Revelation 12 - The Woman, Child, and a Dragon Who Wants to Devour Us

LINK: Revelation 12

BACKGROUND

The seventh trumpet of Revelation 11:15 ushers in the bowl judgments, but 12:12-15 are a parenthetical break in the chronology that includes events concurrent with the sounding of the trumpets. It introduces major players involved in the end times struggle between good and evil. 

Major Players 

Woman - The "great sign" (the NIV's "wondrous" is not in the Greek text) of the woman with a child in labor pain is believed to be the nation of Israel. Compare Revelation 12:1 with Genesis 37:9-10. In the Old Testament, Israel is often referred to metaphorically as a woman and sometimes as a "woman in travail (labor)" (Isaiah 54:5; 66:7; Jeremiah 3:6-10; Micah 4:10; 5:2-3).  The 12 stars are believed to be the 12 tribes of Israel. The woman is the first of the "signs" or "miracles" mentioned in Revelation (12:3; 13:13-14; 15:1; 16:14; 19:20).

Dragon - The dragon is mentioned 13 times in the book of Revelation (12:3, 3, 7, 9, 13, 16, 17; 13:1, 2, 4; 16:13; 20:3). Revelation 12:9 and 20:2 identify him as Satan. Red is associated with death (6:4), and Satan is a murderer (John 8:44). The 10 horns are thought to represent 10 kings (Daniel 7:24) who reigned at the same time as the world ruler (Daniel 7:7-8, 24; Revelation 13:1; 17:12). The heads represent mountains (Revelation 17:9). See Daniel 8:10 and Isaiah 14:12-15 for insight into the stars with him. 

Child - The male child is Christ, who is a descendant of the woman, Israel. This child will rule all the nations. Compare 12:5 with 19:15 and Psalm 2:9. Satan tried to devour the son, but He was swooped up to God and His throne. This is Christ's birth, death, and resurrection in one verse (12:5)!


Herod tried to kill all the male children to find this newborn King of the Jews (Matthew 2:1-20). The cosmic conflict behind the scenes was Satan trying to devour the child! This is the same conflict that has occurred since Genesis 3:15 when God said to the serpent, Satan:

And I will put enmity

Between you (Satan) and the woman (Eve), 

And between your seed (those controlled by you) 

and her seed (Abel, humanity and eventually Christ and those "in Him"); 

He (Christ) shall bruise (crush) you (Satan) on the head, 

And you (Satan) shall bruise him (Christ) on the heel.

The more fatal blow is on the head than the heel. This was God's declaration of war, and Satan's "bruises to the heel" were his attempt throughout history to keep his head from being crushed. Here are some examples throughout our Bible Book Club of Satan at work throughout history to "bruise the heel":

• Cain motivated to kill Abel (promised seed for righteous deliverer)
• Earth corrupted so badly that God had to destroy it with a flood except for the family of one righteous man: Noah
• Esau prompted to kill Jacob (promised son with a lineage leading to Jesus), but Rebekah warned so Jacob fled
• Pharaoh decreed to kill Jewish male babies, but Moses was preserved by his family to deliver the Jews after he fled into the wilderness and eventually brought the children of Israel into the wilderness
• Saul tried to kill David (from whose lineage the son of David, Jesus, would be born), but Jonathan warned so David fled into the wilderness
• Haman tried to kill all the Jews in the empire, but Esther intervened
• Herod the Great wanted to kill all the male babies in the City of David, but the angel warned and Joseph, Mary, and Jesus fled to Egypt

Just as most of the above fled and were protected by God so that Jesus could eventually come into the world, the woman fled into the desert for 1,260 days (42 months, or 3 1/2 years according to 30-day months of the prophetic calendar). 

Michael - the wonderful archangel (Jude 9) and the good angels fought with Satan and his bad angels. See Daniel 12:1ff. In this fight, Satan and his angels were hurled to the earth.

Some believe that Satan's fall to earth took place at Jesus' resurrection or ascension and the 1,260 days (3 1/2 years) is a symbolic way of referring to the time between Christ's first and second comings. Others say that Satan's defeat will occur in the middle of a literal seven year tribulation period, following the rapture of the church and preceding the second coming of Christ and the beginning of Christ's 1,000-year reign. Whatever the case, we must remember that Christ is victorious -- Satan has already been defeated because of Christ's death on the cross (12:10-12). (The Life Application Bible, page 2318)

I could stir the pot even MORE by adding more positions about when this occurs (the Pre-wrath position is one I have not mentioned) and have friends who teach their position very effectively (Shout out to Gary and Todd who hold two very different views), but I think the emphasized point above is what we can all agree on: 

Christ wins in the end!

In the meantime, we know that Satan is even now making "war against the rest of her offspring -- those who obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus" (12:17). This chapter reminds us all of this fact. Be warned. 

REFLECTION

I hate conflict. There is a lot of it in the book of Revelation. On top of going through this book in the BBC, I am teaching a class on the mythical Iliad by Homer which is another story of great conflict.  One thing that both of these have in common is that we know at the beginning of the book who wins in the end!  The Greeks will prevail over the Trojans in the Homeric epic, and God will prevail over Satan too because Genesis 3:15 tells us so. In the meantime, the Trojans will win some small battles over the Greeks, and in Revelation 12, it seems like Satan is making some progress as he "wages war against the rest of her offspring -- those who obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus" (12:17).

Like I said, I hate conflict, and I have experienced a bit of the enemy's "war raging" as I have prepared these lessons, especially Wednesday night when I went to the beautiful Oregon coast to work on these last chapters in the Bible Book Club. I went there stressed because of some deadlines, had a hard time focusing, and was fearful after listening to these last chapters late at night while all alone in my friends' big beach house! 

I couldn't sleep but decided to work on more posts, but my computer mysteriously stopped working, and I wrestled with irrational fears (with many tears) until 4:00 in the morning. I started to pack my car to leave, but I was afraid to drive home when I was so sleepy! In desperation, I called my husband (poor guy!) to ask him to pray. After that conversation, I slept like a baby! Thank God and George!

I don't always think to pray against the enemy because I don't think I am that important for his attack. One of my dearest friends keeps telling me I am a big target, but I think I would be arrogant to think so. Yet, I am convinced that the enemy of our souls, Satan, is going to oppose any of us who dig more deeply into God's Word and especially the book of Revelation because it exposes him! 

George told me today that C.S. Lewis addresses this in The Screwtape Letters. I have never read it, but his paraphrase to me this morning was that Uncle Screwtape tells Wormwood to do all that he can to make the believer forget that there is a battle. WOW!  For me, that is spot on.

I often forget there is a battle. How about you?

(I wrote this in 2010 and have since read The Screwtape Letters twice. Here is my review.)

2023 Update: I read it a third time and led a Renovare Book Club discussion on it in 2018. I love their resources. They often do webinars with the authors or experts on the author if the author is not alive. Here is a podcast with the expert on C.S. Lewis:

 

APPLICATION/PRAYER

We know who wins in the end, and don't let the enemy convince you otherwise!

Make praying against the enemy a big part of your daily prayer plan! 

Here is what I try to pray every morning:

Protection in Spiritual Warfare 

O Lord, guard my heart against the temptations of the world and renew my heart and spirit:

Since I have been raised up with You, O Christ, I will keep seeking the things above, where You are at the right hand of God. I will set my mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:1-2)

I will be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving I will let my requests be known to God. And Your peace, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-8)

Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and anything worthy of praise, I will let my mind dwell on these things. (Philippians 4:9)

O Lord, guard my heart against the weaknesses and temptations of the flesh so that I may reckon myself as dead to sin:

Father, I know that my old self was crucified with Christ, so that I am no longer a slave to sin, for he who has died is freed from sin. I will reckon myself as dead to sin, but alive to You in Christ Jesus. I will not present the parts of my body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness but I will present myself to You, O God, as one alive from the dead, and the parts of my body as instruments of righteousness to You. (Romans 6:6-7, 12-13)

O Lord, guard my heart against the attacks of the devil and give me the strength to resist him:

As I submit myself to You, O God, and resist the devil, he will flee from me. (James 4:7)

I will be of sober spirit and on the alert. My adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But I will resist him, firm in my faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)

I will take up Your full armor, O God, that I may be able to resist and stand firm. I put on the belt of truth and the breastplate of righteousness; I put on my feet the preparation of the gospel of peace; and I take up the shield of faith with which I will be able to extinguish all the flaming missiles of the evil one. I take the helmet of salvation and the sword of Your Spirit, which is Your Word, O God. With all prayer and petition I will pray at all times in Your Spirit and be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:13-18) (Face to Face: Praying the Scriptures for Intimate Worship, p. 7-9 by Kenneth Boa)

I also have a recording that I made of Scriptures to pray against the enemy from Praying God's Word by Beth Moore. 

You might like to read The Screwtape Letters too. Start with listening to the Podcast above.

I pray this helps you armor up for battle!

Revelation 11 - And He Shall Reign Forever and Ever

LINK: Revelation 11

BACKGROUND

Revelation 11:1-11 is a continuation of the parenthetical section begun in 10:1. There are numerous interpretations of this difficult section. Some see the temple that is measured as figurative, and others think of it as literal. The part of the temple measured is the sanctuary which included the holy place and the holy of holies where the high priest could only go once a year. Some commentators believe that the measurement is a symbolic action claiming it for the Lord who owns the city of Jerusalem and the temple. We see previous incidents of this in Ezekiel 40-41 and Zechariah 2:1-3. Also, we will see the New Jerusalem measured in Revelation 21:15-17. 

God was "staking His claim" because, at this point in Revelation, the Gentiles had taken over Jerusalem. The Antichrist had broken his agreement with Israel (Daniel 9:27) and was going to use it for evil purposes (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Luke 21:24). They will trample Jerusalem for 42 months. The "time of the Gentiles" will last until Jesus Christ returns to deliver Jerusalem and redeem Israel (Zechariah 14). 

The two witnesses prophecy for 1260 days (42 months or 3 1/2 years if going by the 360-day prophetic calendar year). Looking at the Bible Book Club post for Zechariah 4 gives us some insight into the "olive trees": 

The Fifth Vision - The Lampstand and Two Olive Trees 

This lampstand was supernaturally supplied with golden oil flowing from two olive trees to the bowl and onto seven channels to each of the seven lights on the lampstand. The two olive trees symbolized Joshua and Zerubbabel in their priestly and kingly roles for the people of God (4:14). This vision symbolized that, despite the opposition, God would give them success to complete the task of rebuilding the temple and shining His light because of His Spirit and not because of their might and power.

Likewise, the two witnesses have a task from God to complete. They will be infused with power from God in order to give His message and perform miracles of judgment. 

Many commentators believe this is Moses and Elijah because they performed similar tasks in the Old Testament (Exodus 7:14-18; 1 Kings 17:1ff; 2 Kings 1:1-12).  Malachi 4:5-6 suggests that Elijah will come before the "great and terrible day of the Lord," but Jesus said this was John the Baptist (Matthew 17:10-13), but John the Baptist denied he was Elijah (John 1:21, 25; Luke 1:16-17). Another argument for it being Moses and Elijah is that they are in the transfiguration of Matthew 17:1-9. Others cite that Elijah did not die but was "taken up" (2 Kings 2) and there was a dispute over Moses' bones (Jude 9). All that said, we do not know for sure! 

The two witnesses will "torment" the people (11:10) by sending a message of repentance and judgment. After the witnesses have finished their testimony, the Beast (Antichrist, 13:1; 14:9, 11; 15:2; 16:2; 17:3, 13; 19:20; 20:10) is allowed to kill them, and they will lay unburied for three and a half days while the rebellious world gloats over them. Then, they will be resurrected to heaven followed by an earthquake that kills 7,000. Notice that the survivors were terrified and "gave glory to the God of heaven"!  This is the end of the second woe (11:14). 

The seventh trumpet sounds to usher in and include the seven bowl judgments which will be the last. These will not be revealed until Revelation 16. In the meantime, there is fall-on-your-face worship, and these are the verses you hear in the middle of the Hallelujah Chorus of Handel's Messiah! 

(I would love for you to stick around with me until December when we will have "Messiah Meditations" that review our journey through the Bible Book Club! Here is a downloadable Word document of it: Messiah Meditations and a link to the online version.)

I love the significance of what happens in heaven during this time:

The divine response to the elders' song is the sudden opening of God's temple in heaven (v. 19), protected by John's prophetic act of measuring at the beginning of the chapter (11:1). Within God's temple the ark of His covenant appeared (v. 19 NASB), followed shortly by two more "appearances" (all with the same Greek word for "appeared," horao: first, "a great and wondrous sign appeared in heaven" (12:1) and then "another sign appeared in heaven" (12:3). The appearance of the ark of the covenant is God's acknowledgment of the thanksgiving just offered by the twenty-four elders. John's glimpse of the ark is the nearest he comes in all his visions to a glimpse of God. The repetition of the words "appear" and "in heaven" accent the continuity between God's self-disclosure in the temple and the disclosure of conflict and victory in the next four or five chapters (compare also 15:5). In this sense the seventh trumpet is open-ended, encompassing all the rest of the book of Revelation and announcing in advance the end of the story. (Revelation: IVP New Testament Commentary)

While it is not stated, this is probably the beginning of the last of the three woes (8:13; 9:12; 11:15). 

REFLECTION/APPLICATION

This was a tough chapter, but I love how it ends!!!! I am in tears as I listen to this wonderful rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus. Many do not realize it is from the book of Revelation.  It is all about the WORSHIP of our great and wonderful God!  I hope this leads you into fall-on-your-face worship!

PRAYER

 The kingdom of the world has become 

the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; 

and He will reign forever and ever.

(Revelation 11:15)

Here is some background about Handel's Messiah that I cannot keep from sharing and will give a sneak peek into what we will do in December:

The composer was in despair.  Struggling to earn a living in London, he knew days when he could not afford to buy meals.  One night in 1741, depressed and defeated, he wandered the lonely streets; it was almost dawn when he returned to his shabby room.  On a table was a thick envelope.  It was from Charles Jennens, the man who wrote his librettos.  Examining the pages, he found them covered with Scripture texts. 

        Wearily, he tossed the pages aside and crawled into bed.  But he could not sleep.  The words he had read returned to him: 

        Comfort ye, comfort ye, my people, saith your God ... The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light ... For unto us a Child is born ... Glory to God in the highest ... Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

        Too stirred to sleep, he got up and went to his piano.  The music flowed from his heart-rich, majestic, triumphant.  He began to write.  Night and day for three weeks, he wrote feverishly.  He forgot sleep, food, rest.  He refused to see anyone.  At last, on the day the work was finished, one friend managed to gain entrance. 

        The composer was at his piano, sheets of music strewn around him, tears streaming down his face.  "I do believe I have seen all of Heaven before me, and the great God Himself," he exclaimed. 

        Millions of people have been able to believe that.  The first audience to hear the composition -- in Dublin in 1742 -- gave it the greatest ovation in the city's history.  Weeks later, London heard it for the first time, and again it was a triumph.  The King was so impressed during the Hallelujah Chorus that he rose to his feet -- a custom that still prevails. 

        This Christmas, in churches and concert halls around the world, millions of people will once again find hope and faith in the message what has become the most beloved composition of all times -- George Frederic Handel's Messiah. (http://www.morning-glow.com/holidays/xmas/messiah.html, Sadly the website is no longer there. So, I cannot give credit for this to anyone.) 

(Did the king really stand? Read HERE for more about that)

Revelation 10 - A Yummy Little Scroll That Turns Sour

LINK: Revelation 10

BACKGROUND

This is a continuation of the sixth trumpet in the second set of judgments. 

The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Volume 2, p. 950

The purpose of the mighty angel holding the little scroll is to announce the final judgments on the earth, and there would be "no more delay!" When the seventh angel comes to blow the seventh trumpet (11:15), the mystery of God (Ephesians 1:9,10) that had been previously announced to His prophets will be accomplished (Daniel 12:9). Then all will know the Lord and the truth about Him (Jeremiah 31:34).

The angel instructed John to eat the scroll which turns from sweet in his mouth to sour in his stomach. Ezekiel had a vision of a scroll that he was told to eat. It was sweet in his mouth but the contents of it brought bitter destruction for those who did not follow God (Ezekiel 3:1ff). 

REFLECTION

I had a light bulb moment about the sweet scroll that turned sour in John's stomach! It is so much how I feel about the judgment of God! It is bittersweet! For a believer, it means that God's holiness will be displayed, and His justice will be established. He will be glorified. That is the sweet part (see also Jeremiah 15:16; Psalm 19:9-10; Matthew 4:4; 1 Peter 2:2; 1 Corinthians 3:1-2; Psalm 119:103).  

God's Word has sweet promises, but it also has bitter prophecies and warnings of coming judgment. It makes me sad to think that others will be judged so harshly in the end for not "repenting of the works of their hands" (9:20). That is the bitter pill that we as believers must swallow, but it also should motivate us to be a part of what is really on God's heart: the proclamation of the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to every people, nation, tribe, and language (7:9; 10:11)! His message through us is one of both life and death (2 Corinthians 2:14-17). It is sweet for those who believe but bitter for those who do not. 

APPLICATION

Pray for the lost today and for an opportunity to share the GOOD NEWS!

PRAYER


Lord, Your message of judgment is bittersweet. We praise You for Your justice and holiness that will be displayed for all the world to see. We pray that many more would see You and the mystery that came at the first coming of Jesus and culminated in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus who was the Lamb who came to take away the sin of people from every nation, people, tribe, and language. Come with power to every people group in the world. We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen. 

(Have you checked out that Joshua Project prayer resource yet?)

Revelation 8 & 9 - The Seventh Seal, Trumpets, and Woes

LINK: Revelation 8  and Revelation 9 

BACKGROUND 

The chart below might help you understand how Revelation is structured. Revelation 8 is where the arrow goes down from the seventh seal and through the fourth trumpet. Revelation 9 covers the fifth trumpet (with the first woe) and the sixth trumpet (with the beginning of the second woe). 

The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Volume 2, p. 950

Revelation 8 - Trumpets 1-4

The breaking of the seventh seal by the Lamb is followed by thirty minutes of silence. This is appropriate because God's judgment is about to intensify (See Zephaniah 1:7, 14-18). This breaking reveals seven trumpets given to seven angels. Trumpets were significant in Israel's history:

According to Numbers 10, trumpets had three important uses: they called the people together (Num. 10:1–8); they announced war (Num. 10:9); and they announced special times (Num. 10:10). The trumpet sounded at Mount Sinai when the Law was given (Ex. 19:16–19), and trumpets were blown when the king was anointed and enthroned (1 Kings 1:34, 39). Of course, everyone familiar with the Old Testament would remember the trumpets at the conquest of Jericho (Josh. 6:13–16).  (The Bible Exposition Commentary: Volume 2, Re 8:1, p. 592)

Another angel, stood before the golden altar with a golden censer of a large amount of incense (1 Kings 7:50; 2 Chronicles 4:22). In the Old Testament tabernacle and temple, the golden altar was in front of the veil and burned incense (Exodus 30:1-10). Burning incense were poured on coals and a sweet- aroma went upwards to God. This is symbolic of the prayers ascending to God (Psalm 141:12) from all God's saints. Instead of taking the censer and going into the holy of holies like the high priest would do on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:11-14), the angel hurled the censer full of the fire of the altar to the earth with many fireworks in nature!

Revelation 8:6-13 involves the first four angels and trumpets and natural and heavenly disasters: hail, fire, falling stars, death, and darkness. Wormwood was "a plant both bitter and deleterious, and growing in desolate places, figuratively suggestive of calamity (Lam. 3:15) and injustice (Amos 5:7)" (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words: Vol. 2, p. 234).

Wormwood is spoken of in the Old Testament, and it is never good (Deuteronomy 28:18; Proverbs 5:4; Jeremiah 9:15; 23:15; Lamentation 31:15,19; Amos 5:7)!

During the fourth angel's judgment, an eagle appears as a messenger proclaiming three "woes" for the "inhabitants of the earth" in 8:13. Who are the "inhabitants"?

The phrase “inhabiters of the earth” (or “them that dwell on the earth”) is found twelve times in Revelation (3:10; 6:10; 8:13; 11:10 [twice]; 12:12; 13:8, 12, 14; 14:6; 17:2, 8). It means much more than “people who live on the earth,” for that is where all living people reside. Instead, it refers to a kind of people: those who live for the earth and the things of the earth. These are just the opposite of people who have their citizenship in heaven (Phil. 3:18–21). John described this worldly sort well in his first epistle (1 John 2:15–17), and later in this prophecy he again makes it clear that “earth-dwellers” are not born again (Rev. 13:8). (The Bible Exposition Commentary: Volume 2, Re 8:7, p. 594) 

The first four trumpet judgments destroyed only one-third of the earth. The eagle is proclaiming that the worst is yet to come!

Revelation 9 

Fifth Trumpet with First Woe - The "Locust" Army from the Pit (9:1-12)

It is not known whether the "star" that fell from heaven is Satan (Isaiah 14:12-14; Luke 10:18), a fallen angel, Christ, or a good angel. Regardless, God has given this star the keys (1:17, 18) to open the "shaft of the Abyss" or bottomless pit which is the place where demons dwell (9:11; 11:7; 17:8; 20:1,2; Luke 8:31; Romans 10:7). Satan will be temporarily jailed there when Jesus reigns (Revelation 20:1-3). The Antichrist (beast) will come out of there (Revelation 11:7; 17:8).

The pit is hot (Matthew 13:42,50) and locusts come out who have a deadly sting, and they sting people who are not protected by God with the seal given in Revelation 7. All believers are protected (Ephesians 1:13-14; 2 Timothy 2:19) so regardless of what you believe about where believers are during this at this point in Revelation(raptured before the tribulation, before the wrath of God, in the middle of the tribulation, or after), this is an assurance!

Locusts always brought destruction in the Old Testament (Exodus 10:12-20; Joel 1:4-7; 2:1-10). These locusts were given permission to torment the people without the seal for five months, making them want to die (9:6). These do not sound like literal locusts because of the scorpion-like stings. Many commentators believe they are demons which makes sense since the pit where they reside has just been opened up. The meaning of their leader's name in Hebrew and Greek is "destroyer." It also might be a play on words since many worshiped the Greek/Roman god, Apollo.

Sixth Trumpet with Second Woe - The Army from the East (9:13-21)

This is the beginning of the second woe which will happen until Revelation 11:14. A voice from the horns of the golden altar (Exodus 27:2), commands that four wicked angels be released (no holy angel would be bound). They come from the Euphrates River in the "cradle of civilization" (Genesis 2:14) and on the border of Israel (Genesis 15:18). The wicked angels on war horses have an army of 200 million beings behind them. This army is released to kill a third of the world's population. When you combine this with one-fourth that has already been killed (Revelation 6:8), it is more than half of the world! 

I am astounded that the remaining people who are not killed by the plague "did not repent" of their sin and demon worship. They are very hard-hearted! 

REFLECTION/APPLICATION

There is a similarity between these judgments and the 10 Plagues when Moses was trying to convince Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. See if you can make the connection with Exodus 7:14-12:36. It will be a good Bible Book Club review!

Your prayers are a sweet aroma to God? Do you believe this and that you can make a difference? 

If you have not already done it from yesterday's application, look at the Joshua Project Unreached People of the Day resources and try one. Start small and do it just for today. 

Here is a widget to get you started:

PRAYER

Lord, I praise You that You are a God of justice. We do not want people to die without having an opportunity to hear the Good News. Make us ambassadors of that Good News to all we meet! Amen. 

Revelation 7 - "Who Can Stand?"

My illustration from a study of Revelation in 2001

LINK: Revelation 7 

BACKGROUND 

This chapter is a pause in the events before the seventh seal is broken.

When referring to the great day of His wrath in 6:17, the question is asked: "Who is able to stand?" Revelation 7 is the answer to that question in two groups of people:

1. Jews - 144,000 (12 tribes x 12,000), sealed on earth (7:1-8)
2. Gentiles and Jews from all nations - numberless, standing in heaven before God (7:9-17)

Before the seventh seal is opened, John sees four angels on the corners of the earth (Zechariah 6:5), and they are instructed to do no harm to the land until the servants of God are sealed, symbolizing God's protection and ownership. Note the story in Ezekiel 9:1-7. 

Jews

Some believe these 144,000 are the church. Some believe it is twelve tribes of Israel (Old Testament saints) times twelve Apostles (New Testament saints), but it says they are from all the tribes of Israel. The genealogical records have all been destroyed, but God knows His people (Matthew 19:28; Acts 26:7; James 1:1). Levi is included here even though no inheritance was promised in the Old Testament (Numbers 18:20-24; Joshua 13:14). Joseph is named with his son, Manasseh, but not Ephraim. Some commentators believe this is because of Ephraim's rebellion (Judges 17:1-3; Hosea 4:17). The tribe of Dan is totally omitted, and it is speculated that this is because of its rebellion and idolatry (Genesis 49:17; Judges 18:30; 1 Kings 12:28-29), but Dan is mentioned in land distribution in Ezekiel's prophecy (Ezekiel 48:1-2). While there are many hypotheses, we do not know the definitive reasons and just need to obey what we DO know (Deuteronomy 29:29). Judah's tribe is first, probably because it is Jesus' tribe. 

Gentiles and Jews

Jesus died to redeem people "from every tribe and tongue and people and nation" (Revelation 5:9), and He told us to go out and invite everybody to the party (Mark 16:15). 

This numberless multitude is standing before the throne (God the Father) and in front of the Lamb (God the Son). Some commentators believe these are just Gentiles, some just the 144,000, some the 144,000 plus Gentiles from all peoples. Since it says every people, I tend to believe it could not just be Jews or just Gentiles but a mix! Regardless of who they are, they ascribe honor to God and the Lamb with the angels, 24 elders, and the four living creatures similar to 5:9-10. (Remember that Revelation is primarily about worship.)

Some commentators believe this is the same group of martyrs from 6:9 who are now wearing white robes and holding palm branches to signify righteous triumph. We know that they have come out of the great tribulation ("affliction" or "persecution") that Jesus predicted in Matthew 24:21. They suffered hunger (13:17), thirst (16:4), and lack of shelter (16:8-9), but they were safe in heaven, guided by the Shepherd, and given living water to drink. And they were there to serve God night and day and to worship. 

REFLECTION 

I felt the need to walk and pray yesterday rather than do the post for Revelation 7 because I was almost two months behind in my daily "Walking for the World"! After praying for about five different unreached peoples, trying to catch up, it hit me that I was applying Revelation 7:9 before I even studied it! :) Don't you love it when God does that?

From the beginning of the Bible Book Club, I have stated that God's heart is for ALL nations, and the Book of Revelation is no exception. It thrills my heart to think of that great multitude worshipping and serving God! 

How will You be involved with what is on God's heart? 

"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." (Mark 16:15)

APPLICATION 

What part will you play in God's global cause for ALL the peoples of the earth? Pray? Give? Go? Send? Mobilize? Welcome?

Here is the resource I use when "Walking for the World" (you don't have to walk and can just pray):

Joshua Project Unreached People of the Day

(There is an app, widget, podcast, email, calendar, and website.) 

It is a great place to start!

PRAYER

Lord, all nations will come and worship You. Lead us to the role You want us to play in this. Amen. 

Revelation 6 - Six Seals and the Great Day of Wrath

LINK: Revelation 6

BACKGROUND 

There are many views as to when the things in Revelation take place. If you would like to read about the different views of the interpretation of Revelation, see here and the Wikipedia article on the subject. In short, some believe that these events have already taken place, and some believe they are in the future.

Revelation 6 is the first of three seven-part judgments. The trumpets are in Revelation 8-9, and the bowls are in Revelation 16. A good way to remember what happens in this chapter is the "sixth chapter has six seals." The seventh seal for this first part of judgments is not broken until Revelation 8:1. 

Cross-referencing may help you in your interpretation. The events of this chapter are very similar to the events predicted by Jesus in the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24-25:

1) Second Red horse of war - Matthew 24:6-7; Revelation 6:3-4
2) Third Black horse of famine - 24:7; 6:5-6
3) Fourth Pale green/ashen horse of death - 24:24:7-9; 6:7-8
4) Martyrdom - 24:9-10, 16-22; 6:9-11
5) Sun and moon darkened and stars falling - 24:29; 6:12-14
6) Judgment - 24:32-25:26; 6:15-17 

You notice that there is no cross-reference in Matthew 24 for the first white horse that has a rider with no arrow (6:2). Some have interpreted this to be Christ, but the crown he wears is not a kingly one (stephanos is the "victor's crown" and not diadema which is the "kingly crown" worn by Christ in Revelation 19:12).  For this reason, many interpreters do not think this is Christ but the Antichrist posing as a world ruler who would establish a world government without war followed by destruction. (Daniel 9:26, 1 Thessalonians 5:3; Revelation 13:4). 

The Four Horsemen correspond with the first four seals opened by the Lamb. The imagery of the four horses is also seen in Zechariah 6:1-8. 

Cross-references help us interpret Scripture with Scripture and are vital for inductive Bible study! These help us understand Revelation 6:

6:12 - Isaiah 2:19-22; Joel 2:28-32; 3:15; Acts 2:14-21
6:13 - Mark 13:21-25
6:14 - Isaiah 13:9-10; 34:1-4
6:15-17 - Zephaniah 1:14-18; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3

The fifth seal involves the response of the martyrs ("a witness") and hearkens back to Old Testament imagery where the blood represents life (Leviticus 17:11), and these martyrs under the altar gave their lives sacrificially for God's glory (Philippians 2:17; 2 Timothy 4:6). They are eager for the vindication of God's holiness and for Him to bring justice to earth and not necessarily revenge, but they are told to wait.

The sixth seal includes worldwide catastrophes! (It keeps me wanting to cling to God and tell more and more people about Him so that they will escape His judgment!)

Remember: Revelation 6 means six seals opened.

REFLECTION

2023 Update

When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar 

the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God 

and the testimony they had maintained. (6:9)

Reading this chapter, makes me think of modern-day martyrs, one of whom we knew.

Since I wrote this in 2010, on February 13, 2017, Raymond Koh was abducted by Royal Malaysia Police in the middle of the day. He has not been seen since. He had been threatened for years. Please pray for his family and that they would find out what happened to him. 

Voice of the Martyrs will host the Hearts of Fire event with Koh's wife, Susanna, and three other widows of modern-day martyrs on July 14, 2023, at 7 pm Eastern time. (If you read this and the event has passed, see if there is a recorded version somewhere on the website.)

APPLICATION

How would God have you respond to this chapter? Talk to Him about it. 

Possible applications are:

• Pray through resources at the Voice of the Martyrs website and for the Koh family. 
• Pray for the lost around you. Pray for opportunities to share the Good News!
• Look up the cross-references above.

PRAYER

Lord God, we worship You as a God of justice and holiness. We look forward to the day when this will be established on the earth. In the meantime, draw many to Yourself so that they will escape this! Amen. 

Revelation 5 - The Lamb Who Was Slain

LINK: Revelation 5

BACKGROUND

This chapter is the culmination of all that we have learned in the three years of Bible reading in the Bible Book Club and The Scarlet Thread of Redemption that we have been tracking from Genesis - Revelation! If you are just doing Revelation or just this chapter and have not been part of the Bible Book Club, consider doing it in the next cycle that starts January 1! We read 1-2 chapters a day for three years (but you can do it faster or slower if you want). 

Revelation 5 opens with God, on His throne, holding a book (scroll) that is sealed up with seven seals. The loud voice (the first of 20 in the book of Revelation) of a strong angel asks, 

"Who is worthy 

to open the book and to break its seals?" 
(Revelation 5:2)

The only one worthy was the "Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David." Remember that David came from the tribe of Judah, and Jesus came from the line of David (Matthew 1:1). Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of a King who would come. 

“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to
 testify to you these things for the churches. 

I am the root and the descendant of David, 
the bright morning star.”

(Revelation 22:16)

Revelation 5:5 says that the Lion has "overcome." This ties in with the "victory" songs at the beginning of the last scene. "Overcome" and "victory" are derived from the same Greek root word, nike, that I talked about in that post. Jesus is the victor in the battle against Satan and sin and has given us the victory.

Even though Jesus was introduced as a Lion, John saw a "Lamb standing, as if slain." In His first coming, Jesus came as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world" (John 1:29). In His Second Coming, He will be the conquering Lion. Revelation 5 is the only place in this book where Jesus is referred to as a Lion, but He is referred to as a Lamb 27 times! "He is a lion to conquer Satan, a lamb to satisfy the justice of God" (Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible, Revelation 5:6-14, p. 2471). 

What about the scroll?

The scroll represents Christ’s “title deed” to all that the Father promised Him because of His sacrifice on the cross. “Ask of Me, and I shall give Thee the heathen [nations] for Thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for Thy possession” (Ps. 2:8). Jesus Christ is the “Heir of all things” (Heb. 1:2). He is our beloved “Kinsman-Redeemer” who was willing to give His life to set us free from bondage and to restore our lost inheritance (see Lev. 25:23–46; the Book of Ruth; Jer. 32:6–15). (The Bible Exposition Commentary: Volume 2, Re 5:1, p. 584)

A title deed can only be opened by the heir, and Jesus is the heir of all things (Hebrews 1:2).

Also, Jesus "purchased" (agorazō means "to redeem") people from every tribe, language, people, and nation (salvation is available to ALL). His blood bought us all out of slavery. 

When the Lamb takes the scroll, the only response of the elders, living creatures, and eventually angels totally an innumerable multitude is WORSHIP. Then, every created thing in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and on and in the sea gives power, riches, wisdom, might, honor, glory, blessing, and full-on WORSHIP to the Lamb because He is so very WORTHY! 

HALLELUJAH AND AMEN!!!

REFLECTION/APPLICATION/PRAYER

Love this song and listening to it this morning. 

Let it lead you into worship!

"Revelation Song" by Kari Jobe

Worthy is the, Lamb who was slain
Holy, Holy, is He
Sing a new song, to him who sits on
Heaven's mercy seat
[2X]

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come
With all creation I sing
Praise to the King of Kings
You are my everything
And I will adore You

Clothed in rainbows, of living color
Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor, strength and glory and power be
to You the only wise King

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come
With all creation I sing
Praise to the King of Kings
You are my everything
And I will adore You

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder
At the mention of your name
Jesus your name is power
Breath, and living water
Such a marvelous mystery
Yeah...

Holy, Holy, Holy
Is the Lord God Almighty
Who was, and is, and is to come, yeah
With all creation I sing
Praise to the King of Kings
You are my everything
And I will adore You
[3X]

With this heavenly scene set and our hearts set on worshiping God in His glory and majesty, tomorrow we will start exploring the opening of the seven seals revealing the power of God in judgment. Hold on to your seats! We are in for a wild ride! 

Revelation 4 - The Heavenly Throne

LINK: Revelation 4

BACKGROUND

This is where the fun begins! "Be not afraid . . . Behold your God!" comes to mind as I edit this post and listen to Handel's Messiah (Isaiah 40:9). Do not be afraid of Revelation! You will behold Your God through it. Guaranteed. That is a WIN-WIN in my book!

Revelation 4-22 outlines what 1:17 says will happen in the future. These are the things that must take place (the Greek word dei can only mean "must'). 

This view of the glowing rainbow around God's throne may seem familiar to you if you have been in the Bible Book Club for a while. Take a look at Ezekiel 1:22-28. The jasper is a clear stone (21:11), the carnelian is a ruby, and the sardius is a ruby-red color. Jasper and carnelian were worn on the breast of the high priest (Exodus 28:17-21). 

There is speculation about the identity of the twenty-four elders around the throne. They wore crowns like those given to victors in the Greek games and not crowns of sovereign rulers. Some commentators believe that since there were 12 tribes of Israel in the Old Testament and 12 apostles in the New Testament that they represent all God's redeemed for all time who are worshiping Him. 

The seven spirits of God in the seven lamps refer to the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11:2-3; Zechariah 4:2-6; Revelation 1:4; 5:6). The four living creatures have been interpreted as representing the attributes of God. 

This is a scene of worship in heaven, and I do not want a lengthy post to distract you from the worship of our great God seated upon His throne!

APPLICATION 

Worship! (Isn't Revelation fun and not scary?)

Let this song, based on this chapter, bring You before the King!

PRAYER

Lord, You are on Your throne, and we worship You. "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come."

Revelation 3 - Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea

LINK: Revelation 3

BACKGROUND

Sardis was a center for trade that was at the junction of five main roads and 30 miles east of Ephesus and 30 miles southeast of Thyatira. It was on a plateau which made it an important military center also. It was the center of pagan worship of the goddess Artemis. It was also known for its manufacture of woolen garments. Archaeologists have found the ruins of a Christian church next to the temple that may be the church that is spoken of here. 

As I have mentioned before, the seven spirits are believed to refer to the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11:2-3; Zechariah 4:1-14; Revelation 1:4; 4:5; 5:6), but it is a strange way to refer to Him. The seven stars are the leaders or pastors of the seven churches in Revelation. 

Sardis never really receives a commendation, only exhortation! The problem was that they had a reputation for being alive, but they were actually dead (Matthew 23:27-28). They were exhorted to:

• Wake up  
• Strengthen what life they still had 
• Remember 
• Obey 
• Repent

Even though the majority of the church was dying, there was still a remnant who followed God and would be dressed in white (a symbol of the righteousness of God), their names would not be erased from the book of life, and they would be acknowledged before the Father. There is always a godly remnant in a dying church! 

Philadelphia was 28 miles southeast of Sardis. It was called "the gateway to the East" because it was on the main route of the Imperial Post from Rome to the East. It had many temples. It sat on a geological fault and was destroyed in 17 B.C. by a severe earthquake. Its name means "brotherly love."  The church is still in existence today.

Jesus Christ is referred to as holy and true which means, "the original, not a copy; the authentic God and not a manufactured one" (The Bible Exposition Commentary: Volume 2, p. 578). He described Himself as holding the key of David (Revelation 6:10). The "key of David" reference hearkens back to Eliakim, who held the key of the house of David and had access to all the king's wealth (Isaiah 22:15-25). It is sometimes interpreted as a picture of Jesus Christ holding "the keys of death and hades" (Revelation 1:18). 

Opposite of Sardis and Laodicea, Philadelphia is commended and not rebuked! They are told to "hold on" to what they already have.  They are given a promise of an "open door" and protection from the "synagogue of Satan" which is interpreted as Jews who opposed them. According to people who believe in a pre-tribulation rapture, they are also promised protection from the "hour of trial" that will unfold in Revelation 6. 

The overcomers will be permanent pillars in the temple of God in the New Jerusalem (21:22). God has a permanent place in heaven for believers! 

Laodicea was a wealthy banking city 40 miles southeast of Philadelphia. Its main industry was wool cloth and was famous for black wool garments. 

This church is not commended for anything. Instead, they are accused of being "lukewarm, wretched, miserable, poor, and blind"! Lukewarm because the water in this city was piped from far away (cold from Colossae and hot from Hieropolis), and by the time it reached them it was lukewarm.

The exhortation to buy refined gold (spiritual treasure) was probably to contrast with the material pleasure they enjoyed as a banking center. The exhortation about white clothes probably was in contrast to the expensive black wool garments they wore. The eye salve was probably to contrast with the special eye salve used to heal eye trouble in the Middle East that came from the medical school at the temple of Asclepius. They needed spiritual treasure, garments of righteousness, and spiritual sight! They needed to "be earnest and repent"!

Revelation 3:20 is often quoted when we encourage people who do not know Jesus to "open the door" of their heart to Him, but most scholars believe this is talking to the believer!  

The Laodicean church had left Jesus out, and I think this is true for us today. We get really involved with the kingdom work, and we leave the King outside in the cold! We need to invite Jesus to come into every area of our lives and ministries. Jesus wants intimate, hot fellowship so that we can do the work He has planned for us to do! If we respond to this, we will sit with Him on His throne and share all of His blessings! Read My Heart, Christ's Home for a great picture of this. Every believer should read this little story!

REFLECTION/APPLICATION

Take some time to reflect upon the seven churches. It might be good to make a chart. First, list all the characteristics of Jesus. Then let it lead you into a time of worship and praise.

Then, list the commendation, rebuke, exhortation, and promise for each church with sincere evaluation about where you are in your walk with God. Do you have an "ear to hear" (2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22) what God is saying to you? Take some time to REALLY listen to Him. He wants intimate fellowship with You!

Next, pray for your church to be protected from the pitfalls of these churches.

Studying the seven churches has made me want to go on a trip there! 

PRAYER

Lord, come into our life and dine with us. We want to be 100% committed to You. Bring us into intimate fellowship with You and teach us to listen to Your voice and obey it. Amen.