| Revelation Book 66 Self-Control | God’s Faith His Word | God’s Hope His Blessings | God’s Love His Guidance |
| Man’s Faith Trust | LOVE Rev.1-3 7 LETTERS Discipline of the Lord 78 – 96 AD | PATIENCE Rev.8-9 7 TRUMPETS Outreach 96 – 313 AD | FAITHFULNESS Rev.15-16 7 BOWLS God’s Wrath 305 – 313 AD |
| Man’s Hope Obey | JOY Rev.4-5 THRONE ROOM Vision of Reality 30AD – Today | KINDNESS Rev.10-11 2 WITNESSES Suffer For Others 96 AD – 313 AD | GENTLENESS Rev.17-18 FALL OF ROME Reap What You Sow 305 – 313 AD |
| Man’s Love Share | PEACE Rev.6-7 7 SEALS Roman Persecution 96 AD to 313 AD Physical | GOODNESS Rev.12-14 Satan’s Involvement In Persecution 2,000 BC to 313 AD Spiritual | SELF CONTROL Rev.19-22 God’s Justice Ends Persecution 313 AD Judgement Day Rev.20:6f Eternal Reward |
Important Dates
30 AD – the year Jesus was crucified, resurrected, then ascended into heaven taking with Him Abraham’s bosom Eph.4:8; Lk.16:22f; also called paradise Lk.23:43; Mt.12:40; 2Cor.12:1f When Jesus ascended into heaven He threw Satan and His angels out Rev.12:5-9; Fulfilled as we see in Heb.12:22f;
78 AD – the year John wrote the Revelation
Rev.17:9-11 7 Heads = 7 Caesars –
1. Augustus 31 BC – 14 AD
2. Tiberius 14 – 37 AD
3. Caligula 37 – 41 AD
4. Claudius 41 – 54 AD
5. Nero 54 – 68 AD Five have fallen – Julian Household.
6. Vespasian 69 – 79 AD One is (time of the writing) Flavian Household.
7. Titus 79 – 81 AD The other has not yet come, remains only a short while.
8. Domitian 81 – 96 AD The beast is himself an eighth, one of the seven.
96 AD – the year Domitian began persecuting Christians, following the example of Nero who made it legal to persecute Christians in 66 AD. It was practiced by other Caesars over the years and the worst was started up by Diocletian in 303 AD
313 AD – Constantine came down from England in 305 defeating Maximus in 306, becoming Caesar and in 313 at the Edict of Milan legalized Christianity, returned property to the churches and stopped persecution of the church, so symbolically 313 AD is used to represent the end of the Roman persecution that we see in Revelation.
Armageddon – symbolic of the final battle of God stopping Roman persecution of His people. Throughout the Revelation we see a series of pictures of the same events, but from different perspectives.
Revelation 1-3 Love
God knows what is to take place, the Roman persecution from 96-313 AD so He writes to warn His people to prepare themselves for what is to come. Written in 78 AD it would take a few years for the letter to reach the churches, then to be interpreted and then to make the needed changes so they could survive, the Roman persecution. Tough love!
Revelation 1 – Establishment of Authorship
1
Revelation of Jesus from God delivered by His angel, whom He sent to John.
To His bond servants – 7 churches of Asia Rev.1:4,11;
The things which MUST, an absolute, will happen,
Soon – Greek word is TAXOS = quickly (taxi) – Rev.1:3; 12:12; 22:10,12,20; Dan12:4;
Communicated = signified – truth made known by symbols = to be understood symbolically
2
The apostle John who has already testified see 1Jn.1:1-4;
3
John to the 7 churches in Asia – not written to us today, especially literally as some think.
Grace and peace are given to us by reading, understanding and applying the written Word.
Ro.1:7; 1Cor.1:3; 2Cor.1:2; Gal.1:3; Eph.1:2; Php.1:2; Col.1:2; 1Th.1:1; 2Th.1:2; 1Ti.1:2; …….
This incredible communication comes from the Godhead – The Father, The Son, The Holy Spirit
4
From Him who is, who was and who is to come = God the Father
From the 7 Spirits before His throne = The Holy Spirit – Rev.4:5; 5:6;
5
From Jesus: He who:
1. The faithful witness 1. Loves us
2. The firstborn form the dead 2. Released us from our sins by His blood
3. The ruler of the kings of the earth 3. Made us a kingdom, priests to His God
7
He is coming with the clouds, every eye will see Him…
Isa 19:1 God punishing the Egyptians by bringing the Assyrians to defeat them. 720? BC
Mt.24:30 God punishing the Jews, destroying Jerusalem by bringing the Romans 67-70 AD
Rev.1:7 God will punish the Roman persecuting power by bringing Constantine in 313 AD
8
Jesus claiming to be God – Alpha and Omega, first and the last – Rev.1:17; 21:6; 22:13;
Introduction to the Scribe
9
I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom, on Patmos
Tribulation – on going, persecution of Christians, See Rev.7:14; not the same as Mt.24:21;
In the Spirit, Jn.4:24; on the Lord’s Day – on Sunday and heard
11
Write in a book what you see and send it to the 7 churches
1:12-16 – Description of the Christ
| THE CHRIST | SoS.5:10-16 | Dan.10:4-9 | Rev.1:12-16 |
| Head | Pure gold | Lightning | Sun Shining |
| Hair | Black (youth) | White (experience) | |
| Eyes | Sparkling | Flaming Torches | Flame of Fire |
| Voice | Dripping myrrh | Sound of Tumult | Many Waters |
| Clothes | Dazzling | Linen & Belt | Robe & Sash |
| Legs/Feet | Pedestals of Gold | Polished Bronze | Burnished Bronze |
| Reaction | Wholly Desirable | Bowed Face Down | Fell before as a dead man |
Revelation 2-3 – Seven Letters to 7 Churches
The angel of = the messenger of – the spiritually minded, not necessarily elders or ministers,
| TO | Messenger for EPHESUS LEGALISTIC | Messenger for SMYRNA ENGAGED | Messenger for PERGAMUM FALSE DOCTRINE | Messenger for THYATIRA UNDISCIPLINED | Messenger for SARDIS COMPLACENT | Messenger for PHILADELPHIA ENGAGED | Messenger for LAODICEA ARROGANT |
| FROM | Holds 7 Stars Walks Among 7 Lampstands | The first & last was dead has come to life | He who has the sharp two edged sword | He who has eyes of fire and feet of bronze | He who has 7 Spirits of God and 7 stars | He who is holy and true and has the key of David | Faithful & true witness, from creation |
| I KNOW | Deeds/Toils/Pers. Tolerate Not Evil Men – Test | The first & last was dead has come to life | Dwell Sat. throne Hold My name Keep the faith | Deeds/Love/Faith Service/Persev. Deeds greater | You have a name that you are alive! | Your deeds and opened a door little power | You’re lukewarm think your rich, wealthy! |
| BUT | You Left Your First love | Teach of Balaam acts immorality Teach Nicolaitans | You tolerate Jezebel Immorality/idolatry | But your dead! Deeds incomplete. | You’re wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked | ||
| REPENT | Do Deeds at 1st Or Lose Your Lampstand | I come quickly With sword of My mouth | Hold fast till I come | Wake up! Strengthen Few unsoiled | Buy from Me gold, clothes and eye salve. | ||
| OVERCOME | Eat at Tree of Life In Paradise | You’ll not be hurt by 2nd death | Hidden manna White stone New name | Authority rod iron Give you the morning star | Clothe you in white and not erase your name | Make you a pillar Write the name of My God on you | Sit with Me on My throne with My Father |
| HEAR | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says | He who has ears hear what the Spirit says |
Example of how to share God’s LOVE, AGAPA, tough love.
TO – identify the one you’re speaking to.
FROM – describe your relationship, authority to the one your helping.
I KNOW – identify their achievements, qualities, their good works.
BUT – now you can point out, with scripture, areas of improvement, dangerous behaviors.
REPENT – explain consequences of those behaviors. Solutions need to come from scriptures
OVERCOME– give hope, picture a reward for endurance.
HEAR – finish with encouragement to meditate on the advice given in love.
Rev.1-3 Love
Past Danger – uncompleted deeds, false teachings, not examining self, do we?
Present Danger – living in denial, need a wake call, so does today’s church.
Future Danger – Roman persecution on the way, won’t survive if don’t repent.
We have judgement day coming, are we ready?
Revelation 4-5 Joy
Jesus gives a vision of the reward awaiting His people; once they die. Joy for the obedient! It is also a picture for us, to spiritually enter His presence by faith. An open door – Jn.14:3; Jesus prepared the way for us to enter the throne room so we could draw near to the throne of grace to receive mercy. Heb.4:16; Keys to the door, to the kingdom of heaven – Ac.2:38; Mt.16:18; See notes on Tabernacle, the door to God’s presence
2
In the spirit – no one can see God (in a physical human body) and live. Ex.33:20;
But we can see Him, if in the spirit, all the humans in heaven are spirits, not physical.
2Cor.12:2-4 Paul went in the spirit, to the 3rd heaven, into paradise, saw God.
Those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. Jn.4:24; By prayer through faith.
Throne – where God the Father sits – rainbow – promise made by God Gen.9:8-17;
Throne on earth was ark of covenant in Holy of Holies, mercy seat, Heb.4:16; 9:5;
But was destroyed by Romans in 70 AD, making the only temple our bodies 1Cor.6:19;
4f
24 elders on 24 thrones = God’s people – 12 tribes + 12 apostles
Eph.4:8; Jesus took paradise into heaven; now that their sins were forgiven by His blood.
Clothed in white – only blood of Christ washes us clean from sin; Heb.11:39-40; 12:23;
7 Lamps = Holy Spirit, 7 Spirits of God, Re.1:4; 5:6; Lampstand in Holy Place, minora,
Sea of glass = Word of God, Rev.22:1; Jn.4:13,14; 7:37-39; Ezek.47:1f;
4 Living creatures – see Ezek.1:10,11; LION = strength, Mark; CALF = new heart, Matthew
Man = mind, Luke, Eagle = soul, John, see Mk.12:29-31;
5:1f
Book = scroll = the revelation. Lion = Christ = Lamb, able to open the book.
JOY – capture the visual, it is the reality of our worship and prayer life,
Heb.12:22f – You have come to Mt. Zion… every time you pray and worship God
Revelation 6-7 Peace
Peace between those who fellowship with the Word. Ac.2:46; Full picture from cause of persecution to God’s wrath fulfilled 6th seal
7 SEALS
Peace during persecution happens when you know how and why it happens,
Peace from Christ – Lk.12:14; 10:6; 12:49-53; Jn.14:27; 16:33;
Greatest lessons taught, come from suffering, such as Job, Jesus on the cross, early church
Lessons for us to comprehend and grow from, or their sacrifice is lost to us.
First Seal 6:1-8
White Horse – sharing the gospel, always victorious, Isa.55:11; never returns empty.
Red Horse – evangelizing will reap persecution, many don’t want to hear Ac.7:57; 17:32;
Black Horse – economic discrimination, can’t shop in market unless you pay homage to
Caesar, Rev.13:17; oil and wine not sold at market, too hard to transport.
Ashen Horse – eventually the Romans began killing Christians.
Here is the churches future, but share the gospel anyways, don’t fear men, Mt.10:28;
Fifth Seal 6:9-11
The Christians who died in Roman persecution, asking when will it stop?
Told to rest – till all who will be killed, then it is done, God is in control.
Answer to the number, found in Rev.7:1f 144,000 those who will die in persecution.
Sixth Seal 6:12-17
Apocalyptic language – the day God stops the persecution will be awesome for church
but for the wicked, they will be fleeing the wrath of the Lamb.
Armageddon Rev.6:12-17; 9:13-21; 11:11f; 14:17-20; 16:13-21; 19:11-21; all these
refer to the end of the Roman persecution, culminating in 313 AD by Edict of Milan when
Constantine legalized Christianity and outlawed persecution, returning land to the churches.
Revelation 7 – God’s Martyrs 144,000
1-3
That day will not come till all have been sealed, covered in the blood of Christ.
Seal on their forehead is symbolic just like the mark on the hand in Rev.13:16-17;
The list has two tribes missing, Ephraim, Dan, two names added Joseph, Levi.
Therefore, the list is not to be understood literally but symbolically.
144,000 – 12 tribes X 12 apostles 144 God’s people, X 1,000 a number only God knows.
Christians are the new true Israel – those who wrestle with God. Php.3:3; Col.2:11-12;
| Name | Meaning |
| Judah | object of praise |
| Reuben | vision of a son |
| Gad | good fortune |
| Asher | happy |
| Naphtali | obtained by wrestling |
| Manasseh | causing forgetfulness |
| Simeon | hear & obey |
| Levi | joined or adhesion |
| Issachar | reward |
| Zebulun | wished for habitation |
| Joseph | may God add |
| Benjamin | son of the right hand |
The object of praise is a vision of the Son, a good fortune. Happiness is obtained by wrestling, causing to forget. He who hears and obeys is joined to his reward the wished for habitation. May God add YOU to the Son of His right hand.
9-17
Number of Christians in heaven? – John couldn’t count them all, 144,000 is symbolic.
Great tribulation = Roman persecution not to be confused with Mt.24:21 not same tribulation.
In Mt.24 Jesus is speaking of Jewish persecution of the church, not many died then, it was great
because brothers were killing brothers Mt.24:9-14; It cannot be referring to the destruction of
Jerusalem in 70 AD for no Christians died there, they all fled obeying Christ Mt.24:15f.
Seventh Seal 8:1-2; = 7 Trumpets
Revelation 8-9 Patience
For those struggling under the persecution of the Romans, Jesus gives more insight, to strengthen their patience as they evangelize their enemies. Rule of cutting back trees, don’t cut more than a third or risk killing the tree.
First Trumpet 8:7
Hail, fire, blood – persecution now permitted to break out
1/3 of the earth – people studying with Christians, innocent onlookers, collateral damage?
1/3 of the trees – solid Christians, doing the work, Ps.1:1-3; Ezek.47:12; Mt.13:23,31,32;
All the green grass – Christians not growing, Mt.13:20-21; Heb.5:11-14;
Persecution began 15 years after receiving this letter, persecution caused the great
apostasy (abandonment of faith) spoken of by Paul in 2Th.2:3-5
If you don’t put down roots, nor produce fruit in first 3 yrs. survival is in jeopardy. Gal.1:17,18;
Second Trumpet 8:8-9
A great mt. burning was thrown into the sea
Sea is society – from which comes world powers, gov’ts. Dan.7:1-8; 4 beasts = 4 gov’ts
Lion = Babylonians; Bear = Medes & Persians; Leopard = Greeks; Monster = Romans.
Gog = mountain, (Roman gov’t.) Magog = expansion of family (Roman empire)
Mountain = Roman Empire – on fire going down because she has begun to persecute God’s
people, a self-inflicted death sentence; a country that throws God out, condemns itself.
1/3 of the sea became blood – all society was influenced by Rome, infects others, Rev.13:16,17;
1/3 of creatures with life – Christians in gov’t. killed, replaced with ungodly people.
1/3 of the ships – commerce, Rev.18:11f. ungodliness brings greed, kills open market.
Modern countries suffer because they turn away from God. Ro.1:18f
Third Trumpet 8:10-11
A great star from heaven burning like a torch, Satan Lk.10:18
Satan gets thrown out of heaven when Jesus enters with His blood. Rev.12:9;
Satan – father of lies – Jn.8:44; spews a river of lies from his mouth. Rev.12:15;
1/3 of the rivers – Satan’s lies pollute the world, ie. emperor worship Rev.13:8; (evolution)
1/3 of springs of water – the very source, educators, who they trusted, teach for ill gotten gain.
Called Wormwood – bitter results of practicing idolatry & immorality, Jer.9:15; 23:15; Pr.5:3-5;
Many men died spiritually – believing the lies are the truth.
Eph.6:12 – our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against:
Rulers – institutions within gov’t. that promote lies of abortion, alternate lifestyles, etc.
Powers – mass media, TV, Internet, Radio etc. that proclaim these lies as truth.
World forces of this darkness – academia, scientists etc. those who teach the lies of:
evolution as truth and not as man made theory, babies are not human until birth etc.
Spiritual wickedness in the heavenlies – false teachers in the church that promote theistic
evolution etc. undermining our foundations. The waters become polluted when we teach and
promote lies via our schools, media and gov’t. and churches. How can we expect the nation to
be blessed by God, when we have abandoned His great Truths.
Fourth Trumpet 8:12-13
12
1/3 of sun, moon and stars; day and night darkened.
Deny Christ the sun, persecute His church, the moon, and kill His people the stars.
How quickly the world of darkness takes over. No one left to shine the light. Mt.5:16;
Believe in the lies of this world and darkness will overtake you, Ac.9:8f; 13:11;
Darkness – the fear of death, Heb.2:15; Ro.5:17,21; Rev.5:10; 1Jn.5:13;
13
Woe to those who dwell on earth for the last 3 woes yet to come.
Christians under Roman persecution will suffer and the world suffers as well.
The worldly will not repent even after God is victorious, lies are heavily ingrained.
The world will take centuries to rebuild what they have lost because of sinful gov’t.
Fifth Trumpet 9:1-12; Satan’s Forces
1-2
Satan is given limited authority to release his fallen angels Rev.12:9; 2Pe.2:4; Ju.6;
They had been thrown into the abyss when Jesus ascended Rev.12:5-10;
2Pe.2:4 this is not hell (GEHENNA) this is TARTARUS a pit below Hades reserved for the
Titans, earliest Greek gods, according to Greek mythology. This pit below Hades is where
God threw the fallen angels when Jesus ascended, now Satan is given authority release
them with limited power for a limited time, 313 AD. Not that Greek Mythology is real but
probably came from Tower of Babel. God uses the terms, Hades and Tartarus are real.
3-6
Smoke of the pit – lies flooding the world, Rev.12:15; spread by his demons.
Demons = locust, power of scorpions to sting men 1Cor.15:56; sting of death is sin.
Locust could not hurt the grass of the earth nor any green things – the Christians.
Only torment those who are not sealed with the Holy Spirit.
Limited authority – couldn’t kill men only torment, burning pain, guilt and shame.
Men will seek death – relief from sinful consequences but find no hope.
No Christ = no forgiveness = no hope = torment from sin = eternal torment.
7-11
Appearance like horses – awesome, impressive, all show – smoke and mirrors.
Crowns LIKE gold – fake, of no substance; Faces of men – appearance of intelligence, but empty.
Hair like women – long hair is a sign of rebellion 1Cor.11:14 a dishonor to men.
Teeth like lion’s – fierce in looks, bark is worse than the bite.
Wings make lots of noise – again Satan’s forces, all noise and show, no substance.
Number one movies today, fire, explosions, killings, all noise and show, no substance.
Sixth Trumpet 9:13-21; God’s Forces
Battle of Armageddon – the end of the Roman persecution, Constantine in 313 Edict of Milan
Obviously not judgement day, limited death 1/3 of mankind, therefore spiritual battle/death.
God’s army – 200 million horsemen, overwhelming force, how can God lose, He can’t.
Breastplates of fire, hyacinth, brimstone, heads of horses like heads of lions, not just teeth.
From their mouth fire, smoke and brimstone. Word of God spiritually killing a 1/3 of mankind.
As we see in Rev.11:5; the two witnesses. Same army in Rev.19:11-16; 14:1-5;
Tails like serpents – you may avoid them but the tails will get you, can’t dodge God.
Rest of mankind who survive Armageddon still didn’t repent, some just never catch on.
Rev.8-9 PATIENCE
Insights given to those struggling under Roman persecution.
Trust in God’s blessings, they will suffer and feel defeated but realize when
the smoke does clear, man and Satan will lose and God’s forces shall be victorious.
Have confidence in God, physical is temporal, eternal awaits us all, just beyond death.
Revelation 10-11 Kindness
To encourage us to act like Christians, even through suffering.
Rev.10 The Messenger and the Little Book
1
Who is this angel/messenger? He seems to have the appearance of Christ:
Clothed with a cloud – Mt.17:5; God at Mt. of Transfiguration.
Rainbow upon his head – God’s covenant with man – Gen.9:8-17; Rev.4:3
Face like the sun – Rev.1:16; Feet like pillars of fire – Rev.1:15
2
In his hand a little book – Rev.5:1-8 vs.7 Jesus took the book out of God’s hand.
Right foot on sea (society), left on the land (people) – Gospel is a universal message Ac.17:30;
Similar to Dan.10:12:7;
3
His voice as when a lion roars – Rev.1:15; sound of many waters Rev.5:5 Lion from Judah,
Seven peals of thunder – the Holy Spirit? speaking of approaching danger. 2Cor.12:4;
6
Delay no longer – time for ALL Old Testament prophecies to be fulfilled. Vs.7; Mt.5:17;
Ezek.39:1f Dan.7:1f Joel 3:3f Zec.14:1f A few of the prophecies about fall of Roman Empire.
8-11
Go take the book from the messenger, and eat it:
Makes your stomach bitter – reality of truth, knowing so many are lost, need to evangelize
In your mouth sweet as honey – good news, forgiveness of your sins, Ezek.3:1-3;
You must prophesy again… finish writing the Revelation?
Rev.11 The Two Witnesses
1
Measure the temple of God and those who worship in it = heavenly throne room Rev.4:1f
Measuring rod = Word of God – in heaven because Rev.12:11;
2
Leave out the court = the church in the world, we’ve yet to be measured, Mt.25:32f
The nations will tread it down for 42 months = 3 ½ yrs.
3
1260 days = 3 ½ yrs.= 42 months = 3 ½ days = time, times and ½ time = 3 ½ Rev.12:14
3 ½ days Rev.11:9,11; 42 months Rev.11:2; 13:5;
3 ½ = a time of suffering for God’ people, known and allowed by God, to make stronger.
Jam.5:17; Elijah prayed for no rain for 3 ½ yrs. no rain to win 10 tribes back to God
Dan.7:25; 12:7; God’s people given into their hands for a time, times and ½ time (Romans)
3-6
My two witnesses = church on earth, prophesying for 3 ½ yrs. until 313AD
Clothed in sackcloth – clothed in suffering
Two olive trees – Zec.4:2; Two lampstands = HS living in every member
Fire flows from them = word of God, the enemy will die spiritually
They have the power of God on their side, the power of prayer like Elijah and Moses
7-10
The beast, Satan convinces Caesar to kill the Christians Rev.13:4
The great city is Rome, Roman persecution of Christians showed them no respect.
All the peoples of the Empire will disrespect Christians for 3 ½ days the entire persecution
They will celebrate but not for long, reality will kick in at the end of 3 ½
11-13
God resurrected them via Constantine who legalized Christianity at Edict of Milan
The battle of Armageddon, a spiritual battle, Christians freed, Satan bound.
Seventh Trumpet
15-19
The kingdom of world is now kingdom of Christ, Rev.19:16
God’s wrath has come and gone – His servants are rewarded in heaven.
God is encouraging the church to be kind, to obey His blessing, He made us His children
then we are to act like His children and love our enemies even in persecution.
We belong to a Kingdom, our King gives orders, we obey regardless of our opinion.
We do not belong to a union, carry a card, go to meetings and pay our dues, see you latter.
Kindness in the face of persecution, these are our heroes, died to set an example
of what it means to truly have faith in our Savior.
Revelation 12-14 Goodness
Sharing God’s blessing, sharing God’s spiritual insights. The real source of the persecution is exposed in these 3 chapters. A spiritual picture covering from 2,000 BC up to Armageddon 313 AD.
Revelation 12 Satan’s History
1-2
The Woman = God’s people, Israel Gen.37:9; Gn.3:15; 22:18; Gal.3:16;
God created Israel to be the vehicle to bring His Son into the world Gal.3:23f
3-4
The dragon = Satan, appearance of perfection, appearances can be deceiving
7 heads with 10 horns – appears unbalanced, on his heads 7 diadems – royalty, authority.
Appearance of a divided kingdom and one that is unbalanced Lk.4:5-7;
Given by God control over multiple kingdoms with multiple religions
1/3 of the stars = fallen angels = demons, who listened to him, Mt.25:41;
Satan’s sin – conceit (arrogance) 1Tim.3:6 refused to serve man Mt.18:10; Heb.1:14; Jn.1:51;
Chose instead to deceive men, Gen.3:1 “Indeed has God said?” planted doubt in minds of men
concerning the Truth of God’s Word, this is “The Lie” Ro.1:25; Eph.4:25; 2Th.2:11
When the Bible is no longer accepted as the inspired Word of God, 2Tim.3:16; 1Pe.1:10-12;
how can the world be saved? Jn.8:31-32; Jude.3;
5
The Son = Christ, Jesus came to die for our sins, Jn.19:30 His work here is done
our work has just begun, Titus 2:14 with His help of course 1Tim.2:5
6
The Woman = Now is Christians = God’s people, Gal.3:28; Eph.2:14f; Heb.8:8f
Nourished for 1260 days = 3 ½ yrs. The time of the Roman persecution,
7-9
The Heavenly War – no longer a place for Satan and his angels Job.1:6f;2:1; Lk.4:6; Mt.8:29
because the blood of Christ forgives all sins. Not a war, God gave orders, they had to leave.
This is when his angels were thrown into the abyss known as Tartarus 2Pet.2:4
A few demons remained on earth people, Ac.16:16-18; 19:11-16; these evil spirits were active
on earth when Jesus cast the demons out of heaven, once cast these went straight to Hades.
10-12
The Victors Overcame because they were washed in the blood, shared their
testimony with the world (their conversion) and were not afraid to die.
13-14
Early Battles Satan knows he has a short time, he can no longer enter heaven to get
permission to do what he wanted. Great wrath because he realizes he lost at the cross.
He persecuted the church in Israel, which Jesus warned in Mt.24:4f; Mk.13:5f;Lk.21:10f
The wings of the eagle – Mt.24:15, 31; Mk.13:14,20,27; Lk.21:20,
Then God sent the Romans to destroy Jerusalem, signalling His people to flee.
Now God cared for the church by sending the Revelation and taught her to clean
up her act Rev.2,3; preparing her for the persecution about to come.
15-17
Satan’s Number 1 Weapon is Lies! A river of lies flowed from his mouth
But the earth = people of the world, swallowed up the lies, helping the woman.
When the world believes and practices the lies of Satan, it is obvious to those who
know the truth, when they see the consequences of the lies coming to fruit in the
lives of the ungodly. Abortion leaves lasting scars of guilt. Adultery destroys
marriages, not strengthens them. No good comes from alcohol and drugs. Etc.
Revelation 13 Satan Enlists Caesar (Domitian)
1
Seashore = society – from which arises the world powers, the governments.
See Dan.7:1f out of the sea came 4 creatures representing 4 world powers.
Lion = Babylonians; Bear = Medes & Persians; Leopard = Greeks; Monster = Rome.
The beast out of the sea – 7 heads, 10 horns like the dragon in Rev.12:3;
Difference was diadems were on the ten horns, countries Rome had conquered
therefore they had true authority, people were suppressed not conquered Rev.17:12f
2
Beast was like leopard, feet of a bear, mouth of a lion, best of the world empires.
Dragon gave him his power, throne, authority – which he tried with Jesus Lk.4:5;
Since Satan no longer could get permission from God, being banned from heaven,
He had to find someone to do his dirty work, the Roman Empire.
Did Domitian poison his brother Titus to gain the throne, making deal with devil?
3
One of heads as if slain = Nero, who began persecution, then committed suicide.
The brethren saw Domitian’s persecution as the resurrected Nero’s persecution.
The world was amazed at the power of the Roman Empire.
4
They worshipped the beast, for fear of him? But really, they worshipped Satan.
5
God gave Caesar authority to blaspheme God’s name, see Ac.12:23;
Authority to act 42 months = Roman persecution = 1260 days or 3 ½ years.
7
Sea Beast also given authority from God to kill the saints.
And authority over all people’s of the world, to make them worship Caesar.
10
The perseverance of the saints is, if destined to captivity, to captivity you will go
if you resist, kill with the sword, by the sword you will be killed. Don’t resist, accept.
Vs.11-18 The Earth Beast = The False Prophet
Out of the earth = people of certain countries – ie the Asian governor from Asia etc. He came from our country so he is one of us – 2 horns of a lamb. But he spoke like a dragon – power corrupts, he is worse than the sea beast.
12
The earth beast enforces emperor worship and kills those who don’t. Rev.6:5,6;
Everyone had to worship the bust of Caesar or be killed, the mark is guilt of doing so.
Number of the beast is the number of a man, 666 – falls 1 short of perfection 7.
This is not the number of Satan, it is the number of the Casaer.
Rev.14 The Lamb and the 144,000
1-5
These are the martyrs, the number is complete, time to stop persecution, Rev.6:11
The voice appears to be all in unison, they were one as Jesus and the Father were one.
A new song of which only those who suffered death for Christ would know it.
Not defiled, chaste – they did not fornicate with emperor worship. Men and women.
6-13
1st Angel – An eternal gospel – see Gal.1:6-8; Jud.3; Rev.22:18-19; judgment has come.
2nd Angel – Fallen is Babylon – Rome
3rd Angel – The ungodly will drink the wrath of God, will be tormented with fire and
brimstone in presence of angels and Lamb, initially then for eternity in hell
but blessed are the dead in Christ, they may rest.
14-16
The reaping of the martyrs who died cruel deaths in the hands of the Romans
is seen as Christ Himself (like the Son of Man) bringing in the harvest,
Jn.14:3; I will come again and receive you, Ac.7:56,59; Gathering lilies SoS.6:2;
I will confess your name Rev.3:5; Mt.10:32;
17-20
Once the 144,000 were harvested, now to stop the Roman persecution. Rev.6:11;
Jesus cares for His own, another angel deals out the wrath of God. Stop Roman pers.
Gather the grapes for wrath – tread out wine press – 1600 stadia was the blood
Rev.15-16 – 7 BOWLS OF WRATH
1-4
Time to end Roman persecution with 7 bowls of wrath
The 144,000 standing on sea of glass = God’s word – mixed with fire – persecution
These suffered death standing on the promises of God. Rev.6:10,11; Number fulfilled.
5-8
The temple filled with smoke until the wrath was finished.
1st Bowl – a malignant sore upon ungodly – like the guilt of sin which cannot be removed.
Only the blood of Christ cleanses the conscience, worldly suffer under shame and guilt.
2nd Bowl – blood killed everything in the sea, for or against Christ, spiritual death.
Sea is society, Killed – 2nd death, either for or against.
3rd Bowl – fresh water – teachings of men – worldly ways and teachings were poisoned by lies.
4th Bowl – sun was given to scorch men – Truth of God’s Word finally cuts through
1Cor.3:13 the fire will test each man’s work – fire = word of God
5th Bowl – throne of the beast – kingdom became darkened, see the error of their ways.
6th Bowl – Euphrates dries up – now God’s army comes in – Rev.9:13f
13-16 – Evil Forces Gathering At Armageddon
13
Dragon, beast, false prophet – out comes spirits of demons like frogs
to help gather the forces to battle God
15
Like a thief – you don’t know when; Stay awake – be alert; Keep clothes – Rev.19:8;
7th Bowl – lt is done – great earthquake – apocalyptic language
Rome and the nations fell, they drank the cup of God’s wrath,
Revelation 17-18 Details of Fall of Rome
1-7
The great harlot = Rome. Controls many nations (waters)
Kings and the world were taken in by her immorality
Scarlet beast = Roman Empire – 13:1;
8-13 The beast = Roman persecuting power of Caesars
The 7 Kings
Augustus 31 BC – 14 AD
Tiberius 14 – 37 AD
Caligula 37 – 41 AD
Claudius 41 – 54 AD
Nero 54 – 68 AD Five have fallen
Galba / Otho / Vitellius
Vespasian 69 – 79 AD One is (time of the writing)
Titus 79 – 81 AD The other has not yet come, remain only a short while
Domitian 81 – 96 AD The beast is himself an eighth, one of the seven
The beast was – Nero began Roman persecution of Christians and made it legal.
Nero committed suicide and persecution stopped, end of the beast, is not.
is about to come up out of the abyss – Domitian reintroduces persecution of Christians
The Ten Horns 12-18
The countries Rome has conquered and controls with governors. Iron mixed with clay.
You may physically oppress a people but not their hearts, they will rise up one day.
They receive authority with the beast – given by God Rev.13:5 one purpose vs.17
Until the words of God are fulfilled – then they turn on Rome –
Revelation 18 Fall of Rome
1-4
Fallen is Babylon – good as done the fall of Rome – dwelling place of demons
All the nations are under her sway, teaching of immorality, rich from her sensuality
Advice for Christians – come out of her, the city herself, her influence, worldly ways.
Vengeance is God’s and He will repay double.
9-24
Kings of earth will mourn – losing their authority.
Merchants will mourn – losing their wealth, no more market for bodies and souls.
Everyone was enriched with her sinfulness, blind to goodness of God.
How sad the world would be if satellites and internet crashed, how devastating.
Revelation 19 Battle of Armageddon
1-6
Not a physical battle, God’s justice achieved, all praised God.
Constantine came from England and put a stop to the Roman persecution of the church
with the edict of Milan in 313. Constantine claimed it was a dream from God that made
him March on Rome. Yes he was evil but God uses evil world leaders – Pharaoh, Cyrus, Darius,
to accomplish His will.
7-10
Marriage of the Lamb – church is firmly established on earth and in heaven. Dan.7:26-27;
The angel warned John not to worship him, a fellow servant Heb.1:14;
11-18
Jesus returning with the 144,000 to stop the Roman persecution.
He uses the Word of God – sharp sword = rod of iron = Word of God
King of Kings. Wine press see Rev.14:17-20; Isa.63:1-6;
19-21
Beast – persecuting power of Rome gov’t – thrown into hell.
False prophet – power of emperor worship, thrown to hell.
The rest killed by the word of God, spiritual death, 2nd death, damnation.
Revelation 20 Destiny of Wicked
1-3
Now access to abyss (Tartarus 2Pe.2:4) belongs to God, Satan lost his authority.
Satan bound for a 1,000 yrs and cast into abyss – bottomless pit.
Satan and his angels are in free fall, no time to think or do anything.
No longer roaming on earth as Peter said in 65 AD 1Pe.5:8; This is 313 AD.
Along with his fallen angels = evil spirits = unfamiliar spirits = unclean spirits.
1,000 – has beginning and end = 313 AD to the Judgement Day – only God knows.
1,000 yrs is symbolic of the times we live in now. Not the last days.
Last days meant the end of the Mosaic system, 70 AD, when miraculous gifts abounded.
4-6
Destiny of the Righteous
The faithful came to Life = Christ – to heaven and reigned with Him for a 1,000 yrs.
The spiritually dead – went to Hades, awaiting judgement day.
1st resurrection = baptism + faithful unto death
7-10 Judgment Day
1,000 yrs over, Satan released, short time to gather his forces, haters of God.
Deceive the nations, Gog and Magog symbolic of world force. Ezek.39:1f
Surround the church = camp of the saints, the fire comes down devours them.
Before they can harm the church in the end, God puts a stop to Satan’s forces!
Satan thrown into hell with his angels.
11-15 Judgment of Wicked
Earth/heavens gone –all physical elements destroyed 2Pe.3:10-12; Heb.1:12; Mt.24:35
The dead = spiritually dead = non Christians.
Sea = society Dan.7:1f Rev.13:1f; all those spiritually dead but alive on earth
Death = all those on earth in the grips of death, comas, brain dead, etc.
Hades = only spiritually dead are in Hades at this time, you have to be dead to get there
Judged according to their deeds, the books – reminding individuals of all their wicked
deeds which their calloused or seared heart fails to acknowledge or remember so they
shall spend eternity with their guiltiness, to live with, no forgiveness ever, self inflicted
torment for eternity, different levels of suffering – Lk.12:45-48;
Lake of fire – 1Cor.3:13; fire can only be put out through the blood of Christ. Forgiveness.
Interpret spiritually not physically, God doesn’t torment people for eternity, Satan is not
the chief tormentor of hell. We chose by rejecting Christ, to spend eternity in guilt and shame
refusing the blood of Christ, so the torment of hell is self inflicted, mental not physical.
Revelation 21:1-8 Judgment of the Church – Sheep & Goats Mt.25:31f
1-5
John saw a new heaven and new earth, old has been rolled up and tossed.
No longer any sea – unorganized mass of society from which gov’ts rise.
New Jerusalem – Christians in heaven are it’s living stones 1Th.3:13; 4:14;
Tabernacle of God is Christ who will now dwell with us after He hands the kingdom
over to His Father in the new heavens 1Cor.15:23-28;
He shall wipe away the tears from the eyes of the sheep. Mt.25:34-40;
Jesus makes all things new – 1Cor.15:50-58; immortal bodies
Overcomers will be blessed – Rev.2:7,11,17,26; 3:5,12,21; to all Christians Mt.25:21;
8
Judgment of the Church / Goats Mt.25:41-46; Mt.13:47-48;
A sobering list of the sins found within the church of which we are warned.
Cowardly – fear of speaking up, Mt.10:32,33; Mt.18:15f
Unbelieving – untrustworthy, Jam.1:5-8; 2Tim.2:16-18;
Abominable – very bad, unpleasant, disagreeable, 3Jn.1:9-10;
Murderers – spiritual assassination, slanderous gossips 2Tim.3:3;
Immoral – not conforming to accepted standards of morality, 2Pe.2:12-14;
Sorcerers – pharmakeia, use of drugs = words #1 drug, flattery, Ro.16:18; Jude 1:16;
Idolaters – putting other things before God, Php.3:18-20;
All Liars – Eph.4:25; 1Tim.4:1-3; Titus 1:10-14; Ja.5:16;
All these may dwell in the church on earth but will be judged by Christ and cast into hell.
You can fool people but you can’t fool God, He knows your heart.
9-21 Physical Description of an Immortal City
9
The bride = wife of the Lamb = assembly of the Anointed = church of Christ Mt.16:18;
10
The city’s description is similar to the encampment of Israel Num.1:1ff
Encampment – East Side – Judah, Issachar, Zebulun; South Side – Reuben, Simeon, Gad.
West Side – Ephraim, Manasseh, Benjamin; North Side – Dan, Asher, Naphatali.
In the center – tabernacle – the throne of God on earth.
Heavenly Jerusalem – on each of the 4 sides,
3 gates named after 3 tribes, 3 angels guarding the 3 gates of pearl on each side
3 foundation stones named after 3 apostles, each a different precious stone
12,000 stadia square; 144 cubits wide
Walls made of jasper (green, Rev.8:7; 9:4;) City of pure gold like clear glass
Walls made of living stones 1Pe.2:5. Not to be understood physically but spiritually.
22
No sun or moon, God is the light, everything is new, immortal not mortal.
The church comes from all the nations of the world, we are kings, Pr.25:2; Rev.1:6;
The glory of a man is to obey God, our glory shall be our very presence in heaven.
We are in heaven because we remained faithful to our Savior, Christ Jesus.
Rev.22
1
River of water = the Word of God Jn.4:13,14; Fills the crystal sea, upon which we stand.
Tree of Life = the Life of Christ, the end result is the Word of God, in action, manifested.
I am the vine you are the branches, Jn.15:1f
We are to be trees of life for the world around us, Ezek.47:1-12; 1Cor.11:1; Ps.1:1f
Eternal life – no curse, God is the light, Truth reigns.
6
These Words are True – it will all come to pass.
The THINGS which MUST soon take place. The end of the Roman persecution.
But as for the judgement day – Rev.20:6; only God knows when, we are in the 1,000 yrs
So not ALL THINGS will soon take place, only those that will happen to the churches of Asia.
7
Coming quickly – within 20 yrs. of its writing, Domitian began the persecution
It wasn’t stopped until 313 but God’s solution was in place and His will had begun.
We can see the same schemes employed then, being employed today, wickedness
Controlling the gov’ts. Controlling the mass media and the educational complex Eph.6:12f
Even within the churches, false doctrine is showing up to lull us to sleep, so heed the
Warnings found in the letters to the churches, we are no better and must stay on watch.
If you don’t learn from history, you are doomed to repeat it. Read your Bible to be blessed.
8
Heb.1:14; angels were created to help man, our fellow servants, we all worship God, Him only.
10
Daniel was told to seal up the book Dan.12:4,9; Daniel’s prophecy concerned the Roman Empire
Daniel wrote around 540 BC. 600 yrs. before the Roman persecution began, so seal up the book.
But John the fulfillment was about to start in 20 yrs. What is left is judgment day – no signs.
11
Not sure but seems to say the end of the Roman persecution is coming quickly.
12
I am coming quickly – everything is under the King’s control.
13
Alpha and Omega – obviously this is Christ.
14
Wash their robes – baptized into Christ and continue to walk in the light 1Jn.1:6-8;
15
There are the Christians who failed to walk in the light. Dogs 2Pe.2:22;
Now he lists 5 of the 8 mentioned in Rev.21:8; all unfaithful Christians.
16
Bright morning star – 2Pe.1:19;
Not to be compared to Isa.14:12; which is properly translated “shing one” not star of morning.
Not a star at all. Shining one was the Babylonian king, not Lucifer the devil.
17
The invitation to drink in the living water is open to all.
18-19
Dot not add nor subtract from the book of Revelation. Just as Paul says in Gal.1:6-8;
20
Jesus did come quickly – 313 AD – Constantine stopped the Roman persecution.
He is coming again, the judgement day, no signs to be given, but He will come.
21
Grace be with you all. Ability to understand the will of God portrayed from Revelation.