What each chapter in Revelation is about

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Bible Tales
Many people avoid reading the book of Revelation because it seems difficult to understand. Sadly, wh...
Video Transcript:
there is a deadly trait that has crept into our generation and this trait has come at the worst time ever it's the widespread plague of ignorance people don't know what's really going on worse still they don't seem to care however God has not left us in the dark The Book of Revelation is a detailed message from God to us on the end of the world telling us what to expect and how to keep ourselves as the apocalypse unfolds and the world comes to an end in this video we will go through all 22 chapters of
Revelation explaining this message from God the opening chapter of Revelation is an open call to you and I to see Jesus as he truly is interestingly the word revelation actually means to unveil or to reveal so from the very first verse we are told that this is the revelation of Jesus Christ it's as if a curtain is being pulled back to to show us what is most important Jesus Christ The Book of Revelation has lots of symbols and images such as the beasts the plagues the Antichrist and the great judgments so it's pretty easy to
get caught up and distracted by these things but if we miss seeing Jesus in all this we've missed the whole point at its core this book reveals Jesus as the Victorious savior the one who conquers sin death and all the evil that has ever been or ever will be the first verse continues and says the revelation of Jesus Christ which God gave him to show his servants this means that this Revelation was not meant to be hidden or mysterious but to be revealed to us it's meant to encourage strengthen and awaken us this Revelation was
signified to John the Beloved who was exiled to the lonely island of Patmos even in this isolated Place God's voice reached him isn't that just like God to meet us even in our darkest most desolate moments unveiling his glory when we least expect it this book has its own style of communication that we need to understand in writing Heavenly visions that human language may be difficult to explain John communicated things using signs John used phrases words and sentences that were popular in the day to try to capture what he saw in this Vision so some
of the things that we will read in this book are representing some deeper truths the third verse of Revelation contains a pleasant surprise it says 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 because many people neglect the book Revelation they miss this blessing this is a typical attitude towards the Book of Revelation many people believe that only Fanatics want to dig deep into this book but but really it is a book for anyone who wants to
be blessed The Book of Revelation gives us much more than information for prophetic speculation it gives us things to keep if we understand this book it will change the way we live and this makes it clear that the Book of Revelation is written for anyone to be read and understood by anyone including you John's encounter wasn't just any Vision he saw Jesus in a way that would have overwhelmed even the strongest among us this is the same John who leaned on jesus' chest at the Last Supper who walked with him during his Earthly Ministry yet
when John saw Jesus in his Heavenly Glory he fell at his feet as though dead the Jesus that John knew as a friend now stood before him in brilliant Majesty his eyes like a flame of fire his voice like Rushing Waters and his face shining like like the sun in full strength and here's the beauty Jesus reaches out to John he places his hand on him and sayso not be afraid I am the first and the last I am he who lives and was dead and behold I am alive forever more this same Jesus who
once walked Among Us in humility now Reigns in splendor he holds the keys to death and Hades showing his ultimate authority over life death and Eternity this chapter gives us a clear picture of who Jesus is now not just the lamb who was slain but the King of Kings the one who reigns with power and Majesty we are reminded that he is not distant or unapproachable he is in the midst of his church walking among the seven lampstands symbolizing his constant presence with his people and as he holds the Seven Stars in his right hand
we are assured that all things even us members of his body are secure in his grasp John is commanded to record what he has seen what is now and what will be this is a message for the church not just for John's time but for every generation it speaks to the present reality of Christ's Rule and the future fulfillment of his promises as we continue we should remember that Revelation is not a book meant to scare or confuse us it's a book of Hope and victory it's a reminder that no matter how dark the world
may seem Jesus is in control he holds the keys he is coming back and every eye will see him even those who have rejected him as we will soon see in chapters 2 and three of revelation we are introduced to the letters Jesus wrote to seven churches revealing both their strengths and their shortcomings these letters follow a consistent pattern beginning with an address to a particular Church followed by an introduction of Jesus a statement of the church's condition a verdict a command a general exhortation and a promise of reward these letters provide Timeless insights not
only into the spiritual state of these churches but also into our own walk with Christ the first letter is addressed to the church at Ephesus a city known for its religious and economic significance Ephesus was home to the Temple of Diana one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and was also a hub for trade and idolatry despite being surrounded by spiritual Darkness the church in Ephesus had a rich history of faithful Ministry Paul Aquila prisilla Apollos and even the Apostle John ministered there Jesus begins his message to this church by emphasizing his authority
saying these things says he who holds the Seven Stars in his right hand who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands this imagery reminds the church that Jesus holds them securely and is present among them watching over their works and spiritual health Jesus commends the Ephesian church for their hard work patience and perseverance they were diligent in guarding against false Apostles and maintaining doctrinal Purity even when others were falling away however despite all their strengths Jesus had something against them they had left their first love this wasn't a mere accidental loss but a
deliberate departure from the passionate love they once had for Christ their faith had become more about Duty and doctrinal correctness than about a deep personal relationship with Jesus the warning here is sobering remember therefore from where you have fallen repent and do the first works or else I will will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place unless you repent while their dedication to truth was commendable their lack of love was a critical flaw if they did not return to their first love they risked losing their witness and influence Jesus then extends
a promise to those who overcome they will eat from the Tree of Life in The Paradise of God next we move to the church in smirna a church under persecution Smyrna was a wealthy City but the Christians there were impoverished and suffering for their faith Jesus acknowledges their tribulation and poverty but reassures them saying you are rich despite their material lack they were spiritually wealthy storing up Treasures in Heaven Jesus also knew the slander they faced from those who claimed to be Jews but were actually part of the synagogue of Satan this persecution likely came
from both religious and political sources as Emperor worship was rampant in Smyrna yet despite these challenges Jesus offers no rebuke to the church in Smyrna instead he encourages them to be faithful until death promising them the Crown of Life and protection from the second death their faithfulness in the face of suffering would be richly rewarded a reminder that Earthly trials pale in comparison to eternal glory the third letter is to the church at pergamos a city where Satan's Throne was located pergamos was a center of pagan worship known for its Grand temples to Greek and
Roman gods like Zeus and aspius the Christians in pergamos faced immense pressure to conform yet they held fast to jesus' name and did not deny their faith even when one of their own Antipas was martyred however despite their faithfulness in the face of persecution some in the church held to the doctrine of balum which led to idolatry and sexual immorality others embraced the teachings of the nikans whose Deeds Jesus hated the nicians likely promoted a form of compromise allowing immorality and idolatry under the guise of spiritual Freedom Jesus Calls the church to repent or face
his judgment saying I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth for those who overcome Jesus promises the hidden manner symbolizing spiritual nourishment and a white stone with a new name representing acceptance and intimacy with Christ next we arrive at the church in thota a city known for its trade societies these societies often held feasts that included idolatrous practices and sexual immorality creating a challenging environment for Christians there while the church in thota was known for it love Faith service and perseverance they tolerated a false prophetes named
Jezebel who led Believers into immorality and idolatry Jezebel's teachings lightly encouraged participation in the society's immoral activities under the pretense of spiritual Freedom or prophetic Insight Jesus with eyes like a flame of fire and feet like fine brass gives a Stern warning those who follow Jezebel into sin will face severe judgment unless they repent yet for the faithful who have not followed her teachings Jesus offers no further burden only the encouragement to hold fast what you have till I come to the Overcomers he promises authority over the Nations and The Morning Star symbolizing Christ himself
each of the letters so far contains Timeless lessons for the church today Jesus knows our works our trials and and our hearts he calls us to repent where necessary to hold fast to him and to overcome The Temptations of the world in doing so we will receive his promises eternal life intimacy with him and a share in his kingdom as with all of these letters he ends with a call he who has an ear let him hear what the spirit says to the churches this message is for everyone willing to listen and apply it in
Revelation 3 Jesus addresses three distinct churches Sardis Philadelphia and leoda Sardis was once a wealthy and prosperous city known for being the birthplace of modern invention it was a city of wealth luxury and Easy Living but by the time Jesus addresses the church in Sardis the city had entered into decline much like the spiritual state of the church itself the message begins with a sharp rebuke despite their reputation for being a five Jesus says you are dead this phrase illustrates the danger of living off past glories or external appearances without true spiritual Vitality Sardis had
a good name but its inner life had withered away the symbolism here is profound Sardis represents a church or an individual that has grown complacent relying on outward success while the inner spiritual life has decayed in today's world this could be compared to a Believer or church that maintains a polished image full of activity and busyness yet lacks the heart or purpose that once fueled its growth Jesus warns the church to Be watchful and strengthen what remains just as the city itself had been twice conquered because of overconfidence and failure to remain Vigilant this message
speaks to those who have become complacent in their spiritual lives urging them to wake up and strengthen what little remains it's a reminder that while we may appear successful on the outside neglect of our spiritual core can lead to downfall just as Sardis fell because of its overconfidence in its natural defenses in contrast to Sardis the church in Philadelphia receives praise from Jesus Philadelphia was a City built as a missionary Outpost for Greek culture positioned strategically along important trade routes spiritually the church in Philadelphia represents a small but faithful group of Believers despite having little
strength they kept Jesus word and did not deny his name the symbolism here is also powerful Jesus sets an open door before them that no one can shut the open door represents opportunities especially opportunities for evangelism and spiritual growth their faithfulness allows them access to Opportunities and blessings that others may miss because they recognize and walk through the doors God has opened for them the message to Philadelphia encourages us that even when we feel small or weak if we remain faithful God will provide opportunities this contrasts sharply with the church in Sardis where past reputation
counted for nothing the church in Philadelphia shows that faithfulness not sign or status is what opens doors to deeper spiritual rewards and success Le oysa was a wealthy city known for its banking textiles and Medicine particularly an i Salve that was famous throughout the region yet jesus' message to Le oysa is one of the harshest in these letters he accuses them of being lukewarm neither hot nor cold leod deia's spiritual condition is likened to its water supply which was neither hot like The Healing Waters of nearby hierapolis nor cold like the refreshing Springs of colos
but lukewarm and unappetizing the symbolism here is striking Jesus would prefer the leodan church be either hot or cold meaning fully committed or completely indifferent rather than this in between state of apathy a lukewarm Faith Like lukewarm water is ineffective and even repulsive Ive the Le oans were rich in worldly Goods but poor in spiritual health their self-sufficiency blinded them to their true need for spiritual growth and dependence on God this can easily be applied to our modern culture where material wealth and comfort can lead us to believe we have need of nothing when in
fact we are spiritually bankrupt wretched miserable poor blind and naked Jesus offers a remedy for their condition to buy from him gold refined in the fire which is true spiritual wealth white garments to clothe their nakedness symbolizing righteousness that can only come by faith in Jesus and salv to anoint their eyes so they can see their true spiritual condition this is a call to recognize our spiritual poverty and turn to Jesus for the true Riches of Grace righteousness and spiritual Insight the Le oans like many today were comfortable and complacent Jesus stands at the door
and knocks waiting for them to open and invite him in for True Fellowship this image of Jesus knocking at the door is symbolic of his desire for intimacy and connection with us but it requires action on our part we must open the door these letters invite us to reflect on our own spiritual condition are we like Sardis holding on to past reputations but lacking life are we like Philadelphia faithful despite weakness or are we like Leo deia lukewarm and unaware of our spiritual poverty Jesus calls each of us to wake up Be watchful and strengthen
what remains before it is too late in Revelation 4 John's Vision shifts dramatically as he is invited to witness Heavenly realities the scene opens with the image of a door standing open in heaven a symbol Gateway inviting John to view the unfolding events from a Divine perspective this moment signals a transition from the focus on the churches in chapters 2 and three to a broader Cosmic vantage point where the stage is set for Revelations of things to come as John is called to come up here the invitation mirrors two deeper spiritual truths first the Rapture
the Rapture of the church is the event in which God snatched away all believers from the earth in order to make way for his righteous judgment to be poured out on the earth in what is called the tribulation the Rapture is described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 to18 and 1 Corinthians 15:50 54 God will resurrect all believers who have died give them glorified bodies and take them from the earth along with all living believers who will also be given glorified bodies at that time for the Lord Lord himself will come down from heaven with a loud
command with the voice of the Archangel and with the trumpet call of God and the dead in Christ will rise first after that we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so we will be with the Lord forever after this point in the Book of Revelation there is no mention of the presence of the church or the abiding presence of God's spirit as we have today on the earth the Rapture marks the end of the church age on
Earth the second thing this statement come up here tells us is that there is always a greater reality beyond what we see an invitation to perceive life from God's Eternal Viewpoint The Voice like a trumpet speaks with Clarity and urgency as if summoning John not only to observe but to understand the significance of what is is about to be revealed the first thing John sees is the Throne of God it immediately commands John's attention because it is truly magnificent imagine being suddenly transported into another dimension where the laws of reality are different where every sound
and sight feels otherworldly that's where John finds himself he's standing in the Heavenly throne room and right before him is the most powerful sight imagin able the Throne of God the center of everything picture this a throne not just a seat of power but a glowing pulsating force of light it's not like any Throne you've ever seen it radiates colors that John struggles to put into words he says it was like Jasper and sardia Stones a mix of brilliant whites and deep Reds like a flawless diamond set in the blood of a ruby perhaps the
white of Jasper reflect God's Purity while the red of sardus suggests the depth of his love and the sacrifice that defines his relationship with Humanity the Brilliance of it is so overwhelming that you almost have to Shield your eyes it's not just a piece of furniture it's alive with Glory power and authority every movement every flicker of light seems to command the entire universe around the throne there's something even more unearthly a rainbow but not like the ones you see after a rainstorm this rainbow glows like Emerald a green Hue that wraps around the throne
like a protective barrier a reminder of God's promise to humanity After the flood that mercy and judgment go hand in hand it's the contrast between the ultimate power and the ultimate promise a throne that has the authority to judge but is bound by a covenant to offer Grace now picture this Throne surrounded by 24 smaller Thrones each with Elders sitting on them dressed in Pure White robes with golden crowns these Elders aren't just bystanders they represent something much bigger possibly the fullness of God's people from the 12 tribes of Israel to the 12 Apostles of
the New Testament they sit in reverence like trusted advisers in the presence of the king but even their Splendor pales next to what's happening at the center the imagery grows more intense as John observes flashes of lightning Rumblings of thunder and voices emanating from the throne echoing the terrifying scene at Mount Si when God's presence descended on the mountain these sensory details reinforce the awe and Majesty of the scene a reminder that the God who sits on this Throne is not only Sovereign but also holy and Powerful it's the kind of power that makes you
instinctively fall to your knees it reminds you of the scenes in movies where the villain has to flee from an Unstoppable Force except here there's no villain only the overwhelming Majestic presence of the one on the throne Before the Throne are seven burning lamps identified as the seven spirits of God this reference to the Holy Spirit portrayed as fire signifies God's Illuminating and purifying presence always active always present in his fullness and right in front of this throne is something like a sea of glass so smooth and clear it looks like Crystal imagine standing at
the edge of a perfectly still lake at dawn where the water is so calm that it mirrors the sky this sea is like that but even more glorious it reflects the glory of God in a way that makes the air hum with energy it's like standing on the edge of Eternity gazing into the depths of infinity this sea symbolizes images of Peace transparent Y and Purity it reminds us of the labor in the Tabernacle where priests washed before entering God's presence here it serves as a reminder that before approaching God's Throne there must be a
cleansing a preparation to stand before his Holiness around the throne there are four living creatures that look like something out of a dream or a nightmare one looks like a lion full of raw power another like an ox strong and steady another has the face of a man a symbol of intelligence and the last is like a flying eagle Swift and Majestic they have eyes everywhere front back and inside nothing escapes their gaze these creatures called cherubims are a powerful rank of angels constantly praising God shouting holy holy holy they're not like us but they're
not mindless either they know who they serve and they never stop stop worshiping every time these living creatures praise God the 24 Elders fall to the ground casting their crowns Before the Throne it's like a Royal Court where every Authority acknowledges the higher power of the king these Elders who in their rights are symbols of glory and achievement don't hold on to their crowns they recognize that whatever they have whatever they are It All Belongs to the one on the throne this throne room scene is the ultimate glimpse of reality beyond what we know it's
like looking into the core of the universe where everything begins and ends it's not just a vision of Heaven it's a vision of the order the power and the purpose behind everything that exists and standing there watching it unfold John tries to capture in words something that probably can't be fully understood until we experience it for ourselves as this worship scene unfolds it lays the groundwork for the events that will follow in Revelation 5 the focus on the throne prepares us for what is about to happen next in Revelation 5 John's Vision shifts to something
with a deep and Powerful meaning the scroll held by the one seated on the throne this scroll is no ordinary document it's sealed with Seven Seals signifying completeness and the full extent of its Authority the scroll is filled with writing on both sides an unusual detail that emphasizes just how much is packed into this Divine decree every inch of it is filled with information with God's plan for the future his will for creation and the final outcomes of History the fact that it's sealed indicates that whatever is written within remains hidden locked away from all
of creation awaiting the one who can unlock its Mysteries John sees a strong angel proclaiming with a thunderous voice asking all of Heaven Earth and under the Earth who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals this isn't just about opening a piece of parchment this is about finding someone who holds the authority and moral qualification to unravel God's will for the universe someone who is powerful enough to bring about the Fulfillment of this divine plan yet in the vastness of creation no one is found worthy it's a moment of deep sorrow
for John imagine the crushing realization that the future the consumation of all things might be forever sealed away unreachable beyond the grasp of anyone in heaven or on Earth John weeps bitterly at the thought overwhelmed by the gravity of this impass but then in the midst of this sorrow an elder speaks to John offering him hope do not weep he says the solution comes not from a grand figure of power or Majesty but from someone both familiar and unexpected the lion of the tribe of Judah the root of David these are Messianic titles pointing to
the promised deliverer the one from the Royal line of David who was foretold to rule in strength the lion image speaks of Power Authority and fearlessness the ultimate King ready to take control yet yet when John turns to see this lion he's greeted by a startling and humbling image a lamb not just any lamb but one that appears to have been slain this lamb stands at the center of the throne bearing the marks of sacrifice with the evidence of its death still visible this lamb is alive yet the wounds are fresh reminding John and US
of the price that was paid for our hearts it's a powerful moment the Lion's strength is revealed in the Lamb's sacrifice Jesus represented here as the lamb holds the authority not because of military conquest or overwhelming Force but because of his sacrificial death the lamb isn't weak though he has seven horns symbolizing perfect knowledge and seven eyes symbolizing complete power the number seven represents Perfection completeness and Divinity this is the Lamb with all authority all wisdom and all understand standing the seven eyes are also representative of the seven spirits of God sent out into all
the earth a sign that the holy spirit is fully active and present in all of creation the moment comes when the lamb steps forward and takes the scroll from the hand of the one seated on the throne it's a pivotal moment in John's Vision all of creation has been waiting for this the lamb who was slain yet now lives is the only one worthy to take the scroll and break its seals with this act Jesus alone proves that he has the right to reveal and enact God's plan for the end of History immediately after the
lamb takes the scroll a profound response unfolds in heaven the four living creatures and the 24 Elders fall down in worship before the lamb these Elders who represent both the Angelic beings and the redeemed Humanity hold Harps and golden bowls filled with incense these bowls represent the prayers of the Saints Rising before God like sweet smelling incense the prayers of Believers are precious in God's sight symbolized here as a fragrant offering this is a reminder that no prayer goes unnoticed or unheard and then they sing a new song one that has never been sung before
this song is all about the worthiness of the Lamb they sing of his Redemption how he was slain and by his blood he has redeemed people from every tribe tongue people and Nation the Lamb's sacrifice is not limited to a single group or Nation it's for all of humanity it also speaks of a deeper Redemption a spiritual purchase of all men who believe in Jesus from whatever spiritual background they come from through his death he has made us into Kings and Priests a royal priest hood and we will reign on Earth the praise of the
Lamb doesn't stop there an overwhelming chorus of angels joins in John describes them as 10,000 time 10,000 and thousands of thousands the sheer number is beyond comprehension an innumerable host of heavenly beings all declaring with a loud voice the worthiness of the Lamb they acknowledge that he is deserving of power riches wisdom strength honor glory and blessing the Lamb's worthiness is complete and total but the worship continues to expand even further it's not just the angels and Elders every creature in heaven on Earth under the Earth and in the sea every living thing joins in
this Cosmic anthem of Praise they all declare blessing honor glory and power to the one seated on the throne and to the lamb forever and ever it's a scene of ultimate worship where all of creation recogn recognizes the authority and worthiness of God and the lamb the four living creatures affirm this praise with their amen and the 24 Elders fall down again in worship submitting themselves to the Eternal reign of God and the lamb this chapter reveals the central role of the lamb in God's plan for the universe and opens up into chapter six the
chapter with powerful dark imagery in Revelation 6 we witness the dramatic unse cealing of the scroll a moment that begins the unfolding of God's plan for judgment and the end of History each seal opens with a powerful Revelation starting with the famous Four Horsemen as the lamb Jesus opens the first seal JN sees a white horse emerge with a rider holding a bow and wearing a crown this figure isn't the Victorious Christ that we will see in chapter 19 Instead This Rider is a deceiver an IM ation of the true Messiah representing the Antichrist the
image of the White Horse and its Rider going out to conquer suggests a satanic figure who Rises to power and begins a campaign of Conquest the bow without arrows May indicate that his victories come not necessarily through outright War but through manipulation and deceit he has given the ability to conquer showing that even his rise to power is under Divine control then the second seal is broken and a fiery red horse emerges symbolizing war and bloodshed its Rider is granted the power to take peace from the earth setting the stage for Nations and people to
turn against one another with the removal of Peace Humanity spirals into violence and conflict spreads globally the great sword in his hand signifies not just ordinary War but intense Bloodshed and strife this figure represents the inevit ability of conflict in a world devoid of divine peace it's important to note here that at this time the Holy Spirit and the church are no longer present on the earth hence the holy spirit's activity of restraining evil has ceased and God's people the Believers are preserved from all the tribulation that has just begun the third seal introduces a
black horse a rider holding scales symbolizing famine and economic disparity the announcement of food prices a court of wheat for a Daenerys describes a world where basic necessities become precious and scarce a Denarius a typical day's wage could only buy enough wheat for one person or enough barley for a small family this imagery of scarcity speaks to a time of economic collapse where food is rationed and the inequality between the rich and poor is Stark yet even in this moment of famine luxuries like oil and wine remain untouched perhaps suggesting that the wealthy still indulge
while the masses suffer this also opens up the way to the temptation to get the mark of the beast because without it no one will be able to engage in Commerce the fourth seal brings forth a Pale Horse whose Rider is named death followed closely by Hades together they represent the Grim reality of mass death through War disease and even wild animals death claims a quarter of the Earth's population a sobering reminder of how widespread the devastation will be the image of the Pale Horse is haunting its sickly color embodies The Fearsome toll of mortality
on an unprecedented scale and yet it's important to note that even as death ravages the Earth God is still in control these events are unfolding according to his sovereign will and in the Judgment of the unbelieving world in his characteristic Mercy he leaves room for whomever will believe at this time to turn from death and receive his life this is something we will pick up on in chapter 22 as the fifth seal is opened the scene shifts to heaven where John sees The Souls of Martyrs under the altar these are those who have been slain
for their testimony and Devotion to God they cry out asking how long until God avenges their blood their call for justice is not out of malice but a longing for the righteous Judgment of God they are given white robes symbolizing Purity and victory and are told to rest a little while longer until the full number of Martyrs is complete it's a sobering reminder that even in the midst of tribulation God's plan includes the suffering and sacrifice of his people but ultimately Justice will be served then the Sixth Seal is opened unleashing a series of cosmic
disruptions the Earth trembles as a great earthquake shakes the foundations of creation the sun turns black the moon becomes like blood and stars fall from the sky an apocalyptic vision of Chaos in the natural world the sky itself seems to roll back like a scroll and every mountain and island is moved from its place the imagery here is not just about physical destruction but also about the unraveling of the created order as we know it the powerful and the weak alike Kings generals slaves and free men flee in Terror hiding in caves and begging for
the rocks to fall on them to escape the wrath of God and the lamb the chapter ends with a profound question that continues throughout the rest of the tribulation continues in for the great day of his wrath has come and who is able to stand this question lingers as the seals continue to unveil the depth of judgment and the impending consequences of rejecting God's sovereignty the opening of these seals marks the beginning of the period of tribulation a time when the forces of evil are allowed to wreak havoc on the Earth but all within the
framework of God's ultimate plan The Four Horsemen and the events that follow aren't just random chaos they represent the inevitable consequence quence of a world in Rebellion against its creator before we go on let's make a distinction between the tribulation and the Great Tribulation the tribulation is a future period where God carries out two main objectives first he will complete his discipline of the nation of Israel and second he will judge the unbelieving Godless people of the Earth this time of tribulation lasts for S years as understood through the 70 weeks in Daniel the Great
Tribulation refers specifically to the last 3 and a half years of this period when the Antichrist is revealed and God's Wrath intensifies it's important to note that while the tribulation covers the entire seven years the Great Tribulation only refers to the latter half Jesus himself used the term Great Tribulation in Matthew 24:21 to describe this intense period he says for then there will be Great Tribulation such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now nor ever shall this follows the event described in Matthew 24:15 where the abomination of desolation the revealing
of the Antichrist takes place Jesus further clarifies that after the tribulation of those days the son of man will appear with great power and Glory signaling his return others scriptures like Daniel 121 Echo this idea saying there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time Jeremiah 37 also speaks to this calling it the time of Jacob's distress a period of unparalleled suffering for Israel though the nation will ultimately be saved the Great Tribulation is closely tied to the actions of the Antichrist Daniel 92627 tells us
that he will make a covenant for 7even years but halfway through he will break it bringing an end to sacrifices and offerings in the rebuilt Temple Revelation 13110 describes more of the beast's actions confirming that he will be in power for 42 months or 3 and a half years again the same time frame as the Great Tribulation the chapters to come in Revelation provides the most detail about this time from from the moment the Beast is revealed in Revelation 13 to Christ's return in Revelation 19 we see God's Wrath being poured out on a rebellious
and unbelieving world at the same time Revelation shows how God disciplines but also protects His People Israel until he fulfills his promise to establish his kingdom as we transition into Revelation 7 after the breaking of the six seals and the chaos Unleashed upon the Earth there is a pause we are introduced to two significant groups in this chapter the 144,000 sealed Servants of God and a great multitude from every nation this chapter serves as a moment of divine protection before the final judgments continue John sees Four Angels standing at the Four Corners of the earth
symbolizing the global reach of the events about to unfold these angels are holding back the Winds of a force often associated with God's judgment in the Old Testament before these destructive winds are allowed to harm the Earth another Angel emerges from the East this Angel carries the Seal of the Living God and commands the other Angels not to harm the Earth sea or trees until the Servants of God are sealed on their foreheads the concept of sealing was familiar in the ancient world Kings or Property Owners used seals to show ownership or authenticity in this
case God's servants receive a protective seal marking them as his own this seal is a Divine protection setting these 144,000 apart for a unique purpose during the tribulation the number 144,000 is significant as we said before it represents 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel though the exact tribal ancestry may only known to God this group is clearly identified as Jewish Believers curiously the tribe of Dan is missing from the list possibly due to its association with idolatry but it reappears in later prophetic writings showing there is still Redemption for the tribe of
Dan some have speculated that the 144,000 are symbolic of the church however it's not so because the details in the text make it clear that these are a distinct group of Jew Jewish believers they are sealed for protection during the tribulation and their role is significant they may be evangelists who bring many to faith during this time their tribal affiliation is known to God and they are sealed for a specific and unique purpose that unfolds during the tribulation following the ceiling of the 144,000 John sees a vision of a great multitude so large it cannot
be counted this group is diverse coming from every nation tribe people and language standing Before the Throne of God and the lamb they are clothed in white robes symbolizing their righteousness through Jesus and they hold palm branches in their hands which are emblems of Victory this great multitude cries out salvation Belongs To Our God who sits on the throne and to the lamb their worship acknowledges that salvation comes from God Alone it is not something earned but freely given as they worship all the Angels elders and living creatures in heaven join in the entire Heavenly
Host falls on their faces before God worshiping with words of blessing Glory wisdom Thanksgiving honor power and might to God forever the scene is a powerful reminder of the unity and purpose of all creation in worshiping the one true God one of the elders in heaven asks John if he knows who this great multitude is and John responds sir you know the Elder explains that these are those who have come out of the Great Tribulation they have endured immense suffering and have been purified through the blood of the Lamb their robes are made white by
the blood of Christ a striking image where blood a symbol of sacrifice cleanses and purifies the great multitude stands Before the Throne of God and they serve him daily day and night in his Temple the lamb who is in the midst of the throne Shepherds them leading them to Living Waters and protecting them from all harm there will be no more hunger thirst or suffering for them in this heavenly scene God personally wipes away every tear from their eyes showing his tender care and love for his people this chapter reveals both God's protective hand over
the 144,000 and His abundant grace in Saving the multitude who come to him during the tribulation even in the midst of judgment God's mercy and salvation are extended to all who believe the sealed servants and the great multitude represent different aspects of God's Redemptive plan showing his faithfulness to both Israel and the Nations God's sovereignty and Love Remain Central as he brings his plan for Humanity and the world to completion in Revelation 8 the seventh seal is finally opened and what follows is one of the most intense and dramatic pauses in the entire book a
moment of complete silence in heaven for about half an hour now keep in mind that heaven is normally a place filled with constant praise and worship so this silence must have been deafening some say it's a moment of reflection or a space for the prayers of the Saints to rise but others believe it's the Calm before the storm a pause of awe and suspense as the full weight of God's judgment is about to unfold once the silence breaks John sees seven angels who stand before God each given a trumpet trumpets in the Bible are often
symbols of significant announcements calling people to assemble or warning of impending events these trumpets are about to sound unleashing judgments upon the Earth but before the first blast another Angel appears with a golden sensor this angel stands at the altar and offers incense with the prayers of the Saints the idea of prayers and incense being intertwined is something we see often in scripture as the incense drifts up so do the prayers reminding us that God hears every plea every Cry For Justice every word from his people from your heart but it's not just the sweet
smell of incense here the Angel takes fire from the altar fills the sensor and throws it down to the Earth what follows is a series of catastrophic events loud noises thunder lightning and an earthquake it's as if the prayers of the Saints fuel the coming judgments showing the power of Prayer in the unfolding of God's plan this is the moment when Heaven's silence gives way to the beginning of intense divine retribution now the seven angels with their trumpets are ready the first Angel sounds his trumpet and hail and fire mixed with blood rain down on
the Earth this isn't some ordinary weather event it's a direct judgment from God a third of the Earth's trees are burned up and all the green grass is scorched it's a devastating blow to the Earth's ecosystem and it marks just the beginning the second Angel blows his trumpet and something like a huge burning mountain is thrown into the sea a third of the sea turns into blood a third of the sea creatures die and a third of the ships are destroyed imagine the oceans turning red with blood a sign that even the Waters of the
earth aren't safe from judgment this could symbolize a massive meteor or asteroid but either way it causes unimaginable destruction then comes the third trumpet and a great star burning like a torch falls from the sky this star is called wormwood a word associated with bitterness and sorrow it falls on a third of the rivers and fresh waters turning them bitter and many people die from drinking The Poisoned water the name wormwood paints a picture of deep grief and the destruction of the Earth's fresh water sources makes it clear that nowhere is safe the fourth trumpet
blows and a third of the sun moon and stars are struck the result a third of the day is plunged Into Darkness and so is a third of the night Darkness covers the Earth disrupting the very rhythm of day and night it's a scene straight out of a nightmare showing that even the skies themselves are not exempt from the Judgment finally after the fourth trumpet an angel flies through the heavens crying out wo wo woe to the inhabitants of the Earth this isn't just a warning it's a proclamation that what's coming next will be even
more devastating the first four trumpets have Unleashed chaos but the remaining three will bring an even greater intensity of judgment this Cry of Woe Is a signal that the worst is yet to come the heavens themselves are mourning for what's about to be Unleashed on the earth what we see here is the beginning of God's judgment but also a continuation of his Mercy each judgment only affects a third of the earth it's as if God is giving Humanity another chance to repent before the full weight of his wrath is poured out but the warnings clear
and the silence in heaven was only the beginning the next blasts of the trumpet will bring even more severe consequences leaving us to wonder who can stand in the face of such overwhelming judgment chapter 9 continues The Haunting events of Revelation ushered in by the sound of the fifth and sixth trumpets when the fifth trumpet is sounded we see a star that has fallen from Heaven this isn't just a star in the celestial sense but a person likely an angel given a key to the bottomless pit this being unleashes demonic forces from the abyss the
Fallen star could represent Satan or another Fallen Angel as the text uses the verb Fallen to indicate that this being has already descended from heaven when the bottomless pit is opened a thick cloud of smoke Rises darkening the Sun and sky from the smoke emers locusts but these are not ordinary insects these locusts have the power to torment humans like scorpions strangely they are not interested in harming the Earth's vegetation but are given authority to torment those who do not have the Seal of God on their foreheads this seems to indicate that the 144,000 sealed
earlier are protected from this torment the torment lasts for 5 months and it's so unbearable that people long for death but death eludes them these locusts are described with grotesque imagery they are like horses prepared for battle wearing crowns resembling gold with faces like humans hair like women's and teeth like lions their wings sound like chariots charging into battle and they have tals like scorpions equipped to cause excruciating pain their leader is called abadin in Hebrew or apolon in Greek both names meaning d Destroyer likely referring to a high-ranking demon or even Satan himself after
this wave of Torment the sixth trumpet is sounded Four Angels bound at the Euphrates River are released to kill a third of humanity these angels have been prepared for this very moment signaling that God's judgments are not random but occur according to his Divine timing a massive Army numbering 200 million is set loose describing as Horsemen with bizarre and terrifying features the horses They Ride have heads like lions and from their mouths come fire smoke and sulfur which kill a third of mankind their tals are like serpents further adding to the picture of Destruction despite
these overwhelming signs and judgments the rest of humanity remains unrepentant they continue in their idol worship murders sorceries sexual immorality and thefts this persistent Rebellion even in the face of such terrifying events shows the hardness of human hearts emphasizing the devastating effects of sin this is a sobering reminder of how quickly people return to their old ways after Calamity refusing to learn from God's judgments continuing from the previous chapter Revelation 10 introduces us to a significant and mighty Angel descending from Heaven John describes this this Angel as being clothed with a cloud a rainbow upon
his head a face shining like the sun and feet resembling pillars of fire this vivid imagery suggests that the angel has come directly from the very presence of God embodying great might and Authority this Mighty Angel holds a little book open in his hand there is some debate about whether this little book is the same as the scroll mentioned earlier in Revelation 517 however John uses different Greek words to describe them indicating they are likely different yet possibly related the little book may represent a portion of God's revelation that John is to receive and convey
the Angel's stance is striking he sets his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land this posture symbolizes his Universal authority over the entire Earthly situation indicating that his message and Mission encompass all people and creation he then cries out with a loud voice like the Roar of a lion and when he does seven Thunders utter their voices these seven Thunders relate to the thunderous voice of God described in Psalm 29 where the phrase the voice of the Lord is repeated seven times emphasizing God's Majestic power as John prepares to write
down what the seven Thunders have spoken he hears a voice from Heaven instructing him seal up the things which the seven Thunders uttered and do not write them this command introduces a Divine mystery there are aspects of God's plan that are intentionally withheld from us this reminds us to remain humble in our understanding of Prophecy acknowledging that not everything has been revealed the angel then raises his hand to heaven and swears by him who lives forever and ever declaring that there should be delay no longer this solemn oath signifies that God's plan is irrevocably set
into motion the mystery of God is about to be finished as he declared to his servants the prophets in biblical terms a mystery is something that cannot be known unless revealed by God this particular mystery likely refers to the unfolding of God's final plan the resolution of all things and the establishment of his kingdom on Earth following this John hears the voice from Heaven Again instructing him to take the little book from the Angel's hand and eat it John approaches the angel and is told take and eat it and it will make your stomach bitter
but it will be as sweet as honey in your mouth obediently John takes the little book and consumes it initially it tastes as sweet as honey but it turns bitter in his stomach this experience mirrors that of the the prophet Ezekiel who was also commanded to eat a scroll containing God's revelation to Israel the act of eating the book symbolizes internalizing God's word it becomes part of John's innermost being the sweetness represents the joy and Delight in receiving God's revelation while the bitterness signifies the sorrow and burden that can accompany the message especially when it
includes judgments and difficult truths then the angel tells John you must prophesy again about many peoples Nations tongues and Kings this charge emphasizes that John's prophetic message is not limited to a specific group but is intended for the entire world his prophecy encompasses the fate of all Humanity not just one nation or Empire the global scope of his message reinforces the universal Authority symbolized by the Angel's stance over land and sea in Revelation 11 we find John being instructed to measure the temple of God including the Altar and those who worship there the act of
measuring seems to carry significance it's mentioned elsewhere in scripture and sometimes it appears to communicate God's awareness and involvement with his people and their place of worship the temple in this passage some suggest might be a literal Temple that has yet to be built in Jerusalem others view it as having a more symbolic meaning possibly representing something else entirely the details of this measurement seem important though and John is specifically told to leave out the outer Court which is said to be given over to the Gentiles for 42 months this time period aligns with other
prophecies that hint at some kind of intense struggle or tribulation from here the chapter moves into a discussion of two witnesses who will prophesy for 1,2 260 days these Witnesses are described in Striking ways connected to imagery of olive trees and lampstands echoing what we find in the Old Testament the olive trees in particular often seem linked with God's spirit these two individuals appear to be protected by God during their Ministry able to bring plagues stop rain and even send fire from their mouths this description may bring to mind certain figures like Moses or Elijah
though the text doesn't make their identities clear their mission appears to carry weight as they call for repentance but the reaction of those around them might not be what one would expect eventually these two witnesses face opposition the text speaks of the beast from the bottomless pit and this being overcomes and kills them their bodies lie in the streets of a city referred to as Sodom and Egypt which also happens to be the city where the Lord Lord was crucified seemingly Jerusalem during this time the world rejoices over their death even exchanging gifts as if
the presence of these two witnesses had been a torment The Narrative then takes an unexpected turn when after 3 and a half days these Witnesses come back to life this revival seems to strike fear into those who had been celebrating then in an event that might remind some of other biblical moments they are called up to heaven in a cloud around the same time there's a great earthquake and part of the city Falls resulting in the death of many interestingly those who survive appear to respond by giving glory to God though what this means exactly
is left open for interpretation following this the seventh trumpet sounds the proclamation that follows speaks of the kingdoms of the world becoming the kingdoms of the Lord and his Christ this might be understood as a significant moment pointing toward a major shift the response in heaven is worship with Declarations of God's sovereignty and acknowledgement that the nations were angry but now God's righteous judgment seems to be at hand as the chapter closes the temple of God in heaven is opened and the Ark of his Covenant is seen this imagery could evoke memories of God's presence
and faithfulness in the past along alongside this there are signs of his power lightning thunder and even a great earthquake and hail in all of this there's an emphasis on God's unfolding plan and his involvement with the world the imagery and events seem to carry a sense of awe and anticipation though the exact timing and meaning of these things are left somewhat open leaving space for reflection on how they might unfold as we enter into Revelation 12 a dramatic shift occurs in producing a vision filled with Rich symbolism the scene opens with a great sign
in heaven something that suggests a message Beyond just the literal what is this sign and how does it shape the unfolding events a woman appears clothed with the sun standing on the moon with a Garland of 12 Stars around her head this woman isn't a literal figure walking the Earth but rather a symbol one that draws us back to Joseph's dream in Genesis where the sun moon and stars represented Israel could this woman represent Israel God's chosen people through whom the Messiah would come many have pondered this question and yet as we see in the
following verses the woman's identity seems to extend beyond just Israel she is preparing to give birth to a child a child destined to rule the nations with an iron Rod the child as the chapter later clarifies appears to be none other than Jesus himself but as we pause here one cannot help but wonder about the labor pains she experiences is this a reflection of the tribulation and suffering that surrounded the birth of the Messiah could it also extend to the sufferings of Israel both past and future as God's plan unfolds and then another sign appears
a great fiery Red Dragon with seven heads and 10 horns wearing seven diadems this Dragon stands ready to Devour the woman's child as soon as it is born the description seems to mirror the powers and principalities that have waged war against God's purposes throughout history beginning with using Herod to haunt the life of Jesus as the text tells us this Dragon's Tale sweeps a third of the stars from Heaven this passage has been widely interpreted as referring to the fall of Satan who took a third of the Angelic beings with him in Rebellion but why
does this Dragon wait for the child's birth what is it about this child that poses such a threat to him before we can fully grasp the significance the child is caught up to God and his throne The Narrative doesn't dwell on the child's life but it does hint at something more a conflict that spans both Heaven and Earth with the child's Ascension the woman flees Into the Wilderness a place prepared by God where she will be sustained for one to 260 days it's almost as though we're left hanging with unanswered questions about what lies ahead
what does this protection mean and what does it signal about the days to come but before we can delve too deeply into the woman's flight a war breaks out in heaven Michael and his angels engage in a battle with the dragon and his forces Michel often seen as a protector of God's people now directly confronts the Dragon one might wonder why this heavenly conflict occurs at this precise moment why is the Dragon cast down at this particular point in history to answer this we will have to Journey back into history to a time before Genesis
was written when Lucifer waged war in heaven and as a result was cast out to the Earth to become Satan along with a third of his angels who also became demons you can learn more about this in our video titled Lucifer's fall had a deeper meaning the text goes on to tell us that the dragon identified as Satan is cast out of Heaven along with his angels and with this casting out comes a voice from Heaven declaring that salvation and strength have come for the accuser of the Brethren has been cast down but this isn't
the end the dragon now conf find to the Earth knows that his time is short what does this mean for those who remain on the earth the celebration in heaven contrasts with the impending woe for those below it creates a tension that leaves the reader wondering how will Satan react now that he's been cast down the answer is revealed in the following verses the dragon enraged begins to persecute the woman who gave birth to the child but the woman is given two wings of a great Eagle to fly into the Wilderness this imagery is reminiscent
of The Exodus where God delivered his people On Eagle's Wings it seems as though the woman representing Israel is once again being preserved even as the dragon's wroth intensifies but Satan doesn't give up easily he spews water like a flood attempting to sweep the woman away yet the Earth opens its mouth and swallows the flood protect ing the woman this is a sign that God's creation itself will rise to defend his people enraged by his failure the dragon turns his attention to the woman's Offspring those who keep the Commandments of God and hold to the
testimony of Jesus it's here that we begin to sense a broader scope of the dragon's Fury his battle is not just with Israel but with all who align themselves with God's purposes as we reach the end of the chapter The Narrative seems to leave us on the edge with Satan preparing for another assault what lies ahead for those who remain on the earth this chapter seamlessly sets the stage for what is to come drawing us into the next chapter where the two beasts emerge from the sea and the Earth Satan's War isn't over far from
it his assault continues through other agents leaving us with a sense of urgency how will the unfolding events in Revelation 13 connect to the Dragon's Fury here in Revelation 12 the pieces of this Cosmic battle are falling into place but the end is still not in sight Revelation 13 takes us deeper into the unfolding drama introduced in chapter 12 now we see how the dragon Satan Works through two key figures called the beasts whose rise to power signals an intensifying battle and climax of the age as we explore this chapter the imagery of these two
beasts paints a chilling picture who are these beasts and how will their influence shape the final events let's dive into the text and see how it connects to the ongoing narrative the first Beast emerges from the sea and is described to have seven heads and 10 horns and on his horns 10 crowns and on his heads a Blasphemous name the sea there signifies a multitude of people or nations meaning this Beast will come from a gathering of people people and Nations this Beast is strikingly similar to the dragon in chapter 12 but it is not
the same as the dragon this Beast is the Antichrist and it is a direct mirror of the Dragon Satan it's not just a random monster it symbolizes Power Authority and Rebellion against God the seven heads suggest completeness of power while the 10 horns signify authority over multiple Realms this Beast immediately captures a attention much like the dragon before it the seven heads of the Beast each advertise blasphemy against God this speaks of more than the beast's message it speaks of his character he is a blasphemer who speaks against God we can connect the Antichrist and
this first Beast by taking a look at the Book of Daniel Daniel had a vision of dreadful beasts in Daniel chapter 7 the beasts in Daniel represented empires in the same way this Beast is linked to an Empire as a ruler and as a figure emerging from a conglomerate of Empires a parallel can be drawn to the Roman Empire with its might and dominance as a shadow of this Beast not just a shadow but the mother Empire from which this world ruler will proceed this Beast who is the Antichrist will be someone who deceives the
World by appearing as a savior only to lead it astray these are clear references to the powerful Empire of Babylon Persia and Greece from Daniel's Vision suggesting that this Beast will embody the strength and qualities of those past kingdoms this world leader is really empowered and supported by Satan through this man Satan will Express his own desire and Authority in this the Beast takes the offer that Jesus refused when the devil tempted him this Beast is not acting alone it's an extension of Satan's plan to wage war war against God's people continuing the cosmic struggle
we saw in the previous chapter as the vision unfolds something drastic happens to this Beast one of its heads becomes mortally wounded and dies but surprisingly it becomes healed this speaks of a sort of Resurrection from the dead that the Antichrist will attempt in trying to oppose Jesus Christ who also died and rose again this Resurrection would awe the whole world so much it will Inspire them to Marvel and follow it this Resurrection like event leads the people to worship both the Beast and the dragon exclaiming who is like the Beast who can make war
against him the people in their awe submit to the beast's Authority not realizing that they are also worshiping Satan through the Beast the deception is subtle yet powerful people are drawn in by the beast's might and apparent invincibility for a time it seems that the Beast is Untouchable reinforcing the question of how anyone could resist such power yet this Beast is not merely a political figure he is also a blasphemer for 42 months he is allowed to speak great things and blaspheme God his name his Tabernacle and those who dwell in heaven why this time
frame of 42 months it mirrors the same period of tribulation mentioned earlier for the first 3 and a half years of the tribulation the Beast will work his way up and deceive all until the nick of three and A2 years when he will fatally injured only to rise again the Beast during this time wages war against God's people the Israelites and others who do not receive Jesus this is a sobering moment as it suggests that those who follow God will face persecution but the key lies in the fact that the Beast only has this Authority
for a limited time God's sovereignty remains over all even in the darkest of times the text also reveals that the beast's Authority extends over every tribe tongue and Nation it is a global power and all who dwell on the earth whose names are not written in the Book of Life will worship him this raises another question how does one escape this deception the answer seems to be found in the Book of Life the record of those Redeemed by the lamb slain from the foundation of the world those who belong to the lamb are not swayed
by the beast's false promises but they will still face tremendous challenges as if the first Beast wasn't enough another Beast Rises this time from the earth this second beast with two horns like a lamb but speaking like a dragon is the false prophet he is not a ruler like the first beast but he holds significant influence causing the World To Worship the first Beast his authority mirrors that of the first beast but his power lies in deception he performs Great Signs even calling fire down from heaven further imitating the Miracles of God's true Prophets The
World once again deceived by these signs creates an image of the first beast and worships it the second beast goes further giving breath to the image of the first Beast so that it speaks and enforces the worship of the Beast those who refuse are killed and the second beast introduces an economic control everyone must receive a mark on their right hand or forehead without which they cannot buy or sell this Mark is not just an economic tool it is a sign of allegiance to the Beast and the dragon the mark significance lies in its connection
to the number of the Beast 666 the Number of a man after the darkness and overwhelming power of the Beast in the previous chapter chapter 14 opens with a shift in perspective a hopeful and or inspiring vision of Victory Jon's gaze lifts to the lamb standing on Mount Zion a symbol of Triumph and divine Authority then I looked and behold a lamb standing on Mount Zion and with him 144,000 having his father's name written on their foreheads these 144,000 are the ones ch Chosen and sealed by God unscathed by the Terrors Unleashed on the Earth
but who are these 144,000 and what makes them stand out they are described as being pure not defiled with sin or immorality and following the lamb wherever he goes these are the ones who were not defiled with women for they are virgins these are the ones who follow the lamb wherever he goes these were redeemed from among men being first fruits to God and to the lamb their commitment to the lamb is unwavering their Journey one of devotion they sing a new song one that only they can learn a song of redemption and Triumph they
sang as it were a new song Before the Throne before the four living creatures and the elders and no one could learn that song except the 144,000 who were redeemed from the earth unlike those who follow the Beast these individuals bear no deceit and they are blameless Before the Throne of God the sound that accompanies this vision is immense a voice like many Waters like Thunder and the music of harpists this combination evokes a feeling of majesty an echo of Heaven's approval signaling that these 144,000 have overcome and I Heard a Voice from heaven like
the voice of many Waters and like the voice of loud thunder and I heard the sound of harpists playing their Harps yet as we see the Lamb's followers celebrated the scene quickly shifts to a declaration of judgment an angel soaring in the sky proclaims an everlasting gospel to Every Nation tribe tongue and people then I saw another Angel flying in the midst of Heaven having the Everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth to Every Nation tribe tongue and people people saying with a loud voice fear God and give glory to him
for the hour of his judgment has come and worship him who made Heaven and Earth the sea and springs of water the message is simple but urgent fear God and give him glory for the hour of his judgment has come even amid the unfolding tribulation the call to repentance remains this moment of Mercy hints at the ongoing Divine invitation even as the world Teeters on the brink of final judgment but as the first Angel preaches the gospel another Angel swiftly follows declaring that Babylon symbolic of the corrupt system of the world is Fallen verse 8
says and another Angel followed saying Babylon is Fallen is Fallen that great City because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication this downfall is in itable driven by the spiritual fornication that has led All Nations astray babylon's collapse signals the crumbling of everything the Beast stands for The Angel's Proclamation is a warning those who have aligned themselves with the Beast and his corrupt system will face divine retribution immediately after a third Angel follows with an even more dire warning then a third Angel followed them saying with a
loud voice if any one worships the Beast and His Image and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God which is poured out full strength into the cup of his indignation he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the Holy Angels and in the presence of the lamb and the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever and they have no rest day or night who worship the Beast and His Image and whoever receives the mark of
his name this isn't just a passing warning but a sobering Declaration of the Fate that awaits those aligned with the Beast their torment will be Eternal the smoke of their suffering Rising forever with no rest day or night this passage leaves no room for ambiguity the consequences of following the Beast are severe and irreversible while the patience and endurance of the Saints are highlighted as they remain faithful amidst persecution here is the patience of the Saints here are those who keep the Commandments of God and the faith of Jesus at this point the chapter pauses
to bless those who have remained faithful even to death a voice from Heaven declares then I Heard a Voice from Heaven saying to me write blessed are the Dead who die in the Lord from now on yes says the spirit that they may rest from their labors and their Works follow them it's a moment of comfort suggesting that even in the midst of suffering and Chaos those who hold fast to their faith will find Eternal rest and reward the scene escalates further as the Harvest of the earth begins John sees one like the son of
man Seated on a white cloud with a Golden Crown on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand then I looked and behold a white cloud and on the cloud Sat one like the son of man having on his head a gold Golden Crown and in his hand a sharp sickle an angel emerges from the temple and calls out and another angel came out of the temple crying with a loud voice to him who sat on the cloud thrust in your sickle and reap for the time has come for you to reap for the
Harvest of the earth is ripe in response the son of man swings his sickle across the earth and the Harvest is brought in so he who sat on the cloud thrust in his sick on the Earth and the Earth was reaped but just as the wheat is gathered another Angel emerges from the temple with a sharp sickle followed by yet another angel with power over fire this second harvest is not of grain but of grapes ripe for the wine press of God's Wrath and another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven he
also having a sharp sickle and another angel came out from the altar who had power over fire and he cried with a loud cry to him who had the sharp sickle saying thrust in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the Earth for her grapes are fully ripe so the angel thrust his sickle into the Earth and gathered the vine of the earth and threw it into the great wine press of the wrath of God the angel thrusts his sickle into the Earth and the grapes are thrown into the great wine
press what follows is a vivid and terrifying image of judgment The Wine Press is is trampled and blood flows from it reaching as high as a horse's Bridal for 1,600 furlongs this staggering speaks of the magnitude of divine justice as the Bloodshed covers an unimaginable expanse this chapter flows naturally into the next leaving us on the edge of anticipation we have seen the Lamb's Triumph the fall of Babylon and the warning of Eternal consequences the question that lingers what final acts will will unfold as the stage is set for the ultimate battle between good and
evil chapter 15 of Revelation begins with a new sign in heaven a moment that builds anticipation for what is to come the text describes seven angels holding the seven last plagues where God's Wrath is about to be completed it's a moment both great and marvelous but it also brings a sense of finality the idea of completion much like when a long difficult Journey nears its end signals that everything is moving toward a conclusion yet as with many things in life this isn't a sudden event but rather a process that unfolds in its own time then
I saw another sign in heaven great and marvelous seven angels having the seven last plagues for in them the wrath of God is complete Revelation 151 the passage brings to mind the cycles of judgments that have come before or the seals and the trumpets but here the imagery seems to deepen as the Angels prepare the wrath of God becomes something that's not just an emotional Outburst but rather a purposeful Act of justice that reaches a point of completion much like when we reach the final stages of a long challenging project everything seems to come together
fulfilling a greater purpose then John sees a multitude standing on what appears to be a sea of glass mingled with fire this scene filled with Victorious People serves as a striking contrast to the Judgment that is about to be poured out these individuals who have overcome the Beast and refused its Mark now stand firm in the presence of God their journey through suffering much like walking through fire has refined them yet they stand unshaken victorious in their faith the sea of glass recalls an earlier vision of God's holiness but now it is mingled with fire
perhaps suggesting that judgment and Holiness are intertwined the people who stand on this sea are not Untouched by hardship they have passed through trials and emerged triumphant much like gold purified Through Fire their Victory is not the absence of suffering but perseverance through it these individuals sing a song referred to as the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb this Unity of old Old and New Testament imagery of Law and Grace brings to mind the Deep connection between God's Deliverance throughout history the song's lyrics Focus entirely on God praising his works his ways
and his Holiness it's a song that centers on God's worthiness to be worshiped reminding us that true worship comes from a place of reverence and awe for who God is Not merely for what he has done for us as the song declares for you alone Are Holy it reflects a profound truth about God's nature in this scene the focus shifts away from Human suffering or Victory and centers on God's holiness just as a beautiful piece of music can transport The Listener beyond their immediate surroundings this song seems to lift its singers and readers into a
deeper understanding of God's Majesty following this heavenly praise the vision shifts back to the temple where the seven angels now emerge the imagery of the temple opening evokes memories of the Tabernacle in the wilderness a place where God's presence was tangible and where the Israelites received both guidance and judgment the angels are described as wearing pure bright linen a symbol of the righteousness and purity of God's judgment they carry golden bowls ready to pour out the last plagues much like a ritual that has been carefully prepared with every detail point ing toward its final inevitable
purpose these angels coming directly from the temple are acting on God's Authority their clothing pure and bright reminds us that judgment while severe is always righteous much like a judge who pronounces a difficult but necessary verdict these angels represent a Justice that is beyond human comprehension yet is firmly rooted in God's holiness then one of the four living creatures gives these angels the seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God this marks the moment when everything is set in motion the temple fills with smoke from the glory of God reminiscent of moments in the
Old Testament when God's presence filled the Tabernacle so fully that no one could enter this image speaks of the overwhelming Holiness of God where even the temple itself becomes a place of awe and reverence inaccessible to human beings during this moment of Divine action the smoke from God's glory signifies that his presence is active in these final judgments just as smoke obscures Vision God's ways in this moment remain shrouded in mystery Beyond human understanding no one can enter the temple until the plagues are completed much like a task that must run its course before anyone
can intervene this sense of inevitability brings to mind the way certain processes in life must unfold fully before we can see the bigger picture as we move from this chapter to the next there is a palpable sense that we are on the edge of something very deep the stage is set the angels are prepared and the bowls are about to be poured out what will follow will be the completion of God's plan but for now the temple remains closed the judgments remain sealed and the world awaits the final unfolding of events in Revelation 16 the
scene intensifies as the judgments that have been building reach a boiling point it begins with a voice from the temple calling to the seven angels to pour out their bowls of wrath upon the Earth this isn't a sudden Act of anger but rather the culmination of a process like a storm that has been brewing for a long time and now the clouds can no longer hold back the rain each bowl that is poured out marks a step closer to the ultimate end though its exact nature remains cloaked in mystery then I heard a loud voice
from the temple saying to the seven angels go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of God on the earth so the first went and poured out his bowl upon the Earth and a foul and loathsome soar Came Upon the men who had the mark of the beast and those who worshiped His Image the first bowl is poured and immediately foul and painful sword s afflict those who have aligned themselves with the Beast much like a disease that reveals itself on the skin these sores symbolize something much deeper a moral and spiritual corruption that
has now become undeniable those who chose the mark of the beast now bear the physical marks of judgment a reflection of the inner choice they made as the second Angel pours out his bowl the sea itself turns to blood the imagery here is Stark reminiscent of the plagues of Egypt when the Nile was turned to blood but this time the scope is broader affecting not just a river but the entire sea the life within it perishes just as unchecked corruption leads to Decay and death it's as though the world having rejected life now faces the
consequences as the very Waters that once sustained it become undrinkable unusable the third Bowl continues the theme of polluted Waters but now the rivers and springs the sources of fresh water are turned to blood as well it's as if every last resource that could sustain life is Tainted the angel of the waters declares the righteousness of this judgment pointing out that those who have shed the blood of the Saints now drink the consequence of their actions like sewing seeds in a garden the Harvest they receive is precisely what they planted the fourth Bowl brings scorching
heat from the sun the sun which typically gives life and warmth now becomes a force of Destruction this change much like the Turning of the waters to blood reflects a world out of balance a world that has rejected the true source of life yet even in this unbearable heat people refuse to repent instead of turning to God they curse his name it's as if the human heart when hardened can reach a point where even suffering fails to break through the barriers of Pride and Rebellion the fifth Bowl plunges the kingdom of the Beast Into Darkness
this darkness is not just a lack of physical light it's a reflection of a deeper spiritual reality the people Gore their tongues in agony but still they refuse to turn from their ways the pain they experience doesn't lead to repentance but rather deepens their anger toward God much like a person who even in the face of overwhelming evidence refuses to acknowledge their mistake the people continue to blaspheme rather than repent with the sixth Bowl the great river Euphrates dries up making way for the kings of the East this prepares the stage for a final confrontation
as unclean spirits go out into the world Gathering the forces for a great battle the spirits are described as coming from the mouths of the Dragon the Beast and the false prophet much like frogs unclean and unsettling they perform signs deceiving the rulers of the earth and drawing them into the final showdown a battle not merely between nations but between good and evil itself even in the midst of this there is a call to Readiness Jesus said behold I am coming as a thief blessed is He Who Watches and keeps his garments lest he walk
naked and they see his shade this is a reminder to watch and be prepared for no one knows the exact moment when all will be fulfilled the imagery of a thief coming unexpectedly emphasizes the need for vigilance much like a homeowner who stays alert knowing that danger could come at any time finally the seventh bowl is poured into the air and with it comes a declaration it is done thunder lightning and the greatest earthquake ever recorded follow shaking the very foundations of the earth cities crumble Islands disappear and mountains are no more the great city
of Babylon the symbol of human rebellion and Corruption is remembered before God and faces the full force of his wrath massive hailstones rain down but instead of turning to God people continue to blaspheme their hearts hardened even in the face of such overwhelming power as this chapter closes there there is a sense of finality yet also an awareness that the ultimate conclusion has not yet been reached these judgments severe as they are point to something Beyond themselves much like a storm that signals the changing of the seasons the world is being shaken but the purpose
behind it all remains Beyond human understanding hidden within the mystery of God's unfolding plan in Revelation 17 we are drawn into a vision of Babylon not just as a historical City but as a representation of a system that has long resisted God this chapter explores the spiritual and symbolic layers of Babylon weaving a complex narrative that stretches back through time Babylon is a name familiar to those who have studied the scriptures appearing hundreds of times second only to Jerusalem but while Jerusalem represents God's City Babylon stands as the embodiment of rebellion idolatry and spiritual corruption
the angel speaks to John offering to reveal the Judgment of the great Harlot a figure symbolic of false religion that holds sway over many nations this Harlot sits on many Waters a picture of her vast and far-reaching influence she has enticed the kings of the Earth leading them into spiritual fornication in this context fornication isn't simply physical immorality but rather the Deep betrayal of idolatry and Rebellion against God's truth the kings are Intoxicated by her power just as Humanity has long been drawn to empty religious systems that offer a sense of control even as they
lead Souls away from the Creator then one of the Seven Angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me saying to me come I will show you the Judgment of the great Harlot who sits on many Waters with whom the king of the earth committed fornication and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her fornication John is taken into the Wilderness a desolate place that reflects the spiritual barrenness of this harlot's Reign there he sees a woman sitting on a Scarlet Beast he says so he carried me away
in the spirit Into the Wilderness and I saw a woman sitting on a Scarlet Beast which was full of names of blasphemy having seven heads and 10 horns the woman was arrayed in purple and Scarlet and adorned with gold and precious stones and Pearls having in her hand a golden cup full of Abominations and the filthiness of her fornication this Beast like the one seen in Revelation 13 is the embodiment of blasphemy and Rebellion against God the woman is adorned in luxurious purple and Scarlet colors that signal both royalty and opulence yet her wealth is
is intertwined with spiritual filth she holds a golden cup filled with Abominations a bitter irony as what seems beautiful on the outside is filled with corruption within her name written on her forehead reveals her true nature mystery Babylon the great the mother of harlots and of the Abominations of the earth she is not just one figure but represents a system of false religion that has spread across the Earth and she is described as being drunk with the blood of the Saints reving in the persecution of God's people the image of her drunkenness here is striking
it is not the intoxication of pleasure but of violence and hatred towards those who follow the truth the vision continues as John Marvels at what he sees but the angel tells him that This Woman's fate is sealed her power though immense and intoxicating to the world is temporary the the Beast that carries her is connected to the powers of the past present and future it represents a system of government and rulership that has always sought to elevate itself above God using false religion as a tool to control and deceive the masses yet the Beast itself
will ultimately turn against her there is a sobering reality in this Vision the same forces that empower the false religion will eventually destroy it the political systems represented by the 10 Kings will hate the Harlot and bring about her destruction this turning of the Beast against the Harlot shows the fragility of any Alliance based on Power and deception the Antichrist who once used false religion for his purposes will discard it once he no longer has use for it as Babylon the great Harlot is stripped of her power and laid be we see the culmination of
a system that has been against God from the beginning yet even in her fall we are reminded that all of this happens under the sovereignty of God the very forces that destroy her are doing so according to his purpose as they fulfill the words he has spoken just as Babylon has been a symbol of rebellion her destruction becomes a testament to the ultimate authority of God who holds all things in his hand verse 17 says for God has put it into their hearts to fulfill his purpose to be of one mind and to give their
Kingdom to the Beast until the words of God are fulfilled Revelation 17-1 17 the chapter closes with the identification of the Harlot as that great city which Reigns over the kings of the Earth in John's day this was unmistakably Rome the center of political military and religious power but this title goes beyond Just One S City it speaks to any system that exalts itself against the knowledge of God throughout history Babylon has taken many forms and its influence continues to shape the world today even as the Harlot is judged the deeper truth Remains the Allure
of false religion and the deception of worldly power are ever present drawing people away from true worship in this way the vision is not just about a future event but about the ongoing spiritual battle that rages in every generation calling the faithful to discernment and steadfastness in their walk with God in Revelation 18 the vision shifts to the fall of commercial Babylon a vivid portrayal of the collapse of a worldly system built on materialism greed and selfish ambition this chapter like a solemn durge announces the end of a city and system that once thrived on
luxury and wealth but now faces inevitable judgment the tone mirrors the ancient prophetic voices that condemn cities like Ty and Babylon for their pride and it draws us into a reflection on the ultimate fate of those who place their trust in the things of this world John sees another Angel radiant and filled with the glory of God Illuminating the Earth with his presence this Angel cries out with a powerful voice declaring Babylon the greatest is Fallen is Fallen the repetition of this phrase signals the finality of babylon's Doom once a center of power and wealth
the city has now become a dwelling place for demons a prison for every foul spirit and a cage for every unclean and hated bird what was once a thriving Metropolis is now desolate a haunting reminder of the consequences of unchecked Pride and greed the fall of Babylon is not just a physical destruction but a symbolic collapse of a system that has ens snared Nations and Kings the world's leaders merchants and rulers have become drunk with the wine of her fornication captivated by her wealth and luxury this is not just a city but a manifestation of
a materialistic worldview that values profit over people and wealth over righteousness the kings of the earth who once aligned themselves with Babylon now stand at a distance watching her fall in fear and dismay in the midst of this destruction there comes a Divine call to God's people come out of her my people lest you share in her sins and lest you receive of her plagues this is a reminder echoing through the scriptures that God's people are called to be separate from the world's systems to avoid becoming entangled in its values and sins just as lot
was called to leave Sodom so too are are God's people warned to depart from Babylon before judgment Falls the sins of Babylon have reached to heaven like the Tower of Babel itself and now God has remembered her iniquities the message is clear those who remain attached to Babylon risk sharing in her fate the chapter continues with vivid imagery of babylon's downfall Merchants who once grew Rich from her abundance now mourn her loss not out of love for her but because their own wealth has been destroyed they weep not for Babylon herself but for the end
of their profits and luxuries they lament the loss of gold silver precious stones and every luxury they once enjoyed this is the heart of commercial babylon's sin its idolatry of wealth and its disregard for the spiritual cost the fruit their soul longed for has now vanished and with it their false security what is striking In this passage is the mention of bodies and Souls of men a chilling reminder of how Babylon system not only trafficked in Goods but in people exploiting human lives for profit this phrase underscores the dehumanizing nature of unchecked materialism and greed
where even human Souls become Commodities to be traded and consumed as babylon's collapse unfolds we are given a glimpse of the depth depth of the devastation ship Masters and sailors those who traded on the sea cry out in despair as they witness the destruction of the city that once made them Rich their sorrow is not for justice or righteousness but for the loss of their own wealth babylon's fall is Swift and total coming in a single hour a sudden and complete judgment that leaves no room for Recovery yet amid the mourning of Kings merchants and
sea captains there is a call to Rejoice Heaven itself is urged to Rejoice over babylon's fall for this is the Judgment of God on a corrupt and oppressive system the apostles and Prophets those who suffered under babylon's cruelty are Vindicated the judgment on Babylon is not merely an act of Destruction but a righteous resolution to the suffering and Injustice inflicted upon God's people the final scene of the chapter is marked by the symbolic Act of a mighty a Angel throwing a great Millstone into the sea declaring that Babylon will be thrown down with the same
violence and will never be found again the sounds of joy and productivity harpists Craftsmen and the voices of Bride and bridegroom will no longer be heard in her the city that once glittered with wealth and power will be left desolate a sobering reminder that no worldly system no matter how powerful can stand against the Judgment of God Revelation 19-22 takes us through some of the most powerful and or inspiring Visions in the entire Bible the scene opens in Revelation 19 with Heaven erupting in Praise as multitudes sing Allelujah in celebration of babylon's fall Babylon symbolizing
the corrupt World system that deceived the Nations is finally judged there is this deep sense of justice and relief as the voices in heaven Proclaim God's righteousness in in avenging the blood of his servants the celebration then turns to the marriage supper of the Lamb where the church described as a bride beautifully adorned in fine linen is prepared to be United with Christ in a perfect Eternal relationship suddenly we're taken to a breathtaking vision of Christ's return Heaven opens and we see Jesus riding on a white horse his eyes burning like fire and wearing many
crowns he's called faithful and true and he leads the armies of Heaven to triumph over the Nations this image of Jesus is a stark contrast to the humble savior we saw in the gospels here he returns as a conquering King the Beast and the false prophet who had deceived the nations are captured and thrown into the Lake of Fire sealing their defeat as we move into Revelation 20 Satan is Bound By An Angel and cast into the bottomless pit for a thousand years years this period marks the millennial reign of Christ where he rules the
Earth with the Saints who had been faithful even to the point of death but after a thousand years Satan is released for one final attempt to deceive the Nations only to be defeated once and for all what follows is the great white Throne judgment where the dead Great and Small stand before God each person is judged according to their works and those not found in the Book of Life are cast into the Lake of Fire marking the final defeat of sin and death itself then we witness the most beautiful vision of all in Revelation 21
a new Heaven and a new Earth the old broken world has passed away and now the New Jerusalem the radiant city of God descends from Heaven it's described as a bride adorned for her husband glowing with God's glory in this new creation there's no more death no more sorrow and no more pain the former things have passed away God declares behold I make all things new the city's gates are always open and its light shines with the glory of God himself there's no need for a temple because God and the lamb are fully present with
their people finally in revelation 22 we're shown the interior of this New Jerusalem a River of Life flows from God's throne and on either side stands the Tree of Life its leaves bringing healing to the Nations it's a powerful symbol of restoration as the curse from Eden is finally undone the people of God will see him face to face and his name will be written on their foreheads a mark of perfect communion with him there's no more night no need for the sun because God himself is the light of this new world as we reach
the end we hear a final invitation Come Those Who are thirsty are invited to drink freely from the Water of Life Jesus reassures us with his promise I am coming quickly and the response is clear come Lord Jesus this sweeping conclusion to Revelation is more than a vision of judgment and victory it's a picture of renewal restoration and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises it leaves us with the hope of a new creation where all things are made new where sorrow and pain are no more and where we will dwell with God forever thanks for
watching please like And subscribe if you enjoyed you can also click the video on the screen to continue learning more about scripture may the Lord bless and guide your day
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