Revelation 11:3
“And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.”

As John stands back and watches future events unfold his attention is drawn to two men who were called to proclaim the message of salvation during the darkest days in human history. John describes this period as being marked by spiritual darkness, immorality and a hardness toward God that would cause men to want to die rather than bend their knees in submission. Rather than allowing mankind to plummet toward eternal judgment, heaven provides a solution; two men armed with the word of God and the power of the Spirit. These two men will stand against intense persecution and usher in one of histories greatest revivals. They will remain unharmed by all the forces that come against them until the day they finish their testimony and are welcomed into glory, where they will receive a reward for their faithful service rendered unto Christ. 

I think part of the reason their story is recorded is to encourage us as we seek to serve Christ and finish our testimony. If the power of God is enough to protect these two men under such an intense barrage of spiritual and physical attack then certainly the power of God is enough to both protect and provide for us as we proclaim the gospel in our world. In some ways we are seeing the world around us darken. It has become increasingly more difficult to proclaim Christ without being tagged as bigoted, racist or “a hater.” In some cases this makes the Christian want to retreat into places of safety rather than take the abuse. I think we need to look to the example set by these two men and ask the Lord to fill us with the same Spirit that gave them such courage and boldness. Since the world needs Jesus more than ever the church needs men and woman armed with the Spirit of God and the word of God who will share the love of Christ and the hope of heaven with a dying world. 

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 11

From chapter 6 onward we have been looking at the Great Tribulation. This time has three primary purposes: bringing God’s judgment on a Christ-rejecting world, extending His mercy and the opportunity for salvation even in the midst of that judgment, and (after the removal of the church) for God to turn His primary attention to reconciling His people Israel to Himself. 

1. In verse 1, John is given a measuring rod. What is he told to measure? Where is the measurement taking place (verse 2)? 

2. In verses 3-7, there are two “witnesses” that God selects to declare His message over the course of three and a half years. 

a. Who do they stand before? Standing before God carries two ideas. First that we are accountable to Him and that He sees all that we do (read Rom 14:12 and Hebrews 4:13). Secondly, that we stand in relationship with Him, receiving direction and empowerment from Him (2Chronicles 29:11, Exodus 18:19). 

b. What powers does God give to them? 

c. When is it possible for these two witnesses to be harmed? Read Acts 20:24, 2Tim 4:7, Phil 1:21-24. Nothing can ever happen to us that God does not allow, and if we will embrace our ministries, nothing can stop us from fulfilling the work that He has for us! 

3. The great city, Jerusalem is earlier referred to as the holy city, yet spiritually it is referred to as Sodom and Egypt (both places that were spiritually unholy, wicked and godless). Outwardly something can appear to be holy, but inwardly it may not be. God looks upon the heart. Look up Proverbs 4:23. While it is important to judge our words and actions, it is equally important to judge our hearts. Take time to honestly examine your own heart before the Lord, and if necessary recommit yourself to Him. 

4. How do the people of the earth react to the death of the two witnesses? Are they happy about the message of the prophets and of the power God had given them? Read John 15:18-20. 

5. Read verses 11-13. When the earthquake falls upon Jerusalem, what is the response of the people of the city? How does this contrast with the response of the people of the earth to the great earthquake of Rev 6:12-17? 

6. Verses 14-19 tell of the details of the response in heaven as the final angel sounds the seventh trumpet. Remember that seven is the number of completion. Read carefully verse 15-18 and you will get a great overview of the whole of what the book of Revelation is all about and where it is headed.

Old Testament:

Ezekiel 33- A Beautiful Song

Ezekiel 34- A Shepherd’s Heart

Revelation 10:10
“Then I took the little book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth. But when I had eaten it, my stomach became bitter.”

The Bible is the most popular book of all time. It has been translated into almost three thousand languages, and has been distributed on every continent. In America, almost every household contains a Bible, and in many cases, they own more than one. Some Christians seem to be collectors of Bibles. Their bookshelves contain multiple translations of the Bible, and with the advent of smart devices, we can have a cornucopia of translations at our fingertips. All that being said, there seems to be a common problem around the world; people do not read the Bible. John’s encounter with this angelic being gives some beautiful insights into what we should do with our Bibles, and what our Bibles will do to us.

The angel gives John the book and instructs him to eat it. This serves as an illustration of the need for us to consume the Word of God. The message contained in Scripture has the power to produce faith that leads to salvation, to comfort us in difficultly, to direct us during times of confusion, to empower us for service, to convict us when we are going astray, to give insight into the ways of God, to challenge us to higher living, and to equip us to assist others who are hurting. However, this book, with all of its benefits, will have no effect on your life if it sits on the bookshelf. To benefit from the Bible, we must consume it. Taking time each day to read your Bible, memorize its promises, and put into practice it’s commands, will transform your life.

Notice also, John’s reaction to consuming the Word; it was sweet in his mouth like honey. Because the Word of God is living, it is timely; you will find His promises show up at all the right times. A sense of peace, comfort, and inner strengthening, comes with each promise. How blessedly sweet are the promises of God to the mouth of the child of God.

However, notice there is a deeper impact upon John than just a sweet taste. The Word becomes bitter in his stomach. When we have eaten something that has given us a bitter stomach, the body reacts by needing to “get it out.” The Word of God is like that. We read it and are deeply impacted by it. As its truths touch us, we become compelled to share them with others. It is difficult to read a promise, know a loved one who is struggling, and not want to pass it on. When we read of the promises of heaven for those who trust Christ, and the sorrows awaiting those who reject them, we cannot help but share the promises of eternal life.

Today, right now, read the Word. Let it minister it’s sweetness to you, but don’t stop there, let it become bitter in your belly, and share its promises with others.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 10

As we’ve been reading through the book of Revelation we have been watching the future unfold. From chapter 6-9 we’ve been looking at events in the time of the Great Tribulation. In these chapters we have seen seven seals opened (each with an attendant judgment) and six of seven trumpets sounding. Before the seventh trumpet sounds in chapter 11, we have a brief interlude here in chapter 10. 

1. Another angel is introduced in verse 1. What things in verse 1 are we told about this angel? 

2. In verse 2, what is in the hand of the angel? Where are his feet? Is there anywhere on earth that does not categorize as one of these two places? What does this say about where the message of this book is to go? 

3. In verses 3-4 after the angel cries out, seven thunderous voices sound. What does the voice from heaven say to John concerning the things which these thunderous voices proclaimed? In light of this, do you think it is wise to speculate on what they might have said? Read Deuteronomy 29:29. 

4. In verses 5-6 who does the angel swear by? Read John 1:1-3 and Colossians 1:15-17. 

5. In biblical terms a mystery is something hidden by God which will ultimately be revealed. In verse 7 it tells us that when the seventh angel sounds the “mystery” of God would be finished. Aside from all of the various insights that God is giving us into the future (some of them clear, some of them unclear) what in this book is God ultimately revealing to the world? Remember to keep the first words of Revelation chapter 1 your focus in the midst of so many amazing, terrifying, and sometimes perplexing visions. 

6. There has been a lot of speculation about who this angel is, but as we go through the chapter, we realize that the focus is not the angel himself, but the book that is in his hand. What is John told to do with the book in the angel’s hand? Read Luke 4:4, Psalm 119:103, and Jeremiah 20:9. Do you think that the book represents the Word of God? 

7. John describes the book as sweet to his mouth, but bitter to his belly. The Christian life is made up of both joy and suffering. What have been some of the sweet things for you in being a Christian? What things have been bitter? 

8. Even if the book does not represent the Word of God in its entirety, it is certainly a message from God. What is John told to do with this message? Look at 1 Corinthians 11:23 and 15:3. What did Paul do with what the Lord gave to him? What should we do with the message of His love and grace that the Lord has given to us? 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 31- Big And Strong
Ezekiel 32- Healthy Fears

Revelation 9 records the fifth and sixth blast of the angelic trumpets. With each blast, another calamity is poured out upon a Christ-rejecting world. While each of these is intriguing in themselves, two things stand out to me as I read through them.

First, it strikes me, the judgment of God does not come in a single stroke. It is spread throughout seven trumpet blasts, the pouring forth of seven bowls, and a multitude of other expressions. The message screams at me, God truly does not want men to perish. Each judgment is strong enough to grab attention, while allowing many to have the opportunity to respond by crying out to Jesus for salvation. No doubt, many will respond during the tribulation. Sadly however, many will also reject, seeking death rather than conversion. The same is true today. Some, who hear of the love and grace of God, decide to follow Him, while others reject Him, thinking they can escape judgment by ignoring it. Don’t misinterpret the patience and mercy of God, by thinking His judgment can be evaded by ignoring it. Cry out today for Jesus to save and transform you.

Second, I am struck by the fact that God makes a distinction between those who belong to Him and those who do not. A mark is placed on the forehead of all who believe. We are not sure what this mark is or whether others can see it, but we do know it is a distinguishing mark, affecting how a person is treated by God. Those with the mark avoid the judgment. Currently, there is no mark on the forehead of genuine believers. Instead, the evidence of true conversion is the indwelling of the Spirit of God. The Spirit is manifested in that the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts. God has always been in the business of making a distinction between His people and those who do not yet follow Him. In Egypt, the Israelites avoided many of the plagues; in the tribulation, those with the mark of God, will avoid much of the calamity caused by judgment. Today, the child of God dwells under the mighty hand of God, in a place of sweet fellowship peace and comfort.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 9

Beginning in chapter 6, we have seen the terrible judgments that come upon the world during the time of the Great Tribulation. They began as the seven seals were opened and they continued as the first four of seven trumpets have sounded. In this chapter the trouble continues. 

1. Read verses 1-2 and 11. This star that is fallen from heaven is it an actual star? What is it? 

2. In verse 2, what effect does the opening of the bottomless pit have upon the atmosphere of the earth? 

3. “Locusts” are released from the bottomless pit and in verses 3-5 we see learn about what they can do. What do they have power to do? What are the limitations of their power? How long will they affect man? Who are they not allowed to touch? 

4. Verse 6 tells us that in those days men will desire to die but will not be able to. What causes a person to desire death? Do people feel this way today? Read Ephesians 2:12-13 and 1Peter 1:3 to see an antidote. 

5. Verses 7-10 paint us a picture of these locusts. Note the frequent use of the word like. John must reference things he does know to describe something that he has never seen before. What do you think about the appearance of these locusts? Based on their appearance, do you think that they are actual locusts? 

6. When the sixth angel sounds his trumpet we see four others angels released. We’ll get into the details of how next, but what is their job? 

7. Do some quick math. If the earth has 6 billion people at the beginning of the Great Tribulation, and one fourth of those died as a result of the opening of the first four seals (Rev 6:8), then how many were left? Now as these four angels release an army upon the earth, one third of the remaining population of the earth will die. How many people are left? 

8. In verses 16-19 we are shown a massive army that the four angels will send forth. Although it is possible that this is an army of men, after reading the description of this army, does that seem likely? 

9. What is the response of the remaining people on the earth to these frightening consequences of rejecting and rebelling against God? Why would God allow these things to happen? Look up Proverbs 3:12 and Matthew 23:37. 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 29- Crutches
Ezekiel 30- It’s Coming, Are You Ready?

Revelation 8:1
“When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.”

Revelation 8 paints a sober picture and before the events unfold, Heaven goes silent for half an hour. These events are a series of judgments that are unleashed upon the earth. While it, no doubt, grieves the heart of God to judge the sinful men He sent His own Son to save, these judgments are released as the prayers of God’s people arise like incense before the throne of God.

Revelation 8:3-4 “Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel’s hand.”

For thousands of years, the hearts of God’s children have been crying out against the injustices of men. In war-torn parts of the world, men’s hearts cry out; they are saddened and exhausted by constant uprisings, as others vie for power, position or wealth. They are weary of watching their sons and daughter die. They are weary of losing their freedom to share Christ with their neighbors and friends. They are weary of the persecutions that rise against them. Their hearts cry out to heaven, where their prayers become like sweet incense before the throne of God. In peaceful parts of the world, men’s hearts cry out against injustice and immorality. They are tired of wickedness running rampant; tired of evil being called good and good, evil. Tired of hearing of millions of wombs being assaulted and babies aborted. As their hearts cry out, they too, become like sweet incense arising to the throne of God.

Revelation 8:5 “Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.”

All that follows, is the just recompense of living sin-filled lives. All the injustice that man has brought upon man will one day be reckoned, as God righteously deals with the sins of man. While my heart and yours echo these cries for justice, we are all guilty of committing the very injustices we cry to be made right. Fortunately, there is a glorious escape from the judgement provided in the cross. Every heart that cries out for His mercy will be pardoned from all sin and escape the righteous judgment to come.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 8

The main theme of Revelation is God revealing His Son as rightful King of men and creation as He brings to an end or to completion the fallen world. In chapter 6 we began the Great Tribulation, the time of God’s final terrible dealings with the current world system. Yet in spite of the terrible calamities of this time, we see in chapter 7 that there are a tremendous number of people who receive God’s offer of forgiveness during the tribulation. 

1. Six seals were opened in chapter 6; here in chapter 8 the seventh is opened. What happens immediately after the seal is opened? What does the seventh seal lead directly into (verse 2)? 

2. Look at verses 3 and 4. The prayers of the saints are offered with incense. Incense is symbolic of prayer in the Scripture. Look up Exodus 30:8, 1Thes 5:17, Luke 18:1-7, and Ephesians 6:18. What do these teach us about prayer? How often? Is prayer valuable to God? How valuable is it to you? 

3. When the censer is thrown to the earth, what happens? These events are an ominous sign of the judgments to come as the trumpets sound. 

4. As the first angel sounds his trumpet, what happens? Consider the effect that this would have upon people’s lives. 
5. As the second angel sounds in verses 8-9 we are told of a great meteor or comet crashing into the sea and of the terrible destruction it cause both to marine life and nautical industry. How do you think these things would affect life on earth? 

6. As the third angel sounds, another meteorological phenomenon takes place that results in a poisoning of water sources. The poisoning could be radiation, viral, bacterial, or something else, but it ultimately results in death for some people. Water is essential to life. Wormwood on the other hand is always associated with bitterness in the Bible. Contrast this water with the water Jesus promises in John 7:37-39. 

7. What is the result of the fourth angel sounding? Regardless of the exact way that this happens, the result is the same: greater darkness, less light. Read John 3:18-21 

8. Three trumpets are left to be sounded. And the angel warns “Woe, woe, woe” to everyone who will endure what is coming. God is faithful to warn us when we are heading into trouble by disobeying Him. Is He warning you to return to obedience to Him? If He is, it is because He loves you and wants to protect you from the consequences of sin. 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 28- Israel

Revelation 7:3
“Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.”

Revelation 7 begins with four angels holding the winds of judgment in their hands, waiting to be released upon a Christ-rejecting world. Fortunately, before they are allowed to begin, another angel is released from heaven to seal those who belong to God. We are not told exactly what this seal looks like, but we know that it is a mark that God places upon the forehead of these believers. It indicates that they belong to Him. There is a similar picture to this found in Ezekiel 9, where prior to judgment coming upon Israel, a messenger of God clothed in linen, marks all who belong to God rescuing them from divine judgment.

Ephesians 1:13 “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise . . .”

While it is clear, Revelation 7 is speaking of a particular group of people, sealed during the great tribulation, it is also true that all who trust in Christ receive a seal which marks them as God’s possession. That seal is the Holy Spirit, who indwells us at the moment we trust Christ for salvation. Paul tells us, upon receiving the indwelling of the Spirit, the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts.

Just yesterday, I was privileged to meet a woman and watch as she made a decision to trust Christ. She was beaming with joy so great, she could hardly contain it. All the pain and anguish of the difficulties of life, both past and present, seemed to be overshadowed by the intense joy that filled her upon receiving Christ. She was sealed with the spirit of promise.

Revelation 7:9-10 “After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’”

Those sealed by the Lord did not simply stand around and discuss how they had been sealed. Instead, they looked upon the world they lived in, and saw multitudes in need of Christ, and they declared the Gospel. What an amazing thing it will be, to stand in heaven and meet those who you helped lead to Christ.

Recently, I met a woman, who when she learned I was from America, began to thank me for those missionaries who came to the former Soviet Union in the early 90′s. She and her husband, along with many friends, had come to Christ through the ministry of one such missionary. What she did not know, the man standing with me, was one of those early missionaries. Fresh out of High School, he had given a year of his life to take the Gospel to Eastern Europe. What joy filled her eyes as she met, not the man who led her to Christ, but one who symbolized for her, all who loved her enough to risk it all for the Kingdom. What a joy! One day we will be in heaven with saints from every tribe and tongue, who have been washed in the Blood of the lamb and sealed with the Spirit.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 7

In the last chapter we saw the beginning of the Great Tribulation. As the first six seals are opened we see catastrophic events taking place upon the earth. 
1. Read verses 1-3. After the great earthquake of chapter 6, there is now a meteorological catastrophe as the wind ceases to blow. According to verse 3 what will this have a harmful effect upon? 

2. Before this can happen, God takes 144,000 Jews and places His protecting and preserving seal upon them. What are these people referred to as in verse 3? 

3. In verse 9 we see a great multitude of the saved from all over the earth. We will learn more about them shortly. For now notice the Lamb. Where is the Lamb? Does the Lamb receive equal praise to God? 

4. Verse 12 lists seven things that are to be ascribed to God. What are they? Do you give these things to God? 

5. Verses 13-14 tell us the identity of the innumerable multitude mentioned earlier in the chapter. Who are they? Even though the wrath of God is being poured out and the world is experiencing tribulation like it never has before, the mercy of God is still evident. How has God’s mercy been evident in difficult times in your own life? 

6. Look at verse 15. Where do these tribulation saints have the privilege of staying, and what do they have the privilege of doing? 

7. Look at verses 15-17. List all the benefits that the tribulation saints enjoy in God’s presence. 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 25- Feeling Special 
Ezekiel 26- Prophecy

Revelation 6:16
“Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!”

Chapters 6-19 in the book of Revelation, describe the period known as the Tribulation. According to Daniel the prophet, it is a seven year period when the judgment of God is meted out upon the earth. The fact that this judgment is spread out over seven years is a testimony to the grace of God. Instead of being immediate and complete, this judgment is poured out slowly, in order to grant time for unbelievers to come to Christ. According to Verses 9-11, many will come to faith in Christ during this time. Sadly however, not all who are given the opportunity to come to the Lord do so. Some will ignore the warnings and attempt to avoid, or even hide themselves from judgment, rather than coming to the one who provides forgiveness. This is an all too common experience.

Matthew 27:19 “While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent to him, saying, ‘Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him.’”

Pilate had a unique opportunity to make a decision for the Lord. He had the testimony of three and a half years of Jesus’ ministry taking place right under his nose, coupled with the testimony of others who declared the innocence of Christ (Matthew 27:4), and the very Words of Christ Himself, declaring He was the King of Kings and the Savior of humanity (Matthew 27:11, John 18:36-37). Yet, instead of making a decision to follow Christ, he took the worst advice that has ever been given. He chose to listen to those who said, “have nothing to do with Jesus”, and in an act filled with symbolism, he washed his hands of Christ (Matthew 27:24). Sadly, many are following the advice of Pilates wife. Instead of coming to the One who will pardon and forgive. They are acting like the proverbial ostrich with its head in the sand. All the signs are screaming out for the need to come to Christ, but like those in Revelation 6, they are running from Christ, and hiding in the caves, wishing the things designed by God to lead them to Jesus, would just go away.

Does that describe you? Are you trying to avoid God? Or have you realized, all the things in your life, both good and bad, have been designed by Him to bring you to the only One who can forgive your sin and make you right with Christ. Instead of hiding in a cave, or numbing yourself with religion, pleasure, substances or distractions, come to Christ and allow Him to wash you in His blood, and cleanse you from all your sins.

Pray now, “Jesus, forgive me of my sins, I want to become your follower and live for your glory.”

If you need help following Jesus, contact us at church@ccvb.net

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 6

In chapters 4 and 5 we saw the heavenly scene focused first around the throne of God and next upon the Scroll which only Jesus was able to open. As the scroll is opened in heaven, our attention is drawn back to earth and the effects of the opening of the scroll upon this world. 

1. In Revelation 5:1 we are told that the scroll has seven seals. These seven seals will lead into seven trumpets, which will then lead into seven bowls containing seven plagues. Remember that the number seven in biblical numerology means “completion”. Although not all details of what will happen are totally clear to us, what is clear is that a “complete” work is taking place. Keep that in mind as you study through the book. 

2. How many of these seven seals are opened in this chapter? 

3. John is exhorted to observe what the results of Jesus opening the scroll are; “come and see” he is told four times in the first seven verses. Read John 1:35-39. This is the story of when John and Andrew first met Jesus. Notice what He says to them in John 1:39. Do you think Jesus likes us to keep our attention upon Him and His work? 

4. The first four seals bring four riders, each on a different horse. As you look at these riders and the effects that they bring upon the earth we realize that the earth is entering a time of unprecedented suffering and difficulty on a global scale. Read Matt 24:21. 
a. What three things are we told about the rider on the white horse? A dictatorship. 
b. What three things are we told about the rider on the red horse? War and violence. 
c. What two things are we told about the rider on the black horse? Famine and poverty. 
d. What three things are we told about the rider on the pale horse? Death that results from the ride of the other horsemen. 

5. As the fifth seal is opened our attention is drawn to those who have been martyred for Jesus. They cry for God to be just and ask how long until He does something about what has been done to them. Look at verse 11. Will God do something and when? Have you ever had to wait a long time to see the results of God’s hand at work in your life? 

6. Look at verses 12-16. What kind of events are taking place at the opening of the sixth seal. What is the response of man regardless of socioeconomic status to these things? Do terrible events bring people to repentance? Read Romans 2:4. 

7. Verse 17 sums up this chapter. The wrath of God has begun to be poured out on a Christ-rejecting world. This is the time known as the Great Tribulation. However, despite the terrifying and catastrophic judgments that God is pouring out, we will see opportunity in the midst of this time for sinners to respond to God and receive forgiveness of sin. 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 23- Our Influence
Ezekiel 24- Perspective

Revelation 5:5
“But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.’”

Revelation 4 and 5 takes us on a heavenly tour, and with an all access pass, we are brought into the throne room of Jehovah God. There, we are privileged to observe as the saints and angels worship at His feet. Suddenly, the scene shifts from the throne to a scroll in the hand of God. All of Heaven seems fixated on this scroll and its contents. John is never told exactly what this scroll is, but it has been suggested by some, that it is the title deed to the earth.

Going all the way back to the beginning at the garden of Eden, we find that all of creation was given to mankind to enjoy. It did not take long before man’s rights were forfeited through sin, and all of creation was brought under bondage. At that moment, God’s plan of redemption began to unfold. Adam and Eve were promised that God would raise up a Savior who would make all things right. As the centuries moved forward, prophet after prophet spoke of the coming Messiah, who would free us from the bondage of sin, and establish His righteous reign over the earth.

In the heavenly scene, we find all heaven weeping because no one is found worthy to open the title deed to the earth and redeem it. No one, that is, until the Lion of the Tribe of Judah enters. Suddenly, all attention turns from the Scroll to the Lion. John also turns and describes what he saw, “A Lamb who had been slain.” The only one, in all of heaven and earth, worthy to hold the title deed to heaven and earth, is the one whose blood was shed to redeem us. Heaven’s choir breaks forth in song again, as angel and saint herald praise to the Worthy One.

“You are worthy to take the scroll,
And to open its seals; for You were slain,
And have redeemed us to God by Your blood
Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,
And have made us kings and priests to our God;
And we shall reign on the earth.”

Jesus alone is worthy of our praise, for Jesus alone has set us free from the bondage of sin and death, and given us the hope of Heaven’s reward. While we will one day join the heavenly chorus, we need not wait that long, we can fall at the feet of the Worthy One now, and celebrate the promise of eternal life.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 5

Remember that in chapter 4 John was saw an open door in heaven and was called up. There he saw many fascinating things, but the center of all of them was the throne of God, who is worthy to receive all worship. 
1. Notice that the scroll is mentioned in almost every one of the first 9 verses of this chapter. Before we get into what it means, do you think that makes the scroll important? 

2. Look at verses 2 and 3. Who initially is found that is worthy, that meets every condition, for opening this scroll? 

3. What is John’s reaction to the results of the search for one who can open the scroll? Why do you think he reacts this way? Does it seem important to him that this scroll is opened? 

4. Verses 5 and 6 as well as the rest of the chapters references to Him as the Lamb who was slain make it apparent that Jesus is the one who is unlike any other in all creation and is worthy to open the scroll. What two animals is Jesus referred to as in these verses? Look up Romans 11:22, Jude 22-23 and Proverbs 3:34 

5. When Jesus takes the scroll what is the response like in heaven (verses 8-12)? What is the response like in the rest of creation (verse 13)? Regardless of what the scroll might mean is it a good thing that it be opened? 

6. We gain a few clues into the 24 elders are by their song. Note the following: 
a. They were bought with Jesus’ shed blood, and therefore needed forgiveness of sin. 
b. They were not strictly Jewish because they came from everywhere. 
c. There are more nations/tribes/tongues than 24, so this cannot mean literally twenty four. 
d. They have been called into His family (as kings) and into His service (as priests). 
e. Given these facts, who do you think that the 24 elders might represent? 

7. It seems likely that the scroll represents a title deed or last will and testament for the world, and opening it will begin a process culminating in Jesus taking His rightful place as king of all. But regardless of what it means exactly, don’t forget these truths concerning the scroll: 
a. No one on earth can open it, and that is a sad thing 
b. Only Jesus can open it, and that is a good thing.

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 21- For Or Against
Ezekiel 22- Stand In The Gap

Revelation 4:1
“After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven. And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me, saying, ‘Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.’”

John looked into the future of mankind and saw the day when the heavens will open, not to speak, but to call home all who have trusted in Christ for salvation. Paul explained that the dead in Christ would rise first, and we who are alive and remain will be caught up together in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). What a day that will be, when we are no longer looking through a glass dimly, but we are face to face with Christ (I Corinthians 13:12) steeped in His glory.

John gives us a glimpse of what we have to look forward to. He writes of a radiant throne, encircled by a rainbow, and surrounded by elders. In front of the throne, a sea like glass, and flying around the throne angel beings, ever declaring the Holiness and mighty power of God. The beauty of the throne is only overshadowed by the glory of the One sits upon it. Whenever the angels begin to sing, the elders cast down their golden crowns in homage and worship.

One day, not too far in our future, we will hear the sound of the trumpet blast, watch as the door opens in heaven, and the believers are called home to meet the Lord in the air. Live expectantly, who knows how soon, before that day appears.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 4

Remember that Revelation 1:19 gives us an outline of the book. Chapter 1 was the things that he had seen; chapter 2 and 3 were the things which are; and chapter 4 begins the section of the things which will take place “after this”. 

1. Notice at the end of verse 1 that John is about to be shown things that will take place “after these things”. What things is he referring to in chapters 2 and 3? 

2. In verses 1 and 2, where was the open door to and where is John then called to? 

3. John saw a door open in heaven, then he was called up to heaven and was immediately there. Have you considered how quickly/suddenly the Lord could return for us? Read Mark 13:32-37 

4. Look at verses 3-8. Some of the descriptions are of things that we have never seen before. John must frequently use the word “like” to describe things. His (and our) only point of reference is earthly things that we have already seen. Part of the reason for the dramatic imagery is to get our attention. But heaven will be full of new things that will blow our mind! Read 1Cor 2:9, and Job 42:3. 

5. Notice that the 24 elders have crowns and white robes. Look up 2 Tim 4:8, James 1:12, and 1 Peter 5:4 for clues as to the crowns that they could be wearing. Also look up Isa 1:18 and 61:10. 

6. You may have noticed that in the book of Revelation the number 7 has been mentioned many times. Seven is a number that in biblical numerology means “completion”. In verse 5, we see mention of the seven Spirits of God. Since we never have a listing of seven spirits of God elsewhere in the Scripture, it’s a good bet that this speaks of the “completeness” of God’s Spirit, in every way. Be on the lookout for sevens as we go through the book. 

7. The living creatures are “full of eyes”, which is a pretty bizarre picture to imagine. However eyes are used for sight. The object of their attention is God Almighty upon the throne. What do they whose eyes are always upon Him have to say to Him? How can we keep our eyes focused on Jesus? 

8. Notice the effect of the living creatures worship on the twenty four elders. The most effective way that we can influence others is to grow in our own relationship with God. Look up John 15:4-5. 

9. In this life crowns give power, authority and glory. Note what the elders do with their crowns and what they say to God. How is God totally different from us and why should He be worshipped? 

Old Testament
Ezekiel 20- Navigating Life

Revelation 3:14
“These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God”

What a beautiful and insightful way Jesus describes Himself to the church. He tells us three things about Himself.

First, He is the Amen. In the first chapter, He refers to Himself as Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. It is valuable to consider Jesus to be the end of the matter. When we are wrestling through things and trying to decide what the right path is, we should always acquiesce to the ways of God.

Second, He is the true witness. Many things speak to the nature of God. Nature reveals much of what God is like, while circumstances always seem to cloud our understanding of Him. If we want a clear vision of who God is, we should look carefully at Christ. He declared that to see Him was to see the Father (John 14:8).

Finally, He is the beginning of the creation. Now, that does not mean that He was the first of all things created, but that He is the cause of all creation. John tells us that all things were created by Him and nothing that was made was made apart from Him (John 1:3). The great force behind all His creation was His Word. We are told time and again that, “God said… And there was…” what great power is contained in the Word of God. The more you are in the pages of it, the more you will experience it in your daily life.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 3

Chapters 2 and 3 contain seven different letters or messages from Jesus to seven churches. Each of these churches have different strengths and weaknesses, and Jesus addresses them. 
Remember that there is a pattern that each of these letters follow, with a couple of exceptions: 
• Jesus reveals some aspect of His character, hinted at by the name He calls Himself. 
• Jesus praises the church for the things they are doing well (one exception). 
• Jesus calls the church to repent for the things they are doing wrong (one exception). 
• They are exhorted to listen to the message.

1. What three churches are addressed in this chapter? (verses 1, 7, 14) 
2. Note how in verse 1 the Sardis church is told that it has a name that it is alive but it is dead. Read Matthew 15:7-9. How can we avoid being a dead church and a dead life? Look at verses 2-3 for five things we can do when our walk with God is “dead”. 
3. Verse 4 tells us that even in a dead church, there are some people in the church that are right with God. God sees the heart and knows who those people are. Read Matt 13:24-30, 36-43. Remember that it is not our place to pass final judgment on others, but rather we must judge ourselves and respond faithfully to Jesus. 
4. The word “Philadelphia” means brotherly love. The church of Philadelphia is the one church that is not corrected for something that they are doing wrong. Does this mean that they are perfect? Read 1Peter 4:8. 
5. What are the 3 things that the church of Philadelphia is praised for in verse 8? 
6. The Laodiceans are referred to as lukewarm, and Jesus describes this as something that makes Him nauseous. Examining your own life, are you passionate about the things of God or blasé’? 
7. Note verse 17. Although they were financially wealthy, how did Jesus view their souls? 
8. None of us likes to be told we are wrong. However look at verse 19-20. Why does Jesus correct us? Do you respond to the correction the Lord gives? 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 17- I’ll Take The Low Place
Ezekiel 18- The Blame Game

Revelation 2:4-5
“Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.”

In a very poetic fashion, Jesus describes Himself walking through and observing the goings on, in the church of Ephesus. It is both encouraging and frightening to know that Jesus is so involved with His church. He knows, and intimately describes, the affairs of the church, both good and bad. While He has much that is positive to share, the indictment He brings overshadows their successes. He declares they have left their first love.

“First love” may refer to what some have called the love of espousal. That love, where nothing else matters but the desire to be with and please another. Certainly, we could all afford a greater degree of that kind of love, but I suggest, “first love” is a reference to something more. John explained that we love God because He first loved us (1 John 4:19), which makes our love for Him is a reflection. If my love for Him is waning, then I must focus upon the love God has for me. Taking time to consider the cross, where the love of God was poured out, will always stir us to a greater degree of love for Him. That is the great value of the communion table. Reflecting upon the broken body and the shed blood of Christ, is an extremely helpful way to return to your first love.

Take some time to reflect upon the cross, and thank the Lord for His great love for you.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Revelation 2

In verse 19 of chapter 1 we are given the outline of the book of Revelation: The things which you have seen (chapter 1, the exalted Christ), the things which are (chapters 2 and 3), and the things that will take place after this. (Chapters 4 and beyond)  
1. Seven churches were mentioned in chapter 1. In chapters 2 and 3 they will each be addressed by Jesus. Which four are being spoken to by Jesus in this chapter (verses 1, 8, 12, 18)? 

2. There is a pattern that each of these letters follow, with a couple of exceptions: 
a. Jesus reveals some aspect of His character, hinted at by the name He calls Himself. 
b. Jesus praises the church for the things they are doing well (one exception). 
c. Jesus calls the church to repent for the things they are doing wrong (one exception). 
d. They are exhorted to listen to the message. 

3. Look at each letter. Do they all follow the pattern? 

4. According to verse 4-5 what are some antidotes for a cold heart toward Jesus? 

5. The church of Smyrna is a church that is suffering great persecution. What does Jesus have to say to them? 

6. In verse 6 and verse 15 the “Nicolaitans” are mentioned. Simply put, these are people who rule over the laity or laypeople in an ungodly way. How does Jesus feel about them and their teaching? 

7. The church of Thyatira is one that is mixed up in a lot of bad things. To them Jesus emphasizes that He will ultimately judge them. Are you aware at all times that you will stand before God and give account? 

Old Testament:
Ezekiel 15- I Heard It Through The Grape Vine
Ezekiel 16- It’s Everlasting