What every child of God needs to know about the "Last Days" -by Bobby Richardson

Evaluating Revelation Chapters 1 through 22

Revelation Chapter One

Rev. 1:1-3 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

This is the introduction to the book with a blessing associated for those who hear AND keep the words of this prophecy. It is my understanding that the term "his angel" is significant, as is the term "the angel of the Lord". It is my understanding that the term "the angel of the Lord" doesn’t always mean one of God’s many angels ... or another spirit being other than God. I believe the term "the angel of the Lord" can actually describe a theophany OR a physical representation of the invisible God. AND, it can also mean the "presence of the Lord" or "the Lord’s presence" ... as in the following Scripture:

The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. Psalms 34:7

Here’s some other Scriptures that bring out what I am talking aboout ...

But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac. And the servant said unto him, Peradventure the woman will not be willing to follow me unto this land: must I needs bring thy son again unto the land from whence thou camest? And Abraham said unto him, Beware thou that thou bring not my son thither again. The LORD God of heaven, which took me from my father's house, and from the land of my kindred, and which spake unto me, and that sware unto me, saying, Unto thy seed will I give this land; he shall send his angel before thee, and thou shalt take a wife unto my son from thence. Genesis 24:4-7 ....... And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed. And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt. And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God. Exodus 3:2-6 ....... And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed. When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of the Lord came unto him, Saying, I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold. Then said the Lord to him, Put off thy shoes from thy feet: for the place where thou standest is holy ground. Acts 7:30-33 ....... And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I have gotten me honour upon Pharaoh, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen. And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them: Exodus 14:18-19 ....... Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face. Numbers 22:31 ....... And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:7-14

Rev. 1:4-6 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

As we will be talking about more as we get into this study, there is only ONE throne of God in Heaven and only ONE who sits on that throne. Therefore, in order to understand as much as we can about the book of Revelation, we must realize that metaphoric speech and spiritual things are NOT understood by using human reasoning, logic and intellect. If you have ever looked at the anatomy of the human body in an encyclopedia with the various transparent overlays, this may help in understanding that the proper understanding of the Scriptures requires everything to remain in its proper place ... regardless of how many over lays there are. To have the heart, lungs or kidnesy in the chest on one overlay, but down at the ankles on another overlay indicates a serious problem with understanding or interpreting the Word.

Rev. 1:7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Acts 1:9-11 ...... For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ....... And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn. Zechariah 12:10

Rev. 1:8-18 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

There simply cannot be but ONE Almighty. And, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last, which is, and which was and which is to come the Almighty is none other than Jesus Christ, Himself, NOT another "person" of God operating distinctly and independently from another "person" of God. The following information is important to keep in mind in order to keep all the "organs" on all of the transparent overlays in their proper place ...

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. Genesis 17:1 ....... Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God. Isaiah 44:6 ...... And when they went, I heard the noise of their wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of an host: when they stood, they let down their wings. Ezekiel 1:24 ........ I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame. As concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time. I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. Daniel 7:9-14 ....... Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude. Daniel 10:5-6 ....... And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Matthew 17:1-3 ....... In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: Matthew 28:1-3 ....... But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him. And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. John 20: 11-17

Rev. 1:19-20 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.

I believe it is quite evident that the ministers of our Lord AND His Bride, made up of different congregations are very important to Him, as He holds them in His hand. And, while nothing can pluck them out of His hand, we will see, as this study continues, that it is possible for them to be removed.

Revelation Chapters Two and Three

We left off with our last Bible study after going through Revelation Chapter One back on April 1, just before my surgery on April 3. So, we'll pick right back up, and begin with Revelation Chapter Two and Three. But, first, let me say how good it is to be back, and that I sincerely appreciate all of the thoughts, prayers, cards, flowers, visits, phone calls and gifts. It is a very humbling feeling to have so many people be so concerned about me. God ... and a whole multitude of people (some of whom I don't know, and may never get to meet on this side of Jordan) ... has been sooooo good to me! And, I want, now, more than ever, to promote and defend the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine AND to get a better handle on things concerning the time in which we live, and what is ahead in our future .... according to the Word of God. As I have pondered this, while I've been out of commission, I've decided to use the 24th Chapter of Matthew (which we've already gone over in a previous study) as a "template" (or foundation) for the events described in the Book of Revelation Study. In other words, I plan to use Jesus' description of the events leading up to the "End" as the foundation for this "End Time" study ... with the other descriptions and events found throughout the Book of Revelation fitting over it like the transparent overlays of the anatomy of the human body in an encyclopedia ... which have to line up properly with its base (or foundation). Otherwise, if not line up right, the heart, lungs or kidneys could show up down around the ankles (so to speak) instead of where they're supposed to be. At any rate, here we go ....

Revelation Chapter 2

Rev. 2:1-7 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

God "knows" our works. He knows our strengths and our weaknesses. He knows us better than we know ourselves. Not only will He not let anyone get by with a bunch of junk, He will not let anyone go unrewarded for their faithfulness. God had somewhat against the church of Ephesus because they had "left" (not lost or stolen ... left) their first love. He told them that if they did not repent and do the first works ... or what they had done in the beginning ... and BEFORE they "left" their first love ... he would come quickly and remove the candlestick (which is the church itself - Rev. 1:20) out of its place. Other than the meaning of the word, itself, it is not know for sure what ... or who ... the Nicolaitanes are. The word "Nicolaitanes" only appears twice in the Bible ... and that is in Rev. 2:6 and Rev. 2:15. The Greek word that was translated into English as "Nicolaitanes" is Nikolaites {nik-ol-ah-ee'-tace} (Strong's # 3531) meaning ....

Nicolaitans = "destruction of people" 1) a sect mentioned in Rev. 2:6,15, who were charged with holding the error of Balaam, casting a stumbling block before the church of God by upholding the liberty of eating things sacrificed to idols as well as committing fornication

It has also been said that the word "Nicolaitane", comes from two Greek words: Nikao which means "to conquer", and Lao which means "the laity" ... and means "to conquer the laity." God never placed His church in the hands of a hierachy of religious leaders who governed based on popularity and elitest internal politics. Instead, He placed His church in the care of God- ordained, Spirit-filled, Word-living men of God who lead and guide people by feeding them the Word. On the other hand, Nicolaitanism "destroys the people" because they separate ministers from among the people, and make overlords out of them ... instead of them being the servants, they're supposed to be. At any rate, from Nicolaitanism comes a very political hiearchy of elitest "priest-type" rulers which has no part in the New Testament Church which Jesus, who, Himself was a servant, established. And, it is sad but many congregations don't have a kind and loving a pastor, shepherd, care-taker and overseer ... or servant who leads and guides the flock Instead, they have a hireling ruling of them like a lord over God's heritage. I thank God that we have a true and loving pastor, who preaches the Word without fear or favor, instead of a hireling who really doesn't love the flock, and who rules with that elitest priesthood mentality. And, **IF** anyone here thinks our pastor is "in it for the money", the power, the respect or the recognition that he received, you've fallen out of your tree. Furthermore, **IF** anyone here doesn't think every one of us has to guard against the negative effects that being insensitive, and not led by the Holy Ghost, as well as self rule and self will can have on an individual or a congregation, you'd better quit hitting the "snooze" button, and get up before you sleep too late, and miss the boat.

We know that spiritual fornication is forsaking the One True God, and going after other gods (who aren't God). And, upholding the liberty of eating things sacrificed to idols would be about the same as the attitude of some who feel like they can just do whatever floats their boat, without regard to others. The Apostle Paul was a firey preacher. But, he was also a very effective, knowledgeable (long winded) and indepth teacher. He told Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:4-5 "For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer." But, listen to the wisdom God gave him .... In Galatians 5:1 he said, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." and, skipping down to verse 13, he said, "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another." .... Then, in 1 Cornithians 8:4 he said, "As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one." ... and, skipping down to verse 13 he concluded, "Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend." But, the Nicolaitanes not only forsake the One True God, and go after other gods (who aren't God), they blantantly do things without regard to how it effects others just because they can ... which is the epitome of "carnality AND self will". And, there's a whole lot of that still going on today.

While we are not to be "judgmental" of others ... and quick to condemn, criticize and jump to conclusions ..., we are supposed to be able to "try" the spirits whether they are of God. And, according to 1 John Chapter 4:1-6 those who deny that Jesus is "come in the flesh" are NOT of God, but is the spirit of anti-christ ... whom we all know is a LIAR. At any rate, the Greek word tanslated into English as "come" is erchomai {er'-khom-ahee} (Strong's # 2064), which means ...

1) to come
a) of persons
1) to come from one place to another, and used both of persons arriving and of those returning
2) to appear, make one's appearance, come before the public

2) metaphor
a) to come into being, arise, come forth, show itself, find place or influence
b) be established, become known, to come (fall) into or unto
And the Greek word that was translated into English as "flesh" is sarx {sarx}(Strong's # 4561), which means ...

1) flesh (the soft substance of the living body, which covers the bones and is permeated with blood) of both man and beasts

2) the body

Therefore, those who fight against the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine, and insist that Jesus Christ was not JEHOVAH/GOD in bodily form ... or "come in the flesh" ... are liars. And, if that wasn't bad enough, they are deceiving everyone else they can convince of their error. Many are being told Jesus Christ was just the Second Person of a "three person" God, and an inferior sub-ordinate ... yet co-equal, co-eternal and co-existent ... person, who was "begotten" by another co-equal, co-eternal and co-existent person. This is why it is so critical for a child of God to understand the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine, as well as the many serious flaws of the ideas, opinions, theories and theology of man-made religion, which is based upon human reasoning, logic and understanding. At any rate, if you want to know what really cuts to the chase, and will very effectively mark a distinction between the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine and the many man-made Christian religions (denominations) out there, it is NOT based upon the music (or the lack of it), the worship and the hand clapping (or the lack of it), having a big congregation with lots of money (or the lack of it) ... it all comes down to understanding who Jesus "really" is ... PERIOD, END OF ISSUE! Now, having said all of that, are we supposed to be arrogant, obnoxious and belligerent towards those who are caught up in the many man-made religions (denominations) out there? NO WAY! The Bible says, he that winneth souls is wise.

Rev. 2:8-11 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

We have already covered in Chapter One who the first and the last, which was dead, and if alive. It is Jesus ... who was the Incarnation of JEHOVAH/GOD, or God manifest in the flesh. Again, He knows the works of the church in Smyrna, and all they're going through. And, even though the church in Smyrna was impoverished, God said they were rich. Spiritualality is NOT measured in money NOR the lack of it. In Romans 2:28-29 the Apostle Paul explained "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God." But, there were those in Smyrna who "claimed" to be Jews, just as there are those today who "claim" to be Holy Ghost filled Apostolics, but are of the synagogue of satan. Furthermore, God told the church in Smyrna that some of them would be cast into prison, to be tried, AND that they would have tribulation ten days, but were encouraged that **IF** they were faithful unto death they would receive a crown of life.

Rev. 2:12-17 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

Although, they were where satan's seat is, the church in Pergamos was commended for holding fast the name of Jesus, and not denying the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine even though there had been a martyr in their midst. Following the commendation, God told them He had a few things against them. They held the doctrine of Balaam ... dedication to God gives way to the love of money and material gain). Evidently, and unlike the church at Ephesus, the church in Pergamos did not hate the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, and appraently allowed them to have free reign without a word. God's Word being like a two edged sword, He told them to repent or He would come quickly and fight against them with the sword of His mouth ... the weight of His Word in judgment would fall upon them. But, for those who overcome He will give them hidden manna (special provisions for the faithful) and a new name written which only the ones recieving it would know.

Rev. 2:18-29 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
The Lord (described as He was in other places ... that we covered in Chapter One's study) was aware of all of the church in Thyatira's works ... charity, service, faith and patience. He told them that their last works would be more than the first. Whereas, some were told they had left their first love, and needed to repent and do the first works over. Here, we have the last works being more than the first works. And, even in light of that, God still had a few things against them. An ungodly woman, who called herself a prophetess, was allowed to teach and seduce children of God to forsake the One True God, and go after other gods (who aren't God) and to let their dedication to God take second place to the love of money and material gain in the exercise of self will. And, because she failed to use the time God gave her to repent, God pronounced a severe punishment upon her ... the death of her illegitimate children AND those she seduced into following her, unless they repent, so that all the churches will know and understand that God's law of sowing and reaping is still in effect ... AND nobody pulls the wool over God's eyes. Those who haven't been taken in by her won't have any other burdens placed upon them. And, they are to hold fast, overcome and keep God's Word unto the end with the promise of ruling power as the nations crumble, and they'll receive the morning star ... a brand new day.

Revelation Chapter 3

Rev. 3:1-6And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

God, who orders the seven angels to the seven churches, told the church of Sardis that He knew their work, but that according to their name, they were supposed to be alive, but were dead! And, their works were not found perfect before God. Therefore, they were told to be watchful and to strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die and to remember how they had received and heard, and to hold fast and repent. If not, He will come on them as a thief. The few in Sardis who had not defiled their garments will walk with the Lord in white: for they are worthy. Those who overcome shall be clothed in white raiment, and will not have their name blotted out of the book of life, but will be have their names confessed before the Eternal Spirit ... JEHOVAH/GOD.

Rev. 3:7-13 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Our Holy and True God, who has the key of David, who opens and closes without the interference and henderance of man, knew the works of the church in Philadelphia. He placed an open door before them that no man could shut because they had a little strenght, and kept God's Word, and had not denied His Name. Furthermore, He would make the synagogue of satan who claim to be Jews, but are not, and do lie; to come and worship before their feet and to know that He loves the church in Philadelphia because they have kept His word of patience. As a result, He will keep them from the hour of temptation which shall come upon all the world to try them that dwell upon the earth. He warns that He is coming quickly, to hold fast which they have that no man take their crown. And, he that overcometh will be made a pillar in the temple of God, and will have the name of God written upon him and the name of the city of God, which is the new Jerusalem which cometh down out of heaven from God .. AND the Lord will write upon him His new name.

Rev. 3:14-22 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Our Lord, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God, knew the works of the church of the Laodiceans, that they were neither cold nor hot. And because they were neither cold or hot, but were lukewarm, He will spue them out of His mouth because they say they're rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing, but don't know that they are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked. He counseled them to buy from him gold tried in the fire that they may be rich, and white raiment that they may be clothed, that the same of their nakedness no appear, and to anoint their eyes with eyesalve that they may see. He told them as many as He loves He rebukes and chastens, and that they needed to be zealous and repent. Furthermore, He stands at the door and knocks. If any man hear His voice and open the door, He will come in to Him and will sup with Him and he with Him. To him that overcometh will be granted to sit with our Lord in His Throne, even as He overcame and am set down with His Father ... the eternal Spirit of JEHOVAH/GOD. It is very important to point out that we shall see later on that there is ONLY ONE THRONE of GOD IN HEAVEN AND ONLY ONE SITTING ON THE THRONE. So, those who give literal meanings to metphoric speech come up with all sorts of stuff that doesn't harmonize with the preponderance of Scriptural evidence.

Revelation Chapter Four

Rev. 4: 1-3 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

The first voice was, of course, the voice was in Chapter One, Verses 10 and 11 ... the sound of a great trumpet saying "I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last". Have you ever had a dream and it seemed to be so real that you "were there"? Well, John said in Chapter One Verse 10 that he was in the "spirit" on the Lord's Day. Evidently, he was in the spiritual realm of intercessory prayer on the first day of the week (the day we call Sunday), and had a vision. The first day of the week special significance to the followers of Jesus. It was on the first day of the week that our Lord arose; the day the New Testament Church was born when the Holy Ghost was poured out on the Day of Pentecost in Acts Chapter Two; and the day that the disciples of Jesus met regularly for breaking bread, fellowship, giving, ministry and edification (Luke 24:1-3; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2). At any rate, in the vision while in the "spirit", John saw an open door in Heaven, and was taken up there to see things "which must be hereafter". It is significant to note the very first thing he reports seeing is One who could be none other than Jehovah/God on "a" (ONE) throne that was set in Heaven. Not only that, but He was the ONLY ONE sitting on that ONE Throne. There wasn't two or three thrones of JEHOVAH/GOD, nor two or three sitting on the ONE throne (like some envision, and try to explain, there being an old gray haired man with a long beard, and a young man sitting on his lap, with a bird perched up on his shoulder.)

Rev. 4:4-6 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

According to Revelation 1:20, we already know that the seven lamps (candlesticks) are the seven churches being addressed and the seven Spirits are the stars ... angels ... of the seven churches. And, jumping ahead to Revelation 15:1-4 we read this about the sea of glass: "And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God. And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest." We'll talk about the four beasts in a minute. But, having read the Book of Revelation I don't know how many times, I am convinced that neither it nor any of the other books of the Bible are to be understood by means of literal interpretations, human reasoning and logic, as there is a whole lot of metaphoric speech throughout. At any rate, in keeping with using Matthew Chapter 24 as the template (or foundation) ... which I'll probably be mentioning pretty often throughout this study ... there several things to notice in verses 4-6

According to Jesus' description in Matthew 24:30-31 when He returns He is going to gather His children together from all over the globe. And, in Revelation Chapter 2:9-10, we have already read ...

"I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."

Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

And, taking a sneak peek at Revelation 6:9-11, immediately after the sealing of the 144,000 (12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel) in Revelation 7:9-17 we read the following ...

"And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled. ......... After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes."

Soooo, as we go through the Book of Revelation, there's going to be a whole lot of "snap shots" of things that were ... and/or still yet ... to come. And, because I am using Matthew Chapter 24 as the template, we should NOT wrongly assume (as many do) that because something is written in previous OR subsequent Verses OR Chapters in the Book of Revelation that must be the order in which those things unfold. Remember the analogy of the human anatomy in an encyclopedia and the transparent overlays, AND the importance of everything lining up in its proper place.

Rev. 4:7-11 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, LORD God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

Who, or what, are these four beasts ... and what are their significance? It’s clear that their purpose was to worship and praise ... and glorify God. He is worthy to be praised by everything that draws the breath of life! However, in Jeremiah Chapter 3, we read about the Children of Israel and specifically those of Judah (the natural Jews), who were compared to being like an unfaithful wife because they quit serving, praising and worshiping God, and stopped living up to what God wanted, expected AND deserved.

However, long before that, in Genesis Chapter 49 verses 1-2 and verse 8-11, we read this about what Jacob (Israel) said on his death bed about his sons ...

"And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days. Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father. .... Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand shall be in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee. Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up? The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. Binding his foal unto the vine, and his ass's colt unto the choice vine; he washed his garments in wine, and his clothes in the blood of grapes:"

Then centuries later, in Hosea 5:9-15, we read this about how things had deteriorated ... Ephraim shall be desolate in the day of rebuke: among the tribes of Israel have I made known that which shall surely be. The princes of Judah were like them that remove the bound: therefore I will pour out my wrath upon them like water. Ephraim is oppressed and broken in judgment, because he willingly walked after the commandment. Therefore will I be unto Ephraim as a moth, and to the house of Judah as rottenness. When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah saw his wound, then went Ephraim to the Assyrian, and sent to king Jareb: yet could he not heal you, nor cure you of your wound. For I will be unto Ephraim as a lion, and as a young lion to the house of Judah: I, even I, will tear and go away; I will take away, and none shall rescue him. I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.

And a sneak peek at Revelation 5:1-5 we find this: And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

At any rate, the beast like a lion was the first beast mentioned in this vision. Taking a look at Abraham's life, there can be no doubt that he loved and worshiped God, AND had exceptional faith in God. God made a very sacred and solemn covenant with him. He became the father not just of the natural Jews, but of many nations. His seed is as the stars in heaven without number. The "chosen" blood line through which Messiah came was Judah ... a Lion ... a symbol of power and strength. The lion is known as the "king" of the jungle ... animal kingdom. And, David was a king of the tribe of Judah who was described as being a man after God's own heart. Worship was extremely important to David in his personal devotion to ... and relationship with ... God. And, it is no coincidence that the first beast mentioned in the vision fully involved in worship before God was like a lion ... and the "natural Jews" being first in the unfolding events leading up to the "promised" Messiah of the tribe of Judah, the Lion.

The second beast that was mentioned in the vision was like a calf. Abraham's descendants received the "Promised Land" ... the land God had promised to his descendants, which came through Isaac and Jacob (Israel). When God used Moses, and delivered them from Pharoah's hand, He brought them to Mount Sinai, and gave them the commandments written on tables of stone ... which would one day be written in the hearts of His people (Jeremiah 31:33). But, an essential part of the Mosaic (or Levitical) Law from Mount Sinai regarding worship and the atonement of sin was the shedding of blood of unblemished young animals ... bulls, goats and lambs -calves, NOT full grown or sick, crippled or blemished animals. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that one of the beasts of worship in the vision would be like a calf.

The third beast mentioned in the vision had the face of a man. On the long road of redemption following man's "fall" in the garden was ...

1) God's covenant with Abraham,
2) the institution of blood sacrifice of animals, and
3) the long awaited, promised and prophesied Messiah.

Humanity was created to serve and worship God. And, the "man" (human side) of Messiah brought Great Glory and Honor to God AND set an example for all mankind to follow. Therefore, the third beast having the face of a man should be no surprise.

The fourth beast was like a flying eagle. And, like the lion, the eagle is a symbol of power and strength ... the king of the fowl kingdom. Here's an interesting observation: The symbol for the United States of America is an Eagle. And, it is an undeniable fact that the US was established upon Biblical principles. God was very much at the center ... and was the foundation upon which the US was founded. Furthermore, the very rapid rise from infancy and obscurity to world prominence and power was NOT due to man's greatness, but was rather the hand of God ... and certainly no fluke. The United States of America has been very greatly bless of God. But, like ancient Israel, we are NOT remaining true to God, as a nation. Many professing Christians have given up on the US. However, the command to "occupy until I return" is a solemn indictment against those who have already given up, and pulled the handle to flush it all down the toilet (so to speak). God's Word is going to be fulfilled regardless of who is in the White House and both houses of Congress. Besides the fact that we should be good citizens, AND pray for our leaders, we should never forget the lesson God taught Jonah concerning going, doing, saying and being as He leads ... NOT allowing the flesh to dictate to the Spirit. The spiritually bankrupt nation ... Nineveh ... heard, heeded, repented, and wasn’t destroyed (whereas Sodom and Gomorrah didn’t, and were destroyed). Furthermore, in 2 Kings Chapter 20:1-6 we read about King Hezekiah who was sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake.

Therefore, I am convinced of this more than ever ...

2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

There are a number of Scriptures referring to an eagle. Here's a few ...

Obadiah 1:4 Though thou exalt thyself as the eagle, and though thou set thy nest among the stars, thence will I bring thee down, saith the LORD.

Hosea 8:1 Set the trumpet to thy mouth. He shall come as an eagle against the house of the LORD, because they have transgressed my covenant, and trespassed against my law.

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Revelation 12:12-14 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child. And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

I believe this is our hour. It is past time for those of us who embrace the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine to rise to the occasion, and to be the men and women, boys and girls God wants ... and expects ... us to be. A good soldier is familiar with his weapon. We are soldiers in a very real ... spiritual ... war. And, the Bible is our weapon. Therefore, we'd better love it, appreciate it, get to know it AND protect it. Because not only is there a real adversary out there waiting to ambush everyone he can, but there's also a whole lot of hurting people out there, many of whom have basically given up on "religion" because they think "we're all the same" ... just a bunch of hypocrites, who couldn't care less about others. Sad to say, but in some cases they are right. God help us to NOT fall into that category.

Revelation Chapter 5

Revelation 5:1-4 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

No man in heaven, nor in earth, being able to open the book, neither to look therein would have EXCLUDED Jesus **IF** He was nothing more than a "special" man ... a prophet or a priest ... who "represented" Jehovah/God OR whom Jehovah/God "used" ... or "spoke through" ... as He had done with so many Prophets, Priests and men of God down through the years (even centuries) that preceded the earthly ministry of the Incarnate Christ. However, while Jesus was all of these things ... and then some ..., He was much, much MORE than a "special" man ... than a Prophet ... and a Priest. He was the physical "EMBODIMENT" ... the very IMAGE AND FORM ... of the INVISIBLE God (Jehovah ... the Father of Creation), who was MANIFEST (revealed and made known) to this world in the flesh ... according to the following (very small) sampling of documenting Scriptures ...

This first Scripture is actually part of the letter from the Apostle Paul to the Church of Colosse, in which he mentioned those who made up the church of Laodicea ... the last of the seven churches addressed (in Revelation 3:14-22) whom the Lord rebuked for being neither cold or hot, and for saying (and no doubt boasting) that they were rich, and increased with goods, and had need of nothing. And, didn't understand that, in His eyes, they were wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. God used Paul to fore-warn those in Colosse AND Laodicea a long time before He gave the vision to John in Revelation 3:14-22 about the church in Laodicea. And, we have the benefit of hind sight. But, listen very carefully to what Paul was admonishing them about ....

Colossians 2:1-10 For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him [referring to Christ] dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Colossians 1:13-18 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Philippians 2:5-11 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Hebrews 2:1-18 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

1 Timothy 1:15-17 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Jude 1:11-25 Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

At any rate, getting back to this vision in Revelation, John wept because no man was found worthy to open and read the book, neither to look therein. Considering all that John had been through, himself, and all that he had seen in all his years, plus the fact, he was a mightly fine man, himself, I can only imagine how that must have made him feel (and he had known some mighty fine men ... including the Incarnate Christ). Remember the descriptions in these vision have a whole lot of metaphors and metaphoric speech. Some things John saw caused him to be bewildered, some caused him to marvel and some flat blew his mind, knowing what he knew, and looking many, many years into the future. At any rate, his heart was crushed to think that no man in heaven or earth was found worthy. That is until ....

Rev. 5:5-10 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

There can be no doubt as to who the Lion of the tribe of Judah is. However, He is also described, here, as the "Root of David". That is certainly worth noting ... especially since Jesus said (in a sneak peek at Rev. 22:16) "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." How could He be BOTH the "root" AND the "offspring" of David? By being BOTH God AND man. He was David's Creator (according to the Spirit) AND He was David's descendant (according to the flesh). At any rate, there was no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, who was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. A look way back in the Old Testament to what the Messianic Prophet, Isaiah, proclaimed in Isaiah 59:12-17 we read ... For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them; In transgressing and lying against the LORD, and departing away from our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood. And judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the LORD saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment. And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him. For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke.

The distinction which is made in God's redemptive process of mankind is "Spirit" and "flesh" ... NOT two separate and distinct co-equal, co-existent, co-eternal "persons" of God working in tandem together like a tag team of wrestlers. Furthermore, the metaphoric speech used in this part of the vision which focuses on this distinction is interpreted literally by some who assert that there is one "person" of God on the throne and another "person" of God taking the book out of the hand of the "person" of God who is on the throne. Don't ask me where their third "person" of God is in this vision 'cause I honestly don't know. I couldn't explain it back when I embraced the "three persons" theory. And, I've never met anyone who can. The closest anyone has ever come (and it ain't even close) is to say that it is an unexplainable mystery that has to accepted strictly by faith even though it is NOT found described in the Bible as it is asserted to be. Nor, will it stand up to the scrutiny of the preponderance of Scriptural evidence found written verbatim in the Bible by any serious (independent thinking) Bible student. Nonetheless, its proponents adamantly defend it AND viciously attack those of us who embrace, promote and defend the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine ... which is found in the preponderance of Scriptural evidence, written verbatim upon the pages of the Bible.

Rev. 5:11-14 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

The Watch Tower Society teaches (indoctrinates) their constituents (Jehovah's Witnesses) to not worship, pray to, or in any other way give glory, honor and praise to Jesus Christ because they believe Jesus was merely Michael the arch angel who came to earth "for" ... or on behalf of ... Jehovah/God. Afterward, he went back to being Michael. At any rate, they are taught that to worship Jesus Christ would be to "worship the creature more than the creator" ... which is exceedingly twisted. But, due to effective indoctrination there are those who try to interpret metaphoric speech literally ... and fail to understand Jesus' "Clark Kent" manner of speech concerning the Father (being like the manner in which Clark Kent spoke of Superman). Couple that with the fact that they AND others use the human reasoning and logic of what they have been taught (or indoctrinated) to believe, it is no wonder that they don't "get it". And, unless or until they have the capacity to lay aside all of their indoctrination, traditions, preconceived ideas and theories, and truly hunger and thirst after righteousness, they're not going to "get it". At any rate, regarding John 17:5 and John 17:24 ....... "And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. " ... "Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world." ....... In addition to understanding the mystery of Godliness, Jesus' "Clark Kent manner of speech", and knowing who Jesus "really" is, the following Scriptures will prove conclusively that God does NOT give (OR share) His Glory to (OR with) another "person" ... another "spirit being" ... a "graven image" ... or anything else AND they’ll verify the fact that Jesus "IS", AND came in, the Glory of Jehovah/God - Father of Creation

Exodus 29:42-43 (immediately following instructions regarding sacrifical lambs for consecration and atonement) For my name's sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off. Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction. For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another.

Isaiah 42:8 I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

Isaiah 48:9-12 For my name's sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off. Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction. For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another. Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last.

Matthew 16:26-27 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.

John 1:1 & 14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ... And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Philippians 2:10-11 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

2 Corinthians 4:1-9 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

Before continuing our study, beginning with Revelation Chapter Six, let's hit a few high points on what has brought us to the unloosing of this "sealed" book in Chapter Six: The Book of Revelation is obviously meant to "make known" ... or to "reveal" ..., as its name indicates. It contains warnings, blessings and curses, as well as an important message to God fearing people everywhere. It was written as dictated from God to the beloved disciple, John, who was exiled on a barren island called Patmos in about 95 AD. He had been exiled because of his uncompromising stand concerning the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine ..., during a brief but severe time of persecution by the Roman Emperor Domitian, in which about 40,000 Christians were tortured and killed. As a side note: There had been severe persecution at the hands of the Roman Emperor Nero about 30 years earlier ... about 65 AD ..., in which Peter and Paul had been killed.

The message that John received was very specifically dictated, and was to be written down. It was not only a dictated message John received while "in the Spirit on the Lord's Day ... the First Day of the Week ..., but it also included a number of visions using metaphoric speech with some things hard to be understood, and other things not to be understood until the time God is ready to reveal them. At any rate, the visions dealt with "things which are" (which was during that particular period of time) and "things which shall be hereafter" (which would be after that period of time, and continuing right on up through the Grand Finale ... THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST). John the beloved was the brother of James. They were the sons of Zebedee, and were referred to as "the sons of thunder" by our Lord in Mark 3:17. Also, John, along with James and Peter, was a member of what has been called Jesus' "inner circle" because of their very specific ... and special ... mention in places like Mark 5:37; Mark 9:2; Mark 13:3; Mark 14:33. These references were NOT insignificant or casual mentions either. For example, one of these mentions was on the Mountain of Transfiguration with Jesus in Mark 9:2-4. So, John wasn't a bench warming, mediocre, middle of the road Christian, who only talked a good game, while professing to be a follower of Christ. Instead, he was dedicated to the cause of Christ for the long haul ... in it to win it ..., NOT to make a big splash and then fizzle out, or run at the first sign of trouble.

Neither Daniel (from the Old Testament) nor John on the Isle of Patmos fully understood everything they wrote about concerning what they saw and heard in the visions God gave them. Both of them were told to "seal up" some of the things they saw and heard, and to not write it down. That is why it is my belief that, because we're living in the Biblical "Last Days", God is going to bring some things to light that have been "sealed up" for all these many years. AND, that is why it is so important for us to diligently seek God's face, will AND direction, in our life as we read, study AND apply His Word. Who knows? **IF** you and I have the right relationship with God, and really apply ourselves to studying His Word, He might give us the understanding ... or the key ... to reveal some of these things which have been "sealed up" for so long, in order to be ready, and fully prepared, ourselves AND to help others to be ready and fully prepared for the days which lie ahead.

At any rate, God sent seven messages to seven churches in Asia (which we should take to heart ... collectively as a group of believers AND personally as individual Christians).

Two churches were good: 1) Smyrna and 2) Philadelphia ... Two churches were bad: 1) Sardis and 2) Laodicea ... And, three churches were part good AND part bad: 1) Ephesus had left their first love, 2) Pergamos hadn't denied the faith, but neither had they defended the faith, nor challenged the error all around them, and 3) Thyatira had the appearance ... works and markings ... of being faithful. However, they had compromised the faith by allowing a false prophetess (false doctrine), referred to as Jezebel (head strong, self willed, evil, wicked and corrupt wife of a corrupt Old Testament King named Ahab) to teach AND to seduce the servants of God to not only have stinking thinking like her, but to actually stray from the commandments of God, and to commit sin.

John saw "A" Throne (ONE) in Heaven for God and only ONE sitting upon that Throne, as well as 24 "Elders" seated round about the Throne, and clothed in white with crowns of gold ... which could have some relevance to the twelve tribes of Israel (or the Levitical priesthood) of the Old Testament AND/TO the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ of the New Testament. Then, there was four "beasts" (or living creatures) by the representation of 1) a lion, 2) a calf, 3) one with the face of a man, and 4) a flying eagle. All of these creatures worshiped and praised God nonstop day and night.

All of this has brought us up to the point in the vision to the "sealed" book, written within, and on the back side, in the right hand of "him that sat on the throne", that no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open or to look thereon ... causing John to weep "much". That is until, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah ... a Lamb as it had been slain ... took the book, as the four "beasts" and 24 Elders fell down before Him and sang a new song of redemption. And, every creature everywhere gave glory, honor and praise to "him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever", while the 24 Elders "worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever".

This is NOT a conflicting record of two or three different "persons" of God ... or two or three Gods AND/OR part-Gods ... being worshiped. While there is a distinction of Spirit and flesh ... Deity and humanity ... God and man ... there is ONLY ONE GOD being worshiped, and receiving glory, honor and praise. Remember, these visions ... as much of the Bible ... is written using metaphoric speech, and are NOT to be understood by giving "literal" interpretations to them and/or by using human reasoning and logic. Besides, in Revelation 1:18 our Lord had already declared ... I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

Abraham was tested to see whether or not he would offer up his ONLY beloved son of promise, Isaac, as a sacrifice to God ... a shadow of what God, Himself, would, one day, do by making the supreme sacrifice ... according to the flesh. At any rate, the day Abraham and Isaac traversed up the mountain, by faith and inspiration, Abraham spoke something very profound, as found in ...

Genesis 22:6-8 And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.

That day, God provided a "substitute" for Isaac after Abraham (who was an old man) had bound Isaac (who was a young man ... which speaks volumes about Isaac's character), and had placed Isaac upon the altar, and "took the knife to slay his son", but was stopped by Divine intervention. God showed him a ram that was caught in the thicket by his horns, which was there to become Isaac's "substitute" that day. Centuries later, our invisible, all knowing, all powerful and ever present God took upon himself the form of a lowly servant and "provided HIMSELF" a lamb ... by becoming the Lamb of sacrifice ... the "substitute" for you, me and all mankind. Paul put it this way, in ...

1 Corinthians 2:1-8 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

This brings us up to ...
Revelation Chapter 6

Rev. 6:1-2 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

I am not aware of there being anything in the Scriptures which would prevent some of these seven seals and their effects from being closely related or from being experienced during the same period of time. Therefore, it doesn't seem to me that every seal must represent completely different time periods.

Be that as it may, there is another mention of a rider on a white horse which is unquestionable Jesus, whereas this on in Rev. 6:1-2 might not be ...

In a sneak peek at Rev. 19:11-16 ... And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

I'm not sure that the white horse and rider in Revelation Chapter 6 is the same as the depiction of our Lord in Revelation Chapter 19. I say this because it is not only possible, but is almost always the case, that the deceiver tries to duplicate everything pertaining to God. Therefore, it may be that this white horse and rider is the great deception which would be prevalent before the Second Coming, that Jesus spoke of in Matthew Chapter 24. And, the reason I say that is because of the next three horsemen in Revelation Chapter 6. Also, while Jesus certainly conquered death, hell and the grave, I think of Him as being more of a "Liberator" than a "Conqueror", as is described in Revelation Chapter 6. And, no doubt, the anti-Christ ... and his supporting political/religious system ... will "appear" to be legitimate and the real deal to multitudes ... including many good people professing themselves to be Christians ... only to be exposed, later on. Sooo, this white horse and rider in Revelation Chapter 6 may not be depicting our Lord at all. However, I am certainly open for suggestions concerning this.

Rev. 6:3-4 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

In Matthew Chapter 24 Jesus spoke of wars and rumors of wars, many false prophets rising up, and disciples being delivered up and killed BEFORE "the sign of the Son of man in heaven ... coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory". Also, in 1 Thessalonians Chapter 5 we read about the Lord's coming being as a thief in the night ... "for when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them". Although, there has already been much before the year 2007, there will be utter chaos in the world ... killing and destruction ... before the coming of the Lord. There is a red dragon mentioned in Revelation 12:3 having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And, in Revelation 13:1 a beast having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. And, in Revelation 17:3 a woman (called the Great Whore [Rev. 17:1] and Mystery, Babylon the Great, Mother of Harlots [Rev. 17:5]) sitting upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. In Revelation 17:9 it is said that the seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. I believe with all my heart this is a view of the abominable religious system of the anti-Christ ... the powerful AND destructive red horseman and red dragon. We'll get more into that as we progress.

Rev. 6:5-6 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

This part of the vision ... the removing of the second seal ... is a matter of economic turmoil, imbalance, inflation and, no doubt, poverty. There is lots of that kind of economic turmoil and upheaval already in the world today. As a matter of fact, not only will there be severe economic turmoil in the last days, and according to Ezekiel 7:19 ... They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the LORD: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill their bowels: because it is the stumbling block of their iniquity.

Rev. 6:7-8 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

Not only will there be death, destruction and economic turmoil and chaos in the last days, but in Revelation 16:8-9 the fourth of seven angels pouring out vials of plagues in the last days will pour out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire. And men will be scorched with great heat, and will blaspheme the name of God, instead of repenting and giving glory to him. And, in Revelation 9:6 we read where men will actually seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them. So, there will be some terrible plagues before the coming of the Lord.

Rev. 6:9-11 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

There are multitudes of martyrs from centuries past. However, there are cases of modern day martyrdom. And, from the above verses, it certainly sounds like there is more to come ... possibly as severe as the martyrdom spanning the first few centuries after the birth of the New Testament Church, simply due to an uncompromising position on the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine ... which isn't widely accepted, nor is politically correct ... which clashes with popular ideology and thought.

Rev. 6:12-17 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

I am not aware of Jesus saying anything about coming back to earth and setting up an Earthly Kingdom. He certainly didn't mention any such in Matthew Chapter 24. Instead, He said in Matthew Chapter 24, Verses 24:21-22 AND Verses 29-34 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. ..... Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.

Based on these considerations, and the fact that I am NOT aware of there being but just one resurrection of the Just (and just one "catching away" of those who are alive and remaining at the time of that resurrection), I am persuaded to believe that there will be Saints of God who will suffer the wrath of man, but will be shown Divine favor from God much like the Children of Israel were before they left the land of Goshen. Following ALL of the oppression from their Egyptian taskmasters AND all of the plagues from God ... including the Death Angel "passing over" the land, and killing all of the first born of Egypt upon whose door posts the blood of the sacrificial lamb wasn't applied ..., they were delivered. Having said that, I realize some folks believe the Church will be taken out before God’s plagues begin. But, that doesn't harmonize with what we just read in Matthew Chapter 24, nor when considering the plagues which were poured out upon Egypt. Goshen was a "set apart" place where the Children of Israel lived, while in Egypt ... like sanctification or holiness is a place "set apart" for the Children of God while in the spiritual land of Egypt we live in, today. But, Goshen was NOT the Promised Land of Canaan (with Canaan being a "type" of Heaven). By the way, it is my position that the Children of Israel's transition through ... or wandering in ... the wilderness (because of listening to the wrong advice at Kadesh-barnea instead of listening to Joshua and Caleb) is more of a "type" of our trials and tribulations during our transition through this life, after coming out of Egypt (the world), but before we reach the Promised Land (Heaven) ..., and is NOT a "type" of 1,000 years of peace and tranquility in which there are no adversaries. Furthermore, I can't think of any Scriptural evidence which would support a period of total peace and tranquility in Noah's day, while he was working on the ark ... BEFORE the flood came and took them all away. Also, in Matthew 24:37-39 Jesus was very specific about the days being like it was in the days of Noah when He comes. Another thing, there is no reference whatsoever to the ones "left behind" in Matthew 24:40-41 ever had a "second chance" to get it right. But, there is a lot of mixed signals and mis-information being circulated in the religious world today. One last thing, while we are all only one heart beat away from eternity at any given moment, it would seem to me that it would be a false sense of security for anyone to believe they don’t need to be prepared for the long haul. And, those who don’t prepare for the long haul may, indeed, be found to be like the five foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13, who weren't prepared for the long haul, and missed the boat, as a result.

Hopefully, as this study progresses, we will get a better understanding and a clearer picture of what God wants us to know, and see (spiritually speaking), in these Last Days.

Revelation 7
Rev. 7:1-12 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nephthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand. After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

What we just read is happening BETWEEN the opening of the sixth and seventh seals ... and based on the last few verses of the last (6th) Chapter along with what we just read, this appears to be describing the resurrection of Just. There was a time when I thought the 144,000 Jews were still on earth while the multitude no man could number of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues were in heaven. However, unless one believes in TWO RESURRECTIONS AND/OR TWO CATCHING AWAYS this simply could not be. Instead, it appears to me to be a description of the sum total of God's Elect of Israel being "sealed" ... filled with the Holy Ghost ... and coming to acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah AND, coming out of the Levitical Law and embracing the Apostles' One God Monotheistic Doctrine. And, this probably will not happen until AFTER the "little horn" ... "a vile person" ... the man of sin ... the antichrist ... is revealed for what he is. However, by the time that takes place, he will have deceived the entire nation of Jews into thinking that he is their Messiah, and will have actually sat in the Temple (which they are obviously going to build ... complete with animal sacrifice). At any rate, here's some interesting insight into the antichrist who will be coming on the world scene ...,

Daniel 8:11 Yea, he magnified himself even to the prince of the host, and by him the daily sacrifice was taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down.).

Daniel 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Also, it is important to point out that in Daniel Chapter 12:1-2 we have another glimpse into the future at the Last Days ... And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And m

What every child of God needs to know about the "Last Days" -by Bobby Richardson

Laying the foundation and getting started ....

Evaluating Revelation Chapters 1 through 22