described eternal benefits that arise from obedience. This verse reemphasizes the fact these believers will be “purchased from among men as the first fruits to God and to the Lamb.” My goodness what a statement! This prestige is not awarded to any other.

Now, James 1:18 states that believers “are a kind of first fruits among His creatures” which is honorable, but these men seem to surpass even this wonderful title awarded to us, as they are “the first fruits to God and to the Lamb.” Yes, something to contemplate on.

They will have established themselves as good soldiers of Jesus Christ who suffered hardship, and who did not entangle themselves in the affairs of everyday life so they could win the prize, competing according to the rules; 2 Timothy 2:1-5.

As superior soldiers of Christ, these Jewish redeemed ones will not tell one single lie; verse 5. In United States history, lying was viewed as a very vile thing. Most Americans believed people should be taken for their word. This was when the Bible held great importance in our nation as penned, not reinterpreted to conform to man’s sinful desires and vogue trendiness. Our original legislative laws and decrees arose from Biblical commands to maintain honesty and moral uprightness in our land.

We recognize no sovereign but God, and no king but Jesus.
- John Adams and John Hancock

It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great Nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
- Patrick Henry

In regards to this great Book [the Bible], I have but to say it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this Book. But for it we could not know right from wrong. All things most desirable for man’s welfare, here and hereafter, are found portrayed in it.
- Abraham Lincoln

What students would learn in American schools above all is the religion of Jesus Christ.
- George Washington

“The Congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools.”
- United States Congress 1782
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This verse as well states that they will be “blameless.” All Christians are to walk in a blameless manner, holding a good reputation. 2 Peter 3:14 commands that we “be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless.” Always walking in obedience to Scripture assures us of such a reputation. This places responsibility upon us, to be diligent in our study of the Bible, showing ourselves approved unto God, speaking correct interpretation, never needing to be made ashamed of our lack of knowledge (2 Timothy 2:14-16 and Hebrews 5:11-14). We must also ensure that we perform the teachings of the Word, not being merely hearers (James 1:22). This sets us in a blameless state.

Verse 6 moves us into a new section that sets our sights back on the sinful earth. It is clearly evident that Jesus Christ still wants to save mankind and will forgive anyone who comes to Him.

We confirm this by the fact, another angel will fly in midheaven, being assigned to preach the eternal Gospel of Christ to all the inhabitants of the earth—“to every nation, tribe, tongue and people.”

This preaching angel will proclaim, “Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come, worship Him who made the heavens and the earth and sea and springs of water.” This is a command not a suggestion. God is not in the business of giving suggestions. If people do not repent as commanded by this angel, they will receive a non-return ticket (in a sense) to the lake of fire.

Notice God is attempting to set their minds on those things that are lovely and pure that He has created for them. Earth’s inhabitants are instructed to recognize the omnipotence of God through His creation, which would result in their worship. They need to give Him glory for their created blessings, which would lead them to give glory to the Creator, Christ the Savior, who desires to save them. God makes things simple—His message is simple to understand, but few desire to heed His simple message of salvation, whereby He performs the work as they repent.

There are grave consequences to not following the Artisan of all natural splendor. The hour of His judgment has fallen upon unrepentant humankind—who wants to do as he pleases and reason things as he pleases. Mankind desires to make himself a god unto himself and interpret things the way he chooses. I find this alive in the church too, as man wants to interpret Scripture according to his mindset. This is the rebellion of satan lived out in fleshly man who always wants to be his own little god for his own personal gain and elevation. When I confront this, challenging with word-by-word, verse-by-verse, chapter-by-chapter study, believers are angered because of God’s simple, obvious truth. The inerrant Word of God never unveils their personal imagined, confusing doctrines and they hate it. They want Scripture penned according to their pursuits.

God does not desire to cast man into the lake of fire, therefore, He offers the eternal Gospel. This being life forever in paradise. What more could God hold forth to men? It is beyond me why man would want to slap God in the face when He offers the perfect gift, being beyond what man can imagine in the realm of glory. Man on earth is so diluted, living in the lies of the facade that is presented before him through the main avenue of pleasure-filled entertainment. This deadly street only races the flesh for a season. Man is so stupid to settle for unreality.

Verse 8 refers to what will take place in the future and is on its way, as the desired city of styling Babylon will fall. God will make sure of it and it will come about through prideful men desiring to rule the entire earth their way. They will arrive at the conclusion that Babylon needs to be taken off the field of power play.

In this verse, it states Babylon is the “great.” In my last chapter review, for chapter 13, I covered why she will be the city that will surpass all cities in grandeur and sensual desires.

Continuing in verse 8, we note she will make all the nations drink of the wine and passion of her immorality. We know this kingdom will not have any Bible churches preaching the true Gospel, at least visible structures. No one will be allowed to live who follows Christ, as they will be the ones who refuse to take the mark of the beast—Revelation 13:15-17. There will be no moral fiber existing within this city of repugnancy. Wickedness will be running down her streets in uncontrollable waves. No nation will be innocent in this matter.

Another angel follows, verse 9, the one cited in verse 8 offering the wisdom of abstinence. He will state, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he will drink of the wrath of God, which is mixed in full strength in the cup of His anger; and he will be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and the presence of the Lamb.” He is saying please be willing to be killed than suffer eternity in hell. God teaches that we are to fear Him above all else, as He can throw the eternal soul into the fire that burns with brimstone. We are to fear Him who can torture the body and the soul; Matthew 10:28 and Hebrews 10:31.

This is also a warning to us today, as we may want to follow men over God’s truths. It is a very sad thing when believers know the name of famous seductive movie stars, but do not have a great and working knowledge of the Word of God. This is completely sinful and abominable. We can take the mark today in a sense, by our involvement in worldly ways and elevating the evil ones that men applaud. We are to seek after Christ and fellowship with those who own the chaste heart of the arriving 144,000 male virgin Jews. I mean in the sense of wanting to be with those who desire to conform to Biblical obedience and holiness. Of course, I do not mean that we shun those who are married or who want to marry. I am married. ☺

The torment of the wicked who worship the beast and take his mark does not stop in verse 10, but continues into verse 11—“And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, they have no rest day and night!” Mark 9:45-46 refers to the unsaved being cast into hell, “where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.” We are to fear and tremble before God and these verses should cause us to be frightened unto obedience knowing there is a fiery hell and continual torture. We are to test ourselves to make sure we are truly in the faith and not following watered down doctrine that does not present the true Christ of Scripture; 2 Corinthians 13:5.

Returning to Revelation chapter 14, verse 14; we understand that our perseverance—keeping the commandments of God and holding to our faith in Jesus—is an assurance of true salvation. The Bible teaches we will know true Christians by their fruit of righteousness, Matthew 7:15-20, and will be able to discern the antichrists, false teachers and false believers.

Positive assurances are given to true believers in verse 13, as those who will die in the LORD at the time of the tribulation will be blessed, this being stated by the Spirit. They will obtain rest from all their labors for their deeds follow them. They will maintain a godly, pure reputation in this sinful, immodest and lusting world.

We enter a new section at verse 14, the section where we glimpse God’s wrath upon sinners. We see a white cloud and Christ sitting on it, wearing a gold crown. He is the true King of the universe. He has a sharp sickle in His hand for reaping the evil ones. We know this is Christ Jesus as he is “like a son of man.” Whenever we see this phase in the Bible, it refers to Christ. We note this from Revelation 1:13f. (See also Daniel 7:13,14; Matthew 8:20, 9:6, 10:23, 12:8,32,40, 13:37,41, 16:27,28, 17:9,12,22; John 1:51, 5:27, 12:23, 13:31, etc.)

This scene is also disclosed in Isaiah chapter 24, verses 6f. This text states the inhabitants of the earth are burned and only a few men are left. It reveals the turmoil that will come to the earth in these days when Christ reaps with His “sharp sickle.”

Christ also addressed this time of reaping judgment in Matthew 24:37-43, discoursing His return. He educated the people, illustrating the tribulation as it “will be just like the days of Noah,” when the flood came unexpectedly. They were all being merry—drinking, eating, and marrying. Christ wanted the people to discern that good times witnessed today does not mean good times are held for tomorrow. These future earthly inhabitants will have no idea that their moment of doom is teetering above them. They will be thinking only of fun. They will be adhering to a surface self-seeking pleasure mentality like most folks today.

Christ continues His revelation, as He is the One who ordained what lies in the future, thus exposing for print the arriving scenario. This concluding tribulation scene reveals there will be two men in the field, one will be taken, and one left. There will also be two at the mill, one left and one removed. Christ will maneuver like an unsuspected thief, taking the evil ones when they least expect it to their appointed judgment. Those who remain on the earth will be those who will enjoy the millennial rule of the Messiah as His righteous ones.

The rapture will precede; whereby, we will meet Christ in the air in a glorious manner; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18. It appears Christians will not suffer the tribulation or the time of God’s wrath, as we are not appointed unto wrath; 1 Thessalonians 5:3-9. The tribulation falls upon the earth as its inhabitants have continually rebelled against God. This is God’s wrath—the fierce wrath of God; Revelation 16:19, Matthew 3:7-8, etc. Ephesians 2:3-5 refers to the fact believers were children of wrath before being delivered from sin. God instructs the church of Philadelphia, in Revelation 3:10, clarifying they will be kept from that hour which is about to fall upon the whole world to test those who dwell on the earth.

In Matthew 24:44-51, Christ discloses the fate of the evil ones judged at the end of the tribulation through the illustration of a slave. The slave cited will go to glory if he stays obedient. If not, he will be classified as an evil slave, and will be cut in pieces and assigned to “a place with the hypocrites in that place where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” He will be sliced with a sharp sickle and removed from the earth. This adds to our revelational foresight and the sad plight of those who remain in a Christ-rejecting state.

Back in Revelation chapter 14, we see an angel appearing who comes out of the heavenly temple; verse 15. (Verse 17 informs us this is the heavenly temple not the Jerusalem temple.) This angel cries out with a loud voice to the gold-crowned One who is sitting on a cloud. Because he appears “like the son of man,” we know He is Christ Jesus. The angel lets the LORD know it is time to apply His sickle to the earth and reap the evil ones who deny Him. The harvest is ripe! God the Son, who owns a submissive heart to the Father, obeys this mediator’s command.

This ending harvest will be like no other, though God has always brought His judgment in His perfect time in regard to the earth and its consequences. He has always judged peoples and nations. This is taught in Isaiah chapter 40.

In Genesis 15:13-16, we witness the patience of God in regard to the people that inhabited the Holy Land region previous to the nation Israel. God speaks here to Abram. Because God desired that the Amorites (Also referred to as the Canaanites and Hittites) who lived in the Holy Land region repent, He allowed the Jews to be held in Egypt 400 years. Not until God’s preordained time were they allowed to journey to their Promised Holy Land. The LORD stated that the iniquity of the Amorite was not yet complete and prophesied concerning the descendants of Abram and their oppressive Egyptian captivity and their future release. This was preordained according to God’s perfect chronometry scale. When the Jews arrived in the Promised Land, under Joshua, many of the wicked Amorites perished in war. God permitted the Jews to prevail victoriously, permitting them to obtain their God-given headquarters consisting of lot parcels, divided twelve ways according to the sons of Jacob.

God has been completely patient with this old sinful world. He could have dissolved the entire earth at the time of the flood or at the time of Sodom and Gomorrah. God has been deeply agitated at various times during global history and I am sure He is angered with what He observes within our daily worldly scene. God could destroy the entire universe in less than a second, but He has His designed plan that He will carry out. He loves man and desires that every person acquire a repentance mode. He is longsuffering toward us.

In verse 16, we behold Christ, who will sit on a cloud, as stated in verse 14. In verse 16, He swings his sickle over the earth “and the earth was reaped.” Yes, this is deadly serious and will be a stress point in time for earth’s inhabitants. This is why we must snatch people out of the lake of fire; yet, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh; Jude 23.

Now, there is another angel that comes out of the heavenly temple and he too has a sharp sickle; verse 17. Another angel appears in verse 18 who has the power over fire. Fire can never harm this being. This is a super angel that is powerfully equipped. This lofty one comes from the heavenly altar. (The altar is representative of Christ’s sacrifice on the tree of crucifixion. All the animals that were sacrificed on the altar in the temple of Jerusalem in the Old Testament spoke of the sinless sacrifice that was to come.)

This fire angel commands the use of the sickle that is being held in hand of the angel who came out of the temple. The sickle-bearing angel gathers the vine clusters representing sinful mankind and throws them into the winepress of God. Earth’s rebellious populous will meet face to face with the wrathful sickle of God one day. We must be praying for witnessing opportunities and a heart to witness.

The blood of these people arising from the winepress of God will flow upward, as high as the horses’ bridles, for a distance of two hundred miles outside the city of Jerusalem. Those who have persecuted God’s chosen people the Jews, and forcibly stole their city from them will pay the consequences in a dreaded manner. They will be crushed and tortured for eternity.

All that we see in these verses will take place previous to the events of Revelation chapter 19, prior to Christ’s thousand year rule on the earth.

In God who hates all sinful disobedience to His words,

Val Lee

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Revelation chapters 1-10  http://vallee7.wordpress.com/2009/08/27/revelation-chapters-1-10-explained/