OPENING EXPLAINATION ON BOOK OF REVELATION

I by no means wish to present this interpretation of the Book of Revelation as 100% accurate. This is my interpretation based on seeking the Lord, praying for clear vision, and lots of Bible study. I believe I have some light from the Holy Spirit, but that does not mean my understanding is complete or 100% accurate. In many instances my interpretations are based on current events. This is, however, an ongoing work and as time passes I update with clearer interpretations based on where I feel current events are leading.

I felt led to interpret the Book one chapter at a time. I looked at each chapter as it’s own entity and the book as being sequential in its revelation. The events in my opinion are sequential, but as in a movie, some things are happening at the same time and the movie will flash back to another event that is taking place simultaneously. Chapter 16, for instance, speaks of the battle of Armageddon and those events. Chapters 17 and 18 explains the nature of Mystery Babylon and its destruction which I believe is happening before Armageddon, but around the same time. Chapter 19 shows the Lord returning as the battle of Armageddon and Mystery Babylon are coming to an end.

Many feel the battle of Armageddon is the Gog and Magog battle, but sequentially that does not appear to happen in the Book of Revelation. Gog/Magog happens after the thousand year reign of the Lord. I tried to interpret the book as it plays out. I tried to let the word speak for itself in a sequential way. That final battle does not appear to take place at Armageddon. In Rev 20:9 it says that Satan surrounds the camp of the saints in the beloved city--that’s Jerusalem. The Jezreel Valley or Armageddon is miles away to the north at the base of Mount Carmel.

My interpretation of the beast political/religious system is based on my current understanding of world events now taking place on the earth. I read many publications, blogs, news sites, and geo-political opinions on the internet that give background info on current events in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. I attempt to keep an open mind and be judicious. I also follow current financial developments concerning the debt crises that is afflicting the western nations and base end time scenarios on the above developing situations. Daniel was told to shut up the book until the time of the end (Dan 12.4) and I feel the Lord is beginning to open the book in these days. My political/beast system interpretation is to make the narrative more interesting--it is not necessarily what is really going to happen.

I do not want to offend anyone. No one should feel they are being judged in anyway when reading this. I am, however, saying what I believe is happening based on reading the above sources. If we can set aside our denominational and religious backgrounds and keep an open mind I believe it will help us to find the truth. The Lord has worked inside the world’s denominations and religions. Many sincere believers are part of Christian denominations. In the end times, however, each person will have to be loyal to the Lord and know the Lord personally or they will be deceived. 2 Thessalonians 2.7-12

My political/religious beast coalitions may not be correct, but I feel the basic sequence of events and action are pretty accurate. The end time beast is a political/religious world system of some kind. You can substitute your own coalitions of nations and the Book of Revelation will still end the same way!

I hope you will read this with and an open mind and seek the Lord for what is truth. We all should be aware of the political and social events taking place in today’s world and ask the Lord for clear vision.

Shalom, Neil

THE BOOK OF REVELATION

CHAPTER ONE - THE MESSAGE AND WARNING OF TRUMPETS - BLESSED THOSE WHO HEAR

1:1-3 This is a revelation of Jesus Christ to show His servants the things which are to come. (Amos 3:7) Blessed is he who reads this and keeps the things written here for the time is at hand.

1:4-6 The seven spirits of God before the throne represent the character and qualities of the Lord. (Isaiah 11:1-4) This is Jesus, the faithful witness, first begotten of the dead, prince of the kings of the earth, who has washed us in His blood and made us kings and priests.

1:7-8 He is coming again in the clouds and will be seen by those who have pierced Him. (Zech 12:10) He is the Alpha-Omega, the beginning and the end, which is, was, and is to come--the Almighty.

1:9-11 John proclaims he is our brother in tribulation! in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ. He hears a voice like the sound of a trumpet telling him to write down in a book all that he is going to be shown and send it to the seven churches in Asia.

1:11-16 John turns to see the voice and sees seven golden candle sticks. In the midst of these he sees one like the Son of man clothed in a long garment with a golden girdle. His head and hair white as snow, eyes like a flame of fire, feet like fine brass, and a voice like the sound of many waters! In his right hand seven stars and out of his mouth a sharp two edged sword, and he shined like the sun.

1:17-20 John falls at his feet as dead and is told not to fear. The Lord tells John, “ I am he that lives and was dead: behold, I am alive for evermore, and I have the keys of hell and of death. The Lord tells John to write the things he is going to see; which are things that are, and things to come. John is told the mystery of the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. The golden candlesticks are the seven churches.

There is so much here! This is a revelation of Jesus Christ. This revelation is of the Jesus who is coming to judge the world. His first coming was to save the world, but this is Jesus as King and Judge. This is the Jesus who will come in the clouds and which every eye shall see. Those who have pierced him will mourn (Zech 12:10). In a sense all mankind has pierced or crucified the Lord by rejecting Him.

The warning trumpets remind us of the month of Elul and the Feast of Trumpets (Lev 23.23-25) which follows on the 1^st of Tishri. The Lord’s people should be making ready. Those who know him should recognize the warning sounds. Our Lord Jesus is going to show us the things that are coming. The voice John hears sounds like a trumpet (shofar). John tells us he is our companion in tribulation! He who has an ear to hear should know what this means!

John sees a vision of Jesus as our Dread Champion flaming like a fire. The church is purified by fire. Tribulation and persecution will be the final purifying and separation of the Bride to her Groom. The servant is no greater than the master.

John is told to write all that he is going to be shown in a book. The mystery of the seven stars and the seven golden candle sticks are explained. Stars most always represent angels. The candlesticks, which give off light (we are to be light to the world) represent the seven churches. Seven is a number representing completeness and perfection. It is the number of God (Elohim (אֱלֹהִ֔ים).

As we go forward we will see imagery of the Tabernacle in the wilderness described in Exodus 25-30. The Tabernacle is a type of Heaven and the Throne Room of God. We will see this imagery all through the Book of Revelation. Imagery: When we look up into the sky the blue we see is the bottom of the floor of heaven! Exodus 24.10

CHAPTER TWO - GOD WARNING AND PREPARING HIS PEOPLE

2:1-7 EPHESUS - Positives: Works, labor, patience, and cannot bear those who are evil. Have tried false apostles and found them to be liars. Have worked without fainting in Jesus’ name. You hate the deeds of the Nicolaitanes which Jesus also hates. Negatives: Have left their first love. Warning: Remember from where you have fallen and repent. Do the first works or Jesus will come quickly and remove your candlestick. Reward: To those who overcome Jesus will give to eat of the tree of life in the midst of paradise. He who walks among the seven candlesticks and has made covenant with you (Gen 15:17).
You do not fit into the religious system (Nicolaitans) of those who control the lay people. Repent and eat of the tree of life and you will do great things in the spirit again.

2:8-11 SMYRNA - Positives: works, tribulation, poverty (but are rich). Recognize false Jews (Replacement Theology) and fear not the tribulation you see coming. You will be cast into prison for ten days, but be faithful unto death and receive a crown of life. Negatives: None. Warning: None. Reward: Not hurt by second death.

You’ve gone through testing and trials and feel spiritually poor--but you are coming through like gold. You are experiencing suffering and tribulation at the hands of false brethren and things are difficult but hang in there and you will receive your crown of life. (James 1:12) The church is experiencing tribulation. They refuse to believe in replacement theology (them which say they are Jews but are not), they are cast into prison, but are faithful unto death. These will not be hurt in the second death. Rev 20:5-6

2:12-17 PERGAMOS - Positives: Works, holding fast to Messiah’s name and have not denied faith in Jesus. They dwell where Satan’s seat is and have been faithful when Antipas was martyred. Negatives: You have among you
those who hold to the doctrine of Balaam who taught Balek to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel to eat things sacrificed to idols and to fornicate. You also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes which Jesus hates. Warning: Repent or else Jesus will come quickly and fight against them with the sword of His mouth. Reward: Jesus will give hidden manna and a white stone with a new name upon it.

You have not denied your faith even unto death but you should not be tolerating those in your midst who are eating at pagan tables and committing spiritual and physical fornication. You are allowing false doctrine and teachings into the church such as new age, paganism, and humanistic philosophies. The spirit of the age is in these things and I do not allow mixture says the Lord. As Balaam taught Balak how to seduce my people so have you allowed yourself to be seduced. I am coming to judge those who are not separated unto me. Come out! Eat of my manna and receive my name--know Me! Numbers 22-25 Numbers 31:16 Jeremiah 9:14 Balaam used divination and charged a divination fee. He shows Balak how to seduce God’s people--seducing them into breaking the law. Exodus 34:10-16 Mixing paganism, yet still worshipping the Lord. Sexual sin in the church. Ref: Temple prostitutes Deut 23.18-19.

2:18-29 THYATIRA - Positives: Works, charity, service, faith, patience and works (and the last to be more than the first.) Negatives: Tolerate Jezebel, the prophetess who teaches and seduces Jesus’ servants to eat things sacrificed to idols. (Eat at pagan tables.) Jesus gave her space to repent, but she repented not. Warning: Repent of their deeds or Jesus will cast her and those that commit adultery with her into a bed and bring upon them great tribulation. Jesus will kill her children with death. Jesus will give each person according to their works. Those who are not of this doctrine and have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak, no other burden will be put upon you. Reward: He who keeps the works until the end will be given power over the nations and they shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of a potter shall be shattered, together with Jesus. Jesus will give them the morning star.

Our God who has fire in His eyes and feet of brass (judgment) gives a very severe warning to these believers. They are compassionate and caring (all love, no discipline) but are tolerating government that is not of God. The spirit of Jezebel is the spirit of this world. She is the Queen of the Cosmos. She is lawless and works through Satan to create lawlessness in the church. 1 Kings 16:30-33 1 Kings 18:19 1 Kings 21 She is a lawless spirit that says anything goes and we can do as we want. We don’t have to obey the commandments of God. 1 John 3:4-6 Ref: Deut 23.18-19. We just have to love--but they forget about discipline and holy living!
Also see: Ethbaal Father of Jezebel. She also brings in new age, paganism, and humanistic philosophies. She rebels against all church authority, controls and manipulates leaders. This is church government gone astray, the “we are not under the law” group. She encourages lawlessness. (1 John 3.4) She also allows for sexual sins to run rampant in the church. We cannot tolerate this activity. The fear of God will be manifested again in the last days. The Lord says he will kill Jezebel’s children. Fornication is a metaphor for infidelity to God’s covenants. To those who overcome they will be given rule over the nations. Rule and reign with the Lord.

CHAPTER THREE - GOD CONTINUES WARNING AND PREPARING HIS PEOPLE

3:1-6 SARDIS - Positives: There are a few undefiled in Sardis that shall walk with Jesus in white for they are worthy--otherwise none. Negatives: Imperfect works, a name that lives, but you are dead. Warning: Remember what you have received and heard and hold fast and repent. If not, Messiah will come as a thief in the night. Reward: Clothed in white raiment and their name will remain in the book of life. Jesus will confess their name to the Father before His angels.

These are not taking their walk seriously enough. They are religious but deny the power thereof. They are dead spiritually and are not allowing the Lord to teach and chastise them. They resist doing things His way and determine to do it their way. If they continue to be un-teachable they will be caught like a thief in the night. These are the academics who deny the power of the spirit, the word of God, and lean towards secular humanism.

Those who yield to the wisdom of the spirit will be clothed in white linen and will not be blotted out of the book of life. The Lord will “know them.” They will be clothed in white linen and their name in the book of life.

3:7-13 PHILADELPHIA - Positives: Their works and that Jesus has set before them an open door and no man can shut it. They have a little strength and have kept Jesus’ word and not denied His name. Jesus will make the false Jews a synagogue of Satan and make them come and worship at your feet and know I love you. Because you have kept my word Jesus will keep you from the hour of temptation that will come upon the world. Negatives: None. Reward: Become a pillar in God’s Temple and never more will you have to go out. The name of God will be written on you and the name of New Jerusalem. Jesus will write a new name on you.

This is a group who abide in the Lord and know His ways. They understand the Lord is to be the ruler of their hearts. They have the ear of God. They have remained faithful to the teachings of Yeshua despite severe opposition. Those who resist them will be humbled, repent, and turn back to the Lord. This group has a word to give which will be resisted at first. They appear to have a special anointing and some special protection. They will become pillars of faith and rule in the New Jerusalem which is to come. They will teach many in the millennial kingdom. They may be those who understand their Hebraic roots and how to apply it correctly. Key of David vv 7-8; Is 9.6-7; 22.20-22 key verses. So, just as Isaiah said, the government of Jesus, the Kingdom of God, begins with judgment. The key of the house of David opens the two doors into the Most Holy place of the sanctuary, the Temple in heaven, to begin the Pre-Advent Investigative Judgment of God's people. Ps 122.1; Ps122.5

3:14-22 LAODICIANS - Positives: None. Negatives: Neither hot or cold--lukewarm. Spit out of Yeshua’s mouth, you say you are rich with increased goods and have need of nothing but you are poor, wretched, miserable, and naked. Buy gold of Jesus tried in fire so you may be rich and clothed in white raiment. Then your shame will be covered and your eyes salved so you can see. As many as Jesus loves he rebukes and chastens. Warning: Repent, Jesus is at the door knocking. If anyone hears His voice and opens the door He will come in and sup with him. Reward: Will sit at the throne of Jesus.

This group is like many churches today who are wealthy, rich in goods, large congregation, comfortable, and lukewarm. They are lazy in the spiritual things. Poor work habits--rich kids! The Lord wants them to press forward into the things of God and contend with the enemy. They are to buy gold and white raiment--to embrace the cross, lay down their lives and move on with God--but they are comfortable in their place. The word of God will require them to turn back to the Lord or turn away. They must decide whether they are Hot or Cold. If they move on and contend for the things of God they will sit with the Lord on His throne. They have been given much--much is expected..

To all these churches the Lord is extending His hands and exhorting and encouraging them to seek Him and His righteousness. He understands how difficult it is for us--His grace will be sufficient to see us through. He is exhorting the churches in love--but it is also a strong warning. Each church represents the believer today and the areas that we often find ourselves failing in. This word is strong and directed at all believers.

CHAPTER FOUR - THE GLORY AND POWER OF THE FATHER IN HEAVEN

4:1 A door in heaven opens and another shofar blast is heard--a voice as a trumpet. In Rev 3:7 a key of David was given to open. God is about to open this revelation to all who are blessed to hear. Rev 1:3 These trumpets heard in Revelation represent the Hebrew month of Elul. The name Elul means “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” Songs 6:3 The month of Elul is a time of repentance in preparation for the Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) and the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). See: Month of Elul handout. Heaven is about to reveal those things which are coming to those whose hearts are properly prepared: The Bride making herself ready!

4:2-4 The Throne of God the Father is revealed in all it’s glory! Surrounding the throne are 24 elders (priests) who are representative of the 24 courses of priests in the temple which was established by King David in 1 Chronicles 24:1-18. These minister to the Lord day and night. The Tabernacle of David is a type of the coming Kingdom government.

1 Chronicles 16.1-3, 37-43, Amos 9.11-12, Acts 15.1-21

4:5-11 Thundering, lightening, and voices are heard in heaven. Heaven is stirring. The four creatures Ezek 1:4-28 are covered with eyes--the eyes of the Lord are searching the earth for righteousness. The Day of the Lord is approaching. The trumpets are warning the earth and its inhabitants to repent. A great event is about to take place at the Throne of God. The Day of Atonement (Lev 16 the whole chapter and 16.13; 17; 29-31) is near--hear the warnings!

The Book of Revelation is a composite of the three fall feasts: Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Tabernacles. The Lord has physically fulfilled the four springs feasts: Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, and Pentecost. Revelation is about Yeshua fulfilling the three fall feasts at His second coming.

CHAPTER FIVE - HEAVEN MAKES READY FOR THE DAY OF THE LORD - THE SECOND COMING

5:1-4 John sees a small book in the hand of the Father who is sitting on the Throne. A strong angel proclaims, “Who is worthy to open the book and loose the seals?” John weeps because no man is found worthy to open the book.

5:5-12 “Weep not”, John is told as the Lion of Judah, the Root of David, our magnificent Lord Jesus, steps forward in grace and truth to receive the book out of the Father’s hand. The 24 elders fall down and worship before the “Lamb who is worthy” as Jesus appears. Prayers of countless saints throughout the ages are released as incense as the Throne Room is filled with smoke. The 24 elders sing a glorious new song for He who has redeemed men from every kindred and nation on the earth. Our Kingdom duties are partly revealed--to be kings and priests. The Lamb is worthy because He alone has paid the price for our salvation. Heaven reverbs with the sound and spectacle of that which is about to take place on the earth.

Here we see a type of the Tabernacle in the Wilderness where the High Priest is the only person allowed into the Holy of Holies. The High Priest also burns the incense in the tabernacle. Yeshua is our High Priest.

CHAPTER SIX - THE LORD BEGINS OPENING THE SEALS IN THE BOOK - BIRTH PANGS

6:1-2 The first seal is opened as John hears thunder and one of the creatures says, “Come and see.” Behold, John sees a white horse and one that sat on him had a bow and a crown was given unto him and went forth conquering.

On the walkway leading up to the United Nations there was a statue of a rider on a horse with a crown on his head and an olive branch, shaped like a bow, in his left hand (now in storage). Is it possible that the UN is the opening of the first seal? They are working to make universal laws that will deny nations their sovereignty. They are, in fact, a Godless institution.

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is an independent, nonpartisan membership organization, think tank, and publisher that advises the government of the United States on foreign affairs and the setting of government policies. They are made up of many of what are known as “elitists” today. Their logo is a rider with a bow and a crown sitting on a white horse! Their agenda is to further one world government. I believe the first seal is the globalist, one world order movement taking place in the world today. This includes gatherings such as the Bilderbergers, Trilateral Commission, United Nations, World Bank, and various other elite groups who are working on a plan for one world governance. The rider on this horse can be called deception. Also discuss state and local assets sold to foreigners.

6:3-4 The second seal opened and a red horse went forth. Power was given him that sat on the horse to take peace from the earth that they should kill one another. He that sat on the horse was given a great sword.

Today we see great unrest in the earth and many wars and uprisings. Some of these wars are contrived by the NWO (New World Order) elitists. The great sword could represent the unrest and civil wars now taking place in the Middle East, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya. The nations of the Middle East are beginning to align against the nation of Israel. The
Arab spring will lead to Islamic governments bent on Israel’s destruction. Wars will continue in various areas of the world.


6:5-6 The third seal is opened and a black horse goes forth. He that sat on the horse had a pair of balances (scales) in his hand. John heard a voice in the midst of the creatures say, “A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny, and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.” Scales indicate a financial system. Scales can be interpreted as yoke, indicating a heavy burden.

A measure of wheat and barley is equal to about 2,000 calories or a day’s worth of food. Today we are seeing rampant inflation causing the price of food to escalate. The United States is in dire financial straits and the government is debasing the dollar as a means of paying off the debt. This is causing the nations of the world to experience inflation. The dollar is the world’s reserve currency and we are exporting inflation as we debase the dollar. Many of the Middle East uprising were about the cost of rising food prices. An average Egyptian lives on $4 a day. That is daily survival mode. This is the third horse.

Financial crises are increasing among western nations and will continue to worsen. This will set the stage for the globalists to establish the NWO as nations collapse financially. As we see in Greece today that nation is selling off national treasures, port facilities, and business to finance their debt. These are being purchased by the elitist bankers at fire sale prices. Greece is becoming a slave to debt. A financial collapse will open the door for many nations to lose their sovereignty. Proverbs 22:7 Who enjoys the oil and wine here? The elitist’s who are in control.

6:7-8 The fourth seal is opened and a pale horse goes forth and the name of he who sat on him was Death and Hell. Power was given him over the fourth part of the earth to kill with the sword, with hunger, with death and the beasts of the earth.

This represents continuing wars, the sword of Islam, famine and hunger, and flu and plagues such as bird flu, mad cow disease, and other diseases spread by animals to man (wild beasts of the earth). We are now experiencing droughts in China, Russia, and the United States. Food prices will rise and food is going to become scarce as these disasters continue in the world. This seal is like the first three combined all happening at once.

:9-11 The fifth seal is opened and John saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God. Martyrs down through the ages up until now. These saints cried out for justice and the establishing of God’s Kingdom upon the earth. They were given white robes (the righteousness of the saints Rev19:8) and told to rest for a season until their brethren that should also become martyrs should be fulfilled.

I see this as an indication that there is yet coming persecution of Jews and Christians. Today we see Christians in the Middle East heavily persecuted in Egypt and throughout Africa. This as a warning that the pre-trib rapture is not sound doctrine. God is warning us ahead of time to be prepared. Matt 24:9-13 Are we to be exempt from what those before us have experienced? The altar shadows the bronze altar of sacrifice which was out side the temple. The Lord is not asking anything of his people that He has not experienced Himself--He was the ultimate sacrifice. Gen 4.10

6:12-17 The sixth seal was opened and there was a great earthquake, the sun became black, the moon red. The stars fell just as a fig tree cast forth her untimely figs when shaken. The heaven departed as a scroll (this looks like atomic warfare) and the earth was shaken. Men hid themselves in fear and wished to die for fear of the Lord.

We see earthquakes today in various places. Serious ones in Japan and New Zealand. We see the nation of Iran producing an atomic weapon. Do you think they will not use it? The chances are high there will be atomic war sometime in the days ahead. Do you think in the next 20 years it can be avoided? No man is exempt from this terror if they are in the theater of war. They will hide and cry out. Let us pray it does not happen in the USA. The day of the
Lord’s wrath is not a day of rejoicing. Earth pole shifts could cause tremendous earthquakes.

The sun becoming black and the moon red also describe solar and lunar eclipses. The years 2014-15 will see a rare event called solar triads taking place--these are signs in the heavens warning us of events to come. See: Dissection of a Lunar Tetrad.

CHAPTER SEVEN - SEALING OF THE 144,000 AND SERVICE OF MULTITUDES OF SAINTS

7:1-8 After the first 6 seals have been opened there was a quiet upon the earth. After a nuclear disaster or war there

would be a time of quiet among men as they contemplated the terror of what had just occurred. An angel appears and tells other angels who had the power to hurt the earth and the seas to wait. The angel tells them to wait until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. (Deut 6:4-9) The number of them were 144,000 or 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel.

This is a difficult chapter to say the least. It appears that the 144,000 are Jews proclaiming Yeshua the Messiah. Presently a major move of God taking place in our time is the restoration of the Hebraic roots of the Christian faith. This is not a movement of Jewish people becoming Christian, but it is main line Christians of many denominations returning to the Hebraic roots of the Christian faith. For instance in New Mexico there is a group called Hebraic Communities of New Mexico. This group is made up of former Christians who now worship on Saturdays and celebrate the Feasts of the Lord (Lev 23). This is not an isolated group of people. This is happening all across the nation and the world. I believe understanding the Old Testament and our Hebraic roots is God’s end time revelation to the church. Could some of the 144,000 include these? An understanding of Hebraic roots and especially the feasts of the Lord enhances our understanding of the end times. He who has ears let him hear.

Therefore I see the possibility that the 144,000 could also represent those believers who are open to Hebraic roots. Understanding our Hebraic roots opens the word in a fresh way. This is a teaching for another day. See: Feasts in the Early Church and Judah, Jews, and the House of Israel, and History of the 12 Tribes for a brief but not complete explanation. I see these believers having a deeper understanding of what God is doing today and this represents the sealing of the 144,000 for me at this time. Remember we are grafted into Israel (Rom 9-11).

7:9-17 After this we see a great multitude of believers from all nations and tongues before the throne worshipping the
Lamb. They are clothed in white robes with palms in their hands. There is a glorious celebration in heaven around the throne. An elder tells John these are they which came out of great tribulation and serve the Lord day and night in His temple. The Lamb will feed them and lead them to fountains of living waters. God will wipe away all tears from their eyes.

These represent the multitudes of saved peoples down through the ages. Many of them have gone through tribulation in their time and others who are going to go through the tribulation which is yet to come. Rev 6:11 These will be priests unto the Lord and serve in the temple of the Kingdom of God. Read Ezekiel 40-48. They are priests unto the Lord in the Millennial Kingdom. There are varying rewards in heaven. 1 Corinthians 3:8 Matt 16:27

CHAPTER EIGHT - VISION OF THE SEVEN TRUMPETS - GOD LOOKS FOR REPENTANCE - FEAST OF TRUMPETS

8:1 The seventh seal is opened and there is silence in the earth for half an hour. I see this as a continuation of the silence in Rev 6:12-17 and the sixth seal.

8:2 Now the seven seals have been opened and their damage has been done on the earth. There are seven angels with seven warning trumpets. God is still looking for men to repent so that He can be merciful. There is no sign of repentance on earth. It is not even mentioned. Repentance, however, is the warning of these trumpets.

The Feast of Trumpets is being fulfilled. The Feast of Trumpets is the call to repentance. It is a warning that the day of Atonement is fast approaching. Trumpets is on Tishri 1 and the Day of Atonement is Tishri 10. The days in between the two are known as the “Days of Awe” and are days of repentance and getting right before the Lord prior to the Day of Atonement. Here, in Revelation men refuse to repent. They refuse to heed the warning shofar.

8:3-6 Another angel appears with a golden censer that represents the prayers of the saints. The incense or smoke of these prayers ascend up before the Father. The angel then takes the golden censer with the prayers of the saints, mixes it with fire and casts it down to the earth. The seven angels prepare to blow their shofars.

The people of God are contending for the earth. They are praying and asking God to intervene and save the earth an d redeem man. The saints contend in prayer and spiritual warfare. God is anointing them with his power and fire of the Holy Ghost. In the midst of chaos on the planet God’s people are the salt of the earth. Many of their prayers are being answered. (The censer cast down.) More judgments are coming as the angels prepare to blast on their trumpets! Intercessors are contending in spiritual warfare.

8:7 The first angel sounds and there follows hail and fire mingled with blood. The third part of trees and all green grass is burnt up.

This could be natural disasters like storms and wild fires. A volcanic eruption would fit here. The ash killing grass and trees. Disasters like this will take a toll on human life. A large solar flare could scorch the earth. On Nov 16, 2012 NASA recorded a massive solar eruption which was out of the range of their measurable instrumentation.

8:8-9 The second angel sounds and a great mountain burning with fire is cast into the sea. The third part of the sea becomes as blood. The third part of the creatures in the sea die and ships are destroyed. It could be volcanic eruption. The top of the mountain blowing off into the sea. When the oil platform (a mountain) blew up and we had the oil disaster in the gulf this killed many creatures of the sea. The oil made the sea look red. An atomic meltdown could contaminate the water and kill creatures of the sea. A Near Earth Object (NEO) or asteroid/meteorite would fit this description. We have been experiencing many near misses and this subject is often in the news.

8:10-11 The third angel sounded and a great star from heaven fell burning as a lamp. It fell on waters, rivers, and fountains of water. The name of the star was wormwood and many died of the waters because they were made bitter.

Wormwood in the Greek means undrinkable. Could this be the sorrow of God that men refuse to return to Him? Jeremiah 9:1-16 reveals God’s sorrow that men will not turn to Him. Jeremiah 9:15 says that this turning from God to our own way is bitter for man--like wormwood. Jeremiah 23.15 “Therefore thus says the Lord of hosts concerning the prophets: “Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make them drink the water of gall; for from the prophets of Jerusalem profaneness has gone out into all the land.”

If we let the Bible interpret itself we see that stars are usually referring to angels. This star that falls is Hasatan and his rebellious angels. One third of the earth would be the number of those who call themselves “Christian” at this present time. There are also three major religions on earth: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. Could this falling star be the majority of Christians being attacked by Satan through false teaching and deception? Satan perverting and
counterfeiting the Gospel. Jesus asked if he would find faith in the earth when he returned. The Book of Revelation says the whole earth is deceived. Jesus is the living water--man refuses to drink--it is bitter water man chooses. This could also symbolize the casting down form heaven of Satan and his bitter waters (lies, death, destruction).

In the natural water can become bitter from natural or man made disasters. An NEO also could be the cause.

8:12-13 The fourth angel sounded and a third part of the sun, moon, and stars were smitten. Day and night were darkened from natural light. John hears an angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabitants of the earth. Beware the three other warning trumpet blasts are yet to sound!

A third part of the angels were cast down from heaven ( Isaiah 14:12-23, Ezek 28.11-19 ) when Satan rebelled. He has been wreaking havoc in the earth since being cast down. Spiritual darkness is upon men. Man refuses to heed the sound of the trumpets calling him to repent. The Day of Atonement--At one ment with God is near. Sin is going to be judged. The Day of Atonement is the wrath of God on the wicked--for true believers it is the day of our redemption.

In the natural remember the sky was darkened when Saddam Hussein burned the oil fields and the sky was thick with black smoke that blotted out the sun, moon, and stars. This could also be volcanic eruptions darkening the skies.

CHAPTER NINE - TRUMPETS SOUNDING - WOES CONTINUE - MAN REFUSES TO REPENT - WAR - TRUMPETS!

9:1-3 The fifth angel sounded and a star fell from heaven who had a key to open the bottomless pit (Hell). Dark smoke arose out of the pit which darkened the air and sun. Then out of the smoke come locusts who have power like scorpions.

Things are getting worse on the earth. Satan is loosed in greater power. The locusts could represent several things. In a financial sense they could represent financial crises, inflation, countries collapsing and defaulting on their debt. They can also represent continuing warfare due to the financial chaos. They can represent warring nations and armies as in the Book of Joel. Locusts destroy everything in their path.

9:4-6 The locust were told to not hurt any green thing, grass, and trees. They are to torment those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. The locust’s are to torment men for five months--to sting them like a scorpion. In those days those men without the seal of God will desire to die. Ref DNA, Transhumanism, extended life cycles--Men wanting to die, but cannot.

During the great depression men committed suicide as their fortunes collapsed. Losing your fortune would be a terrible sting that would drive men to suicide. If the world financial system is shaking it would lead many to despair. Could the green trees and grass be the people of God? God providing for them and keeping them safe during this time? Remember God protected Moses when all babies were being killed. Joseph and Mary took Jesus to Egypt during the same situation. God’s people are bringing life to those who will hear.

:7-11 The locusts are like horses prepared for battle with golden crowns on their heads. They are fierce looking and are dressed for battle. Their wings are making sound like chariots. They have stings in their tails and they had power to hurt for five months. Their king is Satan--Abaddon.

When crises unfold one after another it is like a battle. Things happen so quickly and men panic not knowing what to do. Stings in tails could be missiles or taser guns. Martial law would bring out many weapons that sting men into submission. Nation is coming against nation. It is a time of chaos in world events.

9:12-21 Things are moving at a rapid pace. One woe is past, two more are coming. The sixth angel sounded and a voice from the horns of the golden altar in heaven tells the sixth angel to loose four others from the area that is now Iran and Iraq. They are to slay a third part of men. John sees horses in the vision having breastplates of fire, heads of lions, and mouths issuing fire and brimstone. There are two million of them. They have power in their mouths and tails to hurt. Those men not killed repented not of the works of their hands. Man still refuses to recognize the sound of the trumpets warning him to repent!

This could be fierce warfare in the middle east between Iran and Europe. The Muslim threat in Europe is real and is destroying the culture of many European countries. This could be the backlash to that. Iran attacking or threatening Israel is possible. The fire out of their mouths could be tanks and the sting of the tail could be missiles (Daniel 11:40-43). Could the king of the south be an Iran led coalition facing off against a European coalition or king of the north? Could this be when the city of Jerusalem is divided? This could also be a time of expulsion of Jews from Jerusalem and Israel. This could be a war between Europe and Islam. This war could divide Jerusalem putting it under European control. Zechariah 14.1-3 Is this the beginning of the first 3.5 years of the tribulation? Rev 11

CHAPTER TEN - THE BEGINNING OF THE END - DAYS OF AWE BEGIN

10:1-7 Now a mighty angel clothed with a cloud and a rainbow upon his head, a face bright as the sun, and feet of

fire appears. In his hand a little book is open. He cries with a loud voice as a lion roaring and there are seven thunderings. A voice says to seal up what the seven thunders uttered. The angel swears to God that there should be time no longer. This is a great proclamation! He says when the seventh angel sounds, the mystery of God will be finished as it has been agelessly proclaimed by the prophets!

God is proclaiming that the end of the age is near. When God proclaims it is sure to happen! When God proclaims, it takes time to unfold. All these proclamations are first spoken in heaven. What is loosed in heaven is then loosed on earth! He is saying the time of my eternal kingdom is near. The coming events will lead to my return. It will begin to unfold when the seventh angel sounds! The great tribulation is about to begin.

10:8-11 John is now told to take the little book from the angel and eat it. It will be sweet as honey in the mouth but bitter in the belly. John eats it and it is sweet, but bitter in the belly. He is told he still has more to prophesy in this revelation.

The final events are now going to begin--the beginning of the end. The word of God is sweet. We spend time in the book and it is a sweet word. Now the wrath of God is going to be loosed on the earth. This will be a time of great sorrow and bitterness. The worst time on earth. Matt 21:21-22 Sometimes in order to digest our food correctly we must eat bitters. This bitterness will result in the New Jerusalem and the Millennial Kingdom being established. The beginning of the end begins now. God’s people are not destined to God’s wrath. 1 Thessalonians 5.9

CHAPTER ELEVEN - JERUSALEM DIVIDED - THE TWO WITNESSES EMPOWERD BY GOD

The war in chapter nine may have divided Jerusalem as described in Zechariah 14.1-3. The nation of Israel may lose their sovereignty at this time as international peace keeping forces take control of Jerusalem and the nation. The first 3.5 years of the tribulation begin around this time with the two witnesses and the woman in the wilderness in chapter 12.

11:1-2 John is given a rod to measure the temple in Jerusalem. He is told not to measure the outer court. It is given to the gentiles who will tread it under foot for 3.5 years. The time of the Gentiles is coming to a close.

This appears to be the beginning of the 7 year tribulation. Some believe the tribulation is only 3.5 years in total. They believe the rest of the chapters inter-lap and that the later 3.5 years mentioned are the same as these. We will assume this is a separate 3.5 years--the beginning of tribulation times.

11:3-6 The two witnesses are revealed and have power and shall prophesy for 3.5 years. As olive trees they are anointed of God to be witnesses to the world. Nobody can harm them for 3.5 years and they are given the power to shut heaven and smite the earth with plagues. Some say they are Moses and Elijah. They are old school prophets with real God anointed power.

11:7-12 When the witnesses are finished with their testimony the beast will overcome them and kill them. They will lie in the streets of Jerusalem for 3.5 days. Their enemies rejoice until the Spirit of God enters them and they rise up and ascend into heaven. The beast is the political/religious system ruling in Jerusalem and the world at this time.

11:13-14 When the witnesses ascend to heaven there is an earthquake that rocks a tenth part of Jerusalem killing seven thousand. The second woe is now past--the third comes quickly.

11:15-19 The seventh angel sounds and great proclamations are heard in heaven. The kingdoms of this world are about to end and the Kingdom of our Lord and his Christ are soon to appear. The 24 elders worship before God giving thanks and proclaiming God’s greatness. The nations are angry and the wrath of God is soon coming upon them in even greater force. God’s prophets will soon receive their rewards for faithful service. The temple of God opens and the ark of the covenant is seen. This is the Day of Atonement--when the High Priest entered into where the ark was. Lightening, thunder, voices, earthquakes, and hail take place. Events continue to unfold upon the earth.

The Day of Atonement is a day of wrath for the wicked, but for the righteous it is the Day of our Redemption!

CHAPTER TWELVE - A HISTORY LESSON OF AGES PAST PREPARES US FOR TRIBULATION

I believe this is the point where God is gathering His army in heaven. He is reviewing with them history up until this point in time. He is rallying His troops and encouraging them by reminding them of all that has gone on throughout eternity past.

12:1-2 A great wonder of a woman clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet wearing a crown with 12 stars appears in heaven. She is with child and travails in birth to be delivered.

This is God reviewing the history of His people the children of Israel. They are founded on the prophets and 12 apostles (12 stars in crown). Salvation is of the Jews (John 4:22) which is the woman - the child to be birthed is Jesus and those who will follow Him--the church.

Here is how early church father Hippolytus (AD 170-236) describes the woman: The woman is the church, endued with the Father’s word, whose brightness is above the sun. The “moon under her feet” he referred to her being adorned, like the moon, with heavenly glory. He says the crown of twelve stars are the apostles who founded the church. Her being with child and crying as she travails in birth and is pained to be delivered, is “the church not ceasing to bear from her heart the Word that is persecuted by the unbelieving world.” The man-child that she brings forth is the church ruling and reigning in the millennium with Christ. Hippolytus believed the church will go through the tribulation as did Irenaeus, another early church father, (AD 120-202).The man-child taken up to heaven is our Lord. The woman is the church carrying on the work and being persecuted.

Another interesting fact about this woman is the story in the stars. The constellation Virgo represents the woman, the sun clothing her is the sun in the middle of the constellation, and the moon at her feet is the moon at the bottom of the constellation. If we calculate back in time, scientists can prove that this constellation was in this very position on 9/11
of 3 BC! This would have been on the exact date of the Feast of Trumpets that year and is very likely the time of Yeshua’s birth! This has tremendous prophetic meaning when we understand the meaning of the Feast of Trumpets. (Discuss)

12:3-5 The next wonder is the dragon being cast down to earth with a third of the angels when he rebelled. The dragon is standing before the woman waiting for the birth of the man child, Jesus. He is born, to rule the nations with a rod of iron, and immediately caught up into heaven to God’s throne.

This is Jesus being born and carrying out His ministry on earth. After His crucifixion and defeat of Satan He ascended up to the Father where He is seated at God’s right hand.

12:6 The woman flees into the wilderness where she is fed for 3.5 years.

Since the woman has birthed Jesus and the New Covenant she now represents saved believers (many who may be of Jewish descent) of the Lord’s church (Rev 12:17). They are hidden or protected in some way for 3.5 years. This may also be the church ministering to Jewish refugees after Jerusalem is attacked and divided in two parts. Zechariah 14.2 This is merely my reading. There are many other opinions about this.

Hippolytus sees this time as the “church being persecuted and moving from city to city, seeking concealment in the wilderness and mountains, with no protection other than the defense of the two great wings of the great eagle, that is to say, the faith of Jesus Christ, who in stretching forth his holy hands on the holy tree, unfolded like two great wings, the right and the left, and called to Him all who believed upon Him, and covered them as a hen covers her chickens.”

In his treatise on Christ and the Anti-Christ, Hippolytus connects these scriptures: 2 Thessalonians 2.1-12; Malachi 3 and 4; Matt 24; Dan 12, and Rev 11.

12:7-9 There is war in heaven with Michael and his angels verses Satan and his angels. Satan is cast down from heaven to the earth along with his angels.

This is God reviewing history with His Heavenly Host prior to them entering the final battle which is about to come. Satan and 1/3 of the angels where cast out of heaven when they rebelled against God. God’s will is first done in heaven, as on earth. It is also meant to encourage us. This history lesson is for us today. (Compare to Deut 20.1-4)

12:10-11 A loud voice proclaims that salvation, strength, the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ has cast the accuser of the brethren down. The accuser is defeated by the blood of the Lamb and the word of His testimony. These overcomers loved not their lives unto death, they have battled through tribulation.

In our walk we proclaim the word and the promises of our God. We over come by the blood of the Lamb and the testimony of His word. Some even unto death. The armies of God are hearing it to encourage them. Proclaim victory!

12:12-17 The heavens rejoice at hearing this history. Woe to the earth for Satan is the spirit of the world and he is angry because he knows his time is short. He persecutes the woman which brought forth the man child Jesus. The woman flies into the wilderness where she is nourished for 3.5 years. The serpent casts water out of his mouth to swallow her up but the earth opens her mouth to swallow up the flood. The dragon is wroth and continues to make war against her.

The woman is in the wilderness. A very difficult time. The wilderness can represent a difficult period for the church. The church may be assisting persecuted Jews who have been expulsed from Jerusalem and the state of Israel. The water from the dragon can represent many peoples/nations who are persecuting the woman/church because they are assisting and standing with the Jewish people in their time of need.. God provides strength and some protection and victory--the earth swallowing up the flood. Perhaps wars and other conflict in the earth weaken the attacks and persecution as the church ministers to those Jews and gentiles who are turning to the Lord. Jews are seeing Jesus in the sacrificial deeds of the gentile church.
The wilderness can also represent or be a special hiding place for those who are truly obeying the Lord. This may represent the safe haven of Bozrah as described in Isaiah 63, Jeremiah 49, and Micah 2. The Lord rescues His people in Bozrah. In Micah 2.12-13 we see the Lord as the “Breaker” leading His people out.

This may be the beginning of the final 3.5 year period of the tribulation as the Antichrist is about to be revealed. Daniel 11:38, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4

CHAPTER THIRTEEN - ANTICHRIST REVEALED - FINAL 3.5 YEARS OF TRIBULATION

The Anti-Christ reveals himself as the evil lawless one. He comes against the people of the covenant as revealed in Daniel 9.27, Daniel 11.31-32

13:1-4 John sees a beast rise up out of the sea having seven heads and ten horns and upon the ten horns ten crowns. The heads are speaking blasphemy. The beast was like a leopard, had feet like a bear, and mouth of a lion and Satan gave it power. The beast is wounded to death and his wound is healed. The whole world is in awe. They worship the dragon which gives power unto the beast. Who can defeat the beast in war?

There are many opinions on this portion.

I see this beast rising up from the sea (many nations) as a political entity. The beast is wounded and then recovers. The seven heads are seven mountains (Rev 17:9) Mountains are a place of worship. Could the capital city of this beast be in the mountains? Some believe this beast is a European coalition of nations led by Germany politically and the Vatican spiritually. Is the wounded beast an individual or a political union that falls apart and then realigns?

The other strong opinion is that it is a coalition of middle eastern states led by Turkey or Iran and the religion of Islam. It can be said that both scenarios are developing in the world today. The European Union is attempting to form a united states led by German economic power. In the mid-east Iran is calling the shots but would follow Turkey if the Turks decide to lead. It can be said that the Ottoman Empire led by the Turks ended in 1922. It was a beast that was wounded and is now back alive if Turkey becomes the leader of the Muslim world.

The same can be said of the Roman Empire. It has attempted to resurrect itself many times throughout history. Charlemagne and the Franks was one reincarnation. Otto the Great. The Hapsburgs. All were protectors of the Pope and Christianity. The Roman beast was wounded and also revived. Which is it?

The war described in Revelation 9 could be a war between the European coalition and the Muslim coalition. Led by Germany, the Europeans have defeated the Muslims and have divided Jerusalem, making it an international city. The beast is the political beast from which the antichrist will arise. The Antichrist may be from the political religious harlot called the Vatican. Others think he may be a Jew, represented by the tribe of Dan being absent from the list of tribes in Rev 7. This is an interesting study.

The Vatican is more than the seat of a religion. It has political power and deals with other nations as a political and religious power. They have their own bank and diplomatic corps. They are deeply involved in what is occurring in the development of the EU. Pope Benedict has encouraged the creation of an economic union of European states and a
strong central bank to control it. They have historically close ties with Germany. Most of the previous resurrections of the Holy Roman Empire were led by Germany. They have a long and violent history together. Germany and Turkey have a long history of being allies. I see Turkey aligned with the EU, but perhaps not a part of it.

Following developments in Europe and seeing Germany rising as the political and military power in Europe a link with the Vatican is a force that can keep predominately Catholic Europe glued together. As the Islamic movement in Europe intensifies will the Europeans, influenced by the Vatican, form a backlash against Islam in an attempt to keep their European cultures from being destroyed? This will be war in the Middle East that affects the nation of Israel and the dividing of Jerusalem in two. Jerusalem in effect becomes an internationally governed city. Zech 14.2

Moving forward, this political and religious union, is the harlot and the Beast. The antichrist system is now forming in Jerusalem. The Muslims in my view have been subdued. Any other scenario that fits, you may substitute here.

13:5-9 This political/religious beast system is now going to speak great things and blasphemies for 3.5 years. It will make war with the saints and overcome them (believers are still here). It has power over all nations and tongues. All whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb worship IT. He who has ears to hear let him hear. This system is led by a man referred to as the Anti-Christ. He is full of blasphemy and rages against the Covenant people--the Jews and the true church. He declares himself god and desecrates the Jewish Temple. He promises the Jews peace
and then will double cross them. Daniel 11:21 thru 12:13 An interesting theory on the “image” of the beast is that Pope Leo 1 (440-461 AD) organized the institutional church after the Roman system of political government and this is the “image of the beast.”

Some think the United Nations is the image of the beast. The U.N. is attempting to force all politically correct idea’s upon all nations. They are behind Agenda 21 and the taxation of all resources to benefit all the world. They are attempting to force this secular humanistic image upon all nations.

A KEY VERSE IN THIS CHAPTER

13:10 He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

God is telling His people not to despair. Matt 24:21-22 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened. “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it.

God is telling His people in the end they will overcome. Isaiah 14:1-2 For the LORD will have mercy on Jacob, and will still choose Israel, and settle them in their own land. The strangers will be joined with them, and they will cling to the house of Jacob. Then people will take them and bring them to their place, and the house of Israel will possess them for servants and maids in the land of the LORD; they will take them captive whose captives they were, and rule over their oppressors. Those who were oppressed will soon rule and reign.

Read the entire chapter of Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 27 with the end of days and the end of the book of Revelation in mind. This is God’s statement on the end of Mystery Babylon and those who endure until the end.

The other lesson is that those who rise up in arms (the sword) will die by the sword. Just as Judah was taken captive by Babylon and prospered in Babylon, it may be wiser to accept going into captivity then to rebel against the NWO and die.

13:11-18 The next beast comes up out of the earth with two horns as a lamb and speaks as a dragon. This is the false prophet or false religious system in union with the political/financial beast.
This beast does great wonders and miracles and makes fire come down to earth from heaven. He deceives many and causes them to worship the image of the beast. Everyone receives a mark in their hand or forehead and cannot buy or sell without this mark or identification. Here is wisdom: the number of the beast is that of a man 666.

Fire coming down from heaven could be the ability to wage war. A political entity can do this. The Antichrist deceives many. “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. Matt 24:23

Could the number of a man be some sort of computer chip? This technology is available to be implanted into men now! The number of a man can also represent the word 666 which can be interpreted in ancient Greek letters that have numerical meaning. They spell “Latineo” which means “Latin man” which meant Roman in those days. In the west we are still governed under the “Roman” style of government.

In 2 Chr 9.13 it says that the weight of gold that came to Solomon in one year was 666 talents of gold. Could Solomon in this case be a type of the false church? He started out with the Lord but lusted for many wives and followed idolatry in his later years. This is an interesting scripture.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN - VICTORY SONG IN HEAVEN - VIALS OF WRATH PREPARED - DAY OF ATONEMENT NEARS

15:1-4 Now John sees seven angels having seven vials filled with the seven last plagues of the wrath of God which was just announced in Rev 14:14-20. On a sea of glass mingled with fire John sees those who have gotten victory over the beast, his image, and mark. They are standing on the sea of glass playing harps and singing the Song of Moses proclaiming God’s greatness and victory over the nations.

The final plagues are about to be released. The saints are proclaiming the song of Moses which is a song of victory and defeat of the enemies of God. Exodus 15:1-19 Pharaoh was the leader of a political and religious system--a Beast. This song of Moses is about God’s defeat of that system. That system was the same as Mystery Babylon which is about to fall.

In Deut 32 we see a song of Moses. This song has a different meaning. It details all that God has done for His people--how He has saved us. We, however, have been disloyal, not worthy of His salvation. God decides to punish Israel, but out of His great love, He blesses us and punishes our enemies!

Throughout history man has turned away from God--even His own people turn away and are rebellious in many areas of their lives. Yeshua was sent to save us from our sins. We are not worthy--but God loves us and changes us into the image of Yeshua as we allow. God desires all to be saved. He punishes His enemies, which in turn are our enemies and by His own right arm saves us. This is the song they are singing in heaven. Those who despise God will now experience His wrath. See Insert on next page of this ancient song.

Those singing the song are not all necessarily in heaven. Some are still doing battle on earth. The sea of glass mingled with fire indicates their victory and peace in the spirit in the midst of the fire going on in the earth. Before we
experience victory in the Lord we must proclaim it. This represents the saints proclaiming their victory and believing the promises of God. We are saved by grace. The final victory and the world of tomorrow is still to come.

15:5-8 The angels come out of the temple in heaven and are given the seven vials by one of the heavenly creatures. They are clothed in white linen and are girt about with golden girdles. The temple is filled with smoke the angels depart on their mission of wrath to the unrepentant on earth. On the Day of Atonement the Holy of Holies was filled with smoke from the incense.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN - THE WRATH OF GOD IS POURED OUT UPON THE EARTH - DAY OF ATONEMENT

NOTE: “…the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience. Col 3:6

“For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord…” 1 Thess 5:9

Believers go through this period but they are not afflicted with God’s wrath unless they are disobedient false Christians. Believers are persecuted and martyred, but they are not appointed to the wrath of God as the wicked are. Persecution is trial by fire--and fire purifies--it burns away the dross--it makes the bride spotless.

16:1-2 John hears a great voice coming out of the temple telling the angels to go their way and pour out the vials of wrath upon the earth. The announcement in the previous chapter is now being carried out. The first angel pours out his vial and grievous sores come upon those who have the mark of the beast.

If the mark of the beast is an implant beneath the skin these sores could be related to that. There have already been reports of sores and infections in implants in people. This could be sores under the skin. In reality, it is probably futile to try and figure out what the mark of the beast is at this time. The “image” of the beast is in reality the “image” of the deception of this false religious system. Sores are often a type of uncleaness--sinners are unclean in God’s eyes. Prior to entering the Holy of Holies the High Priest was required to wash and put on clean clothes.

16:3-7 The second angel pours his vial on the sea and it becomes as the blood of a dead man. All creatures in the sea die. The third angel pours out his vial in the rivers and fountains and they become blood. The angel of the waters proclaims God’s righteous judgment on men because they have killed God’s saints and prophets. They now have blood to drink themselves.

In the natural these wraths could be oil spills or nuclear contamination. Spiritually they could indicate civil unrest, rioting, and deadly warfare. Often seas indicate many nations or people. Many people could be experiencing civil war and war. This could also be people turning against the religious system--the provider of water--poisoned water.

16:8-9 The fourth angel pours out his vial upon the sun and men are scorched with fire, heat, and blasphemed God and still they did not repent. Men still curse God and refuse to repent. This plague could be weather related. Sun storms, drought, excessive heat, no power to cool homes and business. Climate change could create excessive heat. It could also be the fire of war.

16:9-10 The fifth angel pours out his vial on the seat of the beast and his kingdom is full of darkness. Once again men curse God because of their sores and pains and refuse to repent. The seat of power--the Beast, is losing control--anarchy. The world is falling into darkness.

16:10-14 The sixth angel pours out his vial upon the river Euphrates and it dries up! This prepares the way for the kings of the east to come to the middle east for a final battle. Unclean spirits that look like frogs come out of the mouth of the beast and the false prophet performing miracles. They are demons gathering the nations to do battle on the great day of the Almighty. The demons are in a panic, jumping like scared frogs! Their time is short!

Today if the Euphrates dried up and nations came from the east they would be China, Russia, and other Islamic goat nations in a coalition of nations. Today China is the rising power in the world. Russia is also a major supplier of energy to much of Europe (gas and oil). China and Russia are currently forming alliances with each other and Muslim countries in their region. If the Beast is a German led power I could easily see conflict between the German led Beast and the kings of the east. It could be about energy in addition to the main prize: Jerusalem. Everyone wants Jerusalem: The Muslims, the Vatican, and the Jews!

Islamic nations that were not defeated in the war That divides Jerusalem would most likely be aligned with this new coalition of nations. The Kings of the East.

16:15-16 The Lord warns He is coming as the thief in the night! He warns the believers to watch and keep pure in this

turbulent time. The nations are gathered into the Valley of Jezreel also known as Armageddon. Daniel 11:44-45, Daniel 12:1-4

I believe the Lord is giving his people a tip off here
of His impending return! He says He is coming like a thief, stay clean, and then He mentions Armageddon. Har means mountain, Megiddo is the name of the city. Har-Megiddo. If you stand on Mt. Carmel in Israel you see this valley spread out below. Millions of soldiers could fight in this valley. I was there and saw it. When we see the armies gather we know the time of His return in the clouds is very near!

16:17-21 The seventh angel pours his vial into the air and a voice out of heaven says it is done. Voices, thunder, lightening, and a great earthquake take place. The earthquake breaks the great Mystery Babylon into three parts. Cities in many nations collapse. Hail falls from heaven with great force and men curse God and refuse to repent.

The great battle is taking place, the earth is shaken. Nations and cities are collapsing. The beast system is being destroyed along with the kings of the east. After man has destroyed himself in war great hail falls. I believe this is about the time the Lord appears. Rev 19:11-16 This is when I believe we meet Him in the air. 1 Thessalonians 4.15-17 The resurrection of the dead and rapture take place together! Key witness chapter to read is ISAIAH 24

CHAPTER 17 - MYSTERY BABYLON DESCRIBED AND FALLEN.

Chapters 17 and 18 are a flash back describing Mystery Babylon and her fall which is taking place simultaneously with the above action.


17:1-8 One on the angels which had (it has been poured out already) one of the seven vials now comes and speaks to John. He says to John, “Come with me and I’ll show the judgment of the great whore that sits upon many waters (nations) that has fornicated (defiled with women/false religion) with the inhabitants of the earth and made them drunk with her wine (false doctrine).

John is carried away in the spirit into the wilderness and he sees a woman upon a scarlet beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman is arrayed in purple, decked in gold, precious stones, pearls, and has a golden cup full of abominations, filth, and fornication. On her forehead is written: Mystery Babylon the Great. Mother of harlots and abominations of the earth. The woman is drunken with the blood of the saints and martyrs of Jesus. John is in awe. The angel says why do you marvel? I will tell you her mystery and of the beast that carries her. The beast was, is not, and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit. Those whose names are not written in the book of life from the foundation of the earth will wonder when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.

John is being shown a political/religious system that has been in the earth since Genesis 11 and the tower of Babel. Man has always rebelled against God and has tried to be like God. Satan, the spirit of the world, has always attempted
throughout history to unite the earth under his one world government. This is part of the beast that was. The other part of the beast that was is Christianity hijacked.

Once Rome made Christianity the religion of the empire you no longer had to be born again--you only had to be born into. In 312 A.D the emperor Constantine adopted Christianity. By 380 A.D. it was the official religion of the Empire.

At his point in time the spirit of the Nicolatians rose up. Nicolatians means “control of the lay people.” The nature of the church was changed forever--but the Holy Spirit still worked within and without this human controlled ecclesiastical government. In the end time there will be a great religious beast system built on the foundations of the past but denying the power of the church in Acts. The church of man is slowly removing God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit out of their government and replacing it with secular humanism. This is the great “deception.” There will be no sin in this system--only all inclusiveness.

I am not being judgmental. I am only speaking the truth. We have to lay aside our preconceived doctrine, dogma, and

denominationalism to really understand what is happening in the church. Until now God has worked within the religious system. The day is soon coming when we must “Come out of her my people.” Rev 18:4 Those who endure through the events of Revelation will only be loyal to the Lord. There will be no gray areas like today. He who has an ear let him hear. For now the Lord has worked within--that day is coming to a close. Seek the Lord on your own and ask Him for understanding. This man-made system was, is not, and yet is. It is not where we want to have our hearts and loyalty during the end times. Once the mark of the beast is on you it is too late. Rev 14:9-10

The religious system of men has killed in the name of God and persecuted in the name of God. Jesus told us this would happen. They will think they do God service. These are unpleasant things to think about and discuss. We may not see it in our day--but a coming generation will. I am not looking for an argument--ask God for wisdom and understanding.

17:9-13 The description continues: “Here is the mind which has wisdom: The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits. There are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come. And when he comes, he must continue a short time. The beast that was, and is not, is himself also the eighth, and is of the seven, and is going to perdition. “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast. These are of one mind, and they will give their power and authority to the beast.

Is this a Muslim system forced upon the earth, a secular human system, or a system with its foundations based on Christianity? I believe the Muslims have been subdued in (Rev 9). This Mystery Babylon will be based on Christianity and human secularism, and is now an abomination in God’s eyes. This is the great deception and false church. This is the whore which rides the beast. The beast is the political and financial system and the whore is the glue--the spiritual false church which unites the various nations which make up the beast into one politically correct and all inclusive pseudo religion.

17:14-18 These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.” Then he said to me, “The waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues. And the ten horns which you saw on the beast, these will hate the harlot, make her desolate and naked, eat her flesh and burn her with fire. 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. And the woman whom you saw is that great city which reigns over the kings of the earth.”

It appears that in the end the political system turns against the whore--civil war! The political system eats the religious system! The woman was the religious system that reigned over the nations “spiritually” until they turned on her. They don’t need her now--there is no sin and human secularism reigns. In the Old Testament we often see the armies of the enemies of Israel turn on themselves. Once again we see it happen.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN - THE END OF MYSTERY BABYLON - THE WORLD OF TOMORROW NEAR

18:1-10 John sees an angel come down from heaven having great power and the earth is lightened with his glory. The angel is crying out the final judgment on the Mystery Babylon system. All the earth has partaken of her fornication and delicacies. She is the habitation of devils and a cage for unclean birds.

Key verse: Rev 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues. If this system was not based on Christianity why are we to come out of her? This is the false humanistic ungodly worldly church of man during this time.

The angel continues on, recording Mystery Babylon’s sins of pride, fornication, and rebellion towards God. She is going to be burned with fire by the Lord God and all on earth will bewail her. The key verse for God’s people is 18:4 We are exhorted to come out of her. This is a strong warning to God’s people not to defile themselves with this religious/political system. The Lord does not want us to eat at pagan tables like Jezebel or befriend the doctrines of Balaam (Rev 2). We are to seek the pure word of God. In those last days our personal relationship with the Lord will be what gets us through. The true bride will worship God in spirit and in truth. Her preparation process will draw her closer to the Lord. She will not be involved in the world church. This may be difficult to understand but he who has an ear will hear. I Thess 4:7

18:11-19 The angel continues to describe the fall of this financial, religious, political beast system that has enslaved men. There is weeping and mourning for her destruction. Enslaving debt, corporate fascism, and false religion, she is fallen.

18:20-24 The angel tells John to rejoice over her for God has avenged His holy apostles and prophets in her downfall. Babylon is brought down with violence and no music will be heard in her anymore. By her sorceries all nations were deceived. (Satan’s M.O.) In her was found the blood of the prophets and saints. She has persecuted her last victim, Rejoice!

“Witchcraft” or “sorceries” is the Greek word “pharmakia” which means “drugs” and appears five times in the New Testament: in Gal 5:20, Rev 9:21, 18:23, 21:8, and 22:15. Does this deception have anything to do with a health care system?

We see our dread champion, the Lord, totally destroying the kingdom of Satan. It is a violent picture. This is the God of Judgment, our Dread Champion. The narrative pulls no punches. Daniel 12

CHAPTER NINETEEN - OUR DREAD CHAMPION RETURNS AND WE MEET HIM IN THE AIR - DAY OF REDEMPTION
The previous five chapters have described events that have been taking place simultaneously. The reaping of the wicked (their destruction by their own hand), the battle of Armageddon, and the fall of Mystery Babylon have all been happening together. Now the Lord is going to appear in the clouds with the sound of the Archangels trumpet and we will be caught up to be with Him! 2 Thessalonians 4.16-18

19:1-10 There is great rejoicing in heaven as multitudes praise and worship the Lord God omnipotent.. The marriage of the Lamb is come and His wife has made herself ready. She is arrayed in fine white linen--which is the righteousness of the saints. Blessed are all they who are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. Worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. The testimony of Yeshua (Salvation) is the spirit of prophecy!

19:11-16 Heaven is opened and Jesus comes riding a white horse to judge and make war. He wore many crowns and was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood. His name is THE WORD OF GOD. The king comes!

Key verse 19:14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him. This is the point of rapture or translation. Paul describes it in 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 “ For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words. The second coming, meeting in the air, and resurrection of believers happens here, at the beginning of this battle. The word “meet” in the original means to “send out a delegation to meet and return with.”

It says that we who are alive and remain shall be caught up. Paul said “at the coming of the Lord.” This is the only coming we see in the Book of Revelation. The resurrection of the dead and the rapture take place at the same time--on the last day. John 6.39-40; 44. Jesus said it three times!

19:17-21 John sees the beast and the kings of the earth gathered together to make war against our Dread Champion. The beast is taken with the false prophet and both are cast into the lake of fire. The Lord has returned and the kingdom is about to be restored. Acts 1:6-7 The Day of Atonement (Redemption for believers) is now prophetically fulfilled!

CHAPTER TWENTY - MILLENIAL REIGN - BATTLE OF GOG AND MAGOG - FINAL JUDGMENTS

20:1-3 An angel comes down from heaven with a key to the bottomless pit, the devil is bound for a thousand years, cannot deceive the nations until the thousand years are fulfilled. At that time he will be loosed for a short time.

20:4-5 Thrones are set up to judge nations. Authority is given to those who have been martyred (beheaded) for the witness of Jesus. Those who refused to worship the beast, and receive his mark live, rule, and reign with Christ a thousand years. The rest of the dead live not again until the thousand years are finished.

Those who refuse to worship the beast include those down through the ages martyred for their witness. The fact that it says those who refused to worship the beast or receive his mark indicates that current believers have gone through the tribulation and overcame. They are now ruling the nations with Yeshua, teaching all nations about the Kingdom of God. Each year the nations celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles which represents the wedding feast (Zechariah 14.16). The rest of the dead must wait until the final judgment at the Bema Seat of Messiah. That is Rev 20:11-15.

20:6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. These are the saints who have overcome down through the ages and those who have come through the tribulation of the last days. The Feast of Tabernacles is now fulfilled. Ezekiel’s temple: Ezekiel 40-48 is a type of the millennial temple of Adonai.

20:7-10 After a thousand years Satan is loosed, the rebellious nations who have refused to be taught of God’s priests are defeated in battle. The battle takes place as the armies surround Jerusalem. 20:9 This is the Gog and Magog battle described in Ezek 38.1-39.20. Even without the influence of HaSatan for a thousand years, nations still rebel! God is revealing to mankind how evil his heart really is!

20:11-15 Now the final judgment seat of Christ. All mankind from beginning of history until then, except for those who experienced the first resurrection, are judged out of the book of life. All are judged according to their works. If not in the book of life--cast into the lake of fire--eternal separation from God.

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE - THE NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH - MILLENNIAL KINGDOM

21:1-6 John sees the new heaven and a new earth (no more sea) and the holy city new Jerusalem coming down from God out of heaven. Behold the Tabernacle of God is with men. No more tears, death, sorrow, crying, or pain: the former things are passed away. We are living with God Himself in His Eternal Kingdom. The waters of the fountain of life are flowing freely. We are one with God (no more seas or multitudes of unbelieving). Ezekiel 47.1-12

This is the eighth day--the Eternal Kingdom. The eighth day represents a new beginning (New Jerusalem). Called Simchat Torah in the Hebrew faith. A new beginning of the reading of the Torah.

Man is appointed six days or six thousand years. The seventh day is the millennial thousand years. The eighth day is the Eternal Kingdom--ruling the cosmos with Abba and Yeshua!

21:7-8 He that overcomes inherits all things (the promise of God) but the wicked are destined for the lake of fire: the second death. The Bema Judgment. In Hebraic thought cremation is not practiced--it is a pagan rite. Being thrown into the Lake of Fire is a form of cremation--you become ashes. God created us out of dust and to dust we return. If a person is cremated they are not returning to dust, but have become ashes. Could those thrown into the Lake of Fire be burned to ashes and exist no more?

21:9-27 John is shown the Lamb’s wife--he is carried away and shown the great city Jerusalem! It has the glory of God and light like a precious stone. It has gates, and foundations, and walls of precious stones. Foundations of the 12 apostles, gates with the names of the twelve tribes, walls of jasper, a city of gold. There is no temple--the Lord God is the temple. No sun or moon to shine--the glory of God lights it. The nations that are saved walk in it’s light. The gates are never shut and the glory of all nations come and honor the Lord.

The Bride is the new Jerusalem! Judah and Israel are united. We have become the great city--the bride has been transformed! Ezekiel’s two sticks have been joined as in Ezekiel 37:15-28. Also see Ezek 40.2-5; 48.31.

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO - NEW JERUSALEM - RIVER AND TREE OF LIFE - EXHORTATION - ETERNAL KINGDOM

22:1-21 John sees a pure river of water of life proceeding out of the throne of God. He sees trees of life that produce fruit on either side of the river. Every month the tree yields fruit and the leaves are for the healing of the nations. (Ezek 47.12; 43.1-7). There is no more curse. The servants of God see His face and reign in His light forever. The angel issues a final exhortation to those who read this book throughout the ages. This is what is coming. Be faithful and you will receive these rewards. 1 Corinthians 2.9

We are told this Revelation is to encourage us and strengthen us. That is everyone throughout history past and present who have been shown these great promises. This book is to bless them. Blessed are all who do his commandments Rev 22:14. In our time 7,000 years have passed. In God’s time only 7 days! The eighth day is dawning. Be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the Lord. Amen and Amen. Isaiah 60.19-21

Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. 1 Corinthians 2.9; Isaiah 64.4