Beatitudes of Revelation: Do His Commandments

Posted on March 16, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14 NKJV).

“Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14 NASB).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12-13; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

This passage contains a textual variant.  We will not deal with the merits of each reading in this writing.  Instead, we will deal with the truth found in each reading.  This book speaks of obedience to the commandments (Revelation 1:3; 12:17; 14:12-13; 22:7).  This book speaks of washing robes (Revelation 7:13-14).  The basic point is the same with either reading. John Kachelman Jr. comments, “There is not really any difference because the two refer to the same thing – obedience” (Kachelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 123).

Blessed are those who do His commandments.  Faithful obedience is necessary to enter into eternal blessedness.  Jesus warned, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.  Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord,’ have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in  Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’  And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'” (Matthew 7:21-23).

Blessed are those who wash their robes.  Faithfulness and the cleansing blood of the Lamb are necessary to entering into eternal blessedness.  John wrote, “Then one of the elders answered, saying to me, ‘who are these arrayed in white robes, and where did they come from?’  And I said to him, ‘Sir, you know.’  So he said to me, ‘These are the ones who come out of great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:13-14).  Wayne Jackson comments on Revelation 22:14, “First, the mode of cleansing is by the Lamb’s blood (7:14).  Second, ‘wash’ is a present tense form, which reveals that one must continually access the cleansing blood of Jesus (cf. 1 John 1:7).  Third, by virtue of Christ’s sacrifice, the faithful have a ‘right’ to the tree of life.  We deserve nothing on our own merit; we can claim everything because of what he did” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, p. 225).

They have a right to the tree of life and may enter through the gates into the city.  The city is the New Jerusalem (Revelation 3:12; Revelation 21-22).  It is that city for which Abraham waited (Hebrews 11:10, 15-16).  Inside the gates of this city are the water of life (Revelation 22:1) and the tree of life (Revelation 2:7; 22:3; 22:14; cf. Genesis 2:9; 3:22-24).  Paradise is restored (Revelation 2:7 cf. Genesis 3:8 Douay).

Not all will be allowed into this city.  Access is for those counted faithful through the blood of Christ (Revelation 22:14 cf. 7:13-14; 2:7; 2:10-11; 2:17; 2:26-29; 3:5; 3:12; 3:21).  Specifically mentioned – in Revelation 21:8, 27 and 22:15 – as not entering are: (1) the cowardly (those who will not confess Him, or practice their faith due to persecution); (2) unbelieving (those who do not put their trust in Him); (3) abominable (those who practice things disgusting to God); (4) murderers (those who take human life without divine authority; perhaps, persecutors are especially under consideration ); (5) sexually immoral (those who engage in sexual intercourse without divine authority, unauthorized sexual intercourse; such behavior was often connected with pagan temples); (6) sorcerers (those who use magic arts or drugs to spiritually deceive others); (7) idolaters (those who worship false gods); (8) liars (those who speak falsehoods, intending to deceive; perhaps, especially in view is religious deceivers); (9) those who love and practice a lie (this may refer to those who believe and follow false teaching cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12); (10) dogs (those who are unclean; or, those who do not appreciate that which is holy cf. Matthew 7:6; or, this may refer to male prostitutes in pagan temples who were so-called). These are mentioned, no doubt, for emphasis sake (one should not want to be a part of this company). However no one except the saints will be allowed into this city.

Let us consider the words of Jesus.  He said, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able” (Luke 13:24).

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Keep The Words

Posted on March 11, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Behold, I am coming quickly!  Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book… Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last” (Revelation 22:7, 12-13).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last (Revelation 22:13 cf. 1:8; 1:10-11; 1:17; 21:5-6).  This is language of Deity (cf. Isaiah 41:4; 44:6; 48:12).  This is language of complete authority.  The speaker is Jesus (Revelation 22:7, 12-13 cf. 22:20; 1:17-18).  Foy Wallace Jr. comments that “Christ (is) the All in All of divine jurisprudence and justice” (Wallace, The Book of Revelation, p. 469).

Behold, I am coming quickly!  This is proclaimed three times in this chapter (Revelation 22:7; 22:12; 22:20 cf. 1:1; 1:3; 22:6).  What is meant by “quickly”?  (1) Some suggest that this refers to the suddenness of His coming.  James Coffman comments, “‘I come quickly’ need not mean ‘I come soon,’ though that meaning is possible.  The expression may also mean, ‘I come suddenly'” (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, pp. 522-523).  John Kachelman Jr. comments, “The phrase does not mean Christ would come back briefly, but that his coming would be quickly… suddenly… as indicating an unexpected point in time” (Kachelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 121).  (2) Some suggest that this is teaching a mind-set of living as if His coming is always being near, because we do not know when He will come. We are to live in expectation of His coming (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; Titus 2:11-13).  F.F. Bruce comments, “In the Christian doctrine of Last things… the imminence of the end is moral rather than chronological, each successive Christian generation… may be the last generation.  In that sense the time is always near…” (Wayne Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, p. 224 – quoting Bruce, The New Layman’s Bible Commentary, p. 1711).  (3) Others believe that this refers to His coming soon in a judgment, but not The Judgment.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “The words… were not in reference to the second coming of the Christ; but rather the promise to the churches in tribulation… These events were shortly to take place” (Wallace, The Book of Revelation, p. 475).  There are two major appearance of Jesus Christ in Scripture: (a) He appeared to man in the incarnation (John 1:1-3, 11, 14; Luke 19:10).  (b) He is coming again (John 14:1-3).  It will be visible (Matthew 24:26-27; Acts 1:11) and transforming (1 John 3:1-2 cf. Philippians 3:20-21).  However, there is another coming which we should consider.  (c) God and Jesus are sometimes pictured as coming in judgment on people, nations, and even churches (Isaiah 13:1-5; 19:1-4; Matthew 26:64 cf. Isaiah 19:1; Revelation 2:15-16).  Adam Clark comments, “I come to establish my cause, comfort and support my followers, and punish the wicked” (Clark, p. 1063).  I lean toward this view.

Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of the book.  This beatitude was set forth in the opening chapter of this book (Revelation 1:3).  It is now repeated for emphasis in the closing chapter of this book (Revelation 22:7).  Wayne Jackson remarks that this is “clear indication that this is to be studied, understood and personally applied” (Jackson, p. 224).  While it is true that these words specifically have reference to the book of Revelation, the entirety of God’s word should be studied and kept (heeded, followed).

My reward is with Me to give to every one according to his work.  Divine judgment would be just.  It also will be for us (Romans 2:6-11; 14:12; 1 Corinthians 3:8; 2 Corinthians 5:9-10).  Wayne Jackson remarks, “Circle the term ‘work’ and observe that, contrary to the baseless assertions of those who affirm ‘unconditional salvation,’ judgment will be based on man’s obedience” (Jackson, p. 225).

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I Can’t Help You

Posted on March 9, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

Dan Hicks once sang a song entitled, “How can I miss you when you won’t go away?”  It is a funny song.  The answer to the song title is self-evident.

Let’s consider another question.  This time the question is about spiritual matters.  “How can I (or anyone) help you when you won’t help yourself?”  This is not funny, but serious.  The answer to this question is also self-evident.

Example: The preacher knows a new convert is a babe in Christ, weak and vulnerable.  A new convert needs to “desire the pure milk of the word, that (he) may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2).  The concerned preacher tries to schedule continuing studies to help the new convert “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).  However, the new convert never finds time.   The local church starts a new convert class.  However, this new convert does not attend.  The preacher knows by experience what happens to new converts that do not have the interest, and do not make the effort to grow.  The preacher wants to prevent this one from falling away, and sliding back into old habits.  The preacher wants to prevent this one from becoming another pew-warmer, who never lives up to his God-given potential (cf. Hebrews 5:12).  However, how can he help one who won’t help himself?

Example:  An eldership believes that there is a need to teach and preach on a certain subject.  They ask the Bible class teacher to address this subject in Bible class.  He spends several weeks teaching on this subject.  They ask the preacher to address this subject from the pulpit.  He does so, dedicating a few lessons to this subject.  However, the very ones which the elders thought most needed to hear this were so infrequent in attendance that most of the message missed them.  The assembly is an opportunity to “consider one another to stir up love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24).  It is an opportunity for “edification and exhortation and comfort” (1 Corinthians 14:3, 26).  How can they help those who won’t help themselves?

Example: A church member is sincerely concerned about a woman who has been attending for a few months.  The woman thinks she is a member of the church.  The member is not so sure.  The woman was baptized by a community church preacher.  Moreover, when the member asked the woman when she became a Christian, the woman answered: “I think I have always been a Christian.  I felt that I was a Christian even in childhood.  There was no specific point in time when I can say I became a Christian. I have felt that I was a Christian as far back as I can remember”  This is not a Biblical answer, and this answer causes the member to have great concern (Acts 11:26 cf. Matthew 28:18-20).   The member lovingly expresses this concern, and asks if they could search the scriptures together (cf. Acts 17:11).  The member wanted them to reason together; after all, Christians should be ready to make a defense for the reason for the hope that is in them (cf. 1 Peter 3:15).  The woman is not interested. She is not concerned enough to accept the offer.  How can he help her when she won’t help herself?

Example: A husband and wife starts attending.  They indicate that they were prompted to do so out of concern for their children.  So much time had been wasted!   They want their children to learn the Bible.  They want them to become Christians.  They want them to become good citizens.  This is what they say.  However, attendance is sporadic, at best.  Bible class attendance is even more so.  Moreover, They never take part in anything extra or in addition to the Sunday morning attendance (Vacation Bible School, youth devotionals and activities, Gospel meetings, Christian evidence seminars, fellowship gatherings in the homes of brethren etc.).  Furthermore, there is no regular family Bible study at home (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4).  How can we help those when you won’t help themself?

Example: A member is going through many financial and other difficulties. A deacon, who is in charge of benevolence, hears about this situation. He wants the church to help (cf. Acts 2:44-45; 4:34). However, the man distances himself from the church (Maybe this is due to embarrassment. However, there is the possibility and even signs which suggest that he has just left the faith.).  He avoids members. He stops attending. Brethren want to help, but can’t even make contact most of the time. When contact is made, he claims “all is o.k.” and that he needs no help. He also makes flimsy excuses as to why he has not attended.  How can the church help him when he won’t help himself?

It is frustrating.  It grieves my heart when some will not help themselves.  My hearts desire is to help. However, there are some I cannot help, because they will not help themselves. Life is brief. I plead with you, do not waste it.  “For what is your life?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14).  “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Have Part in First Resurrection

Posted on March 3, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years” (Revelation 20:6).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  What is the first resurrection?  (1) The first resurrection does not refer to the general resurrection of the dead.  Wayne Jackson comments, “There will be a general resurrection of the dead, which will involve, at the same time, both good and evil persons, see – John 5:28-29; Acts 24:15” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, p. 217).  (2) Many brethren believe that the reference is to baptism.  John Kachelman Jr. writes, “The ‘first resurrection’ of Revelation 20 is a spiritual resurrection of our souls from spiritual death and is accomplished only when we hear and obey the gospel” (Kackelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 162).  There are good points to be made for this position.  Baptism is not only a burial, but also, a resurrection (Colossians 2:12 cf. 3:1; Romans 6:3-5; Ephesians 2:1,5-6).  Christians are sometimes depicted as currently being the priests of God (1 Peter 2:9; 1 Peter 2:5 cf. Hebrews 13:15; Revelation 1:4-6).  (3) Others believe that this refers to being faithful until death.  Revelation 2:10-11 reads, “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life… He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death.”  Revelation 20:6 reads, “Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.  Over such the second death has no power…”  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “There is an axiom which decrees that things equal to the same things are equal to each other.  In Revelation 2:11 it is said that overcoming the persecutions exempted them from the second death.  But in Revelation 20:6 it is said that part in the first resurrection exempted them from the second death.  Things equal to the same things being equal to each other – part in the first resurrection referred to overcoming persecutions and entering into triumph of that victory” (Wallace, The Book of Revelation, p. 416).  Wayne Jackson adds, “It may be… that this ‘resurrection’ symbolizes a relief from a period of horrible persecution,  somewhat analogous to the figurative resurrection portrayed in Ezekiel 37, which depicts Judah’s release from Babylonian captivity” (Jackson, p. 217).  (4) I believe that the last two points are not mutually exclusive. I believe that both are included. Remember the words of Revelation 12:11 (cf. Revelation 7:13-14) “They overcame …by the blood of the Lamb” [note: Blood is contacted at baptism (Revelation 1:5; 7:13-14 cf. Acts 22:16 cf. Romans 6:3-4). The blood continues to be available to those who walk in the light (1 John 1:7,9; 2:2)] “and by the word of their testimony and they did not love their lives to the death” [note: This is speaking of faithfulness (Matthew 10:32-33; 16:24-25; Revelation 2:10-11; 7:13-14). The faithful will be blessed even in death (Revelation 14:13)].

The second death has no power over such.  There is no question that the second death refers to being cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:12-15).  Ray Summers comments, “The ‘first death,’ which is not mentioned but implied, must be physical death.  The ‘second death’ which is mentioned here is symbolic of eternal separation, eternal punishment in the lake of fire” (Summers, Worthy is the Lamb, p. 205).  Consider the words of Jesus, “Do not fear those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28); “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.  But I will show you whom you shall fear; Fear him who, after He has killed, has power to case into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!” (Luke 12:4-5); “Be faith until death…He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death” (Revelation 2:10-11).

They shall be priests of God and of Christ.  The reference is to those who overcame.  This includes martyrs (Revelation 20:4,6 cf. 6:9-11).  Death does not defeat the faithful. They are elevated to better things (cf. Revelation 14:13).

They shall reign with Him a thousand years.  The thousand years are not to be understood as a literal length of time.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “There are twenty figures of speech in the nineteenth and twentieth chapters alone.  In a series of symbols such as these, it is not reasonable to make a literal application of the thousand years and a figurative application of all the rest… without a contextual or historical reason for doing so” (Wallace, p. 403). Some consider the thousand years as the whole period of Christianity.  It may be most of it.  However, it is not all of it (cf. Revelation 20:7-10).  The thousand-year reign seems to refer to a long period of time (cf. Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalms 50:10; 90:4) in which the church would come out of intense persecution and would experience a long unprecedented period of relative peace (Revelation 20:1-3 cf. 20:7-10).  The devil would again return to great opposition to Christianity, but then comes the end (Revelation 20:7-10).

Yes this is a difficult section of scripture to understand.  However, the central message is be faithful. Let us be faithful. If we are faithful, the second death will do us no harm. If we are faithful, then we will be blessed, whatever the specific details of the events of final things may be.

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Accept the Invitation

Posted on March 2, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“‘Alleluia!  For the Lord God omnipotent reigns!  Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.’  And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.  Then he said to me, ‘Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’  And he said to Me, ‘These are the true sayings of God‘” (Revelation 19:6-9).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14). These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

The Lamb and His bride are mentioned.  The Lamb is Jesus (cf. John 1:29; 35-36; 1 Peter 1:18-20; The book of Revelation refers to Him as The Lamb 29 times).  His bride is the church (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:2; Romans 7:4; Ephesians 5:22-32).  She is clothed in white fine linen (Revelation 19:8 cf. 3:4-5).  White represents purity (cf. Isaiah 1:18).  She is regarded as pure because she has been washed in the blood of the Lamb (cf. Revelation 7:13-14), and has proven herself faithful to the Lamb (Revelation 19:8 cf. 3:4-5; 12:11).  Wayne Jackson comments, “The reader is informed that the church ‘was given’ the opportunity to clothe herself. The passive form of the verb indicates that salvation is ultimately a ‘gift’ from God (cf. Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8). Be that as it is, it is nonetheless still true that she must exercise the initiative to ‘array herself’ with ‘righteous acts’ of obedience cf. Matthew 22:11-ff” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, p. 214).

This is their wedding day.  Some are confused by this.  Sometimes the New Testament depicts the church as currently married to Christ (cf. Romans 7:4; Ephesians 5:22-32).  However, the New Testament also depicts the church as currently betrothed (or espouse) to Christ, currently living prior to the wedding day (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 19:6-9).  How can this be resolved?  The solution seems to be found in the Jewish customs of the day.  A woman betrothed (espoused) to a man was in a sense, legally considered married (Exodus 21:9; Deuteronomy 22:23-29).  Infidelity was punishable by death (Deuteronomy 22:23-29). However, They did not yet dwell together.  The groom typically used this period of time to prepare a place for them (cf. John 14:1-3).  The wedding ceremony would occur at a later date.  Then, the bride would be taken home (cf. John 14:1-3).  The church is currently espoused to Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2).  We must remain faithful. We must be pure, and without spot, when He comes (2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:25-27; James 1:27).

Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper. John Kachelman Jr. comments, “When Christ returns to claim His bride (the church), all the faithful would join the wedding procession and enjoy the wedding feast through eternity in heaven” (Kachelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, pp. 99-100).  James Burton Coffman comments, “All men are bidden in the sense of being invited by the gospel of Christ to accept the salvation of God; but, in the New Testament, the ‘called’ (sometimes B.H.) means those who ‘have accepted and obeyed the call'” (Commentary on Revelation, p. 444; cf. 1 Corinthians 1:23-24; 2 Peter 1:10; Jude 1).  This is how the term “called” is being used in this passage.  The invitation must be accepted to receive the blessings (cf. Matthew 22:1-14).

“‘All things are ready,’ come to the feast!  Come for the table now is spread; ye famishing, ye weary come and thou shalt be richly fed.  Hear the invitation, come, whosoever will; praise God for full salvation for whosoever will” (Song: All Things Are Ready, by Charles H. Gabriel).

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Watch/Stay Dressed

Posted on February 25, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Behold, I am coming as a thief.  Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame” (Revelation 16:15).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

Behold, I am coming as a thief.  Judgment is coming.  Jesus’ coming will be as a thief (Revelation 16:15 cf. Matthew 24:42-44; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2; 2 Peter 3:10).  What does this mean?  It means that the hour of His coming will be unannounced.  It will not be on a scheduled appointment with man.  Consider the words of Jesus: “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.  But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into.  Therefore, you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:42-44).  Consider, the words of Paul: “But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.  For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:1-2).

Blessed is he who watches.  The message is: be ready.  Jesus said, “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming… be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect… Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming” (Matthew 24:42, 44; 25:13).  We are to live mindful of the Lord’s return (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; Titus 2:11-13).

Blessed is he who keeps his garments.  This is another way of saying be ready.  Consider, the words of Paul: “But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief… Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.  For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night.  But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:4-8).  The picture is of one who is clothed and ready for that Day.

Those not ready will be found naked and in shame.  Let’s consider three thoughts:  (1) The language may refer to being found not dressed in the spiritual armor of God. This seems to best fit the “thief” context, in my judgment. One does not want to be found spiritually unclothed and asleep when the Lord comes.  Paul exhorted, “But you, brethren, are not overtake you as a thief…Let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober… let us… be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation” (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8). Those not clothed in faith, love and hope are not dressed and ready for His coming.  (2) Some see this as reference to Israel’s temple police.  James Coffman’s commentary quotes from F.F. Bruce, “According to the Mishna, the captains of the temple in Jerusalem went their rounds  of the precincts at night, and if a member of the temple police was caught asleep at his past, his clothes were taken off and burned, and he was sent away naked and disgraced” (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 375).  Adam Clark comments, “Here is a plain allusion to the office of him who is called the perfect or overseer, of the mountain temple.  His custom was to go his rounds during the watches of the night; and if he found any of the Levites sleeping on his watch, he had the authority to beat him with a stick, and burn his vestments see Middoth, fol. 34, 1 and Talmid. fol. 27, 2; 28, 1.  Such a person being found on his return home naked, it was at once known that he had been found asleep at his post, had been beaten, and his clothes burnt; thus his shame was seen– he was reproached for his infidelity and irreligion” (Clark, Vol. 6, p. 1035). (3) The language, in context, could refer to being found not wearing white garments. Jesus called the church at Laodicea “naked” (Revelation 3:17). He instructed them to buy from Him, “White garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed” (Revelation 3:18). White garments are for faithful Christians (Revelation 7:13-14; Revelation 3:5 cf. 12:11). One who is not a faithful Christian will not be properly dressed to meet the Lord, when He returns. Regardless of which position you hold, all three make the same basic point: Be ready.  Let us live each day, as if, it could be the last. “Blessed are those whom the Lord finds watching, In His glory they shall share; If He shall come at the dawn or midnight, Will He find us watching there? O can we say we are ready brother? Ready for the souls bright home?say will He find you and me still watching. Waiting, waiting when the Lord shall come?” (Song: Will Jesus Find Us Watching? by Fanny Crosby).

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“Remember not the Sins of My Youth” Psalm 25:7a

Posted on February 22, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

We would do well to each acknowledge the sins of our youth before God.  The passage of time, and our aging and maturing alone does not remedy our sinful past.

Matthew Henry comments, “Here is an implicit confession of sin; he specifies particularly the sins of his youth.  Note, Our youthful faults and follies should be a matter of repentance and humiliation long after, because time does not wear out the guilt of sin.  Old people should mourn for the sinful pleasures of their youth.”

Some folks look back upon their sinful youth with fond memories.  They glory in the wrongs they did (cf. Proverbs 2:14; Romans 1:28-32).  They joke and jest and have pleasures about such (cf. Proverbs 10:23; Ephesians 5:4, 11-12).  They might even have the attitude that every youth ought to sow his wild oats (cf. Romans 1:28-32; 1 Corinthians 13:6).  After all. you’re only young once! (cf. Ecclesiastes 12:1a).

Instead, we, as the psalmist, David, ought to recognize with remorse the sins of our past. We should mourn over them, not celebrate them (Matthew 5:4). Moreover, we should confess our faults to God (Proverbs 28:13; Psalm 32:5; Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:8-9).  Our faults may be too numerous to even recall individually all these years later;  But, we can petition God, “Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions” (Psalm 25:7a).

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Die in the Lord

Posted on February 19, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Here is the patience of the Saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.  Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’  ‘Yes,’ Say the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them'” (Revelation 14:12-13).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

The context of this beatitude concerns a vision of the hereafter.  The wicked are in torment, without rest day or night (Revelation 14:9-11).  The faithful are blessed, and have rest from their labors (Revelation 14:12-13 cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7).  Ray Summers comments, “The Christian Martyr was burned at the stake; but that was over in a few minutes, and he found himself possessed of eternal life in fellowship with God.  Those who worshipped the emperor fell before God’s judgment and found a life of eternal burning in the sulphurous fumes” (Summers, Worthy is the Lamb, p. 181).  The message is: be faithful.  It is worth the cost.

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.  The words “in the Lord” refers to being in spiritual union with the Lord (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 340).  One gets into Christ by baptism (Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:26-27).  However one needs to continue to abide in Him (1 John 2:6; 2:10; 2:24; 2:28; 3:24; 2 John 9; Jude 24 cf. John 14:23; 15:10).  Dying in the Lord is the equivalent to being faithful unto death (Revelation 14:13 cf. 2:10).  This is speaking of those who do not “love their lives to the death” (Revelation 12:11).  This is speaking of those who are willing to die rather than to turn from following Him.  The words “from now on” are difficult.  James Burton Coffman comments, “The oldest MSS were not divided into words.  If this is two words, it means henceforth, but if one, it means assuredly.  The original Greek may be read either way with equal authority’ (Coffman, Commentary on Revelation, p. 341).   It is possible that the words go with “they may rest…,” and means from the moment they die and onwards they continue to have rest.  Phillip Mauro comments, “from henceforth…i.e. from the very moment of death” (Mauro, Things Which Soon Must Come To Pass, p. 449). It is important to observe that the blessing is not for all who die.  It is for those who die in the Lord.

They may rest from all their labors.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “That is, from the travail of persecution” (Wallace, The Book of Revelation, p. 313, cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7).  Wayne Jackson comments, “The term ‘rest’ does not suggest that the saints will be inactive in the final order of things, for they ‘serve’ God (22:3).  Rather, ‘rest’ denotes a cessation from earthly labor.  The word ‘labor’ reflects a state of exhaustion and probably hints of the persecution experienced by the faithful.  All will be over when the saints are freed from the rigors of earth’s difficulties” (Jackson, Revelation: Jesus Christ’s Final Message of Hope, pp. 198-199).

Their works follow them.  Foy Wallace Jr. comments, “The works referred to their righteous acts in the midst of the period of torture and trial” (Wallace, p. 314).  Our Lord knows what we do (Revelation 2:1-2; 2:9; 2:13; 2:19; 3:1; 3:8; 3:15).  John Kachelman Jr.comments, “Note here the works on earth follow the saints in death and into eternity (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:10; etc.).  It is absurd to claim that one’s works have no bearing on salvation” (Kachelman, Studies in the Book of Revelation, p. 79 cf. Philippians 2:12).

“O! for a home with God, a place in His courts to rest, Sure in a safe abode with Jesus and the blest; Rest for a weary soul once redeemed by the Savior’s love, Where I’ll be pure and whole and live with My God above” (Song: Walking Alone at Eve by Thomas Sweatmon).

 

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Beatitudes of Revelation: Read/Hear/Heed

Posted on February 16, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3).

The book of Revelation contains seven beatitudes (Revelation 1:3; 14:12-13; 16:15; 19:6-9; 20:6; 22:7, 12; 22:14).  These seven passages tell us how to find true, lasting happiness with God.

Blessed is he who reads and those who hear.  Let it be observed that “he” is singular, and “those” is plural.  “He” likely refers to the one who publicly reads the scripture before the congregation (e.g. Deuteronomy 31:9-11; Nehemiah 8:1-3; Jeremiah 36:5-6, 13; Colossians 4:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:27; 1 Timothy 4:13); “those” likely refers to the listeners in the assembly.  God’s word is designed to bless man. The blessed open their ears to hear God’s instructions. Eight times there is the exhortation “He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says,” or equivalent (Revelation 2:7; 2:11; 2:17; 2:29; 3:6; 3:13; 3:22; 13:9).

The blessed – not only reading or hearing – but  also, keep (follow, live by, practice) God’s word.  Teaching the truth is not enough.  “You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself?” (Romans 2:21).  Hearing the truth preached is not enough.  “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22 cf. Romans 2:13).  Jesus said, “Whoever hears these sayings of Mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock… But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand” (Matthew 7:24, 26).

The time is near.  These Christians were facing some imminent difficulties (cf. Revelation 2:10).  It was important that they heeded the message of this book.

Is there an application for us?  Certainly, there is.  Each day we live we are one day closer to death and judgment (James 4:13-17). It is important that we listen to God’s word before it is too late. Let us live like we are dying. “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).

 

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Are You Dressed For War? (Spiritual Armor)

Posted on February 10, 2016 by Bryan Hodge

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil… Take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:12-13).

We are in a spiritual war.  Christians are frequently depicted as soldiers in the scriptures (Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 8; 1 Timothy 1:18; 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:3-4).  God has supplied the armor necessary to survive this spiritual war.  It is up to us to put it on, and use what has been provided.

 1.  Gird your waist with truth (Ephesians 6:14a).

The girdle or belt held things in place.  “This went about the loins, and served to brace the armor tight to the body, and to support daggers, short swords, and such like weapons, which were frequently stuck in it” (Adam Clark). In every day life the girdle or belt bound up loose flowing robes for movement and work.

Truth is the Christian’s belt.  Truth is God’s word (John 17:17; Psalm 119:160).  It keeps the Christian from spiritually falling apart.  Spiritual success depends on learning, knowing, and meditating on God’s word.  This is the first reference to God’s word.

Peter instructs us to “gird up the loins of your mind” (1 Peter 1:13). Our minds should be pulled together with truth.

2.  Put on the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14b cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:8).

The breastplate protected such vital organs as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.  “This consisted in two parts, called pteruges or wings: one covered the whole region of the thorax or breast, in which the principle viscera of life are contained; and the other covered the back, as for down as the front part extended” (Adam Clark).  It “protected the soldier from the neck to the waist” (W.T. Hamilton, Glory In The Church, p. 122).

Righteousness is the Christian’s breastplate.  The term “righteousness” is used in different ways in the Bible.  It is sometimes used of right doing (e.g. Acts 10:34-35).  It is sometimes used of having a right standing with God (e.g. Luke 1:6; Romans 4:3 cf. Genesis 15:6).  It is sometimes used of God’s plan for man’s righteousness (Romans 10:1-4).  These things – what should be done, and how to have and maintain a right relationship with God – are revealed in God’s word.  This is the second reference to God’s word.

This is also called the “breastplate of faith and love” (1 Thessalonians 5:8).  One cannot be righteous without faith (cf. Hebrews 11:6) and love (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

3.  Shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15).

The proper foot wear was important.  It protected the feet and prevented slipping in battle, which could be deadly.  “Greaves or brazen boots, which covered the shin or front of the leg; or kind of Solea was often used, which covered the sole, and laced about the instep, and prevented the foot from being wounded by rugged ways, thorns, stones, etc.” (Adam Clark).

The gospel of peace (cf. Romans 10:15) is the Christian’s footwear.  The gospel is revealed in God’s word (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Mark 16:15-16).  This is the third reference to God’s word.

Foy Wallace Jr. remarked, “The Christian is the messenger of the gospel.  Feet shod, not seats padded… Every Christian – prepare to take the gospel” (Wallace, A Commentary on Romans, Galatians and Ephesians, p. 228).

4.  Take the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16).

There were different types of shields.  Some were small.  Some were large.  This was the largest of shields in common use.  It was four feet long and two and one-half feet wide” (Lipscomb, A Commentary on Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians, p. 132).  “This was always made of wood, and covered with hides… It was called a thureos, a door, which it resembled in an oblong shape, but it was made curved” (Adam Clark). “Darts were dipped in pitch and set on fire.  Wooden shields (were) covered with leather to prevent burning quickly” (Fallis, Brown Trail class notes).  “Joined together, these large shields formed a wall, behind which a whole body of troops could hide themselves from the rain of enemies missiles” (Lipscomb, p. 132).

Faith is the Christian’s shield.  “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).  This is the fourth connection with God’s word.

It is good to join together our shields of faith. It is good for faithful Christians to work together, and help one another, when possible, in this spiritual war.

Do not cast away your shield of faith (Hebrews 10:35). Robert Milligan commented, “There seems to be an allusion here to the conduct of weak and cowardly soldiers, who in the day of battle were wont to throw aside their shields and turn their backs on the enemy. This was regarded by the ancients as extremely dishonorable. And hence when the Lacedemonian women presented shields to their sons on going to battle, they were in a habit of saying to them, ‘Bring this back, or be brought back upon it,’ The same sentiment prevailed also among the ancient Germans. Tacitus says, that ‘to lose or cast away the shield in battle, was regarded by them as a matter of the greatest dishonor; and that those who acted so were not allowed to be present at the sacrifices, nor to attend the public assemblies of the people (Germ. c. vi.) In allusion to this very prevalent feeling among the ancients, our author exhorts his Hebrew brethren not to act the part of cowardly soldiers by voluntarily casting away the shield of faith” (Milligan, A Commentary on Hebrews, p. 373).

5.  Take the helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17a cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:8).

This protected the head (the brain) and perhaps the neck.  “This was the armor for the head, and was of various forms embossed with a great variety of figures.  Connected with the helmet was the crest or ridge on top of the helmet, adorned with several emblematic figures; some for ornament, some to strike terror” (Adam Clark).  “The Roman soldier’s helmet was a cap made of thick leather or brass, fitted to the head” (Lipscomb, p. 133).

The hope of salvation is the Christian’s helmet (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:8).  Hope helps us to keep our heads (or spiritual minds) when life is difficult.  Hope comes through God’s word (Titus 1:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).  This is the fifth direct or indirect connection with God’s word.

6.  Take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17b).

The Romans had two swords.  They were both made from an iron alloy.  The long sword was generally used by the cavalry.  The short sword was usually used by foot soldiers (swordhistory.info).  The short sword was about 20″ in length and typically double-edged (ibid).  It is the short sword which is mentioned here.

The word of God is the Christian’s sword.  It is a defensive weapon (cf. Matthew 4:3-4, 5-7, 8-11).  It is an offensive weapon which can be used to convict the consciences of men (cf. Acts 2:36-37).  This is the sixth reference to God’s word.

Foy Wallace Jr. remarked, “It is said that the word is the sword that the Holy Spirit uses.  Rather, the word of God is the sword the Holy Spirit forged for us to use.  The Spirit does not wield the sword – we ourselves wield it, and if we do not wield it, then it will not be wielded” (Wallace, The Mission and Medium of the Holy Spirit, p. 85).

7.  Pray always (Ephesians 6:18).

Do not underestimate the value of prayer.  The word of God and prayer are our armor in this spiritual war.

Andrew Connally wisely said, “Medieval armour (is) useless now before bullets, castles (are now) no protection against artillery… the foe determines the kind of armour needed.  Physical force will not serve us: Samson’s strength (was) no avail against temptation…  Spiritual armour is needed” (Connally, Great Lessons From Ephesians and Colossians, p. 86-87). God has provided the armor. It is up to us to do it.

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