Revelation: The Harlot and the Bride

Posted on February 6, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Two very different women are portrayed in the book of Revelation. Let’s notice…

The Harlot (Revelation 17)

Dress: “The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones” (17:4). The woman is wearing the same color as the beast (cf. 17:3), the same color used to describe sin (Isaiah 1:18). The garments and jewelry may represent wealth, or it may represent the attire of a harlot.

Position: She sat on many waters (17:1). That is, she had dominion over many people, nations, and tongues (17:15, 18). She sat on a scarlet beast (17:3). This beast had seven heads and ten horns (17:3 cf. 13:1). The seven heads represent seven mountains (17:9). Rome was built upon seven mountains: Palatine, Aventine, Caelian, Esquiline, Viminal, Quirinal, and Capitoline. She had dominion in this city.

Deeds: Her cup was full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication (17:4). Harlotry, fornication, and adultery are sometimes used symbolically of spiritual unfaithfulness (Isaiah 1:21; Jeremiah 2:20; 3:9; Ezekiel 16:15-16, 25-26; Hosea 2:2; 4:15-18; Nahum 3:4, etc.). She seduced the kings of the earth, and the earth’s inhabitants to partake in her fornication (17:2). This woman was involved in the persecution of the saints (17:6). Remember that the same was true of the beast of the earth (13:15-18).

Methods: “The three instruments of destruction that Satan employs against the people of God are persecution, deception, and seduction” (Hodwin, The Overcomers, p. 175). The E.S.V. Study Bible makes the following observation: The beast=intimidating violence; The false prophet=deceptive heresy; The prostitute=beguiling affluence. It seems to me that these three are one. However, they are described under different figures to describe different means of opposing truth.

Name: She wore on her head a name identifying her with Babylon (17:5). Rome has already been cross-referenced with Babylon [The four beasts of Daniel 7 became one beast in Revelation 13. This beast was on seven mountains (13:1 cf. 17:9)]. Babylon served as a cryptic way of referring to a world power, and that world power was Rome.

Identity: She was associated with Rome (17:3 cf. 17:9). She was over nations (17:1 cf. 17:15, 18). (1) Some understand the harlot to be emperor worship. (2) Others understand this to be speaking of the Roman church. Either way, remember that one of the greatest opponents of God’s faithful was false religion (13:11-17 cf. 19:20; 20:10). It seems to me that the harlot is just another description on the beast of the earth (13:11-18).

Location: She was in the wilderness (17:3). This is where the persecuted church was seen (12:6). Depending on the position taken – this either refers to the church becoming corrupt, or this refers to this harlot appearing to tempt the church.

THE BRIDE (Revelation 19)

Dress: “To her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright (19:8). Those who overcame were to be dressed in white (3:4-5). The ones spoken of had overcome the wicked one (1 John 2:13-14), the dragon (12:7-12), and the temptations and trials of this life (1 John 5:4 cf. 2:15-17). “They overcame him (the dragon) by the blood of the lamb, and by the Word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death” (12:11).

Position: She “has made herself ready” (19:7).

Deeds: “The fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints” (19:8).

Identity: This is the church. We are currently espoused to Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2). He wants to receive his bride, “not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but… holy and without blemish” (Ephesians 5:27). May we keep ourselves “unspotted from this world” (James 1:27).

The garments were white, representing purity (Isaiah 1:18).   The garments had been cleansed with blood. “Those are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb” (7:14). They maintained purity despite the great tribulation with which they were attacked. “The fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints” (19:8). May we be so clothed when He comes.

Location: It is her wedding day. We are currently espoused to Christ (2 Corinthians 11:2).  One day He will come for His bride. Will he find us to be “a chaste virgin” (2 Corinthians 11:2)? Will He find us “not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing…but…holy and without blemish” (Ephesian 5:27)?

 

Posted in Catholic, Chruch, Revelation, Temptation, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Revelation: Armageddon

Posted on February 4, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

“And they gathered together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon” (Revelation 16:16).

John saw an unholy alliance, an axis of evil gathered for war. This axis of evil consisted of three evil forces: (1) The dragon (16:13), which is defined as the Devil (12:9). (2) The beast (16:13), which represents a corrupt and persecuting government, particularly Rome (13:1-10; 19:19 cf. Daniel 7 cf. Daniel 2). (3) The false prophet (16:13), which represents false religion, particularly either the cult of emperor worship, or the corrupt Roman church (13:11-18 cf. 16:13; 19:20; 20:10).

Three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouths of the dragon, beast, and false prophet (16:13). Frogs reminds one of how Pharaoh’s magicians produced frogs imitating Aaron (Exodus 8). Perhaps this refers to false propaganda, and counter speech to God’s will.

(H)ar Maggedon literally means hill(s) or mountain(s) of Megiddo(n). The plains of Esdraelon, also known as the plains of Megiddo to the area, was a valley approximately 20 miles long and 14 miles wide which was surrounded by hills and mountains and containing a small hill named Megiddo. Baker’s Bible Atlas says of this area, “(It) served as the key to the defense of the Jordan Valley (from the S) and the coastal plain (from the N)” (p. 306). Due to its strategic location, it was the scene of many famous battles in Israelite history. (I) It was here that God gave Deborah and Barak victory the Canaanite commander Sisera (Judges 4-5). Sisera forces included 900 chariots of iron (Judges 4:13). “Not a shield or spear was seen among forty thousand in Israel” (Judges 5:8). God’s people faced a powerful foe, an over-whelming force; Yet, God gave them victory. (2) It was here that God gave Gideon’s small force of 300 victory over the multitudes of Midianites (Judges 7). Megiddo was a famous battlefield much like Gettysburg or Vicksburg.

The axis of evil was in war against The King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and his army (19:11-16). The beast and false prophet were defeated (19:17-21). Finally, the devil, himself, was also defeated (20:1-10).

Does this refer to a literal physical warfare, and a battlefield? Here are some reasons not to understand this as literal: (1) The book of Revelation is a signified book (Revelation 1:1).  (2) Many details are acknowledged, even by Armageddon literalist, as figurative. The dragon, beast, and frogs are understood as figurative language (16:13). I know of none who thinks that Jesus fights this battle on a literal white horse with a literal two-edged sword wielded from his mouth (19:15, 21). Why take Armageddon as literal?  (3) Many places in the Revelation record are understood to be figurative. Babylon, Egypt, Sodom (14:8; 11:8) are so understood. Why should Armageddon be understood as literal? (4) Wayne Jackson notes, “The use of geographical points to emphasize spiritual truths is a common biblical phenomenon… Take, for example, the word ‘hell’ (Greek, gehenna)… which was the valley of Hinnom… the city dump” (The Armageddon Hysteria, Christian Courier, April 1991). (5) The literal hill of Megiddo, located within the plains of Esdraelon, or even the entire plains seems much too small for over two hundred million to gather (cf. 9:16), as some are anticipating.

The great message – The early Christians had many opponents. The devil was against them. Earthly governments were sometimes against them. False religions were set against them. However, these opponents would ultimately be defeated. The victory belongs to the one called King of Kings and Lord of Lords. In this context Christians are urged to stay faithful. Jesus says, “I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments” (16:15). Cf. Watch – Matthew 24:42; 25:13; cf. garments – James 1:27; Revelation 3:5; 3:18; 7:13-14; 19:7-8.

 

Posted in end times, Endurance, Premillennialism, Revelation, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Someone Sees You

Posted on February 2, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Have you heard the folktale “Someone Sees You”? Here it is as recorded in The Book of Virtues by William J. Bennett…

Once upon a time a man decided to sneak into his neighbor’s fields and steal some wheat. “If I take just a little from each field, no one will notice,” he told himself, “but it will add up to a nice pile of wheat for me.” So he waited for the darkest of night, when thick clouds lay over the moon, he crept out of his house. He took his youngest daughter with him.

“Daughter,” he whispered, “you must stand guard, and call out if anyone sees me.”

The man stole into the first field to begin reaping, and before long the child called out, “Father, someone sees you!”

The man looked all around, but he saw no one, so he gathered his stolen wheat and moved on to the second field.

“Father, someone sees you!” the child cried again.

The man stopped and looked all around, but once again he saw no one. He gathered more wheat, and moved to a third field.

A little while passed and the daughter cried out, “Father, someone sees you!”

Once more the man stopped his work and looked in every direction, but he saw no one at all, so he bundled his wheat and crept into the last field.

“Father, someone sees you!” the child called again.

The man stopped his reaping, looked all around, and once again saw no one. “Why in the world do you keep saying someone sees me?” he angrily asked his daughter. “I’ve looked everywhere and I don’t see anyone.”

“Father,” murmured the child, “Someone sees you from above.”                                          (The Book of Virtues, p. 604)

Let us remember that our deeds are never completely unseen. Consider the following passages…

  1. “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good” (Proverbs 15:3).
  2. “O LORD, You have searched me and know me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O LORD, You know it all together…Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? …If I say, ‘surely the darkness shall fall on me,’ even the night shall be light about me; indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You” (Psalm 139:1-4,7,11-12).
  3. “I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in judgment (Matthew 12:36).
  4. “For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).
  5. “God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel” (Romans 2:16).
  6. “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some follow later. Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden” (1 Timothy 5:24-25).

May we live each day as if we are doing all that we in the presence of God. We are. One day we will give account for the things we have done (2 Corinthians 5:10).

Posted in God`s eye, Judgment, Sin | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Revelation: The 144,000 and a Great Multitude

Posted on January 30, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

The Jehovah Witnesses have built an entire system of eschatology (end time doctrine) based upon a distinction between the 144,000 and the Great Multitude (Revelation 7; 14). (1) They believe that a literal 144,000 will inherit heaven. These are the one’s “redeemed from the earth” (Revelation 14:13). According to them, these compose the “little flock” that would be given the kingdom (Luke 12:32). (2) They believe that the Great Multitude will be rewarded on earth (cf. Matthew 5:5). They point out that the words “from the earth” (cf. Revelation 14:13) are not connected with the Great Multitude. They write, “The Bible plainly shows that some of these, that is, the 144,000, will share in heavenly glory with Christ Jesus, while the others will enjoy the blessings of heaven down here on earth” (Let God Be True, p. 298). These are supposedly the “other sheep” (John 10:16). Included in this flock would be: David (Acts 2:29, 34); Job (Job 14:13-15); and John the Baptizer (Matthew 11:11); “In fact, all faithful men and women who died before Jesus had the hope of living again on earth, not in heaven” (You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, p. 122-123). (3) Moreover, they teach that the Lord’s supper is only to be observed by the 144,000. No one else has the right. They write, “Who should partake of these memorial emblem? Logically, only these in the New Covenant – that is, those who have the hope of going to heaven … God’s Holy Spirit convinces such ones that they have been selected… what about those who have the hope of living forever in paradise on earth? They obey Christ’s command and attend the Lord’s evening meal, but they come as respectful observers, not partakers” (What Does The Bible Really Teach? P. 207-208).

The 144,000

There are several reasons to conclude that the 144,000 should not be taken as a literal number in Revelation 7 and 14. (1) The book of Revelation is a book of symbols (Revelation 1:1). (2) If literal, then only those of the tribes of the children of Israel will be included (Revelation 7:4-ff). It is interesting to observe that this list mentions a tribe of Joseph (Revelation 7:8). There was no literal tribe of Joseph. It counts the Levites (Revelation 7:7); Yet, the Levites should not be counted (see Numbers 1:4-16; 47-49). The tribes of Ephraim and Dan are not included. All of this strongly suggests that literal tribes are not in view. Even the Jehovah Witnesses admit this (Reasoning From Scriptures, p. 166-167). (3) If literal, then only virgin men are included (Revelation 14:4). No women are included. (4) If literal, then the same exact number for each tribe is saved in heaven.

 Why 144,000? “Robert Mounce comments that the 12 tribes are squared and multiplied by 1,000 which is ‘a two-fold way of emphasizing completeness’” (p. 168, recorded in Revelation by Wayne Jackson, p. 175).

 Who are the 144,000? Some believe that they are the redeemed out of physical Israel. Others believe that this symbolizes spiritual Israel of God (Galatians 6:16; 1 Peter 2:9 cf. Deuteronomy 14:2).

The Great Multitude

Some believe that the Great Multitude is the church in contrast with the 144,000 which is the redeemed out of Israel. This is not unreasonable.

Others suggest that the 144,000 and the Great Multitude are just different ways of considering the some group. It is suggested that John heard the number 144,000 (Revelation 7:4), but he looked on a great multitude (Revelation 7:9). “John said he merely heard the number 144,000. But what he saw when he looked was a great multitude” (Mile Hadwin, The Overcomers, p. 74).

Consider these points  – (1) Both groups are described as before the throne of God (Revelation 14:1-3; Revelation 7:15). This throne is in heaven (Revelation 4:2). (2) The multitude serves God night and day in the temple (Revelation 7:15). Yet, the temple is in heaven (Revelation 11:19). (3) The Great Multitude have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb (Revelation 7:14). Yet, those who have washed their robes have a right to the tree of Life and may enter into the city (Revelation 22:14 NWT) and that city is where the throne is (Revelation 22:1-3), and that is in heaven (Revelation 4:2).

Little Flock/Other Sheep

The “little flock” (Luke 12:32) refers to the fact that few will truly follow (cf. Matthew 7:13-14). There is nothing in this contest about two destinies for the faithful.

The “other sheep” (John 10:16) refers to Gentiles (cf. Matthew 10:5-6). There is nothing in this context which suggests two destinies for the faithful.

David, etc.

The reason that David had not entered into heaven is that such was not ready (John 14:3; Hebrews 9:8; 9:11-12; 9:23-26; 10:19-20). Even the apostles, who according to the Jehovah Witnesses are a part of the 144,000, needed Jesus to go and prepare a place for them (John 14:1-3).

The dead go to Hades. One day Hades will be no more (Revelation 20:11-15). This is where Jesus, himself, initially went (Luke 23:43 cf. Acts 2:30-31).

Earth

This present earth will be destroyed (1 Peter 3:10-11). We will be given a new heavens and a new earth (2 Peter 3:13), that is – a new realm of existence. We are encouraged “thus we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17).

Lord’s Supper

Where is the passage which hints that some (even most Christians) are not to partake, but only watch others partake? This is a strange doctrine.

Encouragement

While it is true that statistically, few will be saved (Matthew 7:13-14; Luke 13:23-24), the saved, collectively speaking, form “a great multitude… of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues” (Revelation 7:9). We are not alone. “Therefore… since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). This is the great lesson to be learned.

Posted in end times, heaven, Hope, Jehovah Witnesses, Revelation, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Revelation: The Mark of the Beast

Posted on January 28, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

“Here is wisdom. Let him who understands calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666” (Revelation 13:18).

This is not the number of man in general. No, this beast is a persecutor of faithful men.

The name is to be “calculated”. This same word is translated “count” in Luke 14:28. One should understand that the Hindu-Arabic numeral system, which originated in India c. 500 A.D., was not used in the first century by the Romans, Greeks, Hebrews or anyone else. Letters from the languages were commonly given an assigned value.

Which languages assigned numerical value should be used to calculate this name? (1) English? No, it did not exist. (2) Hebrew? This book was not written in Hebrew. (3) Latin? This book was not written in Latin. (4) Greek? This is the language in which this book was written. Moreover, the Greek alphabet is mentioned four times (Revelation 1:8; 1:11; 21:6; 22:13). This seems the most reasonable system to use.

In the Greek the number 666 is written out (hexakosioi hexekonta hex). However, what names would equate to this number? Irenaeus (130-202 A.D.) suggested Lateinos (the Greek spelling of the Roman Latinus, the reputed founder of the Latin race). David Vaughn Elliot writes, “Latin is a designation of a people, a kingdom, individuals in the Kingdom, a language, and a church… For over fifteen hundred years, Latin has been a distinguishing mark of the Catholic Church. Roman and Latin are two ways of identifying the same thing. Roman identifies the location; Latin the language” (Nobody Left Behind, p. 216 – 218).

Remember, the best from the beast from the earth is a false or corrupt religious system (Revelation 13:11-12 cf. 16:13; 19:20; 20:10). Moreover, it appears to be connected with Rome.

“He caused all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name” (Revelation 13:16-17).

Some understand this figuratively. David Vaughn Elliot writes, “Behind the forehead is the brain, the mind; the hand is the action member of the body. The symbolism seems to contemplate the ability to think and the ability to do. It is a matter of belief and action. The mark is a representation of those who yield their minds and bodies into service of the beast, of those who accept the teaching and obey the commands of the beast” (p. 220). The Israelites were to have the law on their hand and between their eyes (Deuteronomy 6:6, 8; 11:18; cf. Proverbs 3:1, 3; 6:20-21; 7:2-3).

Others have understood this to be a literal mark. (1) Some think this had to do with emperor worship and the trade guilds in Asia associated with such. (2) Others have tied this to the Catholic sign of the cross made on the forehead by the right hand.

Whatever the mark, do not miss the greater point. There would be great pressure to submit to the beast (Revelation 13:15-17). The warning is don’t. “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wrath of God… and the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have not rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name” (Revelation 14:9, 11). In contrast – “Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus… Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord… they may rest from their labors and their works follow them” (Revelation 14:12-13). Never compromise the truth. Never serve error.

Posted in Catholic, Endurance, Premillennialism, Revelation, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Overcome Evil With Good

Posted on January 26, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.   Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:20-21).

It seems to me that some have a perverse view of what it means to “heap coals of fire” on one’s enemy. Some think that this teaches that if you want to get back at your enemy, then be kind to them, and God will really heap the fire of punishment on them in hell. This might be considered a way to get revenge. This cannot be the correct view. The Bible teaches that we are to love our enemies and even pray for them (Matthew 5:43-46; Luke 6:27-28). Jesus did (Luke 23:34). We are not even to rejoice at our enemies’ destruction (Proverbs 24:17-18; Job 31:29-30). Can one truly be loving his enemies if the very reason he shows any kindness to them is to bring misery to them in hell? I think not.

It seems to me that the key to understanding these words is to consider the words which follows – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). Instead of allow our enemies to cause us to do evil, we are to seek to change them with good behavior. Kind and righteous behavior sometimes changes enemies (1 Samuel 26:18-21; Proverbs 15:1; 16:7; 1 Peter 2:11-12). “The right way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend” (K.C. Moser, The Gist of Romans, p. 115).

What does the heaping coals on the head mean? Here are two reasonable possibilities: (1) Just as hard metal softens under heat, by doing good one might soften a hard head. (2) The coals refer to pain which leads to repentance. Barnes commented, “Coals of fire are doubtless emblematical of ‘pain.’ …Burning coals heaped on a man’s head would be an expression of intense agony… the ‘effect’ of doing good to an enemy would be to produce pain. But the pain would result from shame, remorse of conscience, a conviction of the evil of his conduct… that may lead to repentance.” (Commentary on Romans, p. 395). Your good conduct may shame your enemy for his behavior (Titus 2:7-8), and even lead him to Christ (1 Peter 2:11-12). Both of these views lead to the same end, overcoming evil with good.

Let us strive to heap coals of fire each and every day. May we seek to overcome evil with good.

 

Posted in Christian Influence, Endurance, Ethics, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Revelation: The Two Beasts

Posted on January 23, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Revelation 12 closed with the dragon (Satan) making war against the woman (faithful Israel) and the rest of her offspring (Christians including the Gentiles).  Revelation 13 introduces two agents of the dragon in this war.  Two beasts (agents of the dragon) make things difficult for Christians.  Let’s identify them.

The Beast From the Sea (Revelation 13:1-10)

This beast is described as being like a leopard, with feet like a bear, and a mouth like a lion (Revelation 13:2).  This imagery is from Daniel 7.  It is the language of nations.  Let’s notice:

Daniel 2:31-44                                         Daniel 7                                      Revelation 13

Image                                                        Four Beasts                                Beast

1.  Head – gold (Babylon)                      Lion                                             Lion

2.  Chest/Arms – silver (Persia)           Bear                                             Bear

3.  Belly/Thigh-Bronze (Greece)         Leopard                                      Leopard

4.  Legs/Feet-Iron/Clay (Rome)         Iron beast with 10 horns         Sea beast with 10 horns

I believe that Rome is primarily in view. Notice: (1) The beast has seven heads (13:1). The Seven heads represent seven mountains (17:9). Rome was built on seven hills: Palatine, Aventine, Caelian, Esquiline, Viminal, Quirinal, and Capitoline.   (2) The beast is pictured rising up out of the sea (13:1). John Kackelman remarks, “In John’s day the Romans had access to Asia Minor only by sea” (Studies in Revelation, p. 74).

The beast appeared to receive a deadly wound, but it was healed (13:3). Wayne Jackson comments, “It is a matter of historical record that the pagan Roman empire, in the mid-fifth century A.D., was invaded by a number of Barbarian tribes from the north… it is believed by many that Rome’s death-stroke was ‘healed’ by the growing amalgamation between the empire and the corrupt church of that day” (Revelation, p. 78). James Coffman writes, “that death stroke was healed. It did not mean the end of the Roman persecution of God’s people” (Commentary on Revelation, p. 296).

The Beast of The Earth (Revelation 13:11-18)

This beast had the appearance of a lamb, but spoke like a dragon (13:11). Observe this: while Revelation 12 – 13 mentions the dragon, the sea beast, and the earth beast – later, this book speaks of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet (Rev. 16:13 cf. 19:20; 20:10). The reference is to false or corrupt religion.

Some believe that this refers to “Emperor Worship”. (1) The beast came from the earth. Emperor worship sprang from Asia Minor soil. Smyrna built temples to Tiberius and Hadrian. Pergamum built temples to Augustus, Trajan, Severus. One source writes, “How prevalent was the imperial cult in Asia Minor? Of the seven cities mentioned in Revelation 2 -3, five had imperial priests and altars (all but Philadelphia and Laodicea) and six had imperial temples (all but Thyatira)” (readingacts.wordpress.com/the-roman-cult-of-emperor-worship). (2) This beast caused the earth to worship the first beast (13:12).

Others think this second beast refers to the Roman church (1) James Coffman comments, “When the mortal wound occurred (476 A.D.) the emperor cult had already been out of business for generations, their temples closed their sacrifices severely prohibited, their whole pagan religion outlawed and prescribed by the Roman senate under the leadership of Theodosius… Neither… emperor cult, nor… pagan priesthood… could have been instrumental in the healing of the mortal wound, nor the reincarnation of the beast” (p. 313-314). He understood this beast to be the overgrown Roman church. (2) One may also connect “great signs” (13:13) with “all power and signs and lying wonders” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12).

 Don’t miss the great point. Persecution would come from two powerful sources: Government, and false religion. These are still the two great sources of religious persecution around the world.

Posted in Revelation, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Revelation: The Two Witnesses, The Woman and The Child

Posted on January 21, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

The book of Revelation is a book of symbols. Admittedly, some of these symbols are difficult to discern. However, there are certain points that seem clear. Let’s consider…

The Two Witnesses (Revelation 11)

The reference to two witnesses, no doubt, relates to the need of adequate evidence (Numbers 35:30; Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:5; Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Timothy 5:19-20, 22). Note: Evidence could be counted as a witness (John 5:33, 36; 10:25; 1 John 5:8).

The exact identity of these two witnesses is one of those symbols difficult to discern. Foy Wallace Jr. suggests “The two witnesses are representatives of the prophets and apostles” (The Book of Revelation p. 217). He connects the following passages with Jerusalem and the witness of these men: Matthew 23:31-37; Matthew 24:14; Acts 7:52. John Coffman writhes, “The two witnesses appears to this writer to be definitely and undeniably God’s word and God’s church, those two witnesses indeed being the only two witnesses of God throughout the whole christian age” (Commentary on Revelation, p.239). Wayne Jackson seems to agree, “The two witnesses may be the combined testimony of the Scriptures, along with the example and preaching of the church…Those who attempt to oppose Heaven’s ‘witnesses,’ will only meet the destruction they deserve” (A New Testament Commentary, p. 608). Others have suggested that the two witnesses are The Old Testament and The New Testament. The two witnesses are likened to Elijah and Moses (Revelation 11:6 cf. 1 Kings 17:1; Exodus 7:14-21). Like Elijah and Moses, they provided evidence supporting their message. God was with them supernaturally and providentially.

They were empowered with olive oil, which represents the Holy Spirit (Revelation 11:4 cf. Zechariah 4:6-10, 11, 14). This is what fuels their lampstands. Foy Wallace, Jr. connects the following passages : Matthew 10:18-20; Mark 13:11; Luke 12:12.

They were protected by God until they had finished their testimony (Revelation 11:7). Jesus declared, “this gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world” (Matthew 24:14).

After this, they are killed and disrespected, but in time resurrected and taken to heaven(Revelation 11:11-12). Wayne Jackson commented, “This symbolizes the ultimate victory of truth over error” (p. 188). John Kachelman Jr. commented, “The message – remain faithful to God; when the time is completed reward is assured” (Revelation, p. 66). The crown of life belongs to the faithful (Revelation 2:10). “For Your sake we are killed all day long and accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:36-37).

Notice that it is the city of Jerusalem that did this to the witnesses (Revelation 11:8). This fits what Jesus said that Jerusalem would do to the prophets and apostles (cf. Luke 11:49-51; Matthew 23:34-38).

The Woman and Child (Revelation 12)

The characters: (1) The woman. (a) some see her as Mary. (b) Some understand the woman as Israel, faithful Israel, which would include Mary (cf. Genesis 37:9-10; Isaiah 26:17; 66:7-8; Micah 5:2-3). This fits the context better.  (2) The child – the child is Christ (Revelation 12:5; cf. 2:27 cf. Psalm 2, cf. Acts 13:33). (3) The dragon is Satan (cf. Revelation 12:9).

The dragon tried to destroy the child (Revelation 12:4). (a) If the woman is Mary, the reference is obvious (Matthew 2:13). (b) If the woman is Israel, then this may include other attempts to destroy God’s plan (cf. Exodus 1:16-22).

The woman was protected in the wilderness (Revelation 12:6, 13-16). (a) If the woman is Mary, the reference is to the flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-14). (b) If the woman is Israel, then included may be other things, such as the Exodus. It may also include how faithful Israel was protected by God when Jerusalem fell (Matthew 24:15-16; Luke 21:20-21).

The dragon, unable to prevent the birth or ascension of the child went after the woman and her offspring (Revelation 12:17). This clearly better fits faithful Israel. John Kackelman, Jr. commented, “Having failed to destroy Christ…Satan focused his attack upon faithful Israel. The flood seems to refer to persecution” (p. 73).

They were a part of a great spiritual war. The key to victory – “They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death” (Revelation 12:11). While many details are difficult, it is important for us to remember that the key to our victory is much the same.

Posted in end times, Premillennialism, Revelation, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What Does the Lord Require?

Posted on January 19, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

God has given many commandments. It is said that the Old Covenant contained 613 commandments Israelites were to follow. It is said that the New Covenant contains 1,050 commandments Christians are to follow. Whatever the numbers, God has given many commandments.

How can we summarize these commandments? What is it that God requires of man? Let’s consider Micah 6:6-8 which seems to provide a good summary.

“With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the High God? Shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, ten thousand rivers of oil?” (Micah 6:6-7a).

It is true that it was God who required the Israelites offer animal sacrifices (e.g. Exodus 12:5; Leviticus 9:2-3). It is true that it was God who required oil to be used in some offerings (e.g. Leviticus 6:14-15; 9:3-4; 24:1). These things He did require.

However, He has always wanted more than ritualistic sacrifice. Such is not what He ultimately sought. Sacrifice without obedience does not please Him (1 Samuel 15:22; Hosea 6;6-8; Amos 5:21-24; Micah 6:6-8). Sacrifice without a heart for Him does not please Him (Isaiah 29:13;Matthew 15:8; Psalm 51:16-19).

He did not need man to give Him the animals themselves. Remember, they already belonged to Him (Psalm 24:1; 50:10-12).

“Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruits of my body for the sin of my soul?” (Micah 6:7b).

What can man possibly offer to God for the propitiation of sin? Does God require the sacrifice of one’s firstborn child? Some misguided people have so sacrificed their children. Abraham said, “the LORD will provide” and so He did, and so He would through Jesus.

David Limbaugh has written, “Theologian Millard Erickson responds to the argument that it is unfair to have substituted His Son to bear our penalty. He considers the analogy of a judge imposing a penal sentence on an innocent bystander instead of the just-convicted defendant. The analogy fails, says Erickson, because God didn’t impose the sentence on some innocent third-party; He imposed it on Himself” (Jesus on Trial, p. 72). We should keep in mind that while it is true that there is a distinction to be made between God the Father and Jesus the Son (John 8:16); Jesus is God (John 1:1-3, 14; Romans 9:5; Titus 2:13).

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

God requires three things of man. (1) We are to do justly (justice NASB). Homer Hailey commented that to do justly “is to act toward God and man according to the divine standard of righteousness revealed in His law” (A Commentary on the Minor Prophets, p. 214). We are expected to strive to live our lives according to the book. This is not sinless perfection, but a manner of life. We are to treat others fairly, according to God’s instructions (cf. Matthew 7:12). (2) We are to love mercy (kindness NASB). Homer Hailey commented that this “is to show a compassionate warmness toward man” (ibid). Mercy is the outward manifestation of pity. It is kindness toward those in need. We are to exhibit such toward those in physical need (cf. Luke 10:30-37) and toward those in spiritual need (cf. Galatians 6:1-2). Moreover, we are to be kind and forgiving of others (Ephesians 4:32). (3) We are to walk humbly with our God. Homer Hailey commented that this means, “to recognize the absolute holiness and righteousness of God, and to walk in humble and submissive obedience to His desire and will” (ibid). It is with this attitude one is to worship Him and keep His commandments. The prophet Amos asked, “Can two walk together unless they are agreed?” (Amos 3:3).

Posted in Humility, Meaning and Purpose, Mercy, Textual study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Revelation: The Twenty-four Elders and The Four Living Creatures

Posted on January 16, 2015 by Bryan Hodge

Twenty-four elders and four living creatures are mentioned in Revelation 4 and 5. They are engaged in worshipping. They say, “Holy, holy, holy Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!… You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing! Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, forever and ever!” (Revelation 4:8; 4:11; 5:12, 13).

The twenty-four elders

Consider their dress. (1) They are clothed in white robes (Revelation 4:4). This is language of victory. They had overcome (cf. white garments, Revelation 3:4, 5). (2) The are crowned (Revelation 4:4, 4:10). The term for crown (Stephanos) refers to a victor’s crown (Vine’s). This is language of victory (cf. crown Revelation 2:10; 3:11). This is language of faithfulness (cf. Revelation 2:10; 3:11). This is the redeemed (Revelation 5:9).

What is the significance of 24? There were 24 divisions of the priesthood (1 Chronicles 24). We are His priests (1 Peter 2:5, 9). Let me suggest to you that much of the book of Revelation is of temple imagery [(a) There is a throne (Revelation 4:3). The mercy-seat was considered the throne of God (1 Samuel 4:4). The ark was called the ark of Jehovah (Joshua 4:11), and the ark of God (1 Samuel 3:3). It represented God’s presence (Numbers 10:33, 35-36; Joshua 6:6-8; 7:6-7; 1 Samuel 4:3,4, 7; 6:19-20; 1 Chronicles 16:4, 37). (b) There is a sacrificial lamb (Revelation 5:6, 8, 12: 12:11, etc.). (c) There is incense (Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4). This was a part of the temple (Exodus 30:1 cf. Luke 1:9-10). (d) There is a lampstand of seven lamps (Revelation 1:12; 1:20; 4:5). This too was a part of the temple/tabernacle system (Exodus 25:37; 27:20 cf. Hebrews 9:2). (e) There is a sea (Revelation 4:6). There are some who think this refers to the laver (1 Kings 7:23-ff; 2 Chronicles 4:2-ff)].

The Four Creatures

Consider their facial description: lion, calf, man, eagle (Revelation 4:7). This sounds like cherubim (Ezekiel 1:4-14 cf. 10:15, 20). Moreover, they have six wings (Revelation 4:8). This sounds like seraphim (Isaiah 6:1-5 cf. Ezekiel 1:6). Clearly, these are Heavenly creatures.

Cherubim were definitely a part of the tabernacle temple system. (1) There were above the mercy-seat (Exodus 25:19-20). God is said to dwell between Cherubim (Numbers 7:8-9; 1 Samuel 4:4; 2 Samuel 6:2; 2 Kings 19:15; Isaiah 37:16). (2) They were on the veil (Exodus 26:1. (3) They were on the temple walls (1 Kings 6:29).

Cherubim have indicated in the past separation from God. Cherubim were placed in the garden to keep man from the Tree of Life (Genesis 3:24). Cherubim on the veil (Exodus 26:1), no doubt reminded man that there was separation. Only the High Priest was allowed into the Most Holy Place, and even he could only enter one day per year (Hebrews 9:7 cf. Exodus 30:10; Leviticus 16:2, 11, 12, 15, 34).

Today, the veil has been removed (Hebrews 10:20-22). The Tree of Life is accessible (Revelation 2:7; 22:1-2, 14). Righteous men and Heavenly creatures join in the praise of God.

Posted in Revelation, Textual study, Type/Antitype | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment