Introduction
Introduction: Rev 1:1-3
Revelation is the last book of the Bible. The divine program of the redemption of mankind started in Genesis is brought to completion in this book. The title, Revelation means “unveiling “or disclosure of things previously hidden. This book is the unveiling of the character and the glory of Jesus Christ. This is the revelation of Jesus Christ which God gave to Apostle John to show the events that is going to take place suddenly. Jesus is the subject and the source of this revelation. Apostle John identifies himself as the author of the book of Revelation (Revelation 1:4). This book was written to Christians who were suffering persecution for their faith under Roman Emperor Domitian (A.D. 81-96). God sent an angel to communicate this to John when he was exiled to the Island of Patmos by Emperor Domitian. Following the death of Domitian, John returned to Ephesus. Scholars suggest that John wrote the book of Revelation from Ephesus to encourage the suffering Christians. This book centers on the resurrected and the glorified Christ. He alone has authority to judge the world. Revelation is the only New Testament book that focuses primarily on prophecy. The holy name of God is vindicated in this book.
The book Revelation contains many visions and symbols. This is the revelation of Jesus Christ. John indicates the seven blessings on those who speak, hear and keep the things that are written in the book of Revelation (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7,14). Chapter 1:19 gives the division of the book. "Write the things that you have seen(Chapter 1); the things that are now happening (Chapter 2 & 3); and the things that will happen (Chapter 4-22). Chapter 4-22 describe the events which will take place after the church age. The book of Revelation is a difficult book to interpret. Some view this book as a record of conflicts early church faced from other world views. Others hold the idealistic interpretation of this book. They think that this book points out mostly spiritual lessons to encourage the believers. The third group holds the view that Revelation covers the history starting with the early church to the coming of Christ. The first three views fail to fit the facts of this book. So many scholars hold the view that Christ will return for His church before the futuristic events recorded in this book from chapter 4 to 22.
Revelation is the last book of the Bible. The divine program of the redemption of mankind started in Genesis is brought to completion in this book. The title, Revelation means “unveiling “or disclosure of things previously hidden. This book is the unveiling of the character and the glory of Jesus Christ. This is the revelation of Jesus Christ which God gave to Apostle John to show the events that is going to take place suddenly. Jesus is the subject and the source of this revelation. Apostle John identifies himself as the author of the book of Revelation (Revelation 1:4). This book was written to Christians who were suffering persecution for their faith under Roman Emperor Domitian (A.D. 81-96). God sent an angel to communicate this to John when he was exiled to the Island of Patmos by Emperor Domitian. Following the death of Domitian, John returned to Ephesus. Scholars suggest that John wrote the book of Revelation from Ephesus to encourage the suffering Christians. This book centers on the resurrected and the glorified Christ. He alone has authority to judge the world. Revelation is the only New Testament book that focuses primarily on prophecy. The holy name of God is vindicated in this book.
The book Revelation contains many visions and symbols. This is the revelation of Jesus Christ. John indicates the seven blessings on those who speak, hear and keep the things that are written in the book of Revelation (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7,14). Chapter 1:19 gives the division of the book. "Write the things that you have seen(Chapter 1); the things that are now happening (Chapter 2 & 3); and the things that will happen (Chapter 4-22). Chapter 4-22 describe the events which will take place after the church age. The book of Revelation is a difficult book to interpret. Some view this book as a record of conflicts early church faced from other world views. Others hold the idealistic interpretation of this book. They think that this book points out mostly spiritual lessons to encourage the believers. The third group holds the view that Revelation covers the history starting with the early church to the coming of Christ. The first three views fail to fit the facts of this book. So many scholars hold the view that Christ will return for His church before the futuristic events recorded in this book from chapter 4 to 22.
Chapter 1
Revelation is the open Book for everyone to read: Rev 1:1-3.
Many believers find it difficult to understand the book of Revelation. Some even consider it fanciful. But God does promise great blessing to those who read, hear, speak and obey the things written in Revelation (Rev 1:3). God said that this book should remain open to everyone to understand (Rev 22:10). This understanding does not come by natural process of our own thinking but from an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. From Genesis to Revelation every verse of the Bible ultimately speaks of Jesus Christ. Chapter 1, verse 19 gives the divisions of Revelation. “Write the things which you have seen and those that are and the things that will happen”. The thing John has seen was the vision of the glorified Christ (1:9-18). John presents this book as the revelation of Jesus Christ (1:1). The events of chapter 2 and 3 refer to entire Church age. The events which take place from chapter 4 through the end of Revelation will happen after the Church age is over. Since these things soon to take place, this urgent message should prepare God’s people for the future. The purpose of the study of Revelation is not to satisfy our curiosity or to engage in some intellectual speculation but to know Christ as our glorified Savior and King. It was written to prepare us for what lies ahead. John pronounces the seven blessings on those who speak, hear and obey the things that are written in this book (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14). Jesus now reigns and blesses those who are faithful to him to the end. This book is the closing commentary on the person and work of Christ.
Greetings to the seven Churches: Rev 1:4.
John now addresses the seven Churches in Asia Minor (Modern Turkey). Paul wrote seven letters to seven Churches. John wrote one letter to seven Churches. The entire book of Revelation is actually one letter that was distributed to the seven churches. The opening chapters describe Jesus as being in the midst of the churches, actively engaging with these churches. When John wrote his letter, spiritual condition of these churches was in decline (2:4). These seven churches may represent the entire church age. When we experience suffering and heartache, this book can strengthen us to stand firm in Christ. God did not promise His blessing to those who simply read or hear this book but to those who obey what is written in it. These seven churches were located in a circle stating with Ephesus and ending with Laodicea. John greets them with a standard greeting (Rev 1:4, 5). Grace and peace are the blessings everyone who trusts in the Lord can enjoy in this life. Grace is God’s love and kindness revealed in Christ Jesus (John 1:14). It is the undeserving favor from God which cannot be earned by good work. Peace includes the idea of complete well-being. Peace flows from the God's matchless grace. John gives a graphic description of God the Father who is without beginning or end, and the seven spirits who is before his throne and Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness, the first born of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth (Rev 1:4, 5). The seven Spirits is a reference to the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11:1, 2). Thus Christ is not only the object of the book but also the co-originator.
Christ deserves our Praise and Worship: Rev 1:5, 6.
Following the greeting, John gives the personal description of Christ. He is the faithful witness of the Father. We know the Father only through Christ (John 14:9). He fulfilled the law and the prophets. He is the end of the law (Rom 10:4). Christ revealed what the future hold for His people. He is the first begotten from the dead. He conquered death, sin and Satan by His death and resurrection. Jesus is referred as the firstborn of the dead because His resurrection guarantees the future resurrection of all believers (1 Cor 15:20-22). Jesus loved us and has freed us from our sins by his blood (Rev 1:5). He is risen from the dead. This is the message of the gospel. Now He reigns in the hearts of all who believe in Him. He demonstrated his love for us on the cross when He died. Someone has said “There no love like the love of a dying Savior “. How wonderful to know that Jesus keeps on loving us! Christ sets us free from our sins. It was the divine love that motivates him to give his life as a ransom for our sins. We are saved from judgment of sin. Christ lives to free us from the power of sin. He has made us kingdom of priest to serve God (1 Pet 2:9). He is worthy of our praise and worship. This is the wonder of the gospel!
Behold Christ is Coming: Rev 1:7, 8.
Christ is coming in glory to reign in righteousness and truth. It is an obvious reference to Christ’s second coming (Matt 24:30). Once in every 25 verses it is mentioned in the New Testament. His coming was anticipated by the Old Testament prophets (Zachariah 12:10). Christ Himself promised about it (John 14:3). It was confirmed by the angels (Acts 1:11). Christ’s coming was attested by apostles (1 Cor 15:51, 52). Christ is coming with clouds. He will come in glory and power. He will bring His redeemed ones with Him. At his coming with clouds every eye will see him, even those who pierced Him (Rev 1:7). They will weep because of their treatment of Him. And those who rejected Jesus will share the same destiny as those who demanded his death. No wonder there will be great wailing and weeping on earth. Christ is the eternal one. “I am Alpha and Omega”. He was before all things and nothing existed before him (Col 1:17). The past, present and future are eternally present in Christ (John 1:1). Christ is the Almighty God. This speaks of His absolute sovereignty. It means Christ has absolute supremacy in all things. In His sovereign purpose He controls everything. He is in control of all our situations (James 5:11). He always has been and always will be God. These titles apply to both God the Father and God the Son. Bible does not give a physical description of Christ, yet allows us to see the glorified Christ in his power and majesty in the pages of Bible. Because of the salvation Jesus has accomplished, He is worthy of our praise. May the Holy Spirit open our eyes to see Christ in his glory and majesty!
John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day: Rev 1:9-11.
John introduces himself to the seven Churches as their brother and partner in tribulation and the kingdom of God. John was one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ. He was one among the three key apostles. John was known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was an eye witness of the glory of Jesus. John alone remained near the cross with the faithful women at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. John was asked to take care of Mary, the mother of Jesus. He was a true witness of Christ. Tradition tells us that John was exiled by Emperor Domitian to the island of Patmos because of the testimony of Jesus Christ. Probably it is a reference to his personal gospel ministry. All those who embrace gospel will face tribulation (John 16:33). Patmos was rocky volcanic island on the Aegean Sea and also it was a Roman penal colony. In the midst of John's suffering, the risen Christ appears to him in glory (1:10). Suffering is inescapable in Christian life (Act 14:22). John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day. There is no indication that it was Sunday. The day of Christ's resurrection is referred as "the first day of the week" in the scripture. Every day is the Lord's day because He is the Lord of all things. The day of the Lord indicates a period of judgment. Some suggest that John might have received a future view of coming judgement on that day. He was alone there yet his focus was on Christ. Only those who focus on Christ will receive the vision of the glorified Savior. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to reveal Christ to believers (John 16:14). John heard behind him a trumpet like voice saying “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches”.
Vision of the Son of Man: Rev 1:12.
Four times the phrase “in the Spirit” is used in Revelation (1:10; 4:2; 17:3; 21:10). John received four different visions of Christ. First he saw Christ as the High priest, the sovereign King and the Prophet standing in the midst of the seven Churches (1:11, 12). Secondly John saw Christ as the Lamb that was slain (5:12). Thirdly he saw Jesus as the glorious King (19:1). Fourthly John saw the glorified Christ sitting on the throne in the New Jerusalem making all things new (21:5). True worship takes place only when God reveals the glorified Christ to his servants. The Lord’s Day is different from the first day of the week. The day of the Lord is the period of time when God judges the world and triumphs over His enemy. John was given the vision of the coming judgment (Rev 6-20). Some scholars suggest that the Lord's day may be a reference to the first day of the week when Christ was risen from the dead (Acts 20:7; Rom 1:4). When John turned to see the voice that spoke, he saw seven golden lamp-stands and Jesus is standing in the midst of them. They symbolize the seven churches in Asia Minor (1:20). Each church stands to bear it own witness.
Graphic description of the Glorified Christ: Rev 1:13-18.
John saw among the lamp-stands one like the Son of Man walking in the midst of them. This is a reference to the Son of Man mentioned in Daniel 7:13. Christ used this title more than any other titles in the Gospels. The graphic description of Christ here clearly displays his deity. Christ is dressed in a long robe with a golden sash around his chest. This speaks of His royal priesthood and authority (Ex 29:5). His head and his hairs were white like wool. This is the description of the Ancient of days (Daniel 7:9). Christ is eternal God and He is before all things. His eyes were like flaming fire. Nothing is hidden from Him. All things are naked and opened to him (Heb 4:13). His feet are like unto fine brass. Christ executes divine judgments on His enemies. His voice is like the sound of many rushing waters. This is a reference to his authority to Judge the world (19:6). In His right hand he held seven stars. These Seven stars are seven messengers of the seven Churches (1:20). Out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword. This is symbolic of the Word of God. Christ will judge His enemies with the Word of His mouth (Heb 4:12). His Words are true and absolute. His face was like the sun, shining in all its brilliance. On the mount of transfiguration, Christ’s face shone like the sun (Matt 17:2). When John saw the glorified Christ he fell at His feet as dead. Jesus said to him "Fear not , I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died and behold I am alive forevermore" (1:17-18). Those who are in Christ have nothing to fear. Jesus is the loving and living Savior who is able to strengthen us in our difficulties.
John’s Assurance to Write: Rev 1:19-20.
John was assured that the Christ is alive and He is in sovereign control of all things. Only Christ can set us free from fear because He was raised from the dead and death no longer has mastery over him. Christ holds the keys of death and Hades. Death and hell cannot bind the followers of Christ. John was commissioned to write the things he had seen, the things that are now happening and the things that will happen. And the seven stars are the messengers of the seven Churches in Asia Minor. Here is a perfect example of scripture interpreting scripture (1:12). The seven lamp-stands are the seven Churches. Christ loves the church and strengthens her by His presence. Only Christ can set us free from sin and gives victory over sin. He is our source of comfort in suffering. With these verses John ends the record of the things he had seen. Christ is worthy of our devotion and worship. Do you know him as your Savior?
Many believers find it difficult to understand the book of Revelation. Some even consider it fanciful. But God does promise great blessing to those who read, hear, speak and obey the things written in Revelation (Rev 1:3). God said that this book should remain open to everyone to understand (Rev 22:10). This understanding does not come by natural process of our own thinking but from an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. From Genesis to Revelation every verse of the Bible ultimately speaks of Jesus Christ. Chapter 1, verse 19 gives the divisions of Revelation. “Write the things which you have seen and those that are and the things that will happen”. The thing John has seen was the vision of the glorified Christ (1:9-18). John presents this book as the revelation of Jesus Christ (1:1). The events of chapter 2 and 3 refer to entire Church age. The events which take place from chapter 4 through the end of Revelation will happen after the Church age is over. Since these things soon to take place, this urgent message should prepare God’s people for the future. The purpose of the study of Revelation is not to satisfy our curiosity or to engage in some intellectual speculation but to know Christ as our glorified Savior and King. It was written to prepare us for what lies ahead. John pronounces the seven blessings on those who speak, hear and obey the things that are written in this book (1:3; 14:13; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7, 14). Jesus now reigns and blesses those who are faithful to him to the end. This book is the closing commentary on the person and work of Christ.
Greetings to the seven Churches: Rev 1:4.
John now addresses the seven Churches in Asia Minor (Modern Turkey). Paul wrote seven letters to seven Churches. John wrote one letter to seven Churches. The entire book of Revelation is actually one letter that was distributed to the seven churches. The opening chapters describe Jesus as being in the midst of the churches, actively engaging with these churches. When John wrote his letter, spiritual condition of these churches was in decline (2:4). These seven churches may represent the entire church age. When we experience suffering and heartache, this book can strengthen us to stand firm in Christ. God did not promise His blessing to those who simply read or hear this book but to those who obey what is written in it. These seven churches were located in a circle stating with Ephesus and ending with Laodicea. John greets them with a standard greeting (Rev 1:4, 5). Grace and peace are the blessings everyone who trusts in the Lord can enjoy in this life. Grace is God’s love and kindness revealed in Christ Jesus (John 1:14). It is the undeserving favor from God which cannot be earned by good work. Peace includes the idea of complete well-being. Peace flows from the God's matchless grace. John gives a graphic description of God the Father who is without beginning or end, and the seven spirits who is before his throne and Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness, the first born of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth (Rev 1:4, 5). The seven Spirits is a reference to the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11:1, 2). Thus Christ is not only the object of the book but also the co-originator.
Christ deserves our Praise and Worship: Rev 1:5, 6.
Following the greeting, John gives the personal description of Christ. He is the faithful witness of the Father. We know the Father only through Christ (John 14:9). He fulfilled the law and the prophets. He is the end of the law (Rom 10:4). Christ revealed what the future hold for His people. He is the first begotten from the dead. He conquered death, sin and Satan by His death and resurrection. Jesus is referred as the firstborn of the dead because His resurrection guarantees the future resurrection of all believers (1 Cor 15:20-22). Jesus loved us and has freed us from our sins by his blood (Rev 1:5). He is risen from the dead. This is the message of the gospel. Now He reigns in the hearts of all who believe in Him. He demonstrated his love for us on the cross when He died. Someone has said “There no love like the love of a dying Savior “. How wonderful to know that Jesus keeps on loving us! Christ sets us free from our sins. It was the divine love that motivates him to give his life as a ransom for our sins. We are saved from judgment of sin. Christ lives to free us from the power of sin. He has made us kingdom of priest to serve God (1 Pet 2:9). He is worthy of our praise and worship. This is the wonder of the gospel!
Behold Christ is Coming: Rev 1:7, 8.
Christ is coming in glory to reign in righteousness and truth. It is an obvious reference to Christ’s second coming (Matt 24:30). Once in every 25 verses it is mentioned in the New Testament. His coming was anticipated by the Old Testament prophets (Zachariah 12:10). Christ Himself promised about it (John 14:3). It was confirmed by the angels (Acts 1:11). Christ’s coming was attested by apostles (1 Cor 15:51, 52). Christ is coming with clouds. He will come in glory and power. He will bring His redeemed ones with Him. At his coming with clouds every eye will see him, even those who pierced Him (Rev 1:7). They will weep because of their treatment of Him. And those who rejected Jesus will share the same destiny as those who demanded his death. No wonder there will be great wailing and weeping on earth. Christ is the eternal one. “I am Alpha and Omega”. He was before all things and nothing existed before him (Col 1:17). The past, present and future are eternally present in Christ (John 1:1). Christ is the Almighty God. This speaks of His absolute sovereignty. It means Christ has absolute supremacy in all things. In His sovereign purpose He controls everything. He is in control of all our situations (James 5:11). He always has been and always will be God. These titles apply to both God the Father and God the Son. Bible does not give a physical description of Christ, yet allows us to see the glorified Christ in his power and majesty in the pages of Bible. Because of the salvation Jesus has accomplished, He is worthy of our praise. May the Holy Spirit open our eyes to see Christ in his glory and majesty!
John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day: Rev 1:9-11.
John introduces himself to the seven Churches as their brother and partner in tribulation and the kingdom of God. John was one of the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ. He was one among the three key apostles. John was known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was an eye witness of the glory of Jesus. John alone remained near the cross with the faithful women at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. John was asked to take care of Mary, the mother of Jesus. He was a true witness of Christ. Tradition tells us that John was exiled by Emperor Domitian to the island of Patmos because of the testimony of Jesus Christ. Probably it is a reference to his personal gospel ministry. All those who embrace gospel will face tribulation (John 16:33). Patmos was rocky volcanic island on the Aegean Sea and also it was a Roman penal colony. In the midst of John's suffering, the risen Christ appears to him in glory (1:10). Suffering is inescapable in Christian life (Act 14:22). John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day. There is no indication that it was Sunday. The day of Christ's resurrection is referred as "the first day of the week" in the scripture. Every day is the Lord's day because He is the Lord of all things. The day of the Lord indicates a period of judgment. Some suggest that John might have received a future view of coming judgement on that day. He was alone there yet his focus was on Christ. Only those who focus on Christ will receive the vision of the glorified Savior. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to reveal Christ to believers (John 16:14). John heard behind him a trumpet like voice saying “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches”.
Vision of the Son of Man: Rev 1:12.
Four times the phrase “in the Spirit” is used in Revelation (1:10; 4:2; 17:3; 21:10). John received four different visions of Christ. First he saw Christ as the High priest, the sovereign King and the Prophet standing in the midst of the seven Churches (1:11, 12). Secondly John saw Christ as the Lamb that was slain (5:12). Thirdly he saw Jesus as the glorious King (19:1). Fourthly John saw the glorified Christ sitting on the throne in the New Jerusalem making all things new (21:5). True worship takes place only when God reveals the glorified Christ to his servants. The Lord’s Day is different from the first day of the week. The day of the Lord is the period of time when God judges the world and triumphs over His enemy. John was given the vision of the coming judgment (Rev 6-20). Some scholars suggest that the Lord's day may be a reference to the first day of the week when Christ was risen from the dead (Acts 20:7; Rom 1:4). When John turned to see the voice that spoke, he saw seven golden lamp-stands and Jesus is standing in the midst of them. They symbolize the seven churches in Asia Minor (1:20). Each church stands to bear it own witness.
Graphic description of the Glorified Christ: Rev 1:13-18.
John saw among the lamp-stands one like the Son of Man walking in the midst of them. This is a reference to the Son of Man mentioned in Daniel 7:13. Christ used this title more than any other titles in the Gospels. The graphic description of Christ here clearly displays his deity. Christ is dressed in a long robe with a golden sash around his chest. This speaks of His royal priesthood and authority (Ex 29:5). His head and his hairs were white like wool. This is the description of the Ancient of days (Daniel 7:9). Christ is eternal God and He is before all things. His eyes were like flaming fire. Nothing is hidden from Him. All things are naked and opened to him (Heb 4:13). His feet are like unto fine brass. Christ executes divine judgments on His enemies. His voice is like the sound of many rushing waters. This is a reference to his authority to Judge the world (19:6). In His right hand he held seven stars. These Seven stars are seven messengers of the seven Churches (1:20). Out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword. This is symbolic of the Word of God. Christ will judge His enemies with the Word of His mouth (Heb 4:12). His Words are true and absolute. His face was like the sun, shining in all its brilliance. On the mount of transfiguration, Christ’s face shone like the sun (Matt 17:2). When John saw the glorified Christ he fell at His feet as dead. Jesus said to him "Fear not , I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died and behold I am alive forevermore" (1:17-18). Those who are in Christ have nothing to fear. Jesus is the loving and living Savior who is able to strengthen us in our difficulties.
John’s Assurance to Write: Rev 1:19-20.
John was assured that the Christ is alive and He is in sovereign control of all things. Only Christ can set us free from fear because He was raised from the dead and death no longer has mastery over him. Christ holds the keys of death and Hades. Death and hell cannot bind the followers of Christ. John was commissioned to write the things he had seen, the things that are now happening and the things that will happen. And the seven stars are the messengers of the seven Churches in Asia Minor. Here is a perfect example of scripture interpreting scripture (1:12). The seven lamp-stands are the seven Churches. Christ loves the church and strengthens her by His presence. Only Christ can set us free from sin and gives victory over sin. He is our source of comfort in suffering. With these verses John ends the record of the things he had seen. Christ is worthy of our devotion and worship. Do you know him as your Savior?
Chapter 2
In Revelation chapter 2 and 3 we see the messages to the seven churches in Asia Minor. The glorified Christ addresses these seven churches with promises and warnings. At that time the churches were facing hardship from outside and allowing compromise inside. In these letters there is no commendation for two Churches and no condemnation for two churches. Some scholars suggest that these churches represent the spiritual condition of the church throughout the history. Others thinks they represent only the local churches in this region. But in these letters we see the spiritual condition of the past, present and future churches. Someone has characterized "Ephesus was the loveless church, Smyrna was the persecuted church, Pergamum was the tolerant church, Thyatira was a compromising church, Sardis was the sleeping church. Philadelphia was the mission oriented church and Laodicea was the complacent church". Each letter is addressed to the angel of the church. The angel here is a reference to pastor or elder. They are the one in whom the leadership authority has been given over local churches. When Christ confronts sin and calls for repentance, He is motivated by His gracious love for us. It is crucial that Christians should respond to His warning and be transformed to the image of Christ.
The Church of Ephesus
(Read Rev 2:1-7)
The church of Ephesus is known as the loveless church. The word Ephesus means “desirable”. This letter was addressed to the angel of the church of Ephesus. Ephesus was the capital of Asia Minor with a population of 250,000. The temple of Diana, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world was here. Ephesus was the meeting place of oriental religions and Greek culture. This church was established by Paul on his third missionary journey (Acts 19). He preached the gospel here for three years and from here the Word of God spread throughout Asia Minor. This was an evangelistic church. The word, angel could mean messenger or pastor of the church. Christ holds the seven stars and walks among the seven golden lamp-stands. We are told that stars are the messengers and the lamp-stands are the seven churches (Rev 1:20). Christ has intimate knowledge of each church. How comforting to know that the messengers are securely held by the Lord. The church of Ephesus was known for their work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope. They did not tolerate false teaching. They examined the claims of those who claimed that they were apostles but were not. Also they patiently endured suffering for the sake of Christ. Yet there is a serious problem. This church has abandoned their first love. It was a growing and committed church (Ephesians 1:15). But it has changed since Paul left them some 30 years ago. Commitment to truth without devotion towards the Lord can lead to dead orthodoxy.
The church of Ephesus hated the work of Nicolaitans. The name “ Nicolaitans” means “Conquerors of the people”. The believers were divided into two groups, namely clergy and laity. Clergy ruled over laity. God hates hierarchy rule in the church because it divides God's people. Christ warns the church, "Remember from where you have fallen; repent and do the works you did at first" (2:5). This church no longer has the passion for evangelism. They were warned that failure to return to their first love will result in the removal of this church. A church without love will eventually die. Our worship, ministry and sacrifice are worthless without love (1 Cor 13:1-3). Today there is no church in Ephesus. Love must be the underlying motivation in everything we do (1 Cor 13:1-4). Jesus also promised great blessing to the one who overcomes. "I will grant him to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God". Sin barred access to the tree of life in the Garden of Eden. Jesus who won victory over sin made it possible for us to have access to the tree of life. He who has ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Those who overcome will be victorious and eat from the tree of life (2:7). We are saved by grace. Overcoming sin and the world is the proof of the reality of our salvation. They will have a rich entrance into eternal Kingdom of God (2 Pet 1:11). Pray that God would help us to live for his glory and purpose.
The Church of Smyrna.
(Read Rev 2:8-11)
The Church of Smyrna was a persecuted church. The word Smyrna means “Myrrh that produces fragrance”. Myrrh is an aromatic substance that comes from a thorny tree. It must be crushed to yield its fragrance. Christ does not condemn this church but gives words of empathy and encouragement. Smyrna was a seaport city and a cultural center situated 35 miles north of Ephesus. It was a city of temples and known for emperor worship. This church was faithful unto death. They were willing to endure persecution from the synagogue of Satan (2:10). One of the students of the apostle John, Polycarp served the Lord here. He was executed for the testimony of Christ. When he was asked to renounce Christ to escape death, his famous reply was “For 86 years I have served Christ, and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and the Savior?” Jesus told his disciples that they should fear God who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt 10:35). Christ knew their works, tribulation and poverty. Those who reject Christ will reject Christians also. Rejection is the absence of meaningful love. Jesus promised that though Satan will put some of the believers in prison their suffering will be shortened. In the first century imprisonment led to trial and execution. No church has produced loyalty and fragrance of faithfulness like the church of Smyrna. Jesus promised the crown of life to those who remain faithful even unto death. This crown is not a king’s crown but a victory wreath (Stephanos) worn by victorious athletes. This victor’s crown is for those who remain faithful unto death (Acts 7). They will not suffer the second death. Believers only suffer the first death. The second death is for those who reject Christ (Rev 20:14). Suffering is normal and inescapable in Christian life (1 Pet 4:12). But it produces Character and Christlikeness (Rom 5:3, 4). Christ is able to sustain us in our afflictions (Rom 8:37; Isiah 63:9). Perseverance shows the genuineness of our faith in Christ. History shows that God has used persecution to purge the church and prepare believers for greater use. Those who hear and respond to the Spirit will be victorious and not be hurt by the second death (2:11).
The Church of Pergamos
(Read Rev 2:12-17)
The church of Pergamos was a church of tolerance. The word Pergamum means “marriage”. It was a church willing to compromise to the world and embrace false doctrines. It was a wealthy city, located 65 miles north of Smyrna and renowned for its 200,000 volumes library. It was a religious center with large temples and emperor worship. This church lived under the threat of death for proclaiming the gospel. This letter comes from the Lord who has the sharp two-edged sword, which is the Word of God. Even though they lived in the city where Satan had his throne they cling to the name of Jesus (2:13). Satan’s throne may be a reference to the great Alter of Zeus on the hill or to emperor worship. But this church allowed compromise by embracing false teaching of Balaam (Num 25:1-3). They ate food sacrificed to the idols and practiced sexual immorality. They also tolerated the teaching of Nicolaitans, the Clergy rule over the laity. Christians were living under the threat of death during that time. Antipas, a faithful servant of God who refused to deny Christ received martyrdom. Some believers followed his example and remained faithful to the Lord when others were compromising the truth. Is it not the spiritual state of the postmodern church today?
Christ reprimands and calls the entire church to repentance. Repentance is turning away from sin to follow Christ. Some directly involved in immorality and others tolerated them who were involved. Christ warned this church to repent of their sin. Otherwise Christ would come suddenly and fight against the church with the sword of his mouth which is His Word (Ephesians 6:17). But Jesus promised three blessings to those who remain faithful. They will receive the hidden manna, a white stone and a new name. Israel was fed by manna for forty years. Jesus is the bread of life and those who come to Him never hunger but be satisfied (John 6:31-58). They will have eternal life. Scholar suggest that in John’s day white stones were used to free a person accused of crime. Also it was used as entrance ticket in the theater. Christ not only sets us free from the guilt but also enables us to serve God. Believers also will enter in celebration when Christ returns (Rev 19:9). New name speaks of our new identity with Christ (Isaiah 41:10; 43:1). Those who respond to God's Word will receive a new name.
The Church in Thyatira:
(Read Rev 2:18-29)
This was a compromising church. Like the church in Pergamum, this church has tolerated false teaching and immorality (2:20). Thyatira was a commercial city located 55 miles east of Pergamum. It was known for textile and wool manufacturing. Thyatira means “Continual sacrifice”. The first person who got saved in Macedonia was Lydia and she was from Thyatira. She was a merchant of expensive purple cloth (Acts 16:14). Jesus praises this church for their love, faith, service and perseverance. They were progressing spiritually. But also they allowed the false teaching of the woman Jezebel who calls herself a prophet. She is a symbolic representation of idol worship. She influenced believers to engage in sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. She, like the ancient Jezebel, wife of king Ahab who promoted Baal worship (1 King 18:19-22).. False teachers encouraged many ungodly practices in the church and led many believers astray. In Thyatira, Christians were forced to become members of the trade union and to get involved in their immoral practices. Sadly many believers had chosen the path of compromise rather than confronting sin. They refused to confront the false teaching. Compromise eventually led them to justify their idolatry and immoral behavior. The Lord gave Jezebel time to repent but she did not. God is patient but He does not tolerate sin forever (2 Pet 3:9). He wants His church to be pure in belief and behavior. Christ always gives warning before judgment (Ezekiel 33:7-11). If we do not repent God will judge. Despite all the false teachings many remained loyal to Christ in Thyatira.
God is faithful to preserve those who trust Him. Christ warned the believer in Thyatira against the “deep things of Satan”. This might refer to a very early form of Gnosticism. It is a philosophy that proposes that God is gracious and He forgives all our sins. Many misunderstood this and considered God's grace as license to sin. Secondly it claimed a type of mysticism that offers deeper truth to its followers. These dangerous doctrines affected the early church. Jesus warns that instead of seeking secret knowledge, they should embrace the once for given truth in the scriptures. Jesus also promises blessings to those who overcome. They will rule over the nations together with Christ (Rev 2:26-27). The second reward is Christ Himself. He is the morning star that lightens the whole world (Luke 1:78, 79; John 8:12). False teachers always tried to bring their damnable doctrines in the church. The church in every age must be alert to protect the purity of doctrine. Let us pray that the Lord would protect us from doctrinal errors.
The Church of Ephesus
(Read Rev 2:1-7)
The church of Ephesus is known as the loveless church. The word Ephesus means “desirable”. This letter was addressed to the angel of the church of Ephesus. Ephesus was the capital of Asia Minor with a population of 250,000. The temple of Diana, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world was here. Ephesus was the meeting place of oriental religions and Greek culture. This church was established by Paul on his third missionary journey (Acts 19). He preached the gospel here for three years and from here the Word of God spread throughout Asia Minor. This was an evangelistic church. The word, angel could mean messenger or pastor of the church. Christ holds the seven stars and walks among the seven golden lamp-stands. We are told that stars are the messengers and the lamp-stands are the seven churches (Rev 1:20). Christ has intimate knowledge of each church. How comforting to know that the messengers are securely held by the Lord. The church of Ephesus was known for their work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope. They did not tolerate false teaching. They examined the claims of those who claimed that they were apostles but were not. Also they patiently endured suffering for the sake of Christ. Yet there is a serious problem. This church has abandoned their first love. It was a growing and committed church (Ephesians 1:15). But it has changed since Paul left them some 30 years ago. Commitment to truth without devotion towards the Lord can lead to dead orthodoxy.
The church of Ephesus hated the work of Nicolaitans. The name “ Nicolaitans” means “Conquerors of the people”. The believers were divided into two groups, namely clergy and laity. Clergy ruled over laity. God hates hierarchy rule in the church because it divides God's people. Christ warns the church, "Remember from where you have fallen; repent and do the works you did at first" (2:5). This church no longer has the passion for evangelism. They were warned that failure to return to their first love will result in the removal of this church. A church without love will eventually die. Our worship, ministry and sacrifice are worthless without love (1 Cor 13:1-3). Today there is no church in Ephesus. Love must be the underlying motivation in everything we do (1 Cor 13:1-4). Jesus also promised great blessing to the one who overcomes. "I will grant him to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God". Sin barred access to the tree of life in the Garden of Eden. Jesus who won victory over sin made it possible for us to have access to the tree of life. He who has ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Those who overcome will be victorious and eat from the tree of life (2:7). We are saved by grace. Overcoming sin and the world is the proof of the reality of our salvation. They will have a rich entrance into eternal Kingdom of God (2 Pet 1:11). Pray that God would help us to live for his glory and purpose.
The Church of Smyrna.
(Read Rev 2:8-11)
The Church of Smyrna was a persecuted church. The word Smyrna means “Myrrh that produces fragrance”. Myrrh is an aromatic substance that comes from a thorny tree. It must be crushed to yield its fragrance. Christ does not condemn this church but gives words of empathy and encouragement. Smyrna was a seaport city and a cultural center situated 35 miles north of Ephesus. It was a city of temples and known for emperor worship. This church was faithful unto death. They were willing to endure persecution from the synagogue of Satan (2:10). One of the students of the apostle John, Polycarp served the Lord here. He was executed for the testimony of Christ. When he was asked to renounce Christ to escape death, his famous reply was “For 86 years I have served Christ, and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King and the Savior?” Jesus told his disciples that they should fear God who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt 10:35). Christ knew their works, tribulation and poverty. Those who reject Christ will reject Christians also. Rejection is the absence of meaningful love. Jesus promised that though Satan will put some of the believers in prison their suffering will be shortened. In the first century imprisonment led to trial and execution. No church has produced loyalty and fragrance of faithfulness like the church of Smyrna. Jesus promised the crown of life to those who remain faithful even unto death. This crown is not a king’s crown but a victory wreath (Stephanos) worn by victorious athletes. This victor’s crown is for those who remain faithful unto death (Acts 7). They will not suffer the second death. Believers only suffer the first death. The second death is for those who reject Christ (Rev 20:14). Suffering is normal and inescapable in Christian life (1 Pet 4:12). But it produces Character and Christlikeness (Rom 5:3, 4). Christ is able to sustain us in our afflictions (Rom 8:37; Isiah 63:9). Perseverance shows the genuineness of our faith in Christ. History shows that God has used persecution to purge the church and prepare believers for greater use. Those who hear and respond to the Spirit will be victorious and not be hurt by the second death (2:11).
The Church of Pergamos
(Read Rev 2:12-17)
The church of Pergamos was a church of tolerance. The word Pergamum means “marriage”. It was a church willing to compromise to the world and embrace false doctrines. It was a wealthy city, located 65 miles north of Smyrna and renowned for its 200,000 volumes library. It was a religious center with large temples and emperor worship. This church lived under the threat of death for proclaiming the gospel. This letter comes from the Lord who has the sharp two-edged sword, which is the Word of God. Even though they lived in the city where Satan had his throne they cling to the name of Jesus (2:13). Satan’s throne may be a reference to the great Alter of Zeus on the hill or to emperor worship. But this church allowed compromise by embracing false teaching of Balaam (Num 25:1-3). They ate food sacrificed to the idols and practiced sexual immorality. They also tolerated the teaching of Nicolaitans, the Clergy rule over the laity. Christians were living under the threat of death during that time. Antipas, a faithful servant of God who refused to deny Christ received martyrdom. Some believers followed his example and remained faithful to the Lord when others were compromising the truth. Is it not the spiritual state of the postmodern church today?
Christ reprimands and calls the entire church to repentance. Repentance is turning away from sin to follow Christ. Some directly involved in immorality and others tolerated them who were involved. Christ warned this church to repent of their sin. Otherwise Christ would come suddenly and fight against the church with the sword of his mouth which is His Word (Ephesians 6:17). But Jesus promised three blessings to those who remain faithful. They will receive the hidden manna, a white stone and a new name. Israel was fed by manna for forty years. Jesus is the bread of life and those who come to Him never hunger but be satisfied (John 6:31-58). They will have eternal life. Scholar suggest that in John’s day white stones were used to free a person accused of crime. Also it was used as entrance ticket in the theater. Christ not only sets us free from the guilt but also enables us to serve God. Believers also will enter in celebration when Christ returns (Rev 19:9). New name speaks of our new identity with Christ (Isaiah 41:10; 43:1). Those who respond to God's Word will receive a new name.
The Church in Thyatira:
(Read Rev 2:18-29)
This was a compromising church. Like the church in Pergamum, this church has tolerated false teaching and immorality (2:20). Thyatira was a commercial city located 55 miles east of Pergamum. It was known for textile and wool manufacturing. Thyatira means “Continual sacrifice”. The first person who got saved in Macedonia was Lydia and she was from Thyatira. She was a merchant of expensive purple cloth (Acts 16:14). Jesus praises this church for their love, faith, service and perseverance. They were progressing spiritually. But also they allowed the false teaching of the woman Jezebel who calls herself a prophet. She is a symbolic representation of idol worship. She influenced believers to engage in sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. She, like the ancient Jezebel, wife of king Ahab who promoted Baal worship (1 King 18:19-22).. False teachers encouraged many ungodly practices in the church and led many believers astray. In Thyatira, Christians were forced to become members of the trade union and to get involved in their immoral practices. Sadly many believers had chosen the path of compromise rather than confronting sin. They refused to confront the false teaching. Compromise eventually led them to justify their idolatry and immoral behavior. The Lord gave Jezebel time to repent but she did not. God is patient but He does not tolerate sin forever (2 Pet 3:9). He wants His church to be pure in belief and behavior. Christ always gives warning before judgment (Ezekiel 33:7-11). If we do not repent God will judge. Despite all the false teachings many remained loyal to Christ in Thyatira.
God is faithful to preserve those who trust Him. Christ warned the believer in Thyatira against the “deep things of Satan”. This might refer to a very early form of Gnosticism. It is a philosophy that proposes that God is gracious and He forgives all our sins. Many misunderstood this and considered God's grace as license to sin. Secondly it claimed a type of mysticism that offers deeper truth to its followers. These dangerous doctrines affected the early church. Jesus warns that instead of seeking secret knowledge, they should embrace the once for given truth in the scriptures. Jesus also promises blessings to those who overcome. They will rule over the nations together with Christ (Rev 2:26-27). The second reward is Christ Himself. He is the morning star that lightens the whole world (Luke 1:78, 79; John 8:12). False teachers always tried to bring their damnable doctrines in the church. The church in every age must be alert to protect the purity of doctrine. Let us pray that the Lord would protect us from doctrinal errors.
Chapter 3
The Church in Sardis: Rev 3:1-6.
The church of Sardis was a complacent church. It had a false reputation of being alive, when in fact it was dead. Sardis was located 30 miles southeast of Thyatira. It was a wealthy city. The love for luxury led this city into its moral decadence. Sardis means “remnant”. There was a remnant of faithful believers in this church. The origin of this church is not clear. On the outside things looked good, but the One who sees all things knew their fault (3:1). Sadly many churches claim they are spiritual but do not show any sign of spiritual life. This church receives no commendation from the Lord. We can assume that it had life once. There is a divine call to wake up, and strengthen what little remains. There is a call to go back to what they had believed first (Rev 3:2, 3). This call was to repent, remember and obey the word of God. They were to live in anticipation of the eminent return of Christ. Do we long for the return of Christ or are we preoccupied with our own things? Christ's warning to the church is stern, but he is merciful to all who repent. Repentance is necessary for spiritual health and vitality. We must pray and ask God to give a hunger for His word. We must love Christ more than our reputation. God is always interested in the faithful remnant. They must not stain their garments with the pagan practices. The white robe speaks of purity and holiness. Those who are victorious receive threefold promises from the Lord. They will walk with Jesus in white cloth, God would never erase their names from the book of life and Jesus will acknowledge their names before God the Father and His angels (Rev 3:5; Matt 10:32, 33; 13:43; Rev 20:15). Jesus wants us to listen what the Spirit says and experience His blessings.
The Church in Philadelphia: Rev 3:7-13.
The church in Philadelphia was a mission oriented church and devoted its loyalty to Jesus Christ. Philadelphia was located about 25 miles southeast of Sardis. In A.D. 17 this city was destroyed by earthquake but it was soon rebuilt. The church of Philadelphia received the Lord’s commendation for its steadfast faithfulness. The Lord identified himself as “The one who is holy and true, the one who has the key of David. What he opens, no one can close and what he closes, no one can open" (3:7). Consider the significance of these titles. Jesus is the holy one (John 6:69). Jesus claims this title that belongs only to God. He is the true one. Jesus is the truth and speaks the truth (John 6:32). Jesus hold the key of David (Isaiah 22:19-22). All authority is given unto Him (Mat 28:18). When Jesus opens, no one will shut (John 10:7-9). His authority is ours when we share the gospel in the world. Jesus commented this church that “Though you have little strength, yet you obeyed my Word and did not deny me”. These believers were despised and rejected socially. Yet they were faithful to the name of Christ and His Word.
This was an evangelistic church, using every opportunity to reach the world with the gospel. They enjoyed the Christian fellowship in their ministry. Christ promises that satanic forces will not prevail against the church. When Christ opens a door no one can shut it. Christ promised them His protection and deliverance in times of trial. Throughout the church history, believers are preserved in their suffering. Some scholars suggest that this is a reference to great tribulation. Pre-tribulation view is that church will be caught-up and believers will escape the tribulation. Post-tribulation suggests that the church will endure tribulation with God’s help. Others believe that the church will be taken to heaven midway through the tribulation. Regardless of different views, God will preserve His people (Jude 24). The believers are delivered from the wrath of God (1 Thess 1:10; 5:9). Those who overcome, Christ will make them pillars in the temple of God and they will enjoy His presence. Pillar speaks of stability and permanence in the presence of God. Secondly Christ would write on him the name of God. He will be identified with Christ. Thirdly Jesus would write on them the name of the city. They will live in the New Jerusalem. Fourthly Jesus will write on them His new name. Some scholars suggest that this was the longest survived church because it was evangelistic. Do you have an evangelistic purpose in your ministry and live in anticipation of Christ’s return?
The Church in Laodicea Rev 3:14-19.
The church of Laodicea was a lukewarm church. These seven churches lie within a semicircle beginning with Ephesus. The church of Laodicea closely resembles the present day church. It was located 100 miles east of Ephesus. Laodicea was known for black wool and medicine for eye and ears. It was a wealthy and self-sufficient city. The word Laodicea means “the people’s right”. People were interested in personal right and comfortable lifestyle. Perhaps it may have contributed to its lukewarm spiritual condition. The headship in the church was taken over by the committees. Jesus rebukes this church for its worldliness. Christ identifies himself as the Amen, faithful and true witness (3:14). He is the ruler of creation (3:14). Amen is the transliteration of the Hebrew word meaning truth (Isaiah 65:16). Amen literally means “Let it be so”. God’s promises are always yeas and amen. Jesus is the embodiment of truth. He will never deceive anyone. He is able to do what he has promised. He is the source of all creation.
God cannot tolerate lukewarm spiritual condition in the church. The city of Laodicea received its water from hot spring from the south. It was cooled off while in transportation. The water neither was hot nor cold. This water was of poor quality that it would make a person to vomit at times. This church was like lukewarm water. They were self satisfied and did not see any need for God. They were wealthy but blind to see their spiritual poverty. Jesus said "If you do not change I will spit you out of my mouth” (3:15-16). The church of Laodicea failed to realize that it was wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked (Rev 3:17). But Christ extended His mercy and promised that He will restore them if they repent. Those who respond to Christ's warnings will have clothing for their nakedness and ointment to restore their blindness (3:18; Isaiah 61:10).). Lukewarm Christians never understand the preciousness of their faith.
Jesus Standing at the Door Knocking: Rev 3:20-22.
It is almost unbelievable that Christ is outside His church waiting for entrance. "Behold I stand at the door and knock". Many gospel preachers use this passage to invite people to Christ. But it has nothing to do with the salvation of sinners. Here the Lord waits at door of the church for admission. What a gracious Savior! He longs for intimacy and fellowship with His people. Every church should open its door for Christ. Those who are victorious will reign with Him on His throne. Though Jesus rebukes this church harshly He gave her the greatest promise. "If you open the door, I will come in to him and eat with him and he with me" (3:20).These messages are for the churches in general. If we repent, Christ will revive us. He can take us from the lowest state to the highest spiritual height. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
The church of Sardis was a complacent church. It had a false reputation of being alive, when in fact it was dead. Sardis was located 30 miles southeast of Thyatira. It was a wealthy city. The love for luxury led this city into its moral decadence. Sardis means “remnant”. There was a remnant of faithful believers in this church. The origin of this church is not clear. On the outside things looked good, but the One who sees all things knew their fault (3:1). Sadly many churches claim they are spiritual but do not show any sign of spiritual life. This church receives no commendation from the Lord. We can assume that it had life once. There is a divine call to wake up, and strengthen what little remains. There is a call to go back to what they had believed first (Rev 3:2, 3). This call was to repent, remember and obey the word of God. They were to live in anticipation of the eminent return of Christ. Do we long for the return of Christ or are we preoccupied with our own things? Christ's warning to the church is stern, but he is merciful to all who repent. Repentance is necessary for spiritual health and vitality. We must pray and ask God to give a hunger for His word. We must love Christ more than our reputation. God is always interested in the faithful remnant. They must not stain their garments with the pagan practices. The white robe speaks of purity and holiness. Those who are victorious receive threefold promises from the Lord. They will walk with Jesus in white cloth, God would never erase their names from the book of life and Jesus will acknowledge their names before God the Father and His angels (Rev 3:5; Matt 10:32, 33; 13:43; Rev 20:15). Jesus wants us to listen what the Spirit says and experience His blessings.
The Church in Philadelphia: Rev 3:7-13.
The church in Philadelphia was a mission oriented church and devoted its loyalty to Jesus Christ. Philadelphia was located about 25 miles southeast of Sardis. In A.D. 17 this city was destroyed by earthquake but it was soon rebuilt. The church of Philadelphia received the Lord’s commendation for its steadfast faithfulness. The Lord identified himself as “The one who is holy and true, the one who has the key of David. What he opens, no one can close and what he closes, no one can open" (3:7). Consider the significance of these titles. Jesus is the holy one (John 6:69). Jesus claims this title that belongs only to God. He is the true one. Jesus is the truth and speaks the truth (John 6:32). Jesus hold the key of David (Isaiah 22:19-22). All authority is given unto Him (Mat 28:18). When Jesus opens, no one will shut (John 10:7-9). His authority is ours when we share the gospel in the world. Jesus commented this church that “Though you have little strength, yet you obeyed my Word and did not deny me”. These believers were despised and rejected socially. Yet they were faithful to the name of Christ and His Word.
This was an evangelistic church, using every opportunity to reach the world with the gospel. They enjoyed the Christian fellowship in their ministry. Christ promises that satanic forces will not prevail against the church. When Christ opens a door no one can shut it. Christ promised them His protection and deliverance in times of trial. Throughout the church history, believers are preserved in their suffering. Some scholars suggest that this is a reference to great tribulation. Pre-tribulation view is that church will be caught-up and believers will escape the tribulation. Post-tribulation suggests that the church will endure tribulation with God’s help. Others believe that the church will be taken to heaven midway through the tribulation. Regardless of different views, God will preserve His people (Jude 24). The believers are delivered from the wrath of God (1 Thess 1:10; 5:9). Those who overcome, Christ will make them pillars in the temple of God and they will enjoy His presence. Pillar speaks of stability and permanence in the presence of God. Secondly Christ would write on him the name of God. He will be identified with Christ. Thirdly Jesus would write on them the name of the city. They will live in the New Jerusalem. Fourthly Jesus will write on them His new name. Some scholars suggest that this was the longest survived church because it was evangelistic. Do you have an evangelistic purpose in your ministry and live in anticipation of Christ’s return?
The Church in Laodicea Rev 3:14-19.
The church of Laodicea was a lukewarm church. These seven churches lie within a semicircle beginning with Ephesus. The church of Laodicea closely resembles the present day church. It was located 100 miles east of Ephesus. Laodicea was known for black wool and medicine for eye and ears. It was a wealthy and self-sufficient city. The word Laodicea means “the people’s right”. People were interested in personal right and comfortable lifestyle. Perhaps it may have contributed to its lukewarm spiritual condition. The headship in the church was taken over by the committees. Jesus rebukes this church for its worldliness. Christ identifies himself as the Amen, faithful and true witness (3:14). He is the ruler of creation (3:14). Amen is the transliteration of the Hebrew word meaning truth (Isaiah 65:16). Amen literally means “Let it be so”. God’s promises are always yeas and amen. Jesus is the embodiment of truth. He will never deceive anyone. He is able to do what he has promised. He is the source of all creation.
God cannot tolerate lukewarm spiritual condition in the church. The city of Laodicea received its water from hot spring from the south. It was cooled off while in transportation. The water neither was hot nor cold. This water was of poor quality that it would make a person to vomit at times. This church was like lukewarm water. They were self satisfied and did not see any need for God. They were wealthy but blind to see their spiritual poverty. Jesus said "If you do not change I will spit you out of my mouth” (3:15-16). The church of Laodicea failed to realize that it was wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked (Rev 3:17). But Christ extended His mercy and promised that He will restore them if they repent. Those who respond to Christ's warnings will have clothing for their nakedness and ointment to restore their blindness (3:18; Isaiah 61:10).). Lukewarm Christians never understand the preciousness of their faith.
Jesus Standing at the Door Knocking: Rev 3:20-22.
It is almost unbelievable that Christ is outside His church waiting for entrance. "Behold I stand at the door and knock". Many gospel preachers use this passage to invite people to Christ. But it has nothing to do with the salvation of sinners. Here the Lord waits at door of the church for admission. What a gracious Savior! He longs for intimacy and fellowship with His people. Every church should open its door for Christ. Those who are victorious will reign with Him on His throne. Though Jesus rebukes this church harshly He gave her the greatest promise. "If you open the door, I will come in to him and eat with him and he with me" (3:20).These messages are for the churches in general. If we repent, Christ will revive us. He can take us from the lowest state to the highest spiritual height. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Chapter 4
Worship in Heaven
John’s Vision of Heaven: Rev 4:1, 2.
Revelation chapter four unfolds the things that will happen in heaven (Rev 1:19). Chapters 4 and 5 are the introduction of the prophetic events mentioned in the rest of the book. John’s vision reveals God as the creator and sovereign of all things. Everything owes their existence to God and He has absolute power over all things. He is the God who sets this universe in motion and controls all things. The glorified Christ invites John to come up to heaven to gaze the things to come. The phrase “after this” occurs four times in Revelation (Rev 7:1, 9; 15:5; 18:1). John’s vision follows his vision of Jesus and the seven churches (Rev 4:1). Christ alone provides access to God the Father. The open doors reveal God’s plan for the future to His servants (Mat 3:16, 17; Acts 7:56; John 1:51). This scene shows a major shift in the book of Revelation and unfolds the enthroned God. Nothing happens in random and nothing could stop God from accomplishing His purposes. The Old Testament also records the visions of God’s throne. God confirmed His covenant to Moses in a vision (Ex 24:1-11). Prophet Isaiah was commissioned in a vision (Isaiah 6:1-13). Ezekiel was called to warn Judah in a vision (Ezekiel 1:1-2:9). Daniel received the dream about the promise of deliverance of Israel in a vision (Dan 7:1-28). John identifies with the suffering churches in his exile to Patmos. In the midst of these sufferings, John was invited to the throne room of Lord God almighty to see that He is seated on the throne, reigning and worshiped by the heavenly beings.
The Throne in Heaven: Rev 4: 3-5.
There are different views about Jesus’ call to John “come up here”. Some thinks it is an individual call. Others think that this points to the rapture of the church before the great tribulation. Others believe this speaks of believers meeting with Christ in the air when He returns. The most important truth is that God reigns over His creation. This would motivate us to love the Lord and live in anticipation of Christ’s return. The first thing John saw in heaven was a throne. The throne symbolizes God’s absolute rule and His majesty. The one sitting on the throne is none other than God Himself (4:3, 5). This throne is neither the great white throne nor the judgment seat of Christ. John envisions the one who is sitting on the throne like jasper and a sardine stones. There was a rainbow round about this throne. The Jasper stone is crystal-clear white stone representing the purity and glory of God (21:11). The Sardine stone is brilliant red in color representing God’s redemptive nature. The rainbow speaks of God’s mercy and faithfulness (Gen 9:13-16). The purpose of this vision was to encourage the persecuted believers. God rules all things and one day this earth will cover with His righteousness, and He will bring an end to evil. Christ's death and resurrection ensure this.
The Four Living Creatures and 24 Elders: Rev 4:6-8.
The throne of God was surrounded by 24 thrones and 4 elders sitting on the thrones. They were clothed in white garments with golden crowns on their heads. Their identity is not given. Some suggest that these elders are the angels. Perhaps they are the representatives of the redeemed people who are ruling and reigning with Christ. Their white garments is the garment of righteousness and their crowns are the rewards for their faithful service (Acts 20:17; 2 Tim 4:7, 8). The elders sitting on the thrones indicate they are given position of authority. From the throne came flashes of lightening and thundering voice. This shows the coming judgment of God (8:5). In front of the throne, seven lamps were burning. Many scholars believe the seven lamps represent the perfect ministry of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11:2). Before the throne, there was sea of glass like crystal. This is a picture of calm and harmony in heaven. In the center and around the throne were four living creatures. First like lion, the second like an ox, the third has a face like a man and the fourth is like a flying eagle. Each of them has six wings and is full of eyes. They represent the angels worshiping God day and night. They are heavenly cherubim (Ezekiel 10:15, 20; Isaiah 6:3). They join 24 elders, worshiping God. God is holy and separate from His creation. God’s holiness characterizes all He was, He is and He will be. He does all things according to His eternal council. God’s greatness and holiness demand our submission and worship.
God is Worthy of Worship: Rev 4:9-11.
The living creatures gave glory, honor and praise to God who lives forever. God ought to be praised always for his goodness and for the wonderful works to the children of men (Psalms 107:21). Worship is the activity going on forever in heaven. The 24 elders fell down and worshiped the one sitting on the throne. Roman citizens had to acknowledge the authority of their emperor by falling down before him. To bow down means to recognize the greatness and authority of God. Praise and worship are the central theme in the Bible. To worship means to ascribe honor to God. Our worship starts with offering our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Rom 12:1, 2). God is worthy of our worship. It is a continual submission to God, acknowledging His greatness. It is our privilege and duty to worship God who saved us. As someone has said it is a missing jewel among Christians today. The 24 elders cast down their golden crowns before God because He alone is worthy of worship. These are the crowns (stephanos) for faithful service. It is an acknowledgement that all that we are and we do is because of God’s grace. Elders worship God because He is the creator and redeemer of all things. God holds all things together and bring them to perfect completion according to His sovereign purpose. This thought should encourage the Christians who endure persecution. God in heaven rules all things. One day Christ will rule the whole earth in righteousness. He will bring an end to evil. He is our creator and redeemer. Perhaps nothing more clearly proves the deity of Jesus Christ than the fact that He is the focus of worship in heaven. Jesus is God and is worthy to be worshiped by all creatures in heaven and on earth. Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior? His resurrection ensures our salvation. It is sad that many people refuse to believe Him.
John’s Vision of Heaven: Rev 4:1, 2.
Revelation chapter four unfolds the things that will happen in heaven (Rev 1:19). Chapters 4 and 5 are the introduction of the prophetic events mentioned in the rest of the book. John’s vision reveals God as the creator and sovereign of all things. Everything owes their existence to God and He has absolute power over all things. He is the God who sets this universe in motion and controls all things. The glorified Christ invites John to come up to heaven to gaze the things to come. The phrase “after this” occurs four times in Revelation (Rev 7:1, 9; 15:5; 18:1). John’s vision follows his vision of Jesus and the seven churches (Rev 4:1). Christ alone provides access to God the Father. The open doors reveal God’s plan for the future to His servants (Mat 3:16, 17; Acts 7:56; John 1:51). This scene shows a major shift in the book of Revelation and unfolds the enthroned God. Nothing happens in random and nothing could stop God from accomplishing His purposes. The Old Testament also records the visions of God’s throne. God confirmed His covenant to Moses in a vision (Ex 24:1-11). Prophet Isaiah was commissioned in a vision (Isaiah 6:1-13). Ezekiel was called to warn Judah in a vision (Ezekiel 1:1-2:9). Daniel received the dream about the promise of deliverance of Israel in a vision (Dan 7:1-28). John identifies with the suffering churches in his exile to Patmos. In the midst of these sufferings, John was invited to the throne room of Lord God almighty to see that He is seated on the throne, reigning and worshiped by the heavenly beings.
The Throne in Heaven: Rev 4: 3-5.
There are different views about Jesus’ call to John “come up here”. Some thinks it is an individual call. Others think that this points to the rapture of the church before the great tribulation. Others believe this speaks of believers meeting with Christ in the air when He returns. The most important truth is that God reigns over His creation. This would motivate us to love the Lord and live in anticipation of Christ’s return. The first thing John saw in heaven was a throne. The throne symbolizes God’s absolute rule and His majesty. The one sitting on the throne is none other than God Himself (4:3, 5). This throne is neither the great white throne nor the judgment seat of Christ. John envisions the one who is sitting on the throne like jasper and a sardine stones. There was a rainbow round about this throne. The Jasper stone is crystal-clear white stone representing the purity and glory of God (21:11). The Sardine stone is brilliant red in color representing God’s redemptive nature. The rainbow speaks of God’s mercy and faithfulness (Gen 9:13-16). The purpose of this vision was to encourage the persecuted believers. God rules all things and one day this earth will cover with His righteousness, and He will bring an end to evil. Christ's death and resurrection ensure this.
The Four Living Creatures and 24 Elders: Rev 4:6-8.
The throne of God was surrounded by 24 thrones and 4 elders sitting on the thrones. They were clothed in white garments with golden crowns on their heads. Their identity is not given. Some suggest that these elders are the angels. Perhaps they are the representatives of the redeemed people who are ruling and reigning with Christ. Their white garments is the garment of righteousness and their crowns are the rewards for their faithful service (Acts 20:17; 2 Tim 4:7, 8). The elders sitting on the thrones indicate they are given position of authority. From the throne came flashes of lightening and thundering voice. This shows the coming judgment of God (8:5). In front of the throne, seven lamps were burning. Many scholars believe the seven lamps represent the perfect ministry of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11:2). Before the throne, there was sea of glass like crystal. This is a picture of calm and harmony in heaven. In the center and around the throne were four living creatures. First like lion, the second like an ox, the third has a face like a man and the fourth is like a flying eagle. Each of them has six wings and is full of eyes. They represent the angels worshiping God day and night. They are heavenly cherubim (Ezekiel 10:15, 20; Isaiah 6:3). They join 24 elders, worshiping God. God is holy and separate from His creation. God’s holiness characterizes all He was, He is and He will be. He does all things according to His eternal council. God’s greatness and holiness demand our submission and worship.
God is Worthy of Worship: Rev 4:9-11.
The living creatures gave glory, honor and praise to God who lives forever. God ought to be praised always for his goodness and for the wonderful works to the children of men (Psalms 107:21). Worship is the activity going on forever in heaven. The 24 elders fell down and worshiped the one sitting on the throne. Roman citizens had to acknowledge the authority of their emperor by falling down before him. To bow down means to recognize the greatness and authority of God. Praise and worship are the central theme in the Bible. To worship means to ascribe honor to God. Our worship starts with offering our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Rom 12:1, 2). God is worthy of our worship. It is a continual submission to God, acknowledging His greatness. It is our privilege and duty to worship God who saved us. As someone has said it is a missing jewel among Christians today. The 24 elders cast down their golden crowns before God because He alone is worthy of worship. These are the crowns (stephanos) for faithful service. It is an acknowledgement that all that we are and we do is because of God’s grace. Elders worship God because He is the creator and redeemer of all things. God holds all things together and bring them to perfect completion according to His sovereign purpose. This thought should encourage the Christians who endure persecution. God in heaven rules all things. One day Christ will rule the whole earth in righteousness. He will bring an end to evil. He is our creator and redeemer. Perhaps nothing more clearly proves the deity of Jesus Christ than the fact that He is the focus of worship in heaven. Jesus is God and is worthy to be worshiped by all creatures in heaven and on earth. Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior? His resurrection ensures our salvation. It is sad that many people refuse to believe Him.
Chapter 5
Who is Worthy to Open the Scroll? 5:1-3.
Revelation chapter Five gives another majestic sight of worship in heaven. John saw God seated on a throne, holding a scroll sealed with seven seals. There was writing on it inside and outside of the scroll. In chapter four, God is portrayed as the creator sitting on the throne. He is worshiped by the angels. But in chapter five the focus is on the Lamb who was slain. Christ is the center of worship in heaven. The scroll contained details of God's plan of redemption and the coming judgment. To learn what is in the scroll one must break the seals to read it. In ancient time scroll contained the property deed and its seals guaranteed the authenticity of the scroll. John saw a strong angel shouting with a loud voice “Who is worthy to break the seals on the scroll and open it?” This scroll was the title deed of the fallen universe. Only the kinsman redeemer could break the seals and read it. No man was found worthy to open the seals because all have sinned and forfeited right to open. Therefore John wept. The victory of over sin and death depends on the opening of the scroll.
The Lion of Judah is Worthy: 5:4-7.
Suddenly one of the elders said to John “Stop weeping, behold the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David has prevailed to open the scroll and its seven seals.” This is none other than Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. Jesus was born from the tribe of Judah and in the family of David (Gen 49:9, 10; Isaiah 11:1). He is the prince of peace and the Lamb of God (Isaiah 9:6, 7; John 1:29). He is both God and Man, the One who is able to redeem us. Christ died for our sin and He triumphed over death by His resurrection. Jesus is worthy to open the scroll because He alone has paid the price for our redemption (Ephesians 1:7). John saw the Lamb bearing the wounds as if it had been slaughtered but it was now standing (5:6). Christ fulfilled God’s plan of salvation by dying on the cross. He is the Lamb that takes away the sin of the whole world (John 1:29). The Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all (Isaiah 53:6). He is in the center of the throne. He is equal with God. Jesus is the risen and he is the living redeemer. The Lamb’s seven horns speak of His power. He is able to save us completely (Heb 7:25). Seven eyes speak of His omniscience. Seven-fold spirit speaks of Christ’s omnipresence. He is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Jesus is God and is worthy to be worshiped by all creatures in heaven and on earth.
Christ is Worthy to Receive Worship: 5:8.
When Christ received the scroll, the four living beings and the 24 elders fell down before Him and sang a new song. Angels are created being and their main role is to worship God (Isaiah 6:1-3; Rev 4:11). Only God is worthy of worship (Rev 22:9). In worship we glorify God (Psalms 29:2; 50:23). Some worship God to appease God’s wrath. Others worship God to be blessed. But the true worship is always in spirit and truth (John 4: 24). Someone has said “The chief end of man is to glorify God and to enjoy Him”. God seeks true worshipers (John 4:23). The end of evangelism is worship. It is the chief occupation of the church on earth (John 15:8). Worship is the constant activity in heaven. It is beautiful in the sight of God (Psalms 147:1). We are commanded to offer the sacrifice of praise to God (Heb 13:15). Doing good to others is an act of worship (Ephesians 2:10; Phil 4:15; Heb 13:16). Angels could not sing the song of redemption because they are not redeemed. They join in the celebration of praising the lamb by holding harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. Who are these saints? They are the redeemed people of God (Rev 18:20). The gift of music comes from God and it will always enrich our worship (Rev 14:2; Psalms 33:2). Incense and golden bowls were used in the temple of worship in Israel. They are symbols of praise and prayers (Psalms 141:2). Prayer is an act of worship. It shows our dependence on God. Prayer includes our adoration, confession, thanksgivings and supplications. Christ’s High Priestly intercession makes our imperfect worship and prayers acceptable and pleasing to God. God's ears are opened to our prayers (Psalms 34:15). He seeks true worshipers (John 4:23). Are your a true worshiper?
They Sang a New Song: 5:9-12.
Only the redeemed people can sing the song of redemption. Angels and twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb and sang a new song saying ”Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain and by your blood you have ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth” (Rev 5:9, 10). The only other place where we read angels were singing was at the time of creation (Job 38:7). At the birth of Jesus, angels praised God, saying “Glory to God in the highest” (Luke 2:14). Angels cannot sing the song of redemption because they are not redeemed. The angels praise the Lamb who unveils the plan of salvation. Jesus is the Lamb of God who is worth of our praise because He was slain to redeem us from our sin. Our outward expression of praise should come from our overflowing gratitude toward God. Our praise should be expressive and meaningful. Christ is worthy to open the scroll. His death provides a ransom for our redemption. He purchased us from the bondage of Satan and set us free to serve God. He has made us kingdom of priests to reign with Him in His kingdom (Heb 2:5). We are saved to make Him known to this lost and dying world (1 Pet 2:9). The believer's worthiness before God is solely based on the finished work of Christ on the cross. John heard the voices of millions of angels joining in the celebration of praise. They were saying in mighty voice “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” These are the attributes of Christ, who is worthy of our praise. Perhaps nothing more clearly declares the deity of Christ than the fact that He is the focus of worship in heaven.
Every Creature in heaven Praise Christ : 5:13-14.
Finally every creature in heaven, on earth and under the earth and in the sea praised the Lamb saying “Blessings and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever” (Rev 5:12). The whole created universe joined in this worship. There is no excuse for not worshiping God our maker (Rom 1:20). He redeemed us from our sin. The celebration and worship in heaven assured us of the final outcome of redemption plan of the Lamb (5:14). God has highly exalted Christ and given Him a name which is above every name. When Christ receives the title deed of the universe from God the Father, every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father (Phil 2:9-11). All those who are saved will be there to witness this great event and worship the Lord. Because Christ has paid the redemption price with his own life, he is fully qualified to open the seals. He is worthy to receive our worship. With the opening of the seals, the tribulation begins. Now is the right time, today is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). Before it is too late, believe in Christ and be saved.
Revelation chapter Five gives another majestic sight of worship in heaven. John saw God seated on a throne, holding a scroll sealed with seven seals. There was writing on it inside and outside of the scroll. In chapter four, God is portrayed as the creator sitting on the throne. He is worshiped by the angels. But in chapter five the focus is on the Lamb who was slain. Christ is the center of worship in heaven. The scroll contained details of God's plan of redemption and the coming judgment. To learn what is in the scroll one must break the seals to read it. In ancient time scroll contained the property deed and its seals guaranteed the authenticity of the scroll. John saw a strong angel shouting with a loud voice “Who is worthy to break the seals on the scroll and open it?” This scroll was the title deed of the fallen universe. Only the kinsman redeemer could break the seals and read it. No man was found worthy to open the seals because all have sinned and forfeited right to open. Therefore John wept. The victory of over sin and death depends on the opening of the scroll.
The Lion of Judah is Worthy: 5:4-7.
Suddenly one of the elders said to John “Stop weeping, behold the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David has prevailed to open the scroll and its seven seals.” This is none other than Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. Jesus was born from the tribe of Judah and in the family of David (Gen 49:9, 10; Isaiah 11:1). He is the prince of peace and the Lamb of God (Isaiah 9:6, 7; John 1:29). He is both God and Man, the One who is able to redeem us. Christ died for our sin and He triumphed over death by His resurrection. Jesus is worthy to open the scroll because He alone has paid the price for our redemption (Ephesians 1:7). John saw the Lamb bearing the wounds as if it had been slaughtered but it was now standing (5:6). Christ fulfilled God’s plan of salvation by dying on the cross. He is the Lamb that takes away the sin of the whole world (John 1:29). The Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all (Isaiah 53:6). He is in the center of the throne. He is equal with God. Jesus is the risen and he is the living redeemer. The Lamb’s seven horns speak of His power. He is able to save us completely (Heb 7:25). Seven eyes speak of His omniscience. Seven-fold spirit speaks of Christ’s omnipresence. He is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Jesus is God and is worthy to be worshiped by all creatures in heaven and on earth.
Christ is Worthy to Receive Worship: 5:8.
When Christ received the scroll, the four living beings and the 24 elders fell down before Him and sang a new song. Angels are created being and their main role is to worship God (Isaiah 6:1-3; Rev 4:11). Only God is worthy of worship (Rev 22:9). In worship we glorify God (Psalms 29:2; 50:23). Some worship God to appease God’s wrath. Others worship God to be blessed. But the true worship is always in spirit and truth (John 4: 24). Someone has said “The chief end of man is to glorify God and to enjoy Him”. God seeks true worshipers (John 4:23). The end of evangelism is worship. It is the chief occupation of the church on earth (John 15:8). Worship is the constant activity in heaven. It is beautiful in the sight of God (Psalms 147:1). We are commanded to offer the sacrifice of praise to God (Heb 13:15). Doing good to others is an act of worship (Ephesians 2:10; Phil 4:15; Heb 13:16). Angels could not sing the song of redemption because they are not redeemed. They join in the celebration of praising the lamb by holding harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. Who are these saints? They are the redeemed people of God (Rev 18:20). The gift of music comes from God and it will always enrich our worship (Rev 14:2; Psalms 33:2). Incense and golden bowls were used in the temple of worship in Israel. They are symbols of praise and prayers (Psalms 141:2). Prayer is an act of worship. It shows our dependence on God. Prayer includes our adoration, confession, thanksgivings and supplications. Christ’s High Priestly intercession makes our imperfect worship and prayers acceptable and pleasing to God. God's ears are opened to our prayers (Psalms 34:15). He seeks true worshipers (John 4:23). Are your a true worshiper?
They Sang a New Song: 5:9-12.
Only the redeemed people can sing the song of redemption. Angels and twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb and sang a new song saying ”Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain and by your blood you have ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth” (Rev 5:9, 10). The only other place where we read angels were singing was at the time of creation (Job 38:7). At the birth of Jesus, angels praised God, saying “Glory to God in the highest” (Luke 2:14). Angels cannot sing the song of redemption because they are not redeemed. The angels praise the Lamb who unveils the plan of salvation. Jesus is the Lamb of God who is worth of our praise because He was slain to redeem us from our sin. Our outward expression of praise should come from our overflowing gratitude toward God. Our praise should be expressive and meaningful. Christ is worthy to open the scroll. His death provides a ransom for our redemption. He purchased us from the bondage of Satan and set us free to serve God. He has made us kingdom of priests to reign with Him in His kingdom (Heb 2:5). We are saved to make Him known to this lost and dying world (1 Pet 2:9). The believer's worthiness before God is solely based on the finished work of Christ on the cross. John heard the voices of millions of angels joining in the celebration of praise. They were saying in mighty voice “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” These are the attributes of Christ, who is worthy of our praise. Perhaps nothing more clearly declares the deity of Christ than the fact that He is the focus of worship in heaven.
Every Creature in heaven Praise Christ : 5:13-14.
Finally every creature in heaven, on earth and under the earth and in the sea praised the Lamb saying “Blessings and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever” (Rev 5:12). The whole created universe joined in this worship. There is no excuse for not worshiping God our maker (Rom 1:20). He redeemed us from our sin. The celebration and worship in heaven assured us of the final outcome of redemption plan of the Lamb (5:14). God has highly exalted Christ and given Him a name which is above every name. When Christ receives the title deed of the universe from God the Father, every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father (Phil 2:9-11). All those who are saved will be there to witness this great event and worship the Lord. Because Christ has paid the redemption price with his own life, he is fully qualified to open the seals. He is worthy to receive our worship. With the opening of the seals, the tribulation begins. Now is the right time, today is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). Before it is too late, believe in Christ and be saved.
Chapter 6
The Seven Seal Judgment:
Beginning with the sixth chapter of Revelation, apostle John was given the vision of coming judgments. They are the 7 seals judgments, 7 trumpets judgments and the 7 bowls judgments (6; 8-9; 16). These are terrifying scene of the great wrath of the Lamb. But it encourages and believers to remain steadfast in their faith. The Lamb who has triumphed over sin is worthy to open the seven seals. Christ is going to judge the world (6:17). Christ told the disciples about this coming events of the end time in His Olivet Discourse (Matt 24, 25). They were warned about false teachers and encouraged to remain faithful to the true gospel even unto death. The terrifying scene of the great day of the wrath of the Lamb is about to begin. Bible scholars differ on the interpretation of these events (6-19).
The First Seal: Rev 6:1, 2:
When the Lamb broke the first of the seven seal on the scroll, John heard one of the four living creatures say with a loud voice like thunder saying “Come”. This invitation is repeated to all four horsemen. John saw a white horse and its rider had a bow. He came out to conquering and to conquer. The rider had crown on his head (6:2). White is a symbolic of peace and purity. Bow speaks of war and crown is symbolic of authority. Some suggest that white horse is a picture of Christ (Rev 19:11). Others think this speaks of world evangelism (Matt 24:14). The rider revealed here cannot be Christ because he does not hold the scroll. Most probably the rider on white horse is the false Christ who comes in the name of Christ to deceive people (Matt 24:5). He will promise world-peace and safety to everyone. Paul warns that "When he says peace and safety, then sudden destruction comes upon them" (1 Thess 5:3). This is the Antichrist, who would sign a peace treaty with Israel (Daniel 9:26). The arms race done today in the name of peace will only lead to more destruction. Only Jesus is the prince of peace and He alone can bring lasting peace (John 14:27). This false christ is the "Man of sin", mentioned in Daniel 9:36 (2 Thess 2:3-12).
The Second Seal: Rev 6:3-4.
When the Lamb broke the second seal, a rider on a red horse appears. The rider carries a mighty sword in his hand. He was given the authority to take peace from the earth. Without the permission of God, Satan cannot do anything. There will be war and slaughter everywhere. This is the second phase of the reign of Antichrist. He will break the peace treaty once he made with the nations. This will cause worldwide war and bloodshed. People become disloyal and violent because of their sin and selfishness. Christ warned that there would be wars and rumors of wars (Mark 13:7). Antichrist could promise peace but cannot deliver it. Only Christ will bring lasting peace. Peace comes only when we are reconciled to God (Rom 5:11). Worry and anxiety are the result of absence of peace. Having justified by faith in Christ we have peace with God (Rom 5:1). Jesus Himself is our peace (Ephesians 2:14). Only Christ could bring ultimate peace in this world.
The Third Seal: Rev 6:5-6.
When the Lamb broke the third seal, a black horse and a rider holding a pair of scale appears. A voice from among the four living creatures cried out, “Two pounds of wheat for a day’s wage and six pounds of barley for a day’s wage”. The balance suggests that a system of rationing will be enforced. A denarius was a day’s wage and would buy only enough wheat for one person for one day (Matt 20:2, 9). Because of war the production of grain will be greatly reduced. As a result there would be world wide scarcity of food. There is going to be rationing of food. People will be told not to waste the olive oil and wine (6:6). It shows that even though hardship increases, God is still in control. We are rapidly heading for that day.
The Fourth Seal: Rev 6:7-8.
When the fourth seal was broken, John saw a pale green horse. Its rider's name was death and Hades. These two were given authority over one fourth of the earth, to kill with the sword, famine, disease and wild animals. Hades is inhabited by souls of those who died in their sin (Luke 16:23). Pale is the color of a sick person or a corpse. There will be war and world wide plague. Wild animals will roam in search of food because of famine. God wants people to repent of their sins but they will not repent.
The Fifth Seal: Rev 6:9-11.
When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, John saw under the alter, the souls of martyrs who died for the testimony of Christ. They refuse to renounce their faith in Christ and worship the false god. They pour out their lives for Christ as a drink offering (Phil 2:17; 2 Tim 4:6). They will cry out with a loud voice “Lord holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” They will be given white robe and told to rest a little longer until full number of their brothers and sisters who were to be martyred had joined them. These may not be the martyrs of the church age , for they were caught up before the opening of the seals. The souls being under the alter is symbolic of people purchased by the blood of Christ. They know that vengeance belongs to the Lord and He will repay them (Rom 12:19). That is going to happen when Christ returns (2 Thess 1:6-8). Though they are slain, they are alive in the presence of God. What a beautiful picture of our eternal security. Believers may die but they shall live again (John 11:25). When Christ returns, believers will be comforted and the unsaved will be judged. Christians do not need to fear death and suffering because they serve a risen Savior (John 16:33). If we suffer with Christ now we shall reign with Him when Christ returns (2 Tim 2:12).
The Sixth Seal: Rev 6:12-17.
When the sixth seal was broken there was great earthquake. Now the intensity of the judgment is increased. The sun became as dark as black and the moon became as red as blood. The stars fell to the earth and the sky rolled up like a scroll, and all the mountains and islands were moved from their places. God will pour out His judgment over nature because sin had contaminated the whole creation. This would make people panic and fearful. They looked for hiding places in caves and mountains to escape from the judgment of God. This hiding game started in the Garden of Eden. People want to escape from the wrath of the Lamb. They will cry to mountains and the rock to fall on them to hide from the wrath of the Lamb. Wrath of God is His settled attitude toward sin. No one can save us from the wrath of God except Jesus Chris. He endured God's wrath on our behalf on the cross. Human history reveals the depth of their rebellion toward God. But God loved the world and sent His one and only Son to save them from sin. Those who trust Christ will receive eternal life. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the whole world (John 1:29). His sacrifice is sufficient for the salvation of the whole world. But only those who trust Him will be saved. Are you saved by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ?
Beginning with the sixth chapter of Revelation, apostle John was given the vision of coming judgments. They are the 7 seals judgments, 7 trumpets judgments and the 7 bowls judgments (6; 8-9; 16). These are terrifying scene of the great wrath of the Lamb. But it encourages and believers to remain steadfast in their faith. The Lamb who has triumphed over sin is worthy to open the seven seals. Christ is going to judge the world (6:17). Christ told the disciples about this coming events of the end time in His Olivet Discourse (Matt 24, 25). They were warned about false teachers and encouraged to remain faithful to the true gospel even unto death. The terrifying scene of the great day of the wrath of the Lamb is about to begin. Bible scholars differ on the interpretation of these events (6-19).
The First Seal: Rev 6:1, 2:
When the Lamb broke the first of the seven seal on the scroll, John heard one of the four living creatures say with a loud voice like thunder saying “Come”. This invitation is repeated to all four horsemen. John saw a white horse and its rider had a bow. He came out to conquering and to conquer. The rider had crown on his head (6:2). White is a symbolic of peace and purity. Bow speaks of war and crown is symbolic of authority. Some suggest that white horse is a picture of Christ (Rev 19:11). Others think this speaks of world evangelism (Matt 24:14). The rider revealed here cannot be Christ because he does not hold the scroll. Most probably the rider on white horse is the false Christ who comes in the name of Christ to deceive people (Matt 24:5). He will promise world-peace and safety to everyone. Paul warns that "When he says peace and safety, then sudden destruction comes upon them" (1 Thess 5:3). This is the Antichrist, who would sign a peace treaty with Israel (Daniel 9:26). The arms race done today in the name of peace will only lead to more destruction. Only Jesus is the prince of peace and He alone can bring lasting peace (John 14:27). This false christ is the "Man of sin", mentioned in Daniel 9:36 (2 Thess 2:3-12).
The Second Seal: Rev 6:3-4.
When the Lamb broke the second seal, a rider on a red horse appears. The rider carries a mighty sword in his hand. He was given the authority to take peace from the earth. Without the permission of God, Satan cannot do anything. There will be war and slaughter everywhere. This is the second phase of the reign of Antichrist. He will break the peace treaty once he made with the nations. This will cause worldwide war and bloodshed. People become disloyal and violent because of their sin and selfishness. Christ warned that there would be wars and rumors of wars (Mark 13:7). Antichrist could promise peace but cannot deliver it. Only Christ will bring lasting peace. Peace comes only when we are reconciled to God (Rom 5:11). Worry and anxiety are the result of absence of peace. Having justified by faith in Christ we have peace with God (Rom 5:1). Jesus Himself is our peace (Ephesians 2:14). Only Christ could bring ultimate peace in this world.
The Third Seal: Rev 6:5-6.
When the Lamb broke the third seal, a black horse and a rider holding a pair of scale appears. A voice from among the four living creatures cried out, “Two pounds of wheat for a day’s wage and six pounds of barley for a day’s wage”. The balance suggests that a system of rationing will be enforced. A denarius was a day’s wage and would buy only enough wheat for one person for one day (Matt 20:2, 9). Because of war the production of grain will be greatly reduced. As a result there would be world wide scarcity of food. There is going to be rationing of food. People will be told not to waste the olive oil and wine (6:6). It shows that even though hardship increases, God is still in control. We are rapidly heading for that day.
The Fourth Seal: Rev 6:7-8.
When the fourth seal was broken, John saw a pale green horse. Its rider's name was death and Hades. These two were given authority over one fourth of the earth, to kill with the sword, famine, disease and wild animals. Hades is inhabited by souls of those who died in their sin (Luke 16:23). Pale is the color of a sick person or a corpse. There will be war and world wide plague. Wild animals will roam in search of food because of famine. God wants people to repent of their sins but they will not repent.
The Fifth Seal: Rev 6:9-11.
When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, John saw under the alter, the souls of martyrs who died for the testimony of Christ. They refuse to renounce their faith in Christ and worship the false god. They pour out their lives for Christ as a drink offering (Phil 2:17; 2 Tim 4:6). They will cry out with a loud voice “Lord holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” They will be given white robe and told to rest a little longer until full number of their brothers and sisters who were to be martyred had joined them. These may not be the martyrs of the church age , for they were caught up before the opening of the seals. The souls being under the alter is symbolic of people purchased by the blood of Christ. They know that vengeance belongs to the Lord and He will repay them (Rom 12:19). That is going to happen when Christ returns (2 Thess 1:6-8). Though they are slain, they are alive in the presence of God. What a beautiful picture of our eternal security. Believers may die but they shall live again (John 11:25). When Christ returns, believers will be comforted and the unsaved will be judged. Christians do not need to fear death and suffering because they serve a risen Savior (John 16:33). If we suffer with Christ now we shall reign with Him when Christ returns (2 Tim 2:12).
The Sixth Seal: Rev 6:12-17.
When the sixth seal was broken there was great earthquake. Now the intensity of the judgment is increased. The sun became as dark as black and the moon became as red as blood. The stars fell to the earth and the sky rolled up like a scroll, and all the mountains and islands were moved from their places. God will pour out His judgment over nature because sin had contaminated the whole creation. This would make people panic and fearful. They looked for hiding places in caves and mountains to escape from the judgment of God. This hiding game started in the Garden of Eden. People want to escape from the wrath of the Lamb. They will cry to mountains and the rock to fall on them to hide from the wrath of the Lamb. Wrath of God is His settled attitude toward sin. No one can save us from the wrath of God except Jesus Chris. He endured God's wrath on our behalf on the cross. Human history reveals the depth of their rebellion toward God. But God loved the world and sent His one and only Son to save them from sin. Those who trust Christ will receive eternal life. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the whole world (John 1:29). His sacrifice is sufficient for the salvation of the whole world. But only those who trust Him will be saved. Are you saved by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ?
Chapter 7
144000 Jews are preserved: Rev 7:1-8.
Between the sixth and seventh seal there is an interlude. John saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth holding back the four winds. In the scripture "Fours" represent the universality. Another angel comes from the east, carrying the seal of the living God. He instruct the four angels to delay the judgment on land and sea until His servants are sealed. This shows how gracious is our God. These passages also show that God not only saves Jews but also a multitude people from every nations. They are sealed to be preserved from coming wrath (9:4). The first group was chosen from the twelve tribes of Israel. These 144000 are clearly Jewish believers who are saved and sealed during the early part of tribulation (Rev 7:4-8). Seal speaks of ownership and security. This round number symbolizes innumerable multitude of God's people mentioned in verse 9. Two tribes Ephraim and Dan are missing from the list. It may be because they had fallen into idolatry (Judges 18; 1 King 11:26). The tribe of Joseph and Levi are included in the list. They are sealed to preserve them from God's coming wrath. A vast number of people will be brought into the kingdom of God during this time. Satan will persecute those who are faithful to God. But they will conquer Satan by the blood of the Lamb (12:11). Salvation is always by grace and through faith in Christ. It a gift from God. The Lord knows those who are his and they will depart from evil (2 Tim 2:19). God's grace will prevail at the end.
A Great Multitude from the Great Tribulation: Rev 7:9-17.
John saw a great multitude, too great to count. They are from every nation and tribe standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They are saved because of the faithful witness of 144000 Jewish witnesses and the saving power of Christ. They are from every nations. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches. They are the redeemed people saved from the great tribulation. White robe is symbolic of the cleansing of their sin and their righteousness (Rev 19:8). They are saved by the blood of the Lamb. Palm branches speak of victory (John 12:12, 13). They praised God for their salvation saying “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb”. And all the angels, elders and four living creatures fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God saying, “You are worthy of blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might forever Amen” (7:11-12). One of the 24 elders asked John “Who are these clothed in white robes and where they come from? John said to him “Sir, you are the one who knows”. Then the angel told John “These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” 7:14). How merciful is our God! Although the tribulation is a time of judgment, yet it will be a time of salvation as well. The Lamb shall feed them and shall lead them to living water. God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. What a wonderful picture of God’s mercy. In the midst of judgment they found grace. This passage does not teach that there will be a second chance to get saved after rapture. Those who reject the gospel now may not get another opportunity (2 Thess 2:11, 12). Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). Are you saved?
Between the sixth and seventh seal there is an interlude. John saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth holding back the four winds. In the scripture "Fours" represent the universality. Another angel comes from the east, carrying the seal of the living God. He instruct the four angels to delay the judgment on land and sea until His servants are sealed. This shows how gracious is our God. These passages also show that God not only saves Jews but also a multitude people from every nations. They are sealed to be preserved from coming wrath (9:4). The first group was chosen from the twelve tribes of Israel. These 144000 are clearly Jewish believers who are saved and sealed during the early part of tribulation (Rev 7:4-8). Seal speaks of ownership and security. This round number symbolizes innumerable multitude of God's people mentioned in verse 9. Two tribes Ephraim and Dan are missing from the list. It may be because they had fallen into idolatry (Judges 18; 1 King 11:26). The tribe of Joseph and Levi are included in the list. They are sealed to preserve them from God's coming wrath. A vast number of people will be brought into the kingdom of God during this time. Satan will persecute those who are faithful to God. But they will conquer Satan by the blood of the Lamb (12:11). Salvation is always by grace and through faith in Christ. It a gift from God. The Lord knows those who are his and they will depart from evil (2 Tim 2:19). God's grace will prevail at the end.
A Great Multitude from the Great Tribulation: Rev 7:9-17.
John saw a great multitude, too great to count. They are from every nation and tribe standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They are saved because of the faithful witness of 144000 Jewish witnesses and the saving power of Christ. They are from every nations. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches. They are the redeemed people saved from the great tribulation. White robe is symbolic of the cleansing of their sin and their righteousness (Rev 19:8). They are saved by the blood of the Lamb. Palm branches speak of victory (John 12:12, 13). They praised God for their salvation saying “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb”. And all the angels, elders and four living creatures fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God saying, “You are worthy of blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might forever Amen” (7:11-12). One of the 24 elders asked John “Who are these clothed in white robes and where they come from? John said to him “Sir, you are the one who knows”. Then the angel told John “These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” 7:14). How merciful is our God! Although the tribulation is a time of judgment, yet it will be a time of salvation as well. The Lamb shall feed them and shall lead them to living water. God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. What a wonderful picture of God’s mercy. In the midst of judgment they found grace. This passage does not teach that there will be a second chance to get saved after rapture. Those who reject the gospel now may not get another opportunity (2 Thess 2:11, 12). Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). Are you saved?
Chapter 8
The Seventh Seal: Rev 8:1-6.
When the seventh seal is opened there is silence throughout heaven for about half an hour. In heaven angels are worshiping God always (Psalms 22:3; Rev 4, 5). And the silence of half an hour shows the calm before the storm of severe judgment. Angels see the horror of the intensity of the coming wrath of God. God always warns people before judgment so that they may repent. God does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 33:11). John is given the vision of the seven angels who are standing before God. The seven trumpets are instruments of proclamation. These are special angels to execute judgment over the world. The sounding of the trumpets are always followed by proclamations. It seems the seven trumpets are the judgment of the seventh seal and the seven bowls are the judgment of the seventh trumpet. The increasing severity of judgments shows that the latter half of tribulation period is much more destructive than the first half. Before the first trumpet sounded, another angel appears before the alter with a golden censer and with much incense (Rev 8:3-50). This angel is often understood to be Jesus Christ as our High priest. The prayers of all the saints ascend up to God from the alter. The incense is symbolic of the finished work of Christ. What makes the prayers of the tribulation saints acceptable to God is the intercessory ministry of Christ. The angel filled the incense burner with fire from the alter and threw it down upon the earth. Once prayer ascends judgment descends. It results in thunder, lightning and earthquake. These seven trumpets judgments will affect nature and people. The entire section is similar to the Old Testament Exodus story, in which God poured out his judgment on the nation of Egypt.
The First Trumpet: Rev 8:7.
When the first angel blew the trumpet, hail and fire mixed with blood thrown upon the earth. Thus one-third of the plant life will be burnt and destroyed. Scholars suggest that this will cause ecological disaster and imbalance in the nature. This resembles to some of the plagues that fell on Egypt (Ex 9-12).
The second Trumpet: Rev 8:8-9.
When the second trumpet blew, a flaming mountain is thrown into the sea. One-third of the water in the sea becomes blood. This destroys one-third of ships and kill one-third of marine life. This may happen because of radioactivity and chemical reaction due to atomic explosion. It is similar to the plague on Egypt (Ex 7:19-21).
The Third Trumpet: Rev 8:10, 11.
As the third trumpet sounded a great flaming star fell from the sky and destroys one-third of the spring water supply. The water supply will be become deadly poison and many will die. The name of the star is wormwood or bitterness.
The Fourth Trumpet: Rev 8:12, 13.
When the fourth angel blew his trumpet, one- third of the sun, moon and star become dark. The light will be reduced by one third. It resembles the darkness happened in Egypt. This will affect the farming and the availability of food. John heard a single eagle crying loudly “woe, woe, woe” as to those who dwell on the earth”. The severity of judgment is becoming noticeably greater. Eagle is symbolic of God’s judgment (Deuteronomy 28:49). We see a progression and severity of judgment as the trumpets are blown. Just as God rescued His people in the Old Testament period of the Exodus from Egypt, He will deliver His people during this time. God wants people to repent of their sin and turn to Him. But people will harden their hearts and suffer eternal damnation.
When the seventh seal is opened there is silence throughout heaven for about half an hour. In heaven angels are worshiping God always (Psalms 22:3; Rev 4, 5). And the silence of half an hour shows the calm before the storm of severe judgment. Angels see the horror of the intensity of the coming wrath of God. God always warns people before judgment so that they may repent. God does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 33:11). John is given the vision of the seven angels who are standing before God. The seven trumpets are instruments of proclamation. These are special angels to execute judgment over the world. The sounding of the trumpets are always followed by proclamations. It seems the seven trumpets are the judgment of the seventh seal and the seven bowls are the judgment of the seventh trumpet. The increasing severity of judgments shows that the latter half of tribulation period is much more destructive than the first half. Before the first trumpet sounded, another angel appears before the alter with a golden censer and with much incense (Rev 8:3-50). This angel is often understood to be Jesus Christ as our High priest. The prayers of all the saints ascend up to God from the alter. The incense is symbolic of the finished work of Christ. What makes the prayers of the tribulation saints acceptable to God is the intercessory ministry of Christ. The angel filled the incense burner with fire from the alter and threw it down upon the earth. Once prayer ascends judgment descends. It results in thunder, lightning and earthquake. These seven trumpets judgments will affect nature and people. The entire section is similar to the Old Testament Exodus story, in which God poured out his judgment on the nation of Egypt.
The First Trumpet: Rev 8:7.
When the first angel blew the trumpet, hail and fire mixed with blood thrown upon the earth. Thus one-third of the plant life will be burnt and destroyed. Scholars suggest that this will cause ecological disaster and imbalance in the nature. This resembles to some of the plagues that fell on Egypt (Ex 9-12).
The second Trumpet: Rev 8:8-9.
When the second trumpet blew, a flaming mountain is thrown into the sea. One-third of the water in the sea becomes blood. This destroys one-third of ships and kill one-third of marine life. This may happen because of radioactivity and chemical reaction due to atomic explosion. It is similar to the plague on Egypt (Ex 7:19-21).
The Third Trumpet: Rev 8:10, 11.
As the third trumpet sounded a great flaming star fell from the sky and destroys one-third of the spring water supply. The water supply will be become deadly poison and many will die. The name of the star is wormwood or bitterness.
The Fourth Trumpet: Rev 8:12, 13.
When the fourth angel blew his trumpet, one- third of the sun, moon and star become dark. The light will be reduced by one third. It resembles the darkness happened in Egypt. This will affect the farming and the availability of food. John heard a single eagle crying loudly “woe, woe, woe” as to those who dwell on the earth”. The severity of judgment is becoming noticeably greater. Eagle is symbolic of God’s judgment (Deuteronomy 28:49). We see a progression and severity of judgment as the trumpets are blown. Just as God rescued His people in the Old Testament period of the Exodus from Egypt, He will deliver His people during this time. God wants people to repent of their sin and turn to Him. But people will harden their hearts and suffer eternal damnation.
Chapter 9
The Fifth Trumpet: Rev 9:1-12.
The 9th chapter explains the 5th and 6th trumpets judgments. This is the painful and the darkest period of human history. When the 5th angel blew the trumpet, John sees a star fallen to earth from the sky. He was given given the key of the bottomless pit. The "Star" is symbolic of an angel (1:20; Job 38:7). His name in Greek is Apollyon and in Hebrew is Abaddon which means destroyer. This angel has authority over fallen angels. This may be Lucifer the son of the morning star who was cast out from heaven for the pride of his heart (Isaiah 14:12-15). When this fallen angel opens the bottomless pit, smoke pours out of the pit and the sun and the air turn dark from the smoke (9:1-2). The fallen star seems to be Satan himself. He is allowed to use the key of the bottomless pit for a specific purpose. The locusts come from the smoke and they have sting like scorpions. There are unchained demons and chained demons (Luke 8:27-31; Jude 6, 7). The bottomless pit is the abode of the demons. Out of the smoke appears locusts. They look like horses prepared for battle. They look gross, wearing gold-like crown and their faces look like human faces (9:7-8). They are not allowed to destroy vegetation. They may torment those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. The pain from the sting of locusts was unbearable but not fatal. The duration of this judgment will be five months. In those days people will seek death but will not find it. The worst judgment is yet to come.
The Sixth Trumpet: Rev 9:13-21.
When the sixth angel blew the trumpet, John hears a voice speaking from the four horns of the golden alter, saying to the sixth angel to release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates (9:13,14). These four satanic angels will lead an army of 200 million from the east. They will kill one-third of all people on earth. Under the fourth seal judgment, one fourth of the earth will be killed (6:8). This army is equipped with modern weapons. That means world population will be reduced to half since the beginning of the tribulation. The source of this invasion is the Euphrates River. The false religion began at this place (Gen 2:14; 4:3). John saw the horses and the rider sitting on them. This army looks like a horse and the riders sitting on them with fiery red armor. The horses have heads like lions. Fire, smoke and burning sulfur come out of the mouths of horses. Their power is in their mouths and in their tails. Their tails have heads like snakes with the power to injure people (9: 17-19). Is it not a picture of the modern day warfare? In spite of the severe judgment, people will not repent. Such is typical of hardened human hearts (Jeremiah 17:9). Whether we live today or during the tribulation, only the redeeming grace of God can save souls (Gen 6:5). We all deserve the judgment of God. But God poured out the judgment we deserve upon His Son. God rescued us from eternal judgment. Without Christ there is no hope. Have your believed in Jesus Christ to escape from the coming judgment.
The 9th chapter explains the 5th and 6th trumpets judgments. This is the painful and the darkest period of human history. When the 5th angel blew the trumpet, John sees a star fallen to earth from the sky. He was given given the key of the bottomless pit. The "Star" is symbolic of an angel (1:20; Job 38:7). His name in Greek is Apollyon and in Hebrew is Abaddon which means destroyer. This angel has authority over fallen angels. This may be Lucifer the son of the morning star who was cast out from heaven for the pride of his heart (Isaiah 14:12-15). When this fallen angel opens the bottomless pit, smoke pours out of the pit and the sun and the air turn dark from the smoke (9:1-2). The fallen star seems to be Satan himself. He is allowed to use the key of the bottomless pit for a specific purpose. The locusts come from the smoke and they have sting like scorpions. There are unchained demons and chained demons (Luke 8:27-31; Jude 6, 7). The bottomless pit is the abode of the demons. Out of the smoke appears locusts. They look like horses prepared for battle. They look gross, wearing gold-like crown and their faces look like human faces (9:7-8). They are not allowed to destroy vegetation. They may torment those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. The pain from the sting of locusts was unbearable but not fatal. The duration of this judgment will be five months. In those days people will seek death but will not find it. The worst judgment is yet to come.
The Sixth Trumpet: Rev 9:13-21.
When the sixth angel blew the trumpet, John hears a voice speaking from the four horns of the golden alter, saying to the sixth angel to release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates (9:13,14). These four satanic angels will lead an army of 200 million from the east. They will kill one-third of all people on earth. Under the fourth seal judgment, one fourth of the earth will be killed (6:8). This army is equipped with modern weapons. That means world population will be reduced to half since the beginning of the tribulation. The source of this invasion is the Euphrates River. The false religion began at this place (Gen 2:14; 4:3). John saw the horses and the rider sitting on them. This army looks like a horse and the riders sitting on them with fiery red armor. The horses have heads like lions. Fire, smoke and burning sulfur come out of the mouths of horses. Their power is in their mouths and in their tails. Their tails have heads like snakes with the power to injure people (9: 17-19). Is it not a picture of the modern day warfare? In spite of the severe judgment, people will not repent. Such is typical of hardened human hearts (Jeremiah 17:9). Whether we live today or during the tribulation, only the redeeming grace of God can save souls (Gen 6:5). We all deserve the judgment of God. But God poured out the judgment we deserve upon His Son. God rescued us from eternal judgment. Without Christ there is no hope. Have your believed in Jesus Christ to escape from the coming judgment.
Chapter 10
The mighty Angel with the Scroll: Rev 10:1-7.
John sees another mighty angel who is coming down from heaven. This mighty angel is surrounded by a cloud and has a rainbow upon his head. His face shone like the sun and his feet were like pillar of fire. Many think this angel resembles Christ. But in the book of Revelation, angels are always angels and often referred to as messengers. Since this angel swears an oath in the name of God it is clear that the angel has come in the authority of the Lord and not the Lord Himself (10:6). In his hand there is an open scroll. The angel stands with right foot on the sea and left foot on the land. This shows God’s authority over all of humanity. The angel said "There will be no more delay". When the seventh angel blew his trumpet, God's mysterious plan will be fulfilled. When John was about to write, he was commanded to seal up the seven messages and do not to write it down (10:4). God is sovereign over His judgment and its timing. There is no further delay for the final judgment. When the seventh angel blows his trumpet the mystery of God will be fulfilled as He has revealed to His servants the prophets. This will mark the beginning of the end of the age when Jesus will bring perfect justice.
John Consumes the Scroll: Rev 10:8-11.
John hears a voice from heaven saying “Go and take the open scroll from the hand of the angel and eat it and it will make your stomach bitter but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey (10:8-10). Prophet Jeremiah and Ezekiel had similar experiences (Ezekiel 2:9-3:4; Jeremiah 15:16-18). This is the proof that they are the true prophets. The false prophet will soon enter the picture (Rev 13:11-18). It will be a bitter sweet experience. The open scroll is a reference to the Word of God. It is sweet to John because he finds delight in the new revelation but he feels bitter because of the content of the revelation. He will rejoice over the coming glory but is troubled by the judgment that precedes the final glory. Only God’s Word can satisfy us. It is sweeter than honey comb (Psalms 119:103). The lack of nourishment of the scripture will spoil our spiritual appetite. God’s Word always will accomplish its purposes (Isaiah 55:11). God’s Word convicts us of our sins and makes us wise unto salvation (2 Tim 3:15-17). Our responsibility is to preach and teach the Word of God regardless of how people respond (2 Tim 4:1, 2). John was told to prophecy these word because it was relevant for the entire world.
John sees another mighty angel who is coming down from heaven. This mighty angel is surrounded by a cloud and has a rainbow upon his head. His face shone like the sun and his feet were like pillar of fire. Many think this angel resembles Christ. But in the book of Revelation, angels are always angels and often referred to as messengers. Since this angel swears an oath in the name of God it is clear that the angel has come in the authority of the Lord and not the Lord Himself (10:6). In his hand there is an open scroll. The angel stands with right foot on the sea and left foot on the land. This shows God’s authority over all of humanity. The angel said "There will be no more delay". When the seventh angel blew his trumpet, God's mysterious plan will be fulfilled. When John was about to write, he was commanded to seal up the seven messages and do not to write it down (10:4). God is sovereign over His judgment and its timing. There is no further delay for the final judgment. When the seventh angel blows his trumpet the mystery of God will be fulfilled as He has revealed to His servants the prophets. This will mark the beginning of the end of the age when Jesus will bring perfect justice.
John Consumes the Scroll: Rev 10:8-11.
John hears a voice from heaven saying “Go and take the open scroll from the hand of the angel and eat it and it will make your stomach bitter but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey (10:8-10). Prophet Jeremiah and Ezekiel had similar experiences (Ezekiel 2:9-3:4; Jeremiah 15:16-18). This is the proof that they are the true prophets. The false prophet will soon enter the picture (Rev 13:11-18). It will be a bitter sweet experience. The open scroll is a reference to the Word of God. It is sweet to John because he finds delight in the new revelation but he feels bitter because of the content of the revelation. He will rejoice over the coming glory but is troubled by the judgment that precedes the final glory. Only God’s Word can satisfy us. It is sweeter than honey comb (Psalms 119:103). The lack of nourishment of the scripture will spoil our spiritual appetite. God’s Word always will accomplish its purposes (Isaiah 55:11). God’s Word convicts us of our sins and makes us wise unto salvation (2 Tim 3:15-17). Our responsibility is to preach and teach the Word of God regardless of how people respond (2 Tim 4:1, 2). John was told to prophecy these word because it was relevant for the entire world.
Chapter 11
The Two Witnesses: Rev 11:1-6.
This is perhaps the most difficult section in the book of Revelation to interpret. John was given a measuring rode and asked to measure the temple of God, the Alter and to count the worshipers (11:1). The temple is protected by God. The New testament regards the church as the temple of God (1 Cor 3:16). John was told not to measure the outer courtyard. The outer court was given to gentiles and they will trample the holy city for 42 months. This will happen when Antichrist breaks the covenant of peace with Israel. Does this refer to a literal temple that will be built in Jerusalem during the Tribulation? The Scholars differ on the interpretation of this temple. The temple is always symbolic of God’s presence and the worship of His people. Apostle Paul wrote “Believers are the temple of God” (1 Cor 6:19). The measuring is symbolic of God’s ownership of His people and their protection. Some suggest that this is the same temple in which the man of sin will demand his worship (2 Thessalonians 2:4). At this time God will grant authority to two witnesses to prophecy for 1260 days in sack cloth (11:3). Even the worshipers are numbered indicates that God is beginning to deal with the nation of Israel. This refers to Daniel’s seventieth week. This is the last half of the seven year Tribulation period after the covenant of peace with Israel is broken (Dan 9:27).
The two witnesses killed but Resurrected: Rev 11:7-14.
God does not leave this earth without His messenger to warn before judgment. Two powerful prophets are raised up in the middle of the tribulation period to prophecy. These two witnesses are likened to olive trees and candlesticks standing before the God (Rev 11:4). The figure of olive trees shows that they are the anointed ones (Zechariah 4:3, 14). Candlesticks refer to their witness during the Tribulation period. It is difficult to identify these witnesses. Some hold the view that they are Moses and Elijah because of their ability to perform miracles. Others think that they are Elijah and Enoch since they are sent back to witness and die (Heb 9:27). They will have power to kill their enemies with fire, withhold rain, to turn the waters into blood and bring plagues upon the earth. Nothing happens to them until they finish their ministry. Their ministry incites the wrath of Antichrist. It is comforting that God is able to protect His servants throughout their ministry. God will not permit Satan to harm us until we finish our ministry on earth (Job 1:12). The Antichrist is finally allowed to kill them. Their bodies will lie in the street of Jerusalem for three and a half days. Jerusalem is spiritually characterized by Sodom and Egypt. Sodom stands for moral corruption and Egypt for spiritual darkness. The world will celebrate at their death. This celebration will be premature when suddenly the Spirit of life from God enters into their dead bodies and they stand up. They will be ascended up to heaven. So great will be the impact of the resurrection and ascension of these two witnesses that there will be a great earthquake. This will destroy a tenth of the city of Jerusalem and 7000 people will be killed. The rest will be terrified and will give glory to God. Yet people will not repent of their wickedness. Thus the second woe comes to a conclusion. Jesus said "Though one rose from the dead and witness to sinners they cannot be persuaded" (Luke 16:30, 31). God will help those who are willing to proclaim the gospel despite their suffering.
The Seventh Trumpet: Rev 11:15-19.
When the seventh angel blew the trumpet there were great voices in heaven saying, “The kingdoms of the world have become the Kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ and He shall reign forever and ever” (11:15). This is the beginning of the end. Very soon Christ will take over the nations as their rightful ruler. This announcement produces twofold reactions. There is great joy and worship in heaven because God's judgment has finally come and His servants were rewarded. God will reward His people for their faithfulness. Many prophecies will be the fulfilled at this time (Act 2:25-28; Psalms 2:2-5; Isaiah 9:67; Dan 2:44). When Christ reigns there will be peace on earth. The world will no longer be under the power of Satan. Then John saw in heaven the Temple of God was opened and the Ark of the covenant could be seen inside the Temple (11:19). Since the temple in Jerusalem was defiled by Antichrist, it is not surprising to see the heavenly temple. The Ark is symbolic of God’s dwelling among His people. The chapter ends with a fearsome scene of "Lighting, voices, thunder, earthquake and hail. They speak of coming judgment over nations" (11:19). God's judgment is always based on His righteousness. This also indicates God's wrath. God poured His wrath upon Christ for our sake (Matt 27:32-54. If you trust Jesus, you will not have to face the coming wrath of God. God will rapture the believers before tribulation. Never downplay the reality of God's wrath against sin. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, you shall be saved.
This is perhaps the most difficult section in the book of Revelation to interpret. John was given a measuring rode and asked to measure the temple of God, the Alter and to count the worshipers (11:1). The temple is protected by God. The New testament regards the church as the temple of God (1 Cor 3:16). John was told not to measure the outer courtyard. The outer court was given to gentiles and they will trample the holy city for 42 months. This will happen when Antichrist breaks the covenant of peace with Israel. Does this refer to a literal temple that will be built in Jerusalem during the Tribulation? The Scholars differ on the interpretation of this temple. The temple is always symbolic of God’s presence and the worship of His people. Apostle Paul wrote “Believers are the temple of God” (1 Cor 6:19). The measuring is symbolic of God’s ownership of His people and their protection. Some suggest that this is the same temple in which the man of sin will demand his worship (2 Thessalonians 2:4). At this time God will grant authority to two witnesses to prophecy for 1260 days in sack cloth (11:3). Even the worshipers are numbered indicates that God is beginning to deal with the nation of Israel. This refers to Daniel’s seventieth week. This is the last half of the seven year Tribulation period after the covenant of peace with Israel is broken (Dan 9:27).
The two witnesses killed but Resurrected: Rev 11:7-14.
God does not leave this earth without His messenger to warn before judgment. Two powerful prophets are raised up in the middle of the tribulation period to prophecy. These two witnesses are likened to olive trees and candlesticks standing before the God (Rev 11:4). The figure of olive trees shows that they are the anointed ones (Zechariah 4:3, 14). Candlesticks refer to their witness during the Tribulation period. It is difficult to identify these witnesses. Some hold the view that they are Moses and Elijah because of their ability to perform miracles. Others think that they are Elijah and Enoch since they are sent back to witness and die (Heb 9:27). They will have power to kill their enemies with fire, withhold rain, to turn the waters into blood and bring plagues upon the earth. Nothing happens to them until they finish their ministry. Their ministry incites the wrath of Antichrist. It is comforting that God is able to protect His servants throughout their ministry. God will not permit Satan to harm us until we finish our ministry on earth (Job 1:12). The Antichrist is finally allowed to kill them. Their bodies will lie in the street of Jerusalem for three and a half days. Jerusalem is spiritually characterized by Sodom and Egypt. Sodom stands for moral corruption and Egypt for spiritual darkness. The world will celebrate at their death. This celebration will be premature when suddenly the Spirit of life from God enters into their dead bodies and they stand up. They will be ascended up to heaven. So great will be the impact of the resurrection and ascension of these two witnesses that there will be a great earthquake. This will destroy a tenth of the city of Jerusalem and 7000 people will be killed. The rest will be terrified and will give glory to God. Yet people will not repent of their wickedness. Thus the second woe comes to a conclusion. Jesus said "Though one rose from the dead and witness to sinners they cannot be persuaded" (Luke 16:30, 31). God will help those who are willing to proclaim the gospel despite their suffering.
The Seventh Trumpet: Rev 11:15-19.
When the seventh angel blew the trumpet there were great voices in heaven saying, “The kingdoms of the world have become the Kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ and He shall reign forever and ever” (11:15). This is the beginning of the end. Very soon Christ will take over the nations as their rightful ruler. This announcement produces twofold reactions. There is great joy and worship in heaven because God's judgment has finally come and His servants were rewarded. God will reward His people for their faithfulness. Many prophecies will be the fulfilled at this time (Act 2:25-28; Psalms 2:2-5; Isaiah 9:67; Dan 2:44). When Christ reigns there will be peace on earth. The world will no longer be under the power of Satan. Then John saw in heaven the Temple of God was opened and the Ark of the covenant could be seen inside the Temple (11:19). Since the temple in Jerusalem was defiled by Antichrist, it is not surprising to see the heavenly temple. The Ark is symbolic of God’s dwelling among His people. The chapter ends with a fearsome scene of "Lighting, voices, thunder, earthquake and hail. They speak of coming judgment over nations" (11:19). God's judgment is always based on His righteousness. This also indicates God's wrath. God poured His wrath upon Christ for our sake (Matt 27:32-54. If you trust Jesus, you will not have to face the coming wrath of God. God will rapture the believers before tribulation. Never downplay the reality of God's wrath against sin. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, you shall be saved.
Chapter 12
The Woman and the Dragon: Rev 12:1-6.
In Revelation chapter 12, we see a symbolic description of the image of a woman and her offspring being protected from dragon. John witnessed in heaven an event of great significance. He saw a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon beneath her fee, and a crown of twelve stars on her head. Her crown is made of 12 stars. Similar imagery is used in the dream of Joseph (Gen 37:9-11). So the scholars suggest that this woman refers to the nation of Israel. She was pregnant and was crying with pain while giving birth to a son. This is the fulfillment of the promise, God made to Abraham that "In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Gen 12:3). The book of Revelation is filled with signs. In this chapter, verses 1-6 explain the war on earth, in verses 7-12 we see the war in heaven and finally from verses 13-17 explain the war on earth again. The entire Old Testament sets forth for this event. John witnessed another sign in heaven (12:3). Signs are used to convey the truth of the scriptures (John 20:30, 31). The great red dragon with seven heads, ten horns and seven crowns upon his heads is none other than Satan. He wants to kill the child soon to be born. The stars are the angels thrown out of heaven when Satan rebelled against God (2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6). The woman gave birth to a son, who would rule the nations with a rod of iron (Psalms 2:8, 9). The only person ever to rule from the throne of God is Jesus Christ (Luke 24:51). During Christ’s earthly life, Satan tried many times to kill Jesus (Matt 2:13-18). The woman fled into the wilderness to find safety for 1260 days. Israel will be forced to flee for safety during the tribulation. Many scholars suggest that this hideout could be the city of Petra (Zechariah 14:5). God's people will be protected there from intense persecution. God will continue to protect his people until their mission is completed. The Devil cannot prevent against them.
Satan Thrown out of Heaven: Rev 12:7-12.
There was a war in heaven. Though Christ has defeated Satan by His death and resurrection, still Satan is the prince of the power of air. Perhaps this battle begins during the first three and half years of the tribulation period. Archangel Michael and his angels fight against dragon and his angels. Michael is the guardian angel of Israel (Dan 12:1). The dragon loose the battle and he will be forced out of heaven. Then John heard a loud voice in heaven saying that “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God” (Rev 12:10; Rev 12:8). He is the old serpent, devil, the adversary and the deceiver of the world (Rev 12:9). He is the accuser of the brethren (Job 1:6; Zechariah 3:1). Devil means slanderer. Since Satan is cast out from heaven he will make every attempt to destroy believers. Satan knows that he has but a short time. But believers will overcome the dragon by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death (12:11). For Christ and us, life and victory come through death. The Satan no longer has any right before God to accuse us. He is thrown down to the earth (12:9). The blood of Jesus not only cleans us from our sins but also gives us victory over Satan (Jam 4:7; 1 John 1:9).
The Remnant Persecuted: Rev 12:13-17.
When Satan realized that he had been thrown out from heaven to the earth, he will make every attempt to destroy Israel who had given birth to Jesus. Now the war with Satan happens on earth (12:13). Satan hates the true worshipers of God. As Israel flees to the wilderness to escape Satan. The dragon will try to drown Israel with flood of water that flowed from his mouth. But the earth will open its mouth and swallow the river. May be Satan will cause a great flood to destroy Israel but the earth will come to their help. Then the dragon will get furious and make war with believers. Satan always makes every attempt to destroy believers. He is the adversary, who walks around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Pet 5:8). We are reminded that our battle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:10-20). Satan is a defeated enemy but we must be vigilant against his deceptions.
In Revelation chapter 12, we see a symbolic description of the image of a woman and her offspring being protected from dragon. John witnessed in heaven an event of great significance. He saw a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon beneath her fee, and a crown of twelve stars on her head. Her crown is made of 12 stars. Similar imagery is used in the dream of Joseph (Gen 37:9-11). So the scholars suggest that this woman refers to the nation of Israel. She was pregnant and was crying with pain while giving birth to a son. This is the fulfillment of the promise, God made to Abraham that "In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Gen 12:3). The book of Revelation is filled with signs. In this chapter, verses 1-6 explain the war on earth, in verses 7-12 we see the war in heaven and finally from verses 13-17 explain the war on earth again. The entire Old Testament sets forth for this event. John witnessed another sign in heaven (12:3). Signs are used to convey the truth of the scriptures (John 20:30, 31). The great red dragon with seven heads, ten horns and seven crowns upon his heads is none other than Satan. He wants to kill the child soon to be born. The stars are the angels thrown out of heaven when Satan rebelled against God (2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6). The woman gave birth to a son, who would rule the nations with a rod of iron (Psalms 2:8, 9). The only person ever to rule from the throne of God is Jesus Christ (Luke 24:51). During Christ’s earthly life, Satan tried many times to kill Jesus (Matt 2:13-18). The woman fled into the wilderness to find safety for 1260 days. Israel will be forced to flee for safety during the tribulation. Many scholars suggest that this hideout could be the city of Petra (Zechariah 14:5). God's people will be protected there from intense persecution. God will continue to protect his people until their mission is completed. The Devil cannot prevent against them.
Satan Thrown out of Heaven: Rev 12:7-12.
There was a war in heaven. Though Christ has defeated Satan by His death and resurrection, still Satan is the prince of the power of air. Perhaps this battle begins during the first three and half years of the tribulation period. Archangel Michael and his angels fight against dragon and his angels. Michael is the guardian angel of Israel (Dan 12:1). The dragon loose the battle and he will be forced out of heaven. Then John heard a loud voice in heaven saying that “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God” (Rev 12:10; Rev 12:8). He is the old serpent, devil, the adversary and the deceiver of the world (Rev 12:9). He is the accuser of the brethren (Job 1:6; Zechariah 3:1). Devil means slanderer. Since Satan is cast out from heaven he will make every attempt to destroy believers. Satan knows that he has but a short time. But believers will overcome the dragon by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death (12:11). For Christ and us, life and victory come through death. The Satan no longer has any right before God to accuse us. He is thrown down to the earth (12:9). The blood of Jesus not only cleans us from our sins but also gives us victory over Satan (Jam 4:7; 1 John 1:9).
The Remnant Persecuted: Rev 12:13-17.
When Satan realized that he had been thrown out from heaven to the earth, he will make every attempt to destroy Israel who had given birth to Jesus. Now the war with Satan happens on earth (12:13). Satan hates the true worshipers of God. As Israel flees to the wilderness to escape Satan. The dragon will try to drown Israel with flood of water that flowed from his mouth. But the earth will open its mouth and swallow the river. May be Satan will cause a great flood to destroy Israel but the earth will come to their help. Then the dragon will get furious and make war with believers. Satan always makes every attempt to destroy believers. He is the adversary, who walks around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Pet 5:8). We are reminded that our battle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:10-20). Satan is a defeated enemy but we must be vigilant against his deceptions.
Chapter 13
The beast from the Sea: Rev 13:1-6.
Chapter 13 introduces us to the beast rising up out of the sea. This symbolizes the man who will play prominent role during the tribulation period. He is called man in verse 18 and said to be rising out of the sea. It is an expression that signifies the gentile nations. He has seven heads and ten horns with ten crowns on its horns. The Seven heads may represent the seven world empires of the past history. Daniel predicted that 10 nation Roman confederacy will be revived (Dan 7:24). He had blasphemous names on his heads to deceive people to believe that he is God. Satan has an unholy trinity composed of Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet. Satan will use Antichrist and false prophet to accomplish his purpose on the earth (12:13). He will imitate God and deceive many people to worship him. In Daniel “The lion refers to Babylon Empire; the bear refers to the Medo-Persian empire ; the leopard refers the Grecian empire and the final empire refers to the Roman Empire” (Daniel 7:1-8). The beast will suffer a mortal wound. But he will be raised from the dead. The Roman Empire will be revived in order to provide Antichrist the control of the whole world. Satan will take credit for all these things. People will be marveled at this miracle and worship Antichrist. They would say “Who is able to fight against the beast?” (13:4). He will be an intellectual, political, military and religious genius man. Antichrist will be the spoke person for Satan and will blaspheme against God. He was given authority to do whatever he wanted for 42 months. He will engage in war with God and slander the believers. But believers will be protected during this period.
The Power of the Antichrist: Rev 13:7-10.
Satan will use Antichrist to wage war against believers. He will use false religious system for his peace program (Rev 17; Dan 8:25). Half way through the tribulation period, Antichrist will break the covenant of peace with Israel (Dan 9:27). He will also turn against the apostate church and call people to worship him. He will rule the world with absolute authority. Many believers will be murdered. He will receive praise and worship from people whose names are not written in the book of life. Antichrist will promise a counterfeit millennium and deceive many. Even though believers suffer greatly, they will be protected and strengthened by the Lord. They find comfort in knowing that their hardships are designed by God who called them. They should endure persecution patiently and remain faithful unto death (13:10). Satan cannot do these things without the God's permission. But the ultimate victory belongs to Christ. The suffering is inevitable for everyone in this world but believers are the only ones who will find comfort in suffering because they are in Christ and have the blessed hope that it will be over when Christ returns.
The Rise of the False Prophet: Rev 13:11-18.
John saw another beast coming up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb but he spoke with the voice of a dragon. Jesus warns believers not to be deceived by Satan and false teachers (Matt 7:15). He exercises the power of Antichrist and promotes the worship of him. Scholars suggest that this beast represents the false prophet, dragon represents Satan and beast represents Antichrist. False Prophet is an influential religious leader with delegated authority from Antichrist to do signs and wonders (13:13). False Prophet is successful in deceiving many people by performing miracle (13:13). Miracles can be deceitful (2 Thessalonians 2:11). The believers should be wise and watchful against deception. He will order people to worship the image of the Antichrist. Those who refuse to worship the image will be killed. Everyone will be asked to bear the mark of Antichrist on their right hand or on their forehead to show their allegiance to him. It is impossible to buy or sell anything without this mark. This mark is 666, a number representing the unholy trinity; Satan, Antichrist, False Prophet. Six symbolizes man in the scripture. While seventh is the number of completion and perfection. The entire book of Revelation is built around the number seven. The number six is less than perfect and the highest number Satan can attain. Antichrist will have total control of religion, commerce and government. Believer should patiently endure the hardships and remain faithful during this time. Whatever happens, they have Christ and He is everything to them.
Chapter 13 introduces us to the beast rising up out of the sea. This symbolizes the man who will play prominent role during the tribulation period. He is called man in verse 18 and said to be rising out of the sea. It is an expression that signifies the gentile nations. He has seven heads and ten horns with ten crowns on its horns. The Seven heads may represent the seven world empires of the past history. Daniel predicted that 10 nation Roman confederacy will be revived (Dan 7:24). He had blasphemous names on his heads to deceive people to believe that he is God. Satan has an unholy trinity composed of Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet. Satan will use Antichrist and false prophet to accomplish his purpose on the earth (12:13). He will imitate God and deceive many people to worship him. In Daniel “The lion refers to Babylon Empire; the bear refers to the Medo-Persian empire ; the leopard refers the Grecian empire and the final empire refers to the Roman Empire” (Daniel 7:1-8). The beast will suffer a mortal wound. But he will be raised from the dead. The Roman Empire will be revived in order to provide Antichrist the control of the whole world. Satan will take credit for all these things. People will be marveled at this miracle and worship Antichrist. They would say “Who is able to fight against the beast?” (13:4). He will be an intellectual, political, military and religious genius man. Antichrist will be the spoke person for Satan and will blaspheme against God. He was given authority to do whatever he wanted for 42 months. He will engage in war with God and slander the believers. But believers will be protected during this period.
The Power of the Antichrist: Rev 13:7-10.
Satan will use Antichrist to wage war against believers. He will use false religious system for his peace program (Rev 17; Dan 8:25). Half way through the tribulation period, Antichrist will break the covenant of peace with Israel (Dan 9:27). He will also turn against the apostate church and call people to worship him. He will rule the world with absolute authority. Many believers will be murdered. He will receive praise and worship from people whose names are not written in the book of life. Antichrist will promise a counterfeit millennium and deceive many. Even though believers suffer greatly, they will be protected and strengthened by the Lord. They find comfort in knowing that their hardships are designed by God who called them. They should endure persecution patiently and remain faithful unto death (13:10). Satan cannot do these things without the God's permission. But the ultimate victory belongs to Christ. The suffering is inevitable for everyone in this world but believers are the only ones who will find comfort in suffering because they are in Christ and have the blessed hope that it will be over when Christ returns.
The Rise of the False Prophet: Rev 13:11-18.
John saw another beast coming up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb but he spoke with the voice of a dragon. Jesus warns believers not to be deceived by Satan and false teachers (Matt 7:15). He exercises the power of Antichrist and promotes the worship of him. Scholars suggest that this beast represents the false prophet, dragon represents Satan and beast represents Antichrist. False Prophet is an influential religious leader with delegated authority from Antichrist to do signs and wonders (13:13). False Prophet is successful in deceiving many people by performing miracle (13:13). Miracles can be deceitful (2 Thessalonians 2:11). The believers should be wise and watchful against deception. He will order people to worship the image of the Antichrist. Those who refuse to worship the image will be killed. Everyone will be asked to bear the mark of Antichrist on their right hand or on their forehead to show their allegiance to him. It is impossible to buy or sell anything without this mark. This mark is 666, a number representing the unholy trinity; Satan, Antichrist, False Prophet. Six symbolizes man in the scripture. While seventh is the number of completion and perfection. The entire book of Revelation is built around the number seven. The number six is less than perfect and the highest number Satan can attain. Antichrist will have total control of religion, commerce and government. Believer should patiently endure the hardships and remain faithful during this time. Whatever happens, they have Christ and He is everything to them.
Chapter 14
The Lamb and the 144,000: Rev 14:1-7.
In the midst of the darkest period of the tribulation John was given the vision of the Lamb (Jesus Christ) standing on Mount Zion with 144000, worshiping God in heaven. This vision encourages John. They had the Lamb’s and Father’s name written on their foreheads. Mount Zion is the city of the great King and God rules from there (Psalms 48:2). Some scholars suggest that 144,000 represent the total redeemed people of God (Rev 21:22). There will be a vast crowd of redeemed people from the gentile nations (Rev 7:9). They sing the new song of redemption and it was like roaring of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice John heard was like the sound of harpists playing their harps together. Those who experienced the gracious salvation of the Lamb always respond to it by praising God for it (Rev 4, 5). Redemption of soul is precious and only God can save us. They have kept themselves as pure virgin and followed the Lamb wherever He goes. It is a figurative expression of their devotion to the Lamb. They do not engage in spiritual adultery with the world (James 4:4). They have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. They are redeemed to remain pure and to have undivided devotion to Christ. Many scholars suggest that this is the picture of the church. Christ is able to keep us blameless and present us before God with exceeding joy (Ephesians 5:27; Jude 24). John saw another angel flying through the sky proclaiming the eternal gospel to all people. “Fear not, give glory to him for the hour of judgment has come and worship him who made everything” (14:7). Gospel is the good news. God is good and His judgment is righteous (John 3:16; Gal 1:7, 8). He will not allow evil to go unpunished forever. The angel preaches the good news that God is going to judge the world in absolute righteousness. Th angel says "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of judgment has come" (14:7). The appropriate response to salvation is worship.
The Prophecy about the Destruction of Babylon: Rev 14:8-13.
A second angel appears to announce the fall of the great city of Babylon. “Babylon is fallen, that great city is fallen because she made all nations of the world to drink the wine of her passion of her sexual immorality” (14:8). This judgment is explained in chapter 17 and 18. Babylon represents the apostate religion and church. Then John sees a third angel predicting the doom of those who worship the beast. They will be judged with fire and brimstone. This speaks of the intensity of their torment. There will be no relief for their suffering. Only in Christ we can find rest for our soul (Matthew 11:29). In the past God has shown mercy in wrath (Habakkuk 3:2). Christ endured the wrath of God for our sins on the Cross (Rom 8:3). Nobody can escape from God’s wrath if they reject so great salvation (Hebrews 2:3). Here believers are commanded to endure persecution patiently by remaining faithful to Christ. John heard a voice from heaven saying “Write this down, blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from their labors; for their deeds follow them” (14:13). Believers who die as martyrs during this period are called blessed. They suffer and die under Antichrist. They will be rewarded for their faithful works. Our God is not unrighteous to forget our work and labor of love (Hebrews 6:10). They deserve rest from their hard labor. Those who oppose Christ have no rest (Isaiah 57:21). John was encouraged by the fact that the ultimate victory belongs to our God.
The Harvest of the Earth: Rev 14:14-20.
John saw a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was someone like the Son of Man. These are the few graphic scenes that portray the magnitude of our offense against God and the coming judgment. Here Christ has a gold crown on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. This is the victor’s crown. John hears the angel saying the harvest is ready (14:15). The sharp sickle is the picture of judgment. The great harvest is about to begin. Our Lord spoke of this harvest in Matthew 13:24-43. This harvest is the picture of coming judgment. The harvest is the end of the age and the reapers are the angels (Mat 13:39; Joel 3:13; Mat 24; 25). The grapes of vines are fully ripe for harvest. This speaks of the judgment of false religions. The wine press of the wrath of God may be a reference to the battle of Armageddon (Rev 19:17-19). Man’s wickedness has fully developed for judgment. This judgment will be so severe that the blood will flow as deep as a horse’s bridle for about 180 miles (Rev 14:20). This is the wrath we deserved once. Christ endured this wrath on the cross for our sake. Those who trust in Christ have escaped from the wrath to come (Rom 8:1-3). So believers can take heart that God will have ultimate victory (Rom 8:1). The judgment of sin is a dead serious matter. So turn away from sin and trust in Christ quickly to escape from the coming judgment.
In the midst of the darkest period of the tribulation John was given the vision of the Lamb (Jesus Christ) standing on Mount Zion with 144000, worshiping God in heaven. This vision encourages John. They had the Lamb’s and Father’s name written on their foreheads. Mount Zion is the city of the great King and God rules from there (Psalms 48:2). Some scholars suggest that 144,000 represent the total redeemed people of God (Rev 21:22). There will be a vast crowd of redeemed people from the gentile nations (Rev 7:9). They sing the new song of redemption and it was like roaring of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice John heard was like the sound of harpists playing their harps together. Those who experienced the gracious salvation of the Lamb always respond to it by praising God for it (Rev 4, 5). Redemption of soul is precious and only God can save us. They have kept themselves as pure virgin and followed the Lamb wherever He goes. It is a figurative expression of their devotion to the Lamb. They do not engage in spiritual adultery with the world (James 4:4). They have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. They are redeemed to remain pure and to have undivided devotion to Christ. Many scholars suggest that this is the picture of the church. Christ is able to keep us blameless and present us before God with exceeding joy (Ephesians 5:27; Jude 24). John saw another angel flying through the sky proclaiming the eternal gospel to all people. “Fear not, give glory to him for the hour of judgment has come and worship him who made everything” (14:7). Gospel is the good news. God is good and His judgment is righteous (John 3:16; Gal 1:7, 8). He will not allow evil to go unpunished forever. The angel preaches the good news that God is going to judge the world in absolute righteousness. Th angel says "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of judgment has come" (14:7). The appropriate response to salvation is worship.
The Prophecy about the Destruction of Babylon: Rev 14:8-13.
A second angel appears to announce the fall of the great city of Babylon. “Babylon is fallen, that great city is fallen because she made all nations of the world to drink the wine of her passion of her sexual immorality” (14:8). This judgment is explained in chapter 17 and 18. Babylon represents the apostate religion and church. Then John sees a third angel predicting the doom of those who worship the beast. They will be judged with fire and brimstone. This speaks of the intensity of their torment. There will be no relief for their suffering. Only in Christ we can find rest for our soul (Matthew 11:29). In the past God has shown mercy in wrath (Habakkuk 3:2). Christ endured the wrath of God for our sins on the Cross (Rom 8:3). Nobody can escape from God’s wrath if they reject so great salvation (Hebrews 2:3). Here believers are commanded to endure persecution patiently by remaining faithful to Christ. John heard a voice from heaven saying “Write this down, blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from their labors; for their deeds follow them” (14:13). Believers who die as martyrs during this period are called blessed. They suffer and die under Antichrist. They will be rewarded for their faithful works. Our God is not unrighteous to forget our work and labor of love (Hebrews 6:10). They deserve rest from their hard labor. Those who oppose Christ have no rest (Isaiah 57:21). John was encouraged by the fact that the ultimate victory belongs to our God.
The Harvest of the Earth: Rev 14:14-20.
John saw a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was someone like the Son of Man. These are the few graphic scenes that portray the magnitude of our offense against God and the coming judgment. Here Christ has a gold crown on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. This is the victor’s crown. John hears the angel saying the harvest is ready (14:15). The sharp sickle is the picture of judgment. The great harvest is about to begin. Our Lord spoke of this harvest in Matthew 13:24-43. This harvest is the picture of coming judgment. The harvest is the end of the age and the reapers are the angels (Mat 13:39; Joel 3:13; Mat 24; 25). The grapes of vines are fully ripe for harvest. This speaks of the judgment of false religions. The wine press of the wrath of God may be a reference to the battle of Armageddon (Rev 19:17-19). Man’s wickedness has fully developed for judgment. This judgment will be so severe that the blood will flow as deep as a horse’s bridle for about 180 miles (Rev 14:20). This is the wrath we deserved once. Christ endured this wrath on the cross for our sake. Those who trust in Christ have escaped from the wrath to come (Rom 8:1-3). So believers can take heart that God will have ultimate victory (Rom 8:1). The judgment of sin is a dead serious matter. So turn away from sin and trust in Christ quickly to escape from the coming judgment.
Chapter 15
The Song of Moses and the Lamb: Rev 15:1-4.
This chapter is the prelude of the final judgment. John saw another sign in heaven of great significance. Seven angels were holding the seven last plagues of God’s great wrath. Each of the judgment in the past was increasingly severe. It would bring God’s wrath to completion. But the judgment about to be poured out is so severe that history has never seen anything like it before (1 Thessalonians 5:3). God is righteous and holy in his dealings with mankind. Then John sees a great multitude in heaven standing on the sea of glass mixed with fire. They are the martyred saints who refused to worship the beast. These victorious believers sing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb. The sea of glass is a picture of the presence of God (Rev 4:6). These songs testify of God’s deliverance of Israel from their enemies (Ex 15; Deuteronomy 32). The song of the Lamb will be sung over the victory over Babylon. Today God deals with us in His mercy and grace. But in Revelation chapters 6-19, we see God judges the world in truth and righteousness. When the age of grace is passed, the age of judgment is ushered in. Believers sing because they are the redeemed people. People should fear God because He alone is holy and His judgments are righteous.
The Seven golden Bowls: Rev 15:5-8.
Then John saw the Temple in heaven and God’s Tabernacle was wide open and seven angels coming out of the temple. The temple and the Ark of the Covenant speak of God’s perfect righteousness. Angels have authority to execute judgment. Then one of the four living creatures hands a golden bowl filled with the wrath of God to each of the seven angels. These seven angels clothed in pure and white linen with golden belt. They originate in the heavenly temple. These bowls contain the final judgment of God (Rev 16). During the seven bowl judgment, the heavenly throne room will be filled with smoke from God's glory and power. God. God is sovereign and nothing can stop His righteous judgment. Those who break the law will be judged. But this exodus frees people from all nations so that they can come to worship God. Chapter 15 is the prelude to the bowl judgment. Why God who is good should judge the world? God is holy and righteous. God is patient and He wants all people to be saved. But His patent will run out if we reject Him. It is a dangerous thing to say no to the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit. God knows the future and we do not know. We are like mist that appears for little while and then vanishes (James 4:14). So if you hear God’s Word today, do not harden your heart.
This chapter is the prelude of the final judgment. John saw another sign in heaven of great significance. Seven angels were holding the seven last plagues of God’s great wrath. Each of the judgment in the past was increasingly severe. It would bring God’s wrath to completion. But the judgment about to be poured out is so severe that history has never seen anything like it before (1 Thessalonians 5:3). God is righteous and holy in his dealings with mankind. Then John sees a great multitude in heaven standing on the sea of glass mixed with fire. They are the martyred saints who refused to worship the beast. These victorious believers sing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb. The sea of glass is a picture of the presence of God (Rev 4:6). These songs testify of God’s deliverance of Israel from their enemies (Ex 15; Deuteronomy 32). The song of the Lamb will be sung over the victory over Babylon. Today God deals with us in His mercy and grace. But in Revelation chapters 6-19, we see God judges the world in truth and righteousness. When the age of grace is passed, the age of judgment is ushered in. Believers sing because they are the redeemed people. People should fear God because He alone is holy and His judgments are righteous.
The Seven golden Bowls: Rev 15:5-8.
Then John saw the Temple in heaven and God’s Tabernacle was wide open and seven angels coming out of the temple. The temple and the Ark of the Covenant speak of God’s perfect righteousness. Angels have authority to execute judgment. Then one of the four living creatures hands a golden bowl filled with the wrath of God to each of the seven angels. These seven angels clothed in pure and white linen with golden belt. They originate in the heavenly temple. These bowls contain the final judgment of God (Rev 16). During the seven bowl judgment, the heavenly throne room will be filled with smoke from God's glory and power. God. God is sovereign and nothing can stop His righteous judgment. Those who break the law will be judged. But this exodus frees people from all nations so that they can come to worship God. Chapter 15 is the prelude to the bowl judgment. Why God who is good should judge the world? God is holy and righteous. God is patient and He wants all people to be saved. But His patent will run out if we reject Him. It is a dangerous thing to say no to the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit. God knows the future and we do not know. We are like mist that appears for little while and then vanishes (James 4:14). So if you hear God’s Word today, do not harden your heart.
Chapter 16
The Seven Bowls Judgment: Rev 16:1-21.
The bowl judgments are similar to trumpet judgment but greater in intensity and resemble the plagues on Egypt. Chapter 15 is a prelude to this judgment. These seven judgments occur in rapid succession. John heard a mighty voice from the Temple saying to the seven angels, "Go your ways and pour out the bowls containing the wrath of God upon the earth". This is the final judgment of God. The trumpet judgment will affect only one third of the world but this would affect the whole world. Immediately the first angel leaves the heaven and pour out the wrath of God out of his bowl.
The first bowl: Rev 16:1-2.
When the angel pours out the first bowl a horrible malignant sore breaks out on everyone who have received the mark of the beast (16:2). It is an incurable rotten sore similar to the boils inflected on the Egyptian (Ex 9:9-11). The extend of this affliction is limited to those who have worshiped the beast. Some scholars suggest that it is worse than cancer caused by germ warfare.
The second bowl: Rev 16:3.
When the second bowl is poured out upon the sea and it becomes like the blood of a dead man. Everything in the sea will die. Some suggest that 80% of the living organism is in the seas. It is the sea that provides our proteins and minerals today. 50% of oxygen comes from the boiling of the sea water. The stench and disease that will come out of this judgment will be unimaginable. This plague resembles the first of the ten plagues of Egypt (Ex 7:14-18).
The third bowl: Rev 16:4-7.
When the third angel pours out his bowl on the rivers and spring they become blood. This will contaminate the fresh drinking water supply. John heard the angel saying “Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are your judgments (16:4-7). This will be an answer to the cry of the martyrs under the alter (6:9, 10). Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord (Rom 12:19). Satan was spilling the blood of the saints during these years. Satan is getting what he deserves. As the tribulation draws to a close, God will deal in harsh judgment.
The fourth bowl: Rev 16:8-9.
When the angel pours out the fourth bowl on the sun and it will scorch everyone with its fire. This will be the real global warming experience. People will be exposed to solar radiation. This can cause sun- burns and cancer in the body. If there is a slight tilt in the earth axis and if the o zone barrier is depleted, it can happen. Some suggest that due to rationing of energy, there will be no air conditioners to provide any relief from scorching heat.
The fifth bowl: Rev 16:10-11.
When the angel pours out fifth bowl on the throne of the beast, his kingdom will plunge into darkness. This judgment may be poured out on the ten nations of the revived Roman Empire. Unlike other times, there is total darkness all over the world (Ex 10:21-23). The sores inflicted upon the worshipers of the beast are very painful and there is no cure for it. People will gnash their tongue in pain and blaspheme the God of heaven for their pain and sores. Yet they will not repent of their sins and turn to God (16: 11).
The sixth bowl: Rev 16:12-16.
When the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great Euphrates River, it will be dried up so that the kings of the east could march their armies without hindrance. This river is 1800 miles long and too deep to cross. Now the kings from east and their armies could march towards Armageddon for the battle. John sees three frog-like spirits energizing dragon, the beast and the false prophet for battle against God. They are demonic spirits capable of performing miracles. The armies of the nations will gather at the plain of Megiddo for the battle against the Lord. Here the Lord promises a special blessing on the saints who are found pure and waiting for His return (Rev 16:15).
The seventh bowl: Rev 16:17-21.
When the seventh angel pours out his bowl in the air, a mighty shout comes from the throne in the Temple saying “It is finished” (16:17). The wrath of God is finished by this final judgment. There will be violent thundering, lightening and earthquake. The great city of Babylon will split into three sections. And cities of many nations, including Jerusalem, will become heaps of rubble. Every island disappears and all the mountains will be leveled. This may happen because of nuclear explosions. And great hailstones weighing about 100 pound will fall on people from heaven. But people will not repent and give glory to God. Instead they will blaspheme the name of God and will harden their hearts because of the severity of the judgment. They will continue to worship the beast. Through the outpouring of the judgments, God is also bringing the final salvation to His people. So believers can find confidence and hope in God despite their trials and tribulations.
The bowl judgments are similar to trumpet judgment but greater in intensity and resemble the plagues on Egypt. Chapter 15 is a prelude to this judgment. These seven judgments occur in rapid succession. John heard a mighty voice from the Temple saying to the seven angels, "Go your ways and pour out the bowls containing the wrath of God upon the earth". This is the final judgment of God. The trumpet judgment will affect only one third of the world but this would affect the whole world. Immediately the first angel leaves the heaven and pour out the wrath of God out of his bowl.
The first bowl: Rev 16:1-2.
When the angel pours out the first bowl a horrible malignant sore breaks out on everyone who have received the mark of the beast (16:2). It is an incurable rotten sore similar to the boils inflected on the Egyptian (Ex 9:9-11). The extend of this affliction is limited to those who have worshiped the beast. Some scholars suggest that it is worse than cancer caused by germ warfare.
The second bowl: Rev 16:3.
When the second bowl is poured out upon the sea and it becomes like the blood of a dead man. Everything in the sea will die. Some suggest that 80% of the living organism is in the seas. It is the sea that provides our proteins and minerals today. 50% of oxygen comes from the boiling of the sea water. The stench and disease that will come out of this judgment will be unimaginable. This plague resembles the first of the ten plagues of Egypt (Ex 7:14-18).
The third bowl: Rev 16:4-7.
When the third angel pours out his bowl on the rivers and spring they become blood. This will contaminate the fresh drinking water supply. John heard the angel saying “Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are your judgments (16:4-7). This will be an answer to the cry of the martyrs under the alter (6:9, 10). Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord (Rom 12:19). Satan was spilling the blood of the saints during these years. Satan is getting what he deserves. As the tribulation draws to a close, God will deal in harsh judgment.
The fourth bowl: Rev 16:8-9.
When the angel pours out the fourth bowl on the sun and it will scorch everyone with its fire. This will be the real global warming experience. People will be exposed to solar radiation. This can cause sun- burns and cancer in the body. If there is a slight tilt in the earth axis and if the o zone barrier is depleted, it can happen. Some suggest that due to rationing of energy, there will be no air conditioners to provide any relief from scorching heat.
The fifth bowl: Rev 16:10-11.
When the angel pours out fifth bowl on the throne of the beast, his kingdom will plunge into darkness. This judgment may be poured out on the ten nations of the revived Roman Empire. Unlike other times, there is total darkness all over the world (Ex 10:21-23). The sores inflicted upon the worshipers of the beast are very painful and there is no cure for it. People will gnash their tongue in pain and blaspheme the God of heaven for their pain and sores. Yet they will not repent of their sins and turn to God (16: 11).
The sixth bowl: Rev 16:12-16.
When the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great Euphrates River, it will be dried up so that the kings of the east could march their armies without hindrance. This river is 1800 miles long and too deep to cross. Now the kings from east and their armies could march towards Armageddon for the battle. John sees three frog-like spirits energizing dragon, the beast and the false prophet for battle against God. They are demonic spirits capable of performing miracles. The armies of the nations will gather at the plain of Megiddo for the battle against the Lord. Here the Lord promises a special blessing on the saints who are found pure and waiting for His return (Rev 16:15).
The seventh bowl: Rev 16:17-21.
When the seventh angel pours out his bowl in the air, a mighty shout comes from the throne in the Temple saying “It is finished” (16:17). The wrath of God is finished by this final judgment. There will be violent thundering, lightening and earthquake. The great city of Babylon will split into three sections. And cities of many nations, including Jerusalem, will become heaps of rubble. Every island disappears and all the mountains will be leveled. This may happen because of nuclear explosions. And great hailstones weighing about 100 pound will fall on people from heaven. But people will not repent and give glory to God. Instead they will blaspheme the name of God and will harden their hearts because of the severity of the judgment. They will continue to worship the beast. Through the outpouring of the judgments, God is also bringing the final salvation to His people. So believers can find confidence and hope in God despite their trials and tribulations.
Chapter 17
The fall of Ecclesiastical Babylon: Rev 17:1-5.
Revelation Chapter 17 describes the destruction of ecclesiastical Babylon and chapter 18 describes the fall of political and commercial Babylon. In chapter 14:8, the destruction of Babylon was foretold but here John gives the details about its fall. The book of Revelation is not always chronological. These two events do not take place at the same time. One of the seven angels spoke to John saying “Come with me and I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters. The kings of the earth have committed fornication with her. The people of the world have become drunk by the wine of her immorality” (17:1, 2). Religious Babylon represents false religions, including the apostate church. The rapture of the church does not mean it is the end of religions. The false religion was started by Nimrod in the plain of Shinar. This religion eventually will become the religions of the world (Gen 10:8-10).
Apostate Church and the Beast: Rev 17:6-14.
In Revelation, Babylon refers to both a city and a religion. The scripture reveals that apostate church is at work today (2 Tim 3:1-5; 4:3-4; 2 Pet 2:1; Rev 3:15-17). The devil uses the false religions for his evil purposes. Who is the harlot mentioned here? Scripture tells us that this harlot is Babylon the great. Harlot symbolizes religious adultery. The character of the harlot is revealed by her name. The people will come under the evil influences of the false religion. Here, the woman refers to the apostate church. Her name is “Babylon the great mother of harlots and of earth’s abominations”. The apostate church is seen sitting on the scarlet beast. The beast comes out of the bottomless pit. He uses the apostate church for own purpose. The beast has seven heads and ten horns. In chapter 13, we had seen that this beast is the revived Roman Empire. The 7 heads is symbolic of 7 kings. Five of them are fallen, one is and the other is not yet come. When he comes, he will remain only a little while (17:10). The beast himself is identified as the eighth king, whose destruction is certain. He may be the head of the revived Roman Empire. The ten horns are symbolic of the ten nation confederacy that serves the Antichrist for a short while. These ten kings are unified under the power of the beast. Their resources and armies are at the disposal of Antichrist (Rev 17:13). They will go to war against the Lamb. But the Lamb will defeat them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings. Ultimately Lord will be victorious.
The Destruction of the Apostate Church: Rev 17:15-18.
The religious system of ecclesiastical Babylon is described as a harlot sitting on many waters. The harlot is symbolic of the vast ecclesiastical Babylon. In Revelation, woman is symbolic of apostate religion. She is committing spiritual fornication with the inhabitants of the earth. Jezebel represents the pagan idolatry (2:20). The false religious system will promote idol worship and other ungodly practices. The apostate church makes political alliances with the nations in order to gain power during the tribulation period. The ecumenical movement and the one-world church movement may be part of this program. During the first part of tribulation people will have religious freedom. Once Antichrist gains absolute power, he will utterly destroy all forms of religion including the apostate church. Thus God’s plan will be fulfilled. God is not pleased with the system of worship that does not give Him glory and preeminence. Antichrist wants to be God and be worshiped. But unlike God the beast will be destroyed. Only God should be worshiped. He is able to preserve his own from Satanic deception. God also enables his people to remain faithful to Him.
Revelation Chapter 17 describes the destruction of ecclesiastical Babylon and chapter 18 describes the fall of political and commercial Babylon. In chapter 14:8, the destruction of Babylon was foretold but here John gives the details about its fall. The book of Revelation is not always chronological. These two events do not take place at the same time. One of the seven angels spoke to John saying “Come with me and I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on many waters. The kings of the earth have committed fornication with her. The people of the world have become drunk by the wine of her immorality” (17:1, 2). Religious Babylon represents false religions, including the apostate church. The rapture of the church does not mean it is the end of religions. The false religion was started by Nimrod in the plain of Shinar. This religion eventually will become the religions of the world (Gen 10:8-10).
Apostate Church and the Beast: Rev 17:6-14.
In Revelation, Babylon refers to both a city and a religion. The scripture reveals that apostate church is at work today (2 Tim 3:1-5; 4:3-4; 2 Pet 2:1; Rev 3:15-17). The devil uses the false religions for his evil purposes. Who is the harlot mentioned here? Scripture tells us that this harlot is Babylon the great. Harlot symbolizes religious adultery. The character of the harlot is revealed by her name. The people will come under the evil influences of the false religion. Here, the woman refers to the apostate church. Her name is “Babylon the great mother of harlots and of earth’s abominations”. The apostate church is seen sitting on the scarlet beast. The beast comes out of the bottomless pit. He uses the apostate church for own purpose. The beast has seven heads and ten horns. In chapter 13, we had seen that this beast is the revived Roman Empire. The 7 heads is symbolic of 7 kings. Five of them are fallen, one is and the other is not yet come. When he comes, he will remain only a little while (17:10). The beast himself is identified as the eighth king, whose destruction is certain. He may be the head of the revived Roman Empire. The ten horns are symbolic of the ten nation confederacy that serves the Antichrist for a short while. These ten kings are unified under the power of the beast. Their resources and armies are at the disposal of Antichrist (Rev 17:13). They will go to war against the Lamb. But the Lamb will defeat them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings. Ultimately Lord will be victorious.
The Destruction of the Apostate Church: Rev 17:15-18.
The religious system of ecclesiastical Babylon is described as a harlot sitting on many waters. The harlot is symbolic of the vast ecclesiastical Babylon. In Revelation, woman is symbolic of apostate religion. She is committing spiritual fornication with the inhabitants of the earth. Jezebel represents the pagan idolatry (2:20). The false religious system will promote idol worship and other ungodly practices. The apostate church makes political alliances with the nations in order to gain power during the tribulation period. The ecumenical movement and the one-world church movement may be part of this program. During the first part of tribulation people will have religious freedom. Once Antichrist gains absolute power, he will utterly destroy all forms of religion including the apostate church. Thus God’s plan will be fulfilled. God is not pleased with the system of worship that does not give Him glory and preeminence. Antichrist wants to be God and be worshiped. But unlike God the beast will be destroyed. Only God should be worshiped. He is able to preserve his own from Satanic deception. God also enables his people to remain faithful to Him.
Chapter 18
The fall of Political and Commercial Babylon: Rev 18:1-8.
In Chapter 18 we read about the destruction of the political and commercial Babylon. In chapter 17, it was the beast and his ten nation confederacy who destroyed the ecclesiastical Babylon. But the political Babylon will be destroyed by God himself at the coming of Christ. The political Babylon is perhaps the greatest commercial center that controls the world market. John sees another angel coming down from heaven with great authority and his glory illuminates the earth. He cried with a loud voice saying “Babylon is fallen-the great city is fallen”. Babylon has become a home for demons and a hideout for every foul and dreadful animal. Political Babylon controls nations with her ungodly system of religion and commerce. At the fall of Babylon, nations mourn because it has made them wealthy and powerful in the commercial world. John is permitted to hear another voice from heaven. It is the call from heaven to come out of the evil world system of Babylon. They should not take part in her sins or share in her plagues (18:4). They will not suffer the judgment that comes upon Babylon. Babylon's sin has piled up to heaven and she is ready for the judgment. They live in luxury and anticipate no sorrow. But her judgment will overtake her in a single day. The Lord God almighty will judge them with fire. Some suggest that due to radioactive fallout this destruction will be swift. The city that burned saints will itself be burned with literal fire.
The Reactions to Babylon’s Destruction: Rev 18: 9-19.
Now the commercial and political Babylon are destroyed. Nations will mourn over the destruction of Babylon. Their gain from commerce gone and no one is there to buy their products. Their great shipping lines of the oceans will be emptied. The impact of the fall of both the false church and world commercial system is unimaginable. The world has never seen an economical collapse like this before. God will bring an end to false religious and commercial Babylon. People will lose trust in the world’s commercial and financial institutions. The city that sits on the seven mountains is the seat of the apostate church (17:9). The city that thrived on false religion and financially benefited from it will collapse. Nations will marvel at the destruction of it. Commerce will come to an abrupt halt. As people reach the end of the tribulation, they have only lies and fake news of the Antichrist to believe. God’s patience should not be taken for granted to continue in sin. His judgment is true and righteous.
There is great Joy in Heaven: Rev 18:20-24.
While nations are mourning, there is great joy in heaven. The people of God will rejoice over the destruction of ecclesiastical and political Babylon. Antichrist is judged for the way he treated God’s people. A mighty angel casts a great millstone into sea. This is symbolic of the final fall of Babylon. There is no more celebration in Babylon because it is destroyed forever. Babylon is guilty of the blood of the believers who are slain for their faith. But God delivers those who believe Christ from judgment. They will rejoice in His triumph. Believers should not embrace the sin of the apostate church but should rejoice in Christ who gives them victory over Satan. Pray that God would remind us of the destruction that is coming upon world so that we may invest our time and resources for the glory of God.
In Chapter 18 we read about the destruction of the political and commercial Babylon. In chapter 17, it was the beast and his ten nation confederacy who destroyed the ecclesiastical Babylon. But the political Babylon will be destroyed by God himself at the coming of Christ. The political Babylon is perhaps the greatest commercial center that controls the world market. John sees another angel coming down from heaven with great authority and his glory illuminates the earth. He cried with a loud voice saying “Babylon is fallen-the great city is fallen”. Babylon has become a home for demons and a hideout for every foul and dreadful animal. Political Babylon controls nations with her ungodly system of religion and commerce. At the fall of Babylon, nations mourn because it has made them wealthy and powerful in the commercial world. John is permitted to hear another voice from heaven. It is the call from heaven to come out of the evil world system of Babylon. They should not take part in her sins or share in her plagues (18:4). They will not suffer the judgment that comes upon Babylon. Babylon's sin has piled up to heaven and she is ready for the judgment. They live in luxury and anticipate no sorrow. But her judgment will overtake her in a single day. The Lord God almighty will judge them with fire. Some suggest that due to radioactive fallout this destruction will be swift. The city that burned saints will itself be burned with literal fire.
The Reactions to Babylon’s Destruction: Rev 18: 9-19.
Now the commercial and political Babylon are destroyed. Nations will mourn over the destruction of Babylon. Their gain from commerce gone and no one is there to buy their products. Their great shipping lines of the oceans will be emptied. The impact of the fall of both the false church and world commercial system is unimaginable. The world has never seen an economical collapse like this before. God will bring an end to false religious and commercial Babylon. People will lose trust in the world’s commercial and financial institutions. The city that sits on the seven mountains is the seat of the apostate church (17:9). The city that thrived on false religion and financially benefited from it will collapse. Nations will marvel at the destruction of it. Commerce will come to an abrupt halt. As people reach the end of the tribulation, they have only lies and fake news of the Antichrist to believe. God’s patience should not be taken for granted to continue in sin. His judgment is true and righteous.
There is great Joy in Heaven: Rev 18:20-24.
While nations are mourning, there is great joy in heaven. The people of God will rejoice over the destruction of ecclesiastical and political Babylon. Antichrist is judged for the way he treated God’s people. A mighty angel casts a great millstone into sea. This is symbolic of the final fall of Babylon. There is no more celebration in Babylon because it is destroyed forever. Babylon is guilty of the blood of the believers who are slain for their faith. But God delivers those who believe Christ from judgment. They will rejoice in His triumph. Believers should not embrace the sin of the apostate church but should rejoice in Christ who gives them victory over Satan. Pray that God would remind us of the destruction that is coming upon world so that we may invest our time and resources for the glory of God.
Chapter 19
The Songs of Victory in Heaven: Rev 19:1-10.
Revelation chapter 19 starts with songs of victory in heaven. Four times the word “ALLELUIA” is used in this chapter. Heaven now rejoices over Christ’s victory over the Babylon. For the marriage of the Lamb has come. The Lord God omnipotent reigns. The bride of the Lamb is prepared for the wedding. “Alleluia” simply means praise the Lord. The angels and 24 elders joint the redeemed people saying amen in the celebration for God’s righteous judgment over His enemies. They praise God because salvation, glory and power belong to our God (19:1). Then John heard another voice of a great multitude. It is like the voice of many waters. They began the heavenly chorus praising God saying “Lord God omnipotent reigns”. For the marriage of the Lamb has come and his Bride has made herself ready, clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure” (19: 6-8). Those who have been saved now join the inhabitants of heaven to celebrate God's judgment and deliverance. The celebration is known as the marriage supper of the Lamb. The Lamb refers to Christ. The bride clothed in fine linen. The fine linen represents the righteous deeds of the saints (19:7). They are faithful to the Word of God and to the testimony of Jesus (19:10). The angel instructs John to write a blessing for those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb. This blessing is true and coming from God. The church is the heavenly bride and engaged to Christ now (2 Cor 11:2). There are 3 phases in the Jewish wedding. First, parents make a marriage contract for children when they are young. Second ceremony is at bride’s house when groom goes to get her. Thirdly there is a marriage supper. Now believers are engaged to Christ. We are waiting for Christ to return to take us home. Finally there will be a wedding supper. Most probably it will take place during the millennium or in heaven. What is John’s reaction? John fell down at the feet of angel to worship. John was forbidden to worship angel. Angels are fellow servants. Only God should be worshiped. Those who wait for the marriage supper of the Lamb should remain pure for the Christ to return and live for his glory.
The Second Coming of Christ: Rev 19:11-16.
Then John saw heaven opened and a white horse. The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True. The victorious one riding on the white horse is none other than Christ. He will reign in a way that is worthy of trust and he will judge in righteousness. The rejoicing in heaven foreshadows the glorious coming of Christ on earth. The second coming of Christ will be more beautiful than we ever can imagine. First Christ came in weakness to save us. There was no room for Him to be born. He came to his own his own received him not. Believers are now waiting for His return (Acts 1:11). He will come in the air to receive His own people (John 14:1-3). Christ is the faithful in His promises. He comes with mighty power to wage war against the beast and false prophet. White horse symbolizes Christ's triumphal procession. His eyes are like a flame of fire. This penetrating eye speaks of His power of judgment. On His head are many crowns. This speaks of His everlasting glory. A name was written on Him that no one understand except Himself. Christ is beyond human comprehension. He wore a robe dipped in blood. It refers to his own blood or the blood of his enemies. He will strike nations with the Word which is sharper than two edges sword (Heb 4:12). Christ will rule nations with iron rode. This speaks of His absolute righteousness (Psalms 2:8, 9). He will judge the nations. It is a terrible thing to fall into the hand of God. Someone has said "One way or another, all sin will be punished".
The Defeat of Antichrist and False Prophet: Rev 19:17-21.
Christ is coming to establish His kingdom and He will rule in righteousness for a thousand year. Before He does that His enemies must be defeated. Chapter 19:17-21 is a preview of that great battle. Then John saw an angel standing in the sun saying to all birds to gather for the great supper of God. They will eat the flesh of them who are slain by the Lord in the battle (19:17-18). Antichrist will deceive the nations to wage a war against God and His people. Those who obey God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ will become the object of Antichrist’s hatred. All the nations will gather together to wage battle against Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:1-2). This battle will take place in the plain of Megiddo (Zechariah 12:11). This war is known as Armageddon. It will be the bloodiest and most brazen war ever fought in the history. It will be swift and deadly. It takes place at the end of the tribulation period. Some suggest that this war may not be same as the invasion of Ezekiel 38. Christ will destroy His enemies with the breath of His mouth (2 Thess 2:8). The Antichrist and the false prophet will be captured and throne alive into the lake of fire. Ultimate victory belongs to Christ. In righteousness He judges and makes war. Those who embrace Christ will be saved. John encourages believers to reject the sinful pleasure of this world and remain vigilant against deception of Satan.
Revelation chapter 19 starts with songs of victory in heaven. Four times the word “ALLELUIA” is used in this chapter. Heaven now rejoices over Christ’s victory over the Babylon. For the marriage of the Lamb has come. The Lord God omnipotent reigns. The bride of the Lamb is prepared for the wedding. “Alleluia” simply means praise the Lord. The angels and 24 elders joint the redeemed people saying amen in the celebration for God’s righteous judgment over His enemies. They praise God because salvation, glory and power belong to our God (19:1). Then John heard another voice of a great multitude. It is like the voice of many waters. They began the heavenly chorus praising God saying “Lord God omnipotent reigns”. For the marriage of the Lamb has come and his Bride has made herself ready, clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure” (19: 6-8). Those who have been saved now join the inhabitants of heaven to celebrate God's judgment and deliverance. The celebration is known as the marriage supper of the Lamb. The Lamb refers to Christ. The bride clothed in fine linen. The fine linen represents the righteous deeds of the saints (19:7). They are faithful to the Word of God and to the testimony of Jesus (19:10). The angel instructs John to write a blessing for those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb. This blessing is true and coming from God. The church is the heavenly bride and engaged to Christ now (2 Cor 11:2). There are 3 phases in the Jewish wedding. First, parents make a marriage contract for children when they are young. Second ceremony is at bride’s house when groom goes to get her. Thirdly there is a marriage supper. Now believers are engaged to Christ. We are waiting for Christ to return to take us home. Finally there will be a wedding supper. Most probably it will take place during the millennium or in heaven. What is John’s reaction? John fell down at the feet of angel to worship. John was forbidden to worship angel. Angels are fellow servants. Only God should be worshiped. Those who wait for the marriage supper of the Lamb should remain pure for the Christ to return and live for his glory.
The Second Coming of Christ: Rev 19:11-16.
Then John saw heaven opened and a white horse. The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True. The victorious one riding on the white horse is none other than Christ. He will reign in a way that is worthy of trust and he will judge in righteousness. The rejoicing in heaven foreshadows the glorious coming of Christ on earth. The second coming of Christ will be more beautiful than we ever can imagine. First Christ came in weakness to save us. There was no room for Him to be born. He came to his own his own received him not. Believers are now waiting for His return (Acts 1:11). He will come in the air to receive His own people (John 14:1-3). Christ is the faithful in His promises. He comes with mighty power to wage war against the beast and false prophet. White horse symbolizes Christ's triumphal procession. His eyes are like a flame of fire. This penetrating eye speaks of His power of judgment. On His head are many crowns. This speaks of His everlasting glory. A name was written on Him that no one understand except Himself. Christ is beyond human comprehension. He wore a robe dipped in blood. It refers to his own blood or the blood of his enemies. He will strike nations with the Word which is sharper than two edges sword (Heb 4:12). Christ will rule nations with iron rode. This speaks of His absolute righteousness (Psalms 2:8, 9). He will judge the nations. It is a terrible thing to fall into the hand of God. Someone has said "One way or another, all sin will be punished".
The Defeat of Antichrist and False Prophet: Rev 19:17-21.
Christ is coming to establish His kingdom and He will rule in righteousness for a thousand year. Before He does that His enemies must be defeated. Chapter 19:17-21 is a preview of that great battle. Then John saw an angel standing in the sun saying to all birds to gather for the great supper of God. They will eat the flesh of them who are slain by the Lord in the battle (19:17-18). Antichrist will deceive the nations to wage a war against God and His people. Those who obey God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ will become the object of Antichrist’s hatred. All the nations will gather together to wage battle against Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:1-2). This battle will take place in the plain of Megiddo (Zechariah 12:11). This war is known as Armageddon. It will be the bloodiest and most brazen war ever fought in the history. It will be swift and deadly. It takes place at the end of the tribulation period. Some suggest that this war may not be same as the invasion of Ezekiel 38. Christ will destroy His enemies with the breath of His mouth (2 Thess 2:8). The Antichrist and the false prophet will be captured and throne alive into the lake of fire. Ultimate victory belongs to Christ. In righteousness He judges and makes war. Those who embrace Christ will be saved. John encourages believers to reject the sinful pleasure of this world and remain vigilant against deception of Satan.
Chapter 20
of The Thousand Year Reign:
(Read Rev 20: 1-6).
The tribulation is over. John saw an angel coming down from heaven with the key of the bottomless pit (20:1). The Antichrist and false prophet are bound and cast alive into a bottomless pit of fire for a thousand years. This binding is different from the binding mentioned in the gospel account (Mark 3:27). The angel threw them in the bottomless pit so that Satan could not deceive the nations. This period is known as the Millennium in which Christ will reign on earth with His saints. This is the only chapter that mentions the word "millennium" but it is repeated six times in the same chapter (Rev 20: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6). There are mainly three views about the millennium. One theory says that the world is getting better through the gospel preaching and the church will emerge as a society of saints. Then Christ will return and reign for a thousand years. But the Bible clearly teaches that this world is getting worse as the return of Christ draws near (1 Tim 4:1; 2 Tim 3:1-5). Amillennialism teaches that there will be no thousand year reign. They say that Isaiah chapter 11 should not be taken literally, it is only allegorical. If so, how can we take Isaiah 53 literally? Premillennialism teaches that Christ will return prior to Millennium and reign in righteousness for thousand years. This view is scriptural and held by the early church fathers. This is a literal, thousand year reign (Rev 20: 3, 7). This happens between the two resurrections. The first resurrection includes the resurrection of Christ and all true believers (1 Cor 15: 23). Blessed are those who are included in the first resurrection. Unbelievers will be raised at the end of millennium. All those who are saved from Israel and gentile nations will enter the kingdom of Christ (Matt 13:41-43). John saw the souls of martyrs there. They are those who are willing to die for the testimony of Jesus. They did not worship the beast. During the millennium, this planet would return to its full blessing for a period of thousand years. Many Old Testament passages describe the blessings of millennium (Isaiah 2:2-4; 11:6, 8; Psalms 2:6-9). Christ first came to save the world from sin. Now He returns to reclaim the inheritance Adam lost due to sin. Believers will rule and reign with Christ during this golden age of peace and prosperity (Rev 3:21; Luke 22:29, 30). The earth will be a blissful place physically and spiritually. Satan is bound and he cannot deceive the inhabitants of earth during this period.
Satan’s Final Defeat:
(Read Rev 20:7-10)
At the end of this thousand year period, Satan will be released for his final act of deception and rebellion (20:9). This time Satan will go out to deceive the nations. This will result in a global rebellion against God. Gog and Magog, must not be confused with the nations mentioned in Ezekiel 38 and 39. Satan will gather the nations which will result in a global rebellion against Christ. How can there be anyone to follow Satan in this perfect era? The children born to believers during this period are born with the same sinful nature. Perfect environment does not change sinners into saints. Having a godly heritage does not make a sinner a saint. Children born in millennium are sinners and they must trust Christ to be born again. The Devil who deceives people will be cast into the lake of fire where the beast and false prophet are. This is a place of unending torment. Death is not an annihilation of life. Nobody will enjoy hell with their friends. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved and your household (Acts 16:31).
The Great White Throne Judgment:
(Read Rev 20:11-15)
With Satan's final defeat, he is cast into the lake of fire. Hell is a place of torment. John saw a great white throne and one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled away from his presence. This is the final judgment. The one sitting on the throne is Jesus Christ (John 5:22, 27). White is symbolic of purity and perfect judgment (Isaiah 1:18). John saw the dead, great and small of all ages standing before the white throne judgment seat. As they appear, books were opened, including the book of life. In the book of life the names of God’s people are recorded. What is this book of life? The book of life contains the names of every person born in this world. Christ’s death is sufficient to save the entire world (1 John 2:2). There is no such thing as limited atonement. Christ died for the whole world (John 3:16). It is sufficient to save the whole world but efficient to save all those who believe in Christ. Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Rom 10:13). When a person chose to reject Christ, his name will be removed from the book of life. Salvation is a gift from God. A gift is not a gift unless it is received (John 1:12). Those who reject this gift will be thrown into the lake of fire. Sinners will be judged according to their works recorded in the books (Rom 2:16). The degree of their punishment is decided by their deeds (Luke 23:41). Our good deeds will not earn favor from God at the judgement seat. We are saved by grace through faith in Christ. This grace changes the way we live. Then death and grave will be thrown into the lake of fire. All unsaved will be raised from dead one that day. Their whole persons; spirit soul and body will be cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. The death is the last enemy. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death (1 Cor 15:26). There is no second chance to get saved. Why anyone in right mind should reject Christ? The wages of sin is death which is eternal separation from God. But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom 6:23). Those who embrace Christ will be part of the first resurrection. Those who are saved overcome sin by faith in Christ (1 John 5:4-5). Have your received Jesus Christ as your Lord and savior?
(Read Rev 20: 1-6).
The tribulation is over. John saw an angel coming down from heaven with the key of the bottomless pit (20:1). The Antichrist and false prophet are bound and cast alive into a bottomless pit of fire for a thousand years. This binding is different from the binding mentioned in the gospel account (Mark 3:27). The angel threw them in the bottomless pit so that Satan could not deceive the nations. This period is known as the Millennium in which Christ will reign on earth with His saints. This is the only chapter that mentions the word "millennium" but it is repeated six times in the same chapter (Rev 20: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6). There are mainly three views about the millennium. One theory says that the world is getting better through the gospel preaching and the church will emerge as a society of saints. Then Christ will return and reign for a thousand years. But the Bible clearly teaches that this world is getting worse as the return of Christ draws near (1 Tim 4:1; 2 Tim 3:1-5). Amillennialism teaches that there will be no thousand year reign. They say that Isaiah chapter 11 should not be taken literally, it is only allegorical. If so, how can we take Isaiah 53 literally? Premillennialism teaches that Christ will return prior to Millennium and reign in righteousness for thousand years. This view is scriptural and held by the early church fathers. This is a literal, thousand year reign (Rev 20: 3, 7). This happens between the two resurrections. The first resurrection includes the resurrection of Christ and all true believers (1 Cor 15: 23). Blessed are those who are included in the first resurrection. Unbelievers will be raised at the end of millennium. All those who are saved from Israel and gentile nations will enter the kingdom of Christ (Matt 13:41-43). John saw the souls of martyrs there. They are those who are willing to die for the testimony of Jesus. They did not worship the beast. During the millennium, this planet would return to its full blessing for a period of thousand years. Many Old Testament passages describe the blessings of millennium (Isaiah 2:2-4; 11:6, 8; Psalms 2:6-9). Christ first came to save the world from sin. Now He returns to reclaim the inheritance Adam lost due to sin. Believers will rule and reign with Christ during this golden age of peace and prosperity (Rev 3:21; Luke 22:29, 30). The earth will be a blissful place physically and spiritually. Satan is bound and he cannot deceive the inhabitants of earth during this period.
Satan’s Final Defeat:
(Read Rev 20:7-10)
At the end of this thousand year period, Satan will be released for his final act of deception and rebellion (20:9). This time Satan will go out to deceive the nations. This will result in a global rebellion against God. Gog and Magog, must not be confused with the nations mentioned in Ezekiel 38 and 39. Satan will gather the nations which will result in a global rebellion against Christ. How can there be anyone to follow Satan in this perfect era? The children born to believers during this period are born with the same sinful nature. Perfect environment does not change sinners into saints. Having a godly heritage does not make a sinner a saint. Children born in millennium are sinners and they must trust Christ to be born again. The Devil who deceives people will be cast into the lake of fire where the beast and false prophet are. This is a place of unending torment. Death is not an annihilation of life. Nobody will enjoy hell with their friends. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved and your household (Acts 16:31).
The Great White Throne Judgment:
(Read Rev 20:11-15)
With Satan's final defeat, he is cast into the lake of fire. Hell is a place of torment. John saw a great white throne and one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled away from his presence. This is the final judgment. The one sitting on the throne is Jesus Christ (John 5:22, 27). White is symbolic of purity and perfect judgment (Isaiah 1:18). John saw the dead, great and small of all ages standing before the white throne judgment seat. As they appear, books were opened, including the book of life. In the book of life the names of God’s people are recorded. What is this book of life? The book of life contains the names of every person born in this world. Christ’s death is sufficient to save the entire world (1 John 2:2). There is no such thing as limited atonement. Christ died for the whole world (John 3:16). It is sufficient to save the whole world but efficient to save all those who believe in Christ. Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Rom 10:13). When a person chose to reject Christ, his name will be removed from the book of life. Salvation is a gift from God. A gift is not a gift unless it is received (John 1:12). Those who reject this gift will be thrown into the lake of fire. Sinners will be judged according to their works recorded in the books (Rom 2:16). The degree of their punishment is decided by their deeds (Luke 23:41). Our good deeds will not earn favor from God at the judgement seat. We are saved by grace through faith in Christ. This grace changes the way we live. Then death and grave will be thrown into the lake of fire. All unsaved will be raised from dead one that day. Their whole persons; spirit soul and body will be cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. The death is the last enemy. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death (1 Cor 15:26). There is no second chance to get saved. Why anyone in right mind should reject Christ? The wages of sin is death which is eternal separation from God. But the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom 6:23). Those who embrace Christ will be part of the first resurrection. Those who are saved overcome sin by faith in Christ (1 John 5:4-5). Have your received Jesus Christ as your Lord and savior?
Chapter 21
The New Heaven and the New Earth: Rev 21:1-4.
The final two chapters of Revelation describe the vision of new heaven and new earth. Using the imagery of marriage, John shows the eternal union of believers with Christ here. This is the bright and glorious future awaiting for God's people. When Christ’s thousand year reign ends, the millennium merges with eternity. John saw a new heaven and a new earth. For the first heaven and the first earth are passed away; and there is no more sea (Rev 21:1). It is not going to be a cleaned-up or a renovated heaven and earth. They are new because God made them new. He makes all things new (Rev 21:5). It is true in our salvation also. If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation (2 Cor 5:17). Reformation and good work will not save us. Scripture clearly teaches that we should look forward for new heaven and new earth (2 Pet 3:10-13). And John saw the holy city, the New Jerusalem coming down from God out of heaven like a bride, beautifully dressed for her husband (Rev 21:2). Here we see the picture of the church, the bride of Christ (Rev 21:9). This speaks of believer’s eternal relationship with God in the New Jerusalem. The heaven is their eternal home where God is worshiped and Christ is praised for His worthiness. It is also God's eternal and perfect dwelling place where believers dwell with Him in the perfect union. Many people deny the reality of heaven and eternal judgment. Some hold the distorted view that heaven will be a dull place of church service. But heaven is the most satisfying place of splendor and fellowship with God and believers.
Behold God is with Men: Rev 21:5-8.
Then John heard a loud voice from heaven saying “Behold the tabernacle of God is with men”. God always desired to dwell with men. He created us to fellowship with Him (Gen 3). God wanted to dwell in the midst of Israel in the tabernacle (Ex 25:8). Christ first came to tabernacle among us in order to save us (John 1:14). He dwells in the midst of believers in the church today (1 Tim 3:15). The Holy Spirit dwells in us to comfort us (John 14:16-18). God will wipe away tears from our eyes. There will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. The former things on earth have passed away and behold God makes all things new (21:4, 5). It is the poetic way of saying there will be no curse of sin in New Jerusalem. There will not be any sin because Satan has been thrown into the lake of fire (20:7-10). New Jerusalem will be far better place than Millennium because only believers will be there. Those who have conquered will be rewarded for their faithful serve (21:7). Heaven is our Father's house (John 14:2). One day all of Sin's influence will be gone and believers will be with Christ forever.
The New Jerusalem: Rev 21:9-22.
John was given the vision of the New Jerusalem, the bride of the Lamb descending out of heaven from God (Rev 21:9). John describes the glories of heaven here. Its location is not specifically told. But it will be in the vicinity of the earth. It is a literal city. Heaven comes to earth where God will dwell with His people forever in the holy city. This new heaven and earth will be new in quality (Rom 8:19-24). There is no corruption, decay, death and sin in heaven. From Genesis to Revelation God promises to dwell in the midst of His people (21:8). Very few people received a glimpse of heaven's glory (2 Cor 12:2-5). Its radiant glory is like sparkling costly jewels. It is beyond human comprehension. Here the redeemed believers would live forever, untouched by the power of sin. They are cleansed by the blood of the Lamb and without any blemish (Ephesians 5:27). The glory of God permeates this city. It has great and high wall with twelve gates. This wall is made of jasper and pure gold clear as glass (Rev 21:18). On the gates, names of the twelve tribes of Israel are written. Each of the gates is made of one giant pearl (Rev 21:21). The wall of New Jerusalem has twelve foundations. The names of the twelve apostles are written on them. It may represent the twelve apostles who laid the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20). New Jerusalem covers an area of 1500 miles in length, breadth and height (Rev 21:16). Scholars suggest that Its shape may be like a cube. In the tabernacle, the Most Holy Place was a cube. It was the perfect place where God was dwelling. The precious stones and pure gold used here speak of the unimaginable beauty and glory of New Jerusalem. There is much we do not know about New Jerusalem. Undoubtedly it will be a place of wonder where we worship and fellowship with God.
The glory of the New Jerusalem: Rev 21:22-27.
John saw no temple in the holy city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb (Rev 21:22). There is no more need for a temple because we meet with God Himself directly in the person of the Christ. There will be complete access to God to fellowship with Him. Human hearts long for God and we are created to appreciate His glory. Heaven will be the perfect place of God's greatness and splendor. There is no need of sun or moon because the glory of God illuminates the city and the Lamb is its light. The gentile nation will enjoy the beauty and glory of New Jerusalem and their kings will bring tributes to the Lamb. Its gates never will be shut because nothing unclean or sinful will ever enter the holy city. This is the blessed hope of the redeemed people of God. This thought motivated the Old Testament saints to endure hardship and long for heaven (Hebrews 11:16). This is the kingdom that cannot be shaken. (Heb 12:28). Those who endure hardship for Christ and remain faithful will have a rich entrance into the eternal kingdom of Christ (2 Pet 1:11). Have you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
The final two chapters of Revelation describe the vision of new heaven and new earth. Using the imagery of marriage, John shows the eternal union of believers with Christ here. This is the bright and glorious future awaiting for God's people. When Christ’s thousand year reign ends, the millennium merges with eternity. John saw a new heaven and a new earth. For the first heaven and the first earth are passed away; and there is no more sea (Rev 21:1). It is not going to be a cleaned-up or a renovated heaven and earth. They are new because God made them new. He makes all things new (Rev 21:5). It is true in our salvation also. If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation (2 Cor 5:17). Reformation and good work will not save us. Scripture clearly teaches that we should look forward for new heaven and new earth (2 Pet 3:10-13). And John saw the holy city, the New Jerusalem coming down from God out of heaven like a bride, beautifully dressed for her husband (Rev 21:2). Here we see the picture of the church, the bride of Christ (Rev 21:9). This speaks of believer’s eternal relationship with God in the New Jerusalem. The heaven is their eternal home where God is worshiped and Christ is praised for His worthiness. It is also God's eternal and perfect dwelling place where believers dwell with Him in the perfect union. Many people deny the reality of heaven and eternal judgment. Some hold the distorted view that heaven will be a dull place of church service. But heaven is the most satisfying place of splendor and fellowship with God and believers.
Behold God is with Men: Rev 21:5-8.
Then John heard a loud voice from heaven saying “Behold the tabernacle of God is with men”. God always desired to dwell with men. He created us to fellowship with Him (Gen 3). God wanted to dwell in the midst of Israel in the tabernacle (Ex 25:8). Christ first came to tabernacle among us in order to save us (John 1:14). He dwells in the midst of believers in the church today (1 Tim 3:15). The Holy Spirit dwells in us to comfort us (John 14:16-18). God will wipe away tears from our eyes. There will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. The former things on earth have passed away and behold God makes all things new (21:4, 5). It is the poetic way of saying there will be no curse of sin in New Jerusalem. There will not be any sin because Satan has been thrown into the lake of fire (20:7-10). New Jerusalem will be far better place than Millennium because only believers will be there. Those who have conquered will be rewarded for their faithful serve (21:7). Heaven is our Father's house (John 14:2). One day all of Sin's influence will be gone and believers will be with Christ forever.
The New Jerusalem: Rev 21:9-22.
John was given the vision of the New Jerusalem, the bride of the Lamb descending out of heaven from God (Rev 21:9). John describes the glories of heaven here. Its location is not specifically told. But it will be in the vicinity of the earth. It is a literal city. Heaven comes to earth where God will dwell with His people forever in the holy city. This new heaven and earth will be new in quality (Rom 8:19-24). There is no corruption, decay, death and sin in heaven. From Genesis to Revelation God promises to dwell in the midst of His people (21:8). Very few people received a glimpse of heaven's glory (2 Cor 12:2-5). Its radiant glory is like sparkling costly jewels. It is beyond human comprehension. Here the redeemed believers would live forever, untouched by the power of sin. They are cleansed by the blood of the Lamb and without any blemish (Ephesians 5:27). The glory of God permeates this city. It has great and high wall with twelve gates. This wall is made of jasper and pure gold clear as glass (Rev 21:18). On the gates, names of the twelve tribes of Israel are written. Each of the gates is made of one giant pearl (Rev 21:21). The wall of New Jerusalem has twelve foundations. The names of the twelve apostles are written on them. It may represent the twelve apostles who laid the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20). New Jerusalem covers an area of 1500 miles in length, breadth and height (Rev 21:16). Scholars suggest that Its shape may be like a cube. In the tabernacle, the Most Holy Place was a cube. It was the perfect place where God was dwelling. The precious stones and pure gold used here speak of the unimaginable beauty and glory of New Jerusalem. There is much we do not know about New Jerusalem. Undoubtedly it will be a place of wonder where we worship and fellowship with God.
The glory of the New Jerusalem: Rev 21:22-27.
John saw no temple in the holy city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb (Rev 21:22). There is no more need for a temple because we meet with God Himself directly in the person of the Christ. There will be complete access to God to fellowship with Him. Human hearts long for God and we are created to appreciate His glory. Heaven will be the perfect place of God's greatness and splendor. There is no need of sun or moon because the glory of God illuminates the city and the Lamb is its light. The gentile nation will enjoy the beauty and glory of New Jerusalem and their kings will bring tributes to the Lamb. Its gates never will be shut because nothing unclean or sinful will ever enter the holy city. This is the blessed hope of the redeemed people of God. This thought motivated the Old Testament saints to endure hardship and long for heaven (Hebrews 11:16). This is the kingdom that cannot be shaken. (Heb 12:28). Those who endure hardship for Christ and remain faithful will have a rich entrance into the eternal kingdom of Christ (2 Pet 1:11). Have you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Chapter 22
The New Jerusalem: Rev 22:1-5.
In chapter 22:1-5 we see more description of New Jerusalem. Then the angel showed John a river of water of life clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. On either side of the river, grew the tree of life which bears twelve manner of fruit and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations (Rev 22:1, 2). The river of life and the tree of life speak of God’s endless provision and the abundance of blessings in the New Jerusalem (John 7:38, 39; Psalms 46:4). Even the gentile nations will enjoy health and blessing in New Jerusalem. The scripture says that “No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love God” (1 Cor 2:9). There will be no more curse, no more tears, no more sin and no more darkness. It will be a perfect place. Believers will serve and worship God. While we do not know exactly the nature of service, we are told that we will exercise authority over nations and angels (1 Cor 6:2, 3). Believers will see Christ face to face and His name will be on their foreheads (22:4). This speaks of our perfect fellowship and identification with Christ. We will know and recognize each other in heaven (Mat 17:3). Our age old desire will be fulfilled and we will be in perfect communion with Christ (Psalms 27:4; 2 Cor 4:4-6; 1 John 3:2). There shall be no night there because the Lord God will shine on us. Believers will reign forever and ever (Rev 22:5). We will enjoy all these blessings because we are in Christ. So believers have no room for boasting except in the wonder of God’s grace (Ephesians 1:6; Gal 6:14). Heaven will be a place filled with worship and praise.
Conclusion: Rev 22:6-16.
John ends the book of Revelation with warning, comfort, invitation and blessings. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is a message of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ. His glory is revealed in the book of Revelation. John was told to write the things which he had heard and seen because they are true (1:19). God who inspired the prophets to write the scripture has sent His angel to tell His servants what will happen soon (22:6). Revelation is God inspired prophecy. John was forbidden from worshiping angel because only God should be worshiped. Angels are created beings and fellow servants (22:9). John was assured of Christ’s soon return (22:7, 12, 20). There is special blessing for those who obey the word of this prophecy. John was told not to seal the word of the prophecy of this book because the time is near and Christ’s return is imminent. Sinners may continue in their sin but believers are exhorted to continue to live in righteousness. Christ is coming with His rewards. He will give rewards to everyone for their faithful service. Salvation is a gracious gift but rewards are for faithful service. Blessed are those who wash their robes by the blood of Christ and they have access to the tree of life. Jesus is the beginning and the end of this revelation. The Lord sent His angel to give this message to the churches. This is the first time church is mentioned since the third chapter. Christ is both the root of David and the heir of his throne. He is the offspring of David and He will reign forever. He is the bright and the morning star. Morning star appears in the sky before sun rise. Christ shall be our light in the new heaven and new earth. Do you know this wonderful Savior? Are you willing to lay down your pride and embrace Christ to be saved? Will you respond to the invitation to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
The Final Invitation: Rev 22:17-21.
The Spirit and the bride give the final invitation. "Let him that thirsts come and drink the water of life freely" (22:17). Those who reject Christ will be cast into the lake of fire. In Verses 18 and 19, we see the stern warning about adding to the word of God or taking away from it. One who attempts to do that will suffer the judgment described in this Book. The Bible alone is the Word of God. Christ said “Surely I am coming soon”. John’s response to this blessed promise was “Even so come, Lord Jesus”. This should be the blessed hope and desire of every believer. John ends the book of Revelation with a benediction. "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen”. From Genesis to Revelation God reveals His amazing grace. Christ is our hope and eternal reward. How blessed is to drink the water of life and share it with others! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.
In chapter 22:1-5 we see more description of New Jerusalem. Then the angel showed John a river of water of life clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb. On either side of the river, grew the tree of life which bears twelve manner of fruit and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations (Rev 22:1, 2). The river of life and the tree of life speak of God’s endless provision and the abundance of blessings in the New Jerusalem (John 7:38, 39; Psalms 46:4). Even the gentile nations will enjoy health and blessing in New Jerusalem. The scripture says that “No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love God” (1 Cor 2:9). There will be no more curse, no more tears, no more sin and no more darkness. It will be a perfect place. Believers will serve and worship God. While we do not know exactly the nature of service, we are told that we will exercise authority over nations and angels (1 Cor 6:2, 3). Believers will see Christ face to face and His name will be on their foreheads (22:4). This speaks of our perfect fellowship and identification with Christ. We will know and recognize each other in heaven (Mat 17:3). Our age old desire will be fulfilled and we will be in perfect communion with Christ (Psalms 27:4; 2 Cor 4:4-6; 1 John 3:2). There shall be no night there because the Lord God will shine on us. Believers will reign forever and ever (Rev 22:5). We will enjoy all these blessings because we are in Christ. So believers have no room for boasting except in the wonder of God’s grace (Ephesians 1:6; Gal 6:14). Heaven will be a place filled with worship and praise.
Conclusion: Rev 22:6-16.
John ends the book of Revelation with warning, comfort, invitation and blessings. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is a message of God’s saving grace in Jesus Christ. His glory is revealed in the book of Revelation. John was told to write the things which he had heard and seen because they are true (1:19). God who inspired the prophets to write the scripture has sent His angel to tell His servants what will happen soon (22:6). Revelation is God inspired prophecy. John was forbidden from worshiping angel because only God should be worshiped. Angels are created beings and fellow servants (22:9). John was assured of Christ’s soon return (22:7, 12, 20). There is special blessing for those who obey the word of this prophecy. John was told not to seal the word of the prophecy of this book because the time is near and Christ’s return is imminent. Sinners may continue in their sin but believers are exhorted to continue to live in righteousness. Christ is coming with His rewards. He will give rewards to everyone for their faithful service. Salvation is a gracious gift but rewards are for faithful service. Blessed are those who wash their robes by the blood of Christ and they have access to the tree of life. Jesus is the beginning and the end of this revelation. The Lord sent His angel to give this message to the churches. This is the first time church is mentioned since the third chapter. Christ is both the root of David and the heir of his throne. He is the offspring of David and He will reign forever. He is the bright and the morning star. Morning star appears in the sky before sun rise. Christ shall be our light in the new heaven and new earth. Do you know this wonderful Savior? Are you willing to lay down your pride and embrace Christ to be saved? Will you respond to the invitation to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
The Final Invitation: Rev 22:17-21.
The Spirit and the bride give the final invitation. "Let him that thirsts come and drink the water of life freely" (22:17). Those who reject Christ will be cast into the lake of fire. In Verses 18 and 19, we see the stern warning about adding to the word of God or taking away from it. One who attempts to do that will suffer the judgment described in this Book. The Bible alone is the Word of God. Christ said “Surely I am coming soon”. John’s response to this blessed promise was “Even so come, Lord Jesus”. This should be the blessed hope and desire of every believer. John ends the book of Revelation with a benediction. "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen”. From Genesis to Revelation God reveals His amazing grace. Christ is our hope and eternal reward. How blessed is to drink the water of life and share it with others! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.
