Babylon

Come Out From Among Them {Revelations 18}

9:00 AM

 Scripture passage: Revelations 18


Have you ever suffered because of your faith? Perhaps, you've been overlooked for a promotion, or lost friendships, or suffered strained relationships. The sad truth is, that even today, thousands of years since Christianity began, believers are being martyred for their faith everyday. If you have suffered any form of persecution, take heart, for it has not gone unnoticed. AND the good news is there is coming a day when the patience of God will reached its end. 

A day when God cannot bear to see His people suffer any longer, and the appointed number of martyrs is complete (Rev 6:11). And on that day a holy vengeance will come from heaven: 

Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her. (Revelations 18:8)

Most important to note however is that God’s vengeance on those who have afflicted His people will seem to us as “relief.” Our Lord considers it "just" to repay those who have afflicted us with affliction. 


 At her destruction, a great voice from heaven cries, “Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, for God has given judgment for you against her!” (Revelation 18:20). Also in Revelations 19: 1-2, a great multitude is heard saying, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just; for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants”. 

But, those who shared in her luxuries and persecuted God's people will weep out loud and mourn for the city. They will look upon her and be terrified and cry out:

“‘Woe! Woe to you, great city, you mighty city of Babylon! In one hour your doom has come!’

What I still cannot get over is the thought that this could be only a few years away! In years past as I read through the book of Revelation, I always thought of these events happening far off in the distant future sometime, but if Jesus were to come for us today, that would mark the beginning of the seven years of tribulations that is outlined for us in this book. Which means those we know who do not know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior will be left here to experience this for themselves. 

And with this new revelation that has come to me concerning the timing of these events, comes a greater desire to pray and share the Gospel with those who still don't belong to Him, in the hopes I might take part in saving a few. 

Blessings, 

sue


faithful

The Message of The Mighty Angel {Revelations 10}

8:00 PM

Revelation 9 left off with the sounding of the sixth of seven trumpets, which ushers in the end of all things, but now, instead of the seventh trumpet sounding, there is a pause until Revelation 11:15, which could demonstrate once more for us, God’s mercy in allowing more opportunity for repentance.

The theme of this chapter appears to declare God’s intention to take possession of the earth—both the land and sea—and to fulfill all the many prophetic promises found in the Scriptures which point to God establishing His kingdom on earth.

Before we begin however, I want to remind you once more that this Book of Revelations is one of the most mysterious books in the Bible! None of us will know the exact meaning of all that’s here,  but that’s not a reason for not reading it, for John wrote, “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near” (Rev 1:3). John only asks us to read and keep what’s written in it. A day is coming when God will bring this all to life before our eyes, but for now, those who dig and act upon what we read will be blessed! So let’s pull out what we can in chapter 10 and get set to worship Him once more!

Another mighty angel:
The description of this angel has significant similarities to that of deity, so much so, that some commentators believe this is a picture of Christ Jesus, but not all believe it’s Him.

Coming down from heaven:
This phrase probably means that some angels normally reside in heaven only. Perhaps this angel is one of the seven “presence angels” which stand before God ( Rev. 8:2) and which were given the seven trumpets. Later, another angel, not called mighty, but having great authority, will come down from heaven to announce the impending fall of Babylon in Rev. 18:1-2. And the angel who binds Satan also is said to come down from heaven in Rev. 20:1ff.

Clothed with a cloud:
Clouds generally depict deity and authority; the divine presence of God. In Exodus a cloud filled the Tabernacle which depicted God’s presence within it. And we also know Jesus will be coming back on the clouds (Mt.26:64)

A rainbow was on his head:
This is the only angel to be described as having a rainbow on his head. This passage is probably where artist got the idea to use halos to depict holiness in religious artworks, but here, the rainbow is a reminder of God’s covenant with Noah (Gen. 9:11-17)

His face was like the sun:
This angel has a radiant countenance like the angel which Daniel saw in Dan. 10:6. This also could be another reason some theologian may believe this is Christ Jesus.

His feet like pillars of fire:
His burning feet speak of judgment. And the placement of his feet; one on the land and one on the sea, speaks of the power to conquers both land and sea. This angel has come to pass judgement on the earth and the nations (Isa. 63:3-6; Rev. 14:19-20).

So much of what’s depicted here in this section of Revelation reminded me of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. And I wonder, though I can’t prove it, if the angel’s legs were to remind Israel of the pillar of fire and cloud that gave both guidance and  protection as they journeyed to the promise land. ( Ex.13:21-22; 14:19,24)

A.R.Farrer in his book, The Revelation of St. John the Divine  believes the rainbow is to remind us of God’s promise through Noah, the pillar of fire is God’s presence in the wilderness, and the scroll reminds us of the tablets of stone! All of these point back to Israel’s journey to the promise land. I loved that idea!

When he cried out, seven thunders uttered their voices:
This relates to the same idea of the thunderous voice of God in Psalm 29. John begins to write down what he has heard, but is not permitted to, therefore we know that there are still things hidden from us at this time.

The angel raised up his hand to heaven and swore by Him who lives forever and ever: The mighty angel gives a solemn oath declaring that the end is irrevocably set in motion and there is absolutely no turning back.

John then writes, Then the voice which I heard from heaven spoke to me again and said, "Go, take the little scroll which is open in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the earth. So I went to the angel and said to him, "Give me the little book." And he said to me, "Take and eat it; and it will make your stomach bitter, but it will be as sweet as honey in your mouth." - Rev 10:8-9

John is then commanded to prophesy to the whole world; not just believers; to some (believers) it will be sweet, but to those perishing it will be bitter. I believe John’s orders here are also for us as well.
I was reminded of the verse in 2 Peter when we see a pause between the sixth and seventh trumpets! The mighty angel has told us the end is set, but there is still a pause, and John is commanded to share all He has learned with all men!  Notice 2Peter 3:9 seems to fit here, “The Lord does not delay [as though He were unable to act] and is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is [extraordinarily] patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.

The angel has declared that the end of time has been set in motion and nothing can keep it from all coming about just as God has planned! Though, while there is still time we need to be about our Father’s business in telling others of the things we’re sure of! To some it will be bitter, but to others it will be sweet! May we each be found faithful to His Word when this prophecy become reality!

Lamb

Worthy is The Lamb That was Slain! {Revelations 5}

9:00 PM


I cannot remember just how long ago I started this tradition of reading through the book of Revelations during the month of December, but it’s one of my favorite things to do during Christmas! In fact, it’s as familiar as stringing Christmas lights and hanging stockings! I love worshiping Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords while we celebrate Him coming to earth as a baby in a lowly manger, and it’s my prayer you’ll want to adopt this little tradition as well!

The book of Revelations is like peeking through heaven’s keyhole on the greatest events coming, and I pray we’re able to convey the significance of all that we see on display before us!
I’m especially excited to have the chance to write about one of my favorite chapters! In both chapters 4 and 5, we’re given a glimpse of a scene that will take place in heaven before God pours out His judgments on the earth (Rev 6-18). In chapter 4 we were able to experience the worship of God the Father, and now in chapter 5, we’ll experience the worship of Jesus Christ.

First: John reminds us that God is in control:

I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a book written inside and on the back, sealed up with seven seals.  And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the book and to break its seals?” -Rev 5:1-2

Chapter 4 began by drawing our attention to the throne; chapter 5 begins by drawing our attention to a scroll in God’s right hand. Can you think of a better way to illustrate God’s sovereignty over all than by this picture of the scroll resting in His RIGHT hand? For His right hand has always been a symbol of His authority. Someone, probably God Himself, has sealed it with seven seals, which conveys the perfect number of seals (“seven”) and also hints at the absolute sacredness of this scroll. But there’s a problem;

“And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the book or to look into it.  Then I began to weep greatly because no one was found worthy to open the book or to look into it;” - Rev 5:3-4

There’s been a search of all heaven and earth and no one was found worthy to open the scroll, which crushes John’s resolve, for he becomes overwhelmed to the point of weeping uncontrollably. Does John believe that the wrongs of earth would not be dealt with? Did he fear that the righteous will never be vindicated and that the wicked will go unpunished? John seems to understand at this moment that if God’s purposes fail, then all of life is meaningless.

Which is the sad truth for all of us, for without Christ there will be only weeping. But;
“...one of the elders said to me, “Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals.”

Second: All's NOT lost! There’s hope! Jesus will carry out God’s final purposes!

John turns to look expecting to see the, “Lion that is from the tribe of Judah” (the king of all the beasts; strong and powerful), But he sees something completely opposite: John looks and sees, “between the throne (with the four living creatures) and the elders a Lamb standing, as if slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth ” (Rev 5:6). There are  four things we need to understand in 5:6. 
John sees;

  1. A Lamb (the meekest of animals) which is the symbol of Jesus Christ at His first coming, meek and submissive, the sacrificial substitute for us (Isa 53:7; John 1:36; 21:15). The Lion is a symbol of Jesus at His second coming, powerfully judging the world in righteousness. John sees the Lamb, now in the center of all the creatures and elders gathered around the throne, as the central character.
  2. A Lamb that had been slain. The word “slain” means “to cut up and mutilate as in animal sacrifices”. It describes for us the brutal crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ and all He suffered on our behalf.
  3. A Lamb that is standing. The slain Lamb, Who was violently slaughtered and put to death that is now actually standing! Symbolizing that He has overcome the power of sin and death! Once killed, He is now standing in the innermost circle next to the throne of God.
  4. A Lamb Who is awesome in power with His seven horns and seven eyes. The number seven represents the fullness of Christ’s power in defeating His foes. The horns are a biblical symbol for power and authority.

Third: Jesus Christ is worthy of overwhelming praise!

“And He came and took the book out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne.’ Here we see Jesus Christ, the Lion-Lamb, boldly approaching the throne of God. (5:7). We see  His sovereignty on display as He and only He is able to take the scroll out of the Father’s right hand! He is the only One who is worthy! This very act symbolizes the transfer of authority from the Father to the Son. And once He does all present break out in a new song... “ When He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying,
“Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.
“You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth.” - Rev 5:7-10 (Selah- pause & meditate on this)

May I also add a personal thought here?... If Jesus Christ is the only One found worthy to take the scroll out of the right hand of The Father, surely He is powerful enough to take care of anything your still clinging on to; any fears, doubts, discouragements, etc. Is there anything you still have not given over to Jesus' care? Perhaps loved ones, your job, finances...? Why not release these to Him today? There's not a better time or chapter in all the Bible!

 There is much more I could share, but I think it’s significant to close like the, “four living creatures saying, “Amen.” And the elders falling down and worshiping.” He alone is worthy! He is the “Lamb that was slain” for us, now standing before the Father. The only one worthy to take the scroll from The Father’s hand! O come let us adore Him, let us bow down before Him...

God's love

Walking in Fervent Love until the End {Revelation 2}

10:30 PM



John was told to write what he saw in a book and send that book to the 7 churches in Asia. (Rev. 1:11). The entire Book of Revelation which includes the special messages to those 7 churches, was sent to those churches and a blessing was pronounced upon all who would read, hear and keep the words contained in this prophecy. Jesus wanted believers to know that He knew exactly where they were. He saw their good works, faithfulness and patience in the face of persecution. He also saw the bad which included their compromise, apostasy, indifference and lack of love.

Jesus talked about these events while still being with the disciples:
10 At that time many will be offended and repelled [by their association with Me] and will fall away [from the One whom they should trust] and will betray one another [handing over believers to their persecutors] and will hate one another. 11 Many false prophets will appear and mislead many. 12 Because lawlessness is increased, the love of most people will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures and bears up [under suffering] to the end will be saved. (Matt. 24:10-14 AMP)




Apostasy:  in the Greek original, to express abandonment of the faith = a falling away, a withdrawal, a defection. ( Tim. 4:1-3; 2Thess. 2:3; 2Pe. 3:17, 2Tim. 4:4). (International SB Encyclopedia)

Jesus wanted them to know that despite persecution and their corruption, He’d stand in their midst as a mighty conqueror and that through Him they too could overcome!

John writes to the Church of Ephesus:” 3 and [I know that] you [who believe] are enduring patiently and are bearing up for My name’s sake, and that you have not grown weary [of being faithful to the truth]. 4 But I have this [charge] against you, that you have left your first love [you have lost the depth of love that you first had for Me]. (emphasis mine)

Here are seven warning signs that show that a church or individual has left their first love.
(1)   Christ is no longer the central focus in your life; (2:4)
(2)   You neglect your relationship with the Lord and spend less time in prayer, worship and the Word;
(3)   You allow family, friends, job and your own desires to come between you and your relationship with God;
(4)   There is a loss of intimacy in your relationship with God;
(5)   You are caught in a cycle of dead works;
(6)   You are more tolerant of sin; (idolatry and sexual immorality- 2: 14-15, 20)
(7)   You will no longer have a burning passion for the lost.

Many of us know people who were once walking close with Christ and now because of compromise and worldliness lose out with God. If this is the condition of you or your church, Jesus is calling us to REPENT:
 5 So remember the heights from which you have fallen, and repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, your sinful behavior—seek God’s will] and do the works you did at first [when you first knew Me]”.(AMP)




 Jesus, then praises them as we see in the next verses.
“6 Yet you have this [to your credit], that you hate the works and corrupt teachings of the [c]Nicolaitans [that mislead and delude the people], which I also hate.  He who has an ear, let him hear and heed what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who [d]overcomes [the world through believing that Jesus is the Son of God], I will grant [the privilege] to eat [the fruit] from the tree of life, which is in the Paradise of God.’ (2:6-7)

There are precious promises for those who remain faithful to the very end (2:10-11, 17, 26-28)!

There is much labor ahead of us:  Revelation 2:26 "And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:" You see here that Jesus specifies His works are what is to be done. It also means that we should not just do a little and get self-satisfied, but stay with the Lord's work to the very end. Just as Jesus told the parable of the good servant (Luke 19), we must be a good servant and bring the fruits of our labor to Jesus.. He also promises that His faithful will rule. Remember, the power is Jesus'. He gives us His power. This power is to do His will as we walk in His Truth.  We are working under Jesus' direction. He is our leader!

Revelation 2:28 "And I will give him the morning star."
Jesus is the Bright and Morning Star. He promises to give Himself to those who will follow Him. Although the morning star has already dawned in our hearts (2 Peter 1:19), someday we will have Him in His fullness!

Revelation 2:29 "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches."
Notice again this message is not just given to this one church of Thyatira, but to “unto the churches”.

Before closing today’s study, let me ask you: do you remember the day you received Jesus as your personal Savior? Compare your love for the Lord today with what it was then. Has your love grown deeper or has it lost its fervency? Are your works motivated by a passionate love for God or are you doing them as part of a Christian duty? Ask the Lord to forgive you for leaving your first love! Begin to do your first works again! Make a new commitment to the basics of prayer, worship, and the study of His Word. Let me remind you to: …” [a]fan into flame the gracious gift of God, [that inner fire—the special endowment]…” of your first love through a renewed communion with the Lord (2 Tim 1:6). This fervent love is required of all those who belong to the Lord.!!  (Matt. 22:37-38)
We must take heed to the warnings. Let us open the ears of our heart and receive Jesus in His fullness.
"The Lord is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands and forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin" (Ex. 34:6-7).

Thank you Father for your abounding Love and Faithfulness, may we found faithful servants walking in fervent love until the very end!

Blessings,


Mari