Notes on Holy Scripture
REVELATION
Foreword
Revelation describes the Culmination of the Plan of God Almighty for the peoples of the Earth, particularly the Jewish People, and the surviving remaining Gentiles/Nations.
It must be seen and understood in the context of the whole Bible, from Genesis 1; and particularly with reference to the Prophets of Israel; notably Daniel and Isaiah (quoted by our Lord, see Matt. 24 etc).
It describes the “revealing” (Apocalypse) of Christ Jesus, as never before. As the Jews are being brought back into Blessing as Prime Object of Jehovah God, much of the content is primarily Jewish, with implication and consequences for individual Gentiles and Gentile Nations.
It describes the battle for human allegiance between God and Satan, with “Sealing” and “markings” for both groups of human forces.
It describes the criterion for the “Overcomers” of God’s people, and also that of Satan’s people. It describes the destinations of both groups.
It reveals the release of the “Seals”, by the only “Worthy One”, “The Lamb of God”! It describes “Jacob’s” Trouble on Israel, (i.e. within the last 7 years of Daniel’s 490 year prophecy; see: The 490 years Prophecy given to Daniel by Gabriel) and also the “Holy Vengeance” of God on His enemies in the “Nations”.
It describes God's intervention in the world (Satan's) system (Mystery Babylon), and its removal; (see: The Day of the Lord: Rev. Chps. 1,2,4,7,15 & 22) and Rev. 1:10!
Description is given of the “binding” of Satan for 1,000 years, his release, and his judgement and consequences, together with his forces!
The “Great White Throne Judgement” is described, with its criterion!
Death and the grave are destroyed, together with Satan.
The Curse is removed, which was imposed by God in Eden.
A new Heaven and Earth are created by God, and the Nations are healed by “The Tree of Life”.
The events of Revelation were mentioned to Israel by the Gospel and Epistle writers etc., up to AD 61 approx., which was the date of Israel's final rejection of Paul's and Christ Jesus’ message and teaching at Acts 28:28.
Because of that rejection the Acts period Holy Spirit blessing was removed and the predicted events of Revelation have been delayed up to now (2019), but may soon commence, when seeing the current events of the Mid-East. Regarding the change brought about by Paul's rejection in Rome; see note at bottom.
R E V E L A T I O N: (From page 1883 Companion Bible): “The Unveiling, Revealing, and Presentation to Earth and Heaven of the Lord Jesus Christ (Messiah) as King of Kings and LORD of Lords” (The Uncovering and Revealing of The Second Coming of Christ Jesus).
V.1 Revelation of (a)JESUS CHRIST, which GOD gave unto Him, to point out unto His (b)servants things which needed to happen, (c)speedily; and He sent and signified it by His angel to His (b)bond-servant John.
(a) Jesus the Messiah, Comp. App. 98 X1.
(b) In Scripture, only Israel are so called, Comp. App. 190 1.2. (It is thought by some Christians, that John was transported to Patmos by the Holy Spirit, for the express purpose of receiving the prophecy of Revelation; in similar mode to Phillip in Acts 8. See V.9).
By others, that he was exiled by the then current Caesar, because of his witness.
(c) From the standpoint of Rev. 1:10, i.e. will happen quickly, when the "Day" of Jehovah has commenced. This is commonly known as "The Day of The Lord", and at this date (2019), has not yet occurred, but is probably close, when watching the events current in the Mid.- East, and the World!
V.2 Who bare witness of the Word of God, and of the witness of Jesus Christ of all things that He (a)saw.
(a) And perceived (Comp. App. 133 I.1).
V.3 (c)Happy is he that reads (a)and those that hear the words of the prophecy and keep the things which are written in, for the (b)time is near.
(a) Those that hear and see, this indicates that this writing is possibly pre. Acts 28:28. However, we feel strongly that it is pre. AD 70, as at no time is the sacking of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple mentioned. (The majority view of the dating of Revelation is one of the Christian persecution periods. Nero's persecution between AD 54 - 68. Vespasian's persecution between AD 69 -79. Domitian's persecution between AD 81- 96). The whole emphasis is the Lord's return, and the Judgement of God on the Nations, and the re-establishment of Israel to the original promises to Abraham and the Patriarchs. The majority view is that it was given to and written by John approx. AD 90; however not confirmed.
The fact of the final rejection of Jesus by Israel at Acts 28:28, means a later fulfilment. However, Christ came "at the end of the Ages", (Heb. 9:26, the translators show "end of the world", which is error again to suit their dogma. The Greek states "completion of the Ages" Interlinear, Strongs, Comp.), the length of which is too immense for our comprehension. So, whether 70 years as would have applied in the Acts period, if the Jews had accepted Christ, or 2,000 years or more, these times are infinitesimally small, by comparison with, "Age times", as defined by the Almighty which can be millions or even billions of years, as we understand time. (See: The Genesis 1:1 Enigma).
Science, with its own criterion (probably justified); states recently that the Earth and Universe are between 5.5 and 14 billion years old, (as measured in “Earth time”); this is an increase, as the earlier estimates were between 4.5 to 5.5 billion. These are huge, almost impossible to grasp time spans, and make the last 2,000 years the blink of an eye by comparison! See: Age of the Earth Controversy:
This also is a classic double fulfilment, or fill-full (completed), of which there are many in Scripture. Because of the miss-translation of the Bible by the Churches over hundreds of years (Roman, C of E, and others), see: Corruption of the Bible Text: to suit their dogmas, care must be taken by the reader to determine the original meaning. A common example is "end of the world". Almost every case in the New Testament should read "end of the Age". An example is Matt. 12:32,"neither in this world, or in the world to come". This should read "neither in this Age, or in the Age to come". The implications as to meaning are enormous, as our Lord majored on the Kingdom Age and at that time to Israel only! The current Churches talk about and teach a world ending calamity which clearly does not conform to Scripture as opposed to an “Age ending event”! See also Rev. 14:1(c).
(b) The time of the Second Advent i.e. CHRIST'S RETURN: Expectation was that the second coming was imminent i.e. end of Acts period. If the Jews had accepted Christ, He would have returned then, and John the Baptist would have "been as Elijah", (Mal. 4:5, Matt. 11:14, Matt. 17:10-13, Mk. 9:13 and Lk. 1:17).
Had the Jews accepted Christ as Messiah after Paul's visit to the Roman Synagogue at the end of Acts; Christ would have returned, as He had to be crucified to conform to O.T. prophecies, and to win Sacrificial Redemption, for the Jews and Gentiles and the Millennium Reign would have been instigated. (See: Acts 28, and especially the turning to the Gentiles at Acts 28:25-28).
(c) This is the promise of blessing for those that read and study Revelation.
V.4 John to the seven (a)Churches which are in Asia: (b)Grace be unto you and peace from (c)Him, Which is, and Which was, and Which is to come; and from (d)the seven Spirit beings, which are before His throne.
(a) "Churches", Ekklesia (Comp. App. 120. 1) = angel of the Ekklesia, minister of the Synagogue (Ekklesia = [Comp. App.186], = (Assembly, or called out ones) (Str. 1577 = called out ones). It follows here that as verse 1 applies to Israel, then the called out ones here in verse 4 also are Jews, but as in Acts, some will surely be converted Gentiles, who fit the category of Rev. 7:14.
The A.V. 1611 version, has "are" included, implying the then present tense, which suited the C. of E. and Roman Church and their teaching. Interlinear excludes, as does Darby, NIV, Moffatt/ Kiddle, and Tyndale. Dr. Bullinger does not comment. The reading "Churches (Ekklesia) in Asia", excludes time position and supports the comments in 1:10!
Note: it is to be borne in mind that regarding Prophecy in Scripture, it is notable that a fulfilling of Prophecy can be "local" in time; and, "future" in time. There are many examples of this, and the Prophecy when "completed" in this way is considered to be "filled full".
In this case of the 7 Churches (Ekklesia), some commentators consider that the 7 Ekklesia of Paul's ministry are the same as those of the first 3 Chapters of Revelation. This idea has veracity in the context of an early writing of Revelation, as the events following Chapter 3 in Revelation could have followed, had Israel accepted Jesus Christ as Messiah, and John the Baptist would have been "as Elijah", as Jesus stated.
However, only one of the 'Ekklesia' of Revelation is the same name as Paul's day; Ephesus!
A further point regarding the “Ekklesia” of Revelation, as opposed to the “Churches” of Paul’s day and since, is that at that time in Acts, the converts to Christ Jesus were called “Christians”, and as Paul explained, they were a “new man” 2Cor, 5:17); “the Body of Christ” (1Cor. 12:12-14 and Eph. 4:1-16). They all had made a conscious decision to accept the Love and Blood Sacrifice of Jesus on the Calvary Cross!)
In the case of the “Ekklesia” of Rev. 1:4; they are clearly Jews, as V.6 makes clear; as only Jews are “a Kingdom of Priest unto God” (Ex. 19:6) and the Jews are again “Ammi”, reversing the condition they entered at Acts 28:28, (see: A Kingdom of Priests unto God ).
They are also explicitly descried as “called out”, and that can only be for their purpose in the “Millennial Age” (Kingdom Age). The Greek word “Ekklesia”, has multiple meanings, depending on the context.
The fact that Israel rejected Jesus Christ as Messiah means a later fulfilment, with the 7 Ekklesia depicted in Revelation 1, 2 & 3 being future entities!
(See opening note on Chapter 2).
(b) Grace; see John 1:14. The Lord in His flesh was the embodiment of Grace and Truth, which in the Hebraism means Divine Revelation (Comp. Pg. 1513). The Hebrew words "Hesed Emeth", devotion. (These words vary in the spelling, see below).
Hesed; Loving kindness, steadfast love, grace, mercy faithfulness, goodness.
Emet; Truth, reliability, fidelity.
See fig. Hendiadys (two for one) [Dr. Bullinger's Figures of Speech p.656].
So when "Truth", or "Grace", are read; understand "Grace and Truth", re. Christ, and the Father.
(c) "Him Which is"; i.e. Jehovah (means Elohim in Covenant relationship with ISRAEL). "Which was"; Christ Crucified, Risen, sitting at the right hand of Jehovah. Psm. 2 & 110. "Which is to come"; (Rev. 14:14, 17:14 and 19:11-1).
(d) "Seven Spirit beings" (angels, App. 101:II 11, STR. 4151, Acts 8:29 and Heb. 1:7-14). Seven, the number of Spiritual perfection; The Author of God's Word; see also V.20 and notes.
V.5 (a)Even (b)Jesus the Christ, (c)Who is the faithful Witness, the FIRST BEGOTTEN (at Resurrection) of the dead, and the (d)Prince (Ruler) of the kings of the Earth. (e)Unto Him that loveth us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood.
(a) Even (INT). The AV. states "and".
(b) Messiah - Anointed One.
(c) The Amen - See P.1511 Comp. note 4.
(d) This is not, nor has yet been fact, and is to be in Millennial.
(e) Clearly defines the speaker as Christ! (For the Christian, this “washing” is considered “Baptism” into the “Body” of Christ Jesus) Romans 6:5!
V.6 And made (c)us a (a)Kingdom and Priests unto God His Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion for ever and ever. (b)Amen.
(a) This in AV, and mistranslated from the Manuscripts and in the minds of C. of E., and many other Church groups around the World is translated kings! This huge error which leaves some Christians (especially the Brethren Movement) thinking that it refers to them in the Millennium and is not easily changed. However, the true translation is "Kingdom”, which means that the future Jewish Nation in the Millennial Reign of Christ, will be an established Nation to the promised borders (as opposed to the present oppressed tiny Nation) part /or all of which will be Priests to Him, (Rev. 5:9 & 10) and (Rev. 20:4-6) and (Exodus 19:4-6).
The offer made by Jehovah to Israel in Exodus 19:4-6 & 8; they accepted, and then broke their word. However, Jehovah again re-offered in Jer. 31:31- 34, which Israel again rejected at Acts 28:28; and the Salvation offer then went to the Gentiles (heathen)!.
Messiah- Christ's return will restore Israel, to the Priestly function, (Isa. 61:6, 66:21 and 1Peter 2:9), see also later notes.
(b) Comp. P.1511, and note (e) in next verse.
(c) The term "us" refers to (a) "Kingdom and Priests" which is therefore further proof of the Jewish emphasis of Revelation. The promise to Israel only, is that they would be a Kingdom of Priests unto God, (Ex. 19:4-6).
V.7 (a)Behold! He cometh (b)with the clouds; and every eye shall (c)see HIM, and they also which (d)pierced HIM: and all tribes of the land shall wail because of HIM. (e)Even so, Amen.
(a) Comp. App. 133. 1.2; Christ at His Second Advent.
(b) (Comp. App. X1.1 "in company", "amid", "among"). In the company with (whom)? as in Zech., we hold that although they are described as "angels", that in fact HIS BODY i.e The True Church may at least be part of that company.
This latter comment is feasible if what is called the 'Rapture' and is referred to in 1Thess 4:17, is in fact applicable to The Body of the Lord, as is taught by many groups.
There is much differing view on this subject as there are so many differing views on the timing of the taking (Translation) of the Lord's Body (Christ-ones/ Christians).
One thing is certain the Lord is to translate His Body to Himself, and is going to rescue the remnant of Israel at the critical moment in time described in the Old Testament Prophets and particularly and lucidly in Joel.
It is quite possible and feasible that the two events are almost simultaneous in the sense of time that humans understand time.
This idea would be feasible if the Satanic Tribulation on Israel is not simultaneous to the wrath of God on the Nations. A reading of Joel seems to indicate that the wrath of God as described in Revelation on the Gentile Nations is subsequent, or maybe slightly overlapping with Christ's rescue of remnant Israel. Should that be the case an almost simultaneous "Rapture" of Christians could be the same event as Christ's descending to rescue Israel at the trumpet. However, we hold at present (2019), that the "Rapture" is prior to the last 7 years of Daniel's 490 year prophecy!
As can be seen from verse 7 "every eye shall see Him" (Christ), and the verse goes on to say and those that pierced Him, clearly referring to the Jewish Nation. This clearly also means that all Nations and Peoples will witness that event.
Note; 2014
A quite possible view, in context, is that there is more than one protected group. Revelation is clearly a continuation of the Old Testament, Gospels and Acts; with Acts 28:28 as the change point of "Administration", (i.e. Dispensation or Age). The time from Acts 28:28 to Revelation's start is clearly as Paul states, the time of "the Mystery Church", or Body of Christ. It therefore follows that when its time is ended and its "number is made up" (Rom. 11:25) it will be removed from the Earth in what is called the "Rapture", or Translation, (Cor. 15:51 & 1Thess. 4:14-17).
The fact that Paul described the Rapture event in detail in 1Thess. 4:13-17, and 1Cor. 15:20-23, and that these writings are prior to Acts 28:28 does not detract from the facts of both events; i.e. pre-Acts 28:28 Jews and Gentiles, and post Acts 28:28 Gentiles and Jews in the pre-Revelation event.
The grouping described in Rev. 7 are clearly extracted from the "Great Tribulation", and are Jews and Gentiles also, who have "washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb", V.14. Their kinship and experience is similar to the Acts period Jews and Gentile Christians, and the verses of Scripture pertaining to them are: Matt. 24:40-41, Luke 17:34-36, Jer. 50:4 and Isa. 10:20-24 etc.
To Summarise; the writers take the view that there are at least possibly 2, or even 3 "Rapture or Protection events".
1) Post Acts 28:28 to approx. the beginning of Revelation "Mystery Body of Christ".
2) Pre. Acts 28:28 "Body of Christ", which may or may not be simultaneous with 1), but may well be simultaneous with 3).
3) Overcomers described in Rev. 7, extracted from "the Great Tribulation", as described above; Scripture refs: Rev. 18:4, Jer. 50:4-9 and Isa. 10:20-24.
Not to be forgotten is the remarkable and miraculous raising and ascending of the special witnesses of God/Christ; Rev. 11:12.
(c) "Comprehend", (Comp. App. 133 1.8a).
(d) (Zech. 12:9-14), (Matt. 24:29-30) & (Acts 1:11-12). Many teachers say that "all tribes of the land" applies to Israel only. However, in context it possibly applies to all people of the world who will be disturbed by His appearing, with many different motives for that disturbance. It is a fact that as the phrase is attached to those that "pierced Him", the Jews in particular will wail in the sense of mourning as described in Zech. 12.
(e) Emphatically so, it will happen. "Amen", see 3:14 and 2 Cor. 1:20. This is a transliteration, but the original word is variously translated: "verily" "truth", and "He is the truth" (Jn. 14:6). In Isa. 65:16 "the God of truth" is "the God of Amen". In Rev. 3:14, it refers to the speaker, who is identified in Chapter (1) as Christ the Resurrected One!
The "even so", shows the definite nature of the statement of verse 7 indicating that it will definitely happen!
V.8 (a) "I am (the) Alpha and Omega", saith the Lord God, Which is, and Which was, and Which is to come, the (b)Almighty.
(a) See Rev. 22:12-16. The most clear and powerful statement as to who is speaking, and also who Christ is. The reference 'I AM' refers back to the Old Testament Ex. 3:14 when Almighty God answered Moses. This first comment on His Name and His Entity links Revelation again to the Almighty's purpose in His chosen people Israel, and in the statement "Which is to come", shows that the whole of His plan will be completed at Rev. 22. The whole subject of the Divine Names of Almighty God is covered in the Companion Bible App. 98, by Dr. Bullinger.
(b) (Grk. Pantokrator), Creator God, in relationship to all He has created. This shows God is addressing all Creation, Israel, all the tribes of the Earth, and all other beings whether spiritual or physical. Also, that God as Jehovah, and God as Christ are in unison in Revelation. See Zech. 2:11 and 14:9. (The titles of God given in the manuscripts, always indicates whom He is addressing, or relating to. The R.C. and English Church translators, changed the titles given by the Holy Spirit to the original scribes, to "Lord" or "the Lord", which to the average reader of the Bible, takes away true context and meaning as to whom God is talking to! The result is more confusion, as what is meant for Israel is taught as for the Church (Christendom), and visa-versa, and excludes completely when God is speaking to all, as in the case of Jehovah Zebaoth (God of all the Earth's peoples)!
V.9 I John, your brother and companion in (a)affliction, and Kingdom and patience in Jesus, came to be in the Isle that is called Patmos, (c)for the Word of God and (b)for (because of) the testimony of Jesus.
(a) Interlinear uses the word "affliction", as opposed to AV "tribulation", but clearly not the tribulation of Revelation and Daniel, but possibly of Nero, which gives the sense to the date of writing as AD 60 plus, (see verse 3 (a) above).
(b) Imprisoned on Patmos as punishment for his persistent evangelism. It is interesting that he was thus spared martyrdom (at that time) in the Roman arenas, and was chosen by the Holy Spirit to pen Revelation!
(c) Dr. Bullinger is of the opinion that John was not imprisoned on Patmos, but taken there by the Holy Spirit; as per Phillip in Acts 8, and Ezekiel on many occasions; for the express purpose of receiving "the Word of God" in the form of Revelation.
V.10 I came to be in the SPIRIT (a)in the Day of the Lord, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a (b)trumpet.
(a) "Day of the Lord", a large proportion of Christians on Earth believe that this expression means Sunday. This particular Pagan day/festival was set up by Constantine, when he and his mother were forming the "Holy Roman Empire". They changed worship from the Hebrew/ Christian "Sabbath", to the Pagan "day of the Sun", i.e. "Sunday". The Roman Church has continued ever since, followed by all the others over time. The word Sun in Hebrew can mean lord, which can mean Baal! In Syrian, Adonis, (from Adonia) which can mean lord! As Charles Welch observed, "both are pagan, masking paganism by traditional sanctity".
The various Churches, even if they study and teach Revelation (most do not), also teach that meaning. To do so negates the Truth, the thrust and the meaning of Revelation, which in itself negates Christ, the Jews and the Almighty.
Regarding “The Day of the Lord"(Jehovah), as this expression is a specific turning point (juncture) in the history of the world, and is when Almighty God takes over the Rule of all the world from Jerusalem, (see: Jerusalem; Bible Dispensations; Jacob's Trouble ; World Population Reduction); and all Papers under the Heading “Prophecy” in Subjects Grouped; (SUBJECTS GROUPED)! See also list of most References to “The Lord’s Day”: Isa. 2:12; 13:6-9; Ezk. 13:5; Joel 1:15; 2:1-11; 3:14; Amos 5:18 & 20; Obad. 15; Zeph. 1:7 &14; Mal. 4:5; Ezk. 30:3; Zech. 14:1; 1Thess. 5:2; 2Thess. 2:2; 2Peter 3:10 & Rev. 1:10!
At the present time (June 2019) it is “man’s day” 1Cor. 4:3; which with all the world’s Matt. 24 and Daniel’s prophetic signs, must soon come to crisis point and give way to Rev. 1:10; “THE DAY OF ALMIGHTY GOD” on Earth!
However, one can expect no other from the "god of this world", (2Cor. 4:4); who is constantly seeking, especially through the Churches and religious groups, to stop The Truth being understood!
See: The Father of Lies also Prophets, Prophetesses, Shepherds and Teachers.
The day of Jehovah will be unmistakable, (Isa. 13:6-13 ) (Joel 1: 15 ) (Obadiah 15 &16 ) and (Zech. 14:1-11).
As John has been projected forward to Jehovah's Day which is future, it is our opinion (2019) that all of Revelation is yet future.
In the apparent chronology of Joel re. "The Day of the Lord", the Day in question appears to arrive at the same time as the Lord's decent from Heaven to rescue His remnant people Israel. As has however been stated by more than one Bible teacher, "The Day" is almost certainly not one day as we understand a 24 hour day, but a period of time. The events that are related in the coming Chapters of Revelation show that timings of events are in the hands of Almighty God, and a careful reading of the Prophets who are on record on this subject are quite similar in events before and after the salvaging of the remnant Israel. It is therefore almost certain that the "Day of the Lord" covers a period of time as opposed to one 24 hour day, or an instant in time. Having said that, one must remember Isa. 61:2, 63:4 and 66:8, together with other O.T. references which indicate instant or fast action; which would refer to fast onset.
We know from Dan. 9:27, 11:31, and 12:11, that "the Covenant" is broken 1260 days after its commencement, and the Jews are then in terrible tribulation.
The "seven Churches (Ekklesia)" in the next two Chapters, are clearly in tribulation from Satan, so it is logical to assume that the "Lord's Day" starts at the same time, but not in its overt strength until Rev. 19.
(b) Trumpet, Old Testament link with war and the Day of the Lord, and as a proclamation sounding, to gain the attention of Israel for important events and announcements. This clearly is continued prophetically in Revelation.
V.11 Saying, "(b)I am Alpha and Omega the first and last", "(a)What thou seest write in a scroll, and send it unto the seven Ekklesias; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyma, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea".
(b) See Verse 8(a).
(a) The 7 Churches (Ekklesia) are almost certainly a continuation of the first part of the Acts period (i.e. up to Acts 28:28, approx. A.D. 60-61).
The Holy Spirit had been given at Pentecost, for all the special actions of Evangelism and resisting Satan, which included Spiritual warfare, healing of the sick, speaking in foreign languages etc., and whatever other purpose helped the Jewish community build the new Nation. The Jews were still "Ammi", (My people), and the Jewish leaders were still trying to decide whether to accept the Apostle Paul's teaching. Although many individual Jews and Gentiles had accepted, it is conditional in Scripture for the leadership and particularly the Priesthood to accept the provision of Jehovah in Christ Jesus, as their Messiah! See: Apostle Paul (Zech. and other references). When at Acts 28:28 the leadership rejected Christ, Paul turned to the Gentiles. At that stage, the powers of the Holy Spirit were withdrawn in the sense described above. Paul could no longer heal, and his teaching emphasis changed, as is evidenced in His last 7 letters, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Titus, Philemon, and 1&2 Timothy. At approximately the same time, the Jewish Nation became "Lo- Ammi", (not My people), and Jehovah via the Romans razed the Temple in Jerusalem, and dispersed the Jews worldwide, and the Gentile Age began. See: GIFTS AT PENTECOST.
The main points which can be legitimately taught and preached since that time are;
Christ is the only way of Salvation for those that believe (Acts 4:12 and John 3:16).
He will return to Earth, when His enemies are made His footstool (Psm. 110:1, Matt. 22:44, Mark 12:36, Luke 20:43, Acts 2:35 and Heb. 1:13).
He will judge the Nations at His return (Matt. 25:32).
He will Rule from Jerusalem for 1000 years (Revelation, and many Old Testament prophesies).
There are many false teachings now current (see: MONTANISM; Rev. Chp. 1:11(a)).
One of the most prevalent states that its adherents have access to the power of the Holy Spirit, and can by prayer do any of the miraculous things described above. They claim to have the powers of the early Acts period, but have been proved to be without veracity. However, strange events have occurred, in parts of the world, and many are most likely to be Enemy activity. As the critical Prophetic events regarding Israel approach, it is probable that these happenings will increase in volume, as it is the Enemy's intention to prove himself to be the Christ!
Our Lord can and does help His people, but not in our opinion in open show. The logical conclusion of such claims described above, is that no one would die! (The logic is that as Charismatics prayed for each other in infirmity or near death situations, their answered prayer would give continuing life to the patient). It would also render unnecessary the Loving death Sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour, and people would not have to choose during their life time!! The Movement described above is often called Charismatic. It has had other names throughout the last 2000 years. From A.D. 200 to A.D. 1000 approx. it was called "Montanism" (Britannica). In the 1900s it emerged as “Pentecostalism". This was started by a Mrs. McPherson, and many of the current Movements are offshoots of that event, but there are other origins claimed such as a “Church” in L.A. USA; the “Apostolic Faith Mission”, in 1906. However; it is probable that more than one origin was instigated by Satan, as the world moves towards the culminations given by the O.T. Prophets (Dan. Isa. & Ezek. etc.) and confirmed by Jesus during His Ministry.
Satan must produce the ‘counterfeit’, in readiness for his Anti-christ, who will be accepted by so many people! (See: Rev Chapter 13 & Rev Chapter 14) . They all claim miraculous powers, but most are undoubtedly impostors; but some with Satan’s power; to deceive!
Interestingly, historically they have emerged at critical times for the True Church and the future Israel.
It is noticeable that in many cases misguided women are prominent in the activities of Charismatic groups. The current resurgence is also clearly critical, as Israel draws closer to the critical "Covenant", Dan. 9:27.
The above is laboured to show that false spiritual activity is diverting attention from real events, and the Truth, and the real situation that will prevail with the 7 Churches. See: Prophecy and Prophets; also Charismatic Teaching.
John's receiving and writing of Revelation was almost certainly between AD 50-60, as the persecution of the Christians did not accelerate until then, (i.e. "on Patmos"). Also, he did not mention the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in AD 69-70, which to the Jew, was a catastrophe beyond measure. As the reading continues, it is apparent that the Lord's Second Advent was disqualified at Acts 28.28; due to Israel’s rejection of Jesus as Messiah, and the Holy Spirit’s demonstrations of His power throughout the Acts period, in aid of the efforts of the Apostles and Paul; as promised by the risen Jesus in Acts 1:8.
There is yet to be a similar period prior to the Lord's return, as regards the Synagogues (Churches, Ekklesia is described in the first three Chapters of Revelation, and also in Matt. 24, Mk.13 and Luke 21).
The prophecy of Elijah's return as forerunner (Mal. 4:5), must be completed, as John the Baptist could not take that role, due to the rejection of Jesus as Messiah, (Acts 28:26-27) and many feel that he is one of the two "witnesses" of Rev. 11:3.
V.12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned I saw (a)seven golden candlesticks.
(a) See notes V.20.
V.13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto (a)Son of Man, (b)clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden (c)girdle.
(a) The Lord in relation to the Earth, (Comp. App.98 XVI). The Son of Man title, links to His Earthly Ministry, when He used the same title of Himself, but did not reach culmination, due to denial of Him by His people Israel. On this yet future occasion, He will re-appear when Israel is all but lost, and then they will look on "Him who they pierced", (Zech. 12:10) and will mourn Him and recognise Him, and the Millennial Reign will start.
(b) These refer to His High Priestly garments, denoting that He is taking up His position as Priest/King of the Jews in Israel on Earth and Ruler of the world and its people, who survived the “Tribulation”. In Gen. 14, there is the remarkable and beautiful account of Abram's return from the slaughter of the kings (many of whom were Nephilim). He is met by the King of Salem, (Melchisedec ) with bread and wine for sustenance. In Psm.110, Almighty God states to Christ, who is sitting at His right hand, that He is as Melchisedec "for ever". This is mistranslated, and the Hebrew says "the Age", (App. 151). The reading therefore is; V4, "Thou art a Priest for the Age. After the order of Melchisedec". The Age referred to is the Kingdom Age (Millennial). The meaning is Christ as King Priest at that time, see later Chapters.
(c) "Golden girdle"; this worn by the human Jewish High Priest in Old Testament. Here, "The Son of Man", who "came only to the lost sheep of Israel", is in the midst of His people (in Spirit) in what is now western Turkey, and was at that time Greece, (see Chapter 2 V.12 and notes) prior to His return in Power.
V.14 His head and His hairs were (a)white like (as) (a)wool, as white as snow; and (b)His eyes were as a flame of fire;
(a) "White as wool"; on the LORD'S head, wool = righteousness, i.e. Salvation. (Dan. 7:9).
(b) "Eyes a flame of fire"; all powerful, burning hot, all seeing, destroying evil, (Str. Hebrew 222 = "flame of God"!) (Str. 4442 Greek = lightning/fire).
V.15 And His feet like unto fine (a)brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and His voice as the sound of (b)many waters.
(a) "Brass"; for treading down? (Red hot, as in a furnace). (Habakkuk 3:5, 3:12-13); although these prophecies refer to Ancient Israel (approx. 515 BC), and their impending captivity in Assyria and Babylon; there is undoubtedly a "filling full" in the yet future, as detailed in Revelation. This confirmed by Hab. 3:11,12 & 13, and particularly 17; See: Fig (The) and The Vine.
(b) "Voice, many waters"; over many people? (All Nations).
V.16 And He had in His right hand (c)seven stars: and out of His mouth went a (a)sharp two edged sword: and His countenance was as the (b)Sun shineth in His strength.
(a) "Two edged sword"; The Word cutting into people, of that period.
(b) No one can look directly at the Sun! But here is the brightness (beyond comprehension) of the righteousness of the Saviour, Christ/Almighty God.
(c) "Seven stars". (See V.20).
V.17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. And He laid His right hand upon me, saying, "Fear not; I am the (a)First and the Last"
(a) Although Jehovah i.e. Alpha & Omega, clearly here double personage, as in Zech. See: The Triune God;
V.18 (a)I am He that liveth, and was dead; and behold, I am alive for evermore, and have the keys of (b)death and of the grave.
(a) Christ defeated the last enemy at the cross, the completed work will be handed back to the Father at end of Millennial, (1Cor. 15:24).
(b) The text reads "death and of Hell"; the Greek Haydes, (Str. 86, is "grave"). Hell is a Greek philosopher's concept, which originated in Babylon and was introduced into Roman Church teaching after AD 300 under Constantine and Helena, and later into Church of England and other groups. It has no basis in fact in the whole of Scripture in the Dante sense, and is certainly confused with the Lake of Fire in Revelation.
The Second death however is real, and is reserved for Satan, his angels and demons and all who follow Satan at any time, and who are not redeemed by Christ's blood Sacrifice, see Rev. 20:14-15. Also, the references in Chp. 14:9,10 & 11, are often lumped together with the "Lake of Fire", in the false Hell concept, (see comments there). See: Hell; 20:13 (b).1:18 (b) and Lake of Fire and Brimstone; 20:10 (a) & 21:8 (b) & Hell;
The ref. in Isa. 66:24, is almost certainly to the "goats", of the "sheep and goat judgement", (Matt. 25), linking to "Bashan" of "Og" infamy; Deut. 3, Psm. 22:12 and Ezek. 39:18.
V.19 Write therefore the things (a)which thou hast seen, (a)what things are, the things (b)which shall be hereafter.
(a) INT. V19 (i.e. at the time of this visitation)! This area is again much in dispute. Some say that "which Thou hast seen", refers to earlier parts of Chapter one, to which the writers would concur. The Strongs number for the Greek "you saw", (1492), implies past tense, but it also means to be "aware", "take note", etc., which can be taken to mean stay alert!
The statement from the Authorised, "the things which are", could be misleading. The Strongs number for "are" (1526) has a main meaning of "agree", which Dr. Bullinger has interpreted as "signify", i.e. "what they are", or what they mean, which is at the present time the writers view. However, it has to be said that some take this section of V.19 to refer to the 7 Churches of Chapters 2 and 3, using the first verse of Chapter 4 as justification, implying that the 7 Churches represent the whole of the Church Age to the Rapture, which completely ignores the admonition from our Lord "to endure to the end", and "to Overcome"! This is not the view of the writers who hold at the present time (2019) that the 7 "Ekklesia", (called Churches) of Chapters 2 and 3, are after the Age of the Body of Christ, known as the Age of Grace! As stated in verse 10, we are still of the opinion at present (2019) that the whole of Revelation is future.
(b) This clearly refers to the rest of future Revelation.
V.20 The mystery symbol of (a)the seven stars which thou sawest in My right hand, and (b)the seven golden candlesticks. (a)The seven stars signify angels of the seven Churches; and (c)the seven candlesticks are seven Churches.
(a) Angels = Divine approval, underpinning, help, at the right hand of Christ. This is what was available to "Ammi Israel". It was however neglected and despised!
(b) Candlesticks, "Churches" (Synagogues) = Light, whose light would shine, whilst they "overcame" with the help of the "angel" (star).
(c) "Menorah"; the 7 branched candlestick, the Menorah, is exclusively Jewish. Many Jewish homes have a prominent place for it. Very few, if any know its true symbolism, (Ex. 25:31-40), and (Zech. 4.2, where the context shows the lamp (Menorah), linked to the Temple in Jerusalem). This is apparent confirmation that the Jews are in a process of re-adoption, or just before that event to (Ammi = My people) i.e. the time is the 70th week of the vision given to Daniel.
It is clear that this is now a very special period of time. The 7 groups (Synagogues), (Ekklesia), are to give and be given light (meaning), (explanation and empowerment for "overcoming")! Their light will shine when their "works" to "overcome" are succeeding. The close proximity to the groups by Christ / Messiah / Jehovah, each with a special spirit / angel contact / messenger / overseer, is reminiscent of Ancient Israel, Pentecost, and the time after, prior to Acts 28:28.
The reason for the location of the groups, (now in Western Turkey), is that as the apostle Paul knew, Ancient Greece produced the most prolific pagan worship system (later adopted by Rome as usual), which needed the most countering at source by the most able minister, Paul. Also, earlier, the Babylonian priesthood had removed to Pergamum at the destruction of Babylon by the Persians; which affected the Greeks and the Romans and their religions.
Paul stated that he was "apostle to the Gentiles", (Rom. 15:16) as opposed to Christ the minister to the Jews, (Rom. 15:8), therefore he went to the source and centre of the most prolific Satanic action in the Gentile world, and was acting on the direct instructions of Christ. The same epi-centre will be current in the times, yet future, that are here described, (Chp. 13) but the 7 "Churches" will be sustained by Christ directly, via the "star", when they request the Holy Spirit enabling that is promised by the risen Lord, see above. The earlier Chapters of Zech. seem directly related to these events.
Special note:
Paul's ability and learning made him at that time probably the most learned of the young rabbis (teachers). In fact in his testimony before Agrippa, (Acts 25 & 26), he made a point of mentioning that he had been taught by Gamaliel, who was one of the most revered teachers of the Law ever in Israel. His head knowledge was beyond dispute, and together with his even more important quality, (his heartfelt dedication), led him to persecute to death the early Christians. These very qualities, (particularly the Lord’s knowledge of his sincere heart), led to that most favoured of pronouncements from the Lord; "he is a chosen vessel”! (Acts 9:15). Also, as shown in his testimony before Agrippa, the Lord made it clear at their encounter on the Damascus road, that He would be in constant contact with him, and that later instructions would be forthcoming from Him. Those instructions were withheld until the Jews had finally rejected Christ (Acts 28:28). The last seven of Paul’s writings (Eph., Phil., Col., Tim. 1 & 2, Titus and Philemon), give the change of emphasis in the Gentile period, which is from Acts 28:28, until sometime in the future, when the Body of Christ is taken to Him, (The Rapture). It is the writers opinion that this takes place prior to “Ammi”, (My people) condition of the Jews, but there is much dispute and difference of opinion on this.
IN CONCLUSION;
Paul was a "chosen vessel", (Acts 9:15), to give Israel guidance and understanding, into the "Kingdom Age". When they rejected, he became 100% "the Apostle to the Gentiles" (Romans 11:13). This statement refutes the oft made comment by some Church leaders and teachers, that "Paul's teaching, and Christ's teaching contradict"! They do in fact interlink, as what Paul said were/are the Words of Christ! The so-called "conflict", in fact does not exist, except in the wrong teaching of some modern day shepherds worldwide, which will incur eventually the same wrath from God, as the "false Shepherds of Israel"!
Different groups were being addressed by Jesus and Paul. Jesus was sent to Israel only! When they reject Him as Messiah; (Acts 28:28), the Salvation message was then directed to the Gentiles; and still is at this date (2019).
In the Acts of the Apostles, Paul and his colleagues continued Christ's mission to the Jews, until the rejection of Acts 28:28. Christ then gave Paul instruction re. his new mission to the Gentiles, with the Gentile now prime object, whereas up to Acts 28:28, the Jew was prime object. He also gave Paul new instruction re. his teaching; which is embodied in his last 7 letters; Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Titus, Philemon, and 1 & 2 Timothy.
Those Churches that teach that Christ Jesus and Paul's teaching are in conflict, either do not understand the Bible, or are teaching deliberate falsehood! As so many Church teachers and leaders are only in that position "as a job"; they are in danger of severe punishment from Almighty God for their falsehood!
They need to relearn the Scriptures in Truth, to see the True meaning of Israel's "Lo Ammi" position so as to teach God's Truth, instead of "man's wisdom" (which is falsehood as per the Roman Church). See: The Gross Neglect by Church Teachers of Coming Events:
The numerical symbolism is of interest. Seven lamps (Groups) with seven branches (7 x 7 = 49) i.e. 40 + 9; 40 = DIVINE ORDER, APPLIED TO EARTH. 9 = FINAL JUDGEMENT. These two are safe to deduce, (numbers in Scripture, by Dr. Bullinger).
However, as 10 = ORDINAL PERFECTION, (see App. 10 Comp.) and as the Millennial will be the first time the Earth has experienced PERFECT GOVERNMENT, one could deduce (49 x 10 = 490), which would correspond with the Daniel's "70th weeks of years", revealed by the angel to Daniel, which could be taken as an oblique and further confirmation that this period is the 70th week.
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