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LESSON 179
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LESSON 179/REVELATION 4-6
Rev 4:1 begins the third part of the Revelation—the "hereafter,"
according to the outline in Rev 1:19.
Chapters 4 and 5 depict a heavenly scene. Following chapter 5, the
seven seals are broken and revealed. Then the seven trumpets and seven
vials are introduced. In the midst of some of these, God’s Word also points
out other items and occurrences.
4:1. AFTER THIS I LOOKED, AND, BEHOLD, A DOOR WAS OPENED (before me) IN
HEAVEN: AND THE FIRST VOICE WHICH I HEARD WAS AS IT WERE OF A TRUMPET
TALKING WITH ME; WHICH SAID, COME UP HITHER (or come up here), AND I
WILL SHOW THEE THINGS WHICH MUST BE HEREAFTER (or must take place after
these things-NASB). Ref Mt 25:10; Rev 1:10; 1 Cor 15:51,52; 1 Thes
4:16,17. P, Rap, BT.
GOD, HIS THRONE,
TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS,
THE SEVEN SPIRITS,
AND FOUR BEASTS
4:1. AFTER THIS. These two words indicate that what is taking place,
now, comes after the seven churches. With the last verse in chapter 3,
the church age comes to an end. From here on, the church is never
mentioned again as being present on the earth. Chapters 2 and 3 show the
churches, but with the removal of the church, the heavenly scene appears.
Then God is shown dealing with Israel and a rebellious world. With the
removal of the church, the seventieth week of Daniel is about to break
forth-ref Dan 9:27.
It may be said that the world wants to exist without God; however,
after the Rapture, when it seems to have what it wants, crime, brutality,
and hate will abound. The people of the world would, ultimately, destroy
all life, if Jesus would not have returned when He does to put a stop
to it at the Battle of Armageddon. With the church gone and Satan
controlling things, the earth is expected to gradually turn into a nightmare
of wars, murders, stealing, rapes, fornication, diseases, hunger, and
earthquakes. The verse continues,
I LOOKED. John looks
AND, BEHOLD, A DOOR WAS OPENED (before me)
IN HEAVEN. John’s description of what happened to him, indicates, to
some extent, what it may be like when the saints are raptured.
AND THE FIRST VOICE WHICH I HEARD WAS AS IT WERE OF A TRUMPET. John
hears a voice, and the voice has the sound of a trumpet. When the Rapture
comes, a trumpet will sound. The trumpet was
TALKING WITH ME; WHICH SAID, COME UP HITHER (or come up here). The
voice commands John to come up to heaven.
AND I WILL SHOW THEE THINGS WHICH MUST BE HEREAFTER (or must take place
after these things-NASB). John sees what will be after the seven
churches. The Antichrist coming forth, the Tribulation, and the other events
will come after the seven churches and the Rapture. This is further
substantiated later on, as the saints are shown standing before the throne
of God prior to the Antichrist coming forth.
Mt 25:10 refers to the Rapture. It is written, AND THEY THAT WERE READY
WENT IN WITH HIM TO THE MARRIAGE: AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT. John sees a
door opened in heaven. Mt 25:10 shows a door that was opened and then
shut, after the saints are raptured.
In another verse, John also heard a voice like a trumpet (which was the
Lord’s voice), and he WAS IN THE SPIRIT ON THE LORD’S DAY-Rev 1:10.
The following is a description of the Rapture. BEHOLD, I SHOW YOU A
MYSTERY; WE SHALL NOT ALL SLEEP, BUT WE SHALL ALL BE CHANGED, IN A MOMENT,
IN THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE, AT THE LAST TRUMP: FOR THE TRUMPET SHALL
SOUND, AND THE DEAD SHALL BE RAISED INCORRUPTIBLE, AND WE SHALL BE
CHANGED-1 Cor 15:51,52. FOR THE LORD HIMSELF SHALL DESCEND FROM HEAVEN WITH A
SHOUT, WITH THE VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL, AND WITH THE TRUMP OF GOD: AND
THE DEAD IN CHRIST SHALL RISE FIRST: THEN WE WHICH ARE ALIVE AND REMAIN
SHALL BE CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM IN THE CLOUDS, TO MEET THE LORD
IN THE AIR: AND SO SHALL WE EVER BE WITH THE LORD-1 Thes 4:16,17.
John sees a door opened. He hears a voice like a trumpet, saying, "Come
up hither."
During the Rapture, a door is opened. There is a trumpet. The saints
can expect to hear a voice like a trumpet saying, "Come up hither." The
translation of John provides information relating to the Rapture of the
church. It also gives a time reference when it will take place in
relation to other events that will occur.
Once the Rapture has happened, Satan (THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN-Rev
12:10) is never again portrayed as being before the throne of God,
although he does not seem to be cast down until later in the Tribulation.
4:2. AND IMMEDIATELY I WAS IN THE SPIRIT: AND, BEHOLD, A THRONE WAS SET
IN HEAVEN (before me), AND ONE (or Someone) SAT ON THE THRONE. H.
4:2. As soon as John heard the voice, he was
IMMEDIATELY…IN THE SPIRIT. This may be a preview of how it will be when
the Rapture takes place; however, we will receive our new spiritual
body at the same time. John’s body, apparently, remained on the island of
Patmos.
John is immediately translated to heaven; there he sees a fantastic
sight.
AND, BEHOLD, A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN (before me),
AND ONE (or Someone)
SAT ON THE THRONE.
4:3. AND HE THAT SAT (or the One sitting there) WAS TO LOOK UPON LIKE
(or gleamed like) A JASPER AND A SARDINE STONE: AND THERE WAS A RAINBOW
ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE, IN SIGHT LIKE UNTO (or resembling) AN EMERALD.
Ref Ex 28:17,20; Rev 4:11; 5:7; Gen 9:8-17. H, BT.
4:3. John sees Someone sitting on the throne, which looked (or
gleamed) like a
JASPER AND A SARDINE STONE. The jasper may have been a clear stone like
a diamond. In some cases, this word is translated as "diamond." The
sardine stone is often translated as "ruby." This would indicate a ruby
red color. The first gemstone worn on the high priest’s breast was a
SARDIUS, and the last was a JASPER-Ex 28:17,20. It has been suggested that
righteousness and pureness as well as the blood are represented here.
The One sitting upon the throne is the Father, in Rev 4:11 and 5:7.
John also sees
A RAINBOW ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE. This rainbow is pictured as looking
LIKE (or resembling)
AN EMERALD or a green color. In Gen 9:8-17, the rainbow was a sign of
God’s covenant between He and Noah, his seed, and every living creature
with Noah, that there would never again be any FLOOD TO DESTROY THE
EARTH. It could be called a rainbow of mercy, for despite God’s great
wrath, which is about to be poured out upon the earth, multitudes will
still be born-again. There are numerous opinions as to the meaning of the
green color.
4:4. AND ROUND ABOUT (or surrounding) THE THRONE WERE FOUR AND TWENTY
SEATS (or thrones): AND UPON THE SEATS I SAW FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS
SITTING, CLOTHED IN WHITE RAIMENT (or clothing); AND THEY HAD ON THEIR
HEADS CROWNS OF GOLD. Ref Rev 19:8; 1:6; 1 Chr 24:1-19. H, BT.
4:4. AND ROUND ABOUT (or surrounding)
THE THRONE WERE FOUR AND TWENTY SEATS (or thrones). Surrounding the
throne, John sees twenty-four other thrones. These are presumed to be of
less splendor than the throne in the center. There are elders sitting
upon the twenty-four thrones.
AND UPON THE SEATS I SAW FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS SITTING. Elders would
suggest authority or overseers of the church. These elders were
CLOTHED IN WHITE RAIMENT (or clothing). It is written, the FINE LINEN,
CLEAN AND WHITE...IS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF SAINTS-Rev 19:8. These appear
to be redeemed saints. The Scriptures say that the redeemed shall be
KINGS AND PRIESTS-Rev 1:6. There were twenty-four courses (or orders) of
the priests-ref 1 Chr 24:1-19.
These twenty-four elders
HAD ON THEIR HEADS CROWNS OF GOLD. Crowns often represent authority.
They are also given as rewards to the redeemed saints. This would seem to
indicate that the elders had been judged and had received their
rewards.
One can only imagine the majesty and splendor of this sight.
There are many varied opinions of who these elders might be. Since
there seems to be so many different opinions, perhaps, the Holy Spirit has
not chosen to reveal who they are at this time. Some think they may be
the twelve sons of Jacob and the twelve apostles. Others think they may
be twelve prophets from the Old Testament. If they included the twelve
apostles, one might wonder why John did not recognize himself. Others
think they might be certain angels; however, the description of the
clothing and the mention of crowns would indicate otherwise. In addition,
angels are never mentioned as being elders, having crowns, or sitting
upon thrones.
4:5. AND OUT OF (or from) THE THRONE PROCEEDED LIGHTNINGS AND
THUNDERINGS AND VOICES: AND THERE WERE SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE BURNING BEFORE THE
THRONE, WHICH ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT125.1) OF
GOD. Ref Rev 8:5; 11:19; 16:18; 1:4; 3:1; Isa 11:2,3; Rev 5:6. H, BT.
4:5. John noted that
OUT OF (or from)
THE THRONE PROCEEDED LIGHTNINGS AND THUNDERINGS AND VOICES-ref Rev 8:5;
11:19; 16:18. These seem to indicate a throne of judgment. They may
also represent power.
John also saw
THERE WERE SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE BURNING BEFORE THE THRONE, WHICH ARE THE
SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT125.1)
OF GOD-ref Rev 1:4; 3:1; Isa 11:2,3. These may represent the attributes
of God. It is written, A LAMB...HAVING...SEVEN EYES WHICH ARE THE SEVEN
SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit) OF GOD SENT FORTH INTO ALL THE EARTH-Rev
5:6. (Note Rev 1:4, for more information.)
4:6. AND BEFORE (or in front of) THE THRONE THERE WAS A SEA OF GLASS
LIKE UNTO CRYSTAL (or what looked like a sea of glass, clear as
crystal-NIV): AND IN THE MIDST OF THE THRONE, AND ROUND ABOUT (or in the center,
around) THE THRONE, WERE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings) FULL OF
EYES BEFORE AND BEHIND (or covered with eyes, in front and in back-NIV).
Ref 2 Chr 4:2,6; Ezek 1:10; 10:14; Rev 15:2. H, BT.
4:6. AND BEFORE (or in front of)
THE THRONE THERE WAS A SEA OF GLASS LIKE UNTO CRYSTAL (or what looked
like a sea of glass, clear as crystal-NIV). John is describing what he
saw. This is sometimes compared to the circular sea in Solomon’s temple,
which was used by the priests for washing-ref 2 Chr 4:2,6. Before the
throne, however, it appears to be solid; no washing is needed. A sea of
glass is also mentioned in Rev 15:2.
AND IN THE MIDST OF THE THRONE, AND ROUND ABOUT (or in the center,
around)
THE THRONE, WERE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings). Note Ezek
chapters 1 and 10, especially Ezek 1:10 and 10:14. Regarding the cherubims in
Ezekiel, there are some similarities when compared with the four living
beings round about the throne, but also some differences. These four
living beings are not elders. They have no crowns and are not sitting
upon a throne. They are referred to, by some, as cherubims. Cherub and
cherubims are mentioned in Gen 3:24, and in many Old Testament verses, and
in Heb 9:5. There may be different forms or orders of cherubims.
They were
FULL OF EYES BEFORE AND BEHIND (or covered with eyes, in front and in
back-NIV). This may represent God’s omniscience and omnipresence. It may
represent great intelligence.
4:7. AND THE FIRST BEAST (or living being) WAS LIKE A LION, AND THE
SECOND BEAST (or living being) LIKE A CALF (or ox), AND THE THIRD BEAST
(or living being) HAD A FACE AS A MAN, AND THE FOURTH BEAST (or living
being) WAS LIKE A FLYING EAGLE. H, BT.
4:7. AND THE FIRST BEAST (or living being)
WAS LIKE A LION, which seems to represent power, majesty, and
authority. Jesus is referred to as the Lion of the tribe of Judah.
AND THE SECOND BEAST (or living being)
LIKE A CALF (or ox), possibly, representing strength, faithfulness,
patience, and endurance, or a perfect servant.
AND THE THIRD BEAST (or living being)
HAD A FACE AS A MAN, perhaps, indicating intelligence or a perfect man.
AND THE FOURTH BEAST (or living being)
WAS LIKE A FLYING EAGLE, which may indicate speed and sovereignty. The
high flying eagle might represent the deity of Christ. There are many
varied opinions of the significance of these four living creatures. Some
believe that they may be guardians of the throne.
4:8. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) HAD EACH OF THEM SIX WINGS
ABOUT HIM; AND THEY WERE FULL OF EYES WITHIN (or was covered with eyes
all around, even under his wings-NIV): AND THEY REST NOT DAY AND NIGHT,
SAYING, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, WHICH WAS, AND IS, AND IS
TO COME. Ref Isa 6:2,3. H, BT.
4:8. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
HAD EACH OF THEM SIX WINGS ABOUT HIM. The seraphims, of Isa 6:2, also
had six wings. The four living beings (each)
WERE FULL OF EYES WITHIN (or was covered with eyes all around, even
under his wings-NIV):
AND THEY REST NOT DAY AND NIGHT, SAYING, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, LORD GOD
ALMIGHTY. God is holy. He is perfect. All that He does is right. All His
judgments are completely just. He is wisdom and majesty. Can any of us
understand the true holiness of God? One purpose of these four living
beings is to worship, exalt, and give praise and glory to the LORD GOD
ALMIGHTY. They also dispense and deliver information and perform certain
tasks, as in Rev 15:7-one of them gives to the SEVEN ANGELS SEVEN
GOLDEN VIALS FULL OF THE WRATH OF GOD. The verse continues,
WHICH WAS, AND IS, AND IS TO COME. God always was, He is, and always
will be. Can we invision the magnitude and awesomeness of standing in the
presence of God Himself and worshiping, and praising, and singing?
The seraphims, of Isa 6:3, also cried, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, IS THE LORD OF
HOSTS: THE WHOLE EARTH IS FULL OF HIS GLORY.
4:9. AND WHEN THOSE BEASTS (or living beings) GIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND
THANKS TO HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE, WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. H,
BT.
4:9. AND WHEN THOSE BEASTS (or living beings)
GIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND THANKS.
They "give" glory-which means to praise, to give admiration, to
worship.
They "give" honor-which is to exalt, to count most precious, to esteem
to the highest degree.
They "give" thanks-which is to express gratitude, to acknowledge
something very special, to be very grateful, and to worship.
Why do they do this? because He is worthy. They are glorifying God, and
honoring God, and giving thanks to God.
TO HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE (which is God the Father),
WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER,
4:10. THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FALL DOWN BEFORE HIM THAT SAT ON THE
THRONE, AND WORSHIP HIM THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER, AND CAST (or lay)
THEIR CROWNS BEFORE THE THRONE, SAYING. H, BT.
4:10. THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FALL DOWN BEFORE HIM.
Note, when the living beings give glory, and honor, and thanks, the
elders fall down and worship Him. They fall down before
HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE (which is God, the Father). They
WORSHIP HIM. Worship may be the highest form of acknowledgment there
is. It is reserved for Deity. It is reserved for Almighty God. Each time
the word "worship" is used, they fall down. They worship Him
THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER.
The twenty-four elders
CAST (or lay)
THEIR CROWNS BEFORE THE THRONE, as if to say, "We are nothing. God is
everything. All that we are and all that we have is because of the holy,
all-powerful, Almighty God that created everything." As they cast their
crowns before the throne, they say,
4:11. THOU ART WORTHY, O LORD, TO RECEIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND POWER:
FOR THOU HAST CREATED ALL THINGS, AND FOR THY PLEASURE (or by Your will)
THEY ARE AND WERE CREATED (or they were created and came into being!-
JNT126). H, BT.
THE BOOK WITH
SEVEN SEALS
4:11. THOU ART WORTHY, O LORD. The praise, the glory, the honor are
all given to God, as He is worthy
TO RECEIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND POWER: FOR THOU HAST CREATED ALL THINGS.
He is worthy, for He created all things. He is the Creator.
AND FOR THY PLEASURE (or by Your will, or desire)
THEY ARE AND WERE CREATED (or were and have been created) (and came
into being! JNT126). Interestingly, the KJV uniquely combines both the
current tense "ARE" and the past tense "WERE" in this same verse. (Note
the information on the "Revelation Worship," under part 5A, "The
Introduction of the Revelation.")
5:1. AND I SAW IN THE RIGHT HAND OF HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE A BOOK
(or scroll) WRITTEN WITHIN AND ON THE BACKSIDE (or with writing on both
sides and-NIV), SEALED WITH SEVEN SEALS. H, BT.
AN ANGEL SAID
"WHO IS WORTHY?"
5:1. John saw
IN THE RIGHT HAND OF HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE A BOOK (or scroll). A
scroll is a rolled up parchment. It was in the right hand of God the
Father. The scroll was
WRITTEN WITHIN AND ON THE BACKSIDE (or with writing on both sides-NIV).
It is full— a complete scroll. There appears to be no name on the book.
Each seal describes an event that will take place on the earth; these
will unfold as each of the seals are broken.
The scroll was
SEALED WITH SEVEN SEALS. The number "seven" represents "completeness."
Having been sealed, no man could therefore open it, except the One that
was appointed to do so. The fact that it is sealed, also shows it is
not possible for the things contained within to occur until the appointed
time. It may be noted that the Father had it in His possession and had
chosen not to bring it forth until the Rapture had taken place.
A seal is used to certify a document by placing on it an official
stamp, often impressed in wax. It may also be used to detect any
unauthorized opening of a document, as once the seal was removed, it could not be
used again without being detected.
5:2. AND I SAW A STRONG (or mighty) ANGEL PROCLAIMING WITH A LOUD
VOICE, WHO IS WORTHY TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll), AND TO LOOSE (or break)
THE SEALS THEREOF? H, BT.
5:2. AND I SAW A STRONG (or mighty)
ANGEL. The angel is not identified. The angel was
PROCLAIMING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WHO IS WORTHY TO OPEN THE BOOK (or
scroll),
AND TO LOOSE (or break)
THE SEALS THEREOF? The qualification to open the book and break the
seals was worthiness. Two things are mentioned: 1) open the book, and 2)
break the seals. Since worthiness was a requirement to open the scroll
and to break the seals, perhaps, the scroll may have been a title deed
of some sort. Some have proposed that the scroll begins with the
breaking of the seven seals and that the contents of the scroll may include
the rest of the Revelation.
5:3. AND NO MAN IN HEAVEN, NOR IN EARTH, NEITHER UNDER THE EARTH, WAS
ABLE TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll), NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or even look
inside). H, BT.
5:3. AND NO "MAN" IN HEAVEN, NOR IN EARTH, NEITHER UNDER THE EARTH,
WAS ABLE TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll),
NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or even look inside). There needed to be found
a "MAN" that was worthy to open the book. There needed to be found a
"man" that was worthy, who could "redeem, buy back, or purchase" what had
been lost as a result of Adam’s sin.
Lev 25:23-25 speaks of A REDEMPTION FOR THE LAND. Jesus is our Kinsman.
He is our Redeemer. He, alone, has the right to open the book and break
the seals. He, alone, has the right to the "title deed."
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF DAVID, in Mt
1:1. This gives Him the right to the throne of David.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF ABRAHAM, in Mt
1:1. This gives Him the right to all of Israel.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF GOD, in Mt 4:3.
This gives Him the right to everything. He is the Heir of all things.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF MAN, in Mt 8:20.
This gives Him the right to all the earth.
5:4. AND I WEPT MUCH, BECAUSE NO MAN WAS FOUND WORTHY TO OPEN AND TO
READ THE BOOK (or scroll), NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or look inside it).
Ref Ro 3:23,10. H, BT.
THE LAMB TAKES
THE BOOK
5:4. AND I WEPT MUCH. John cried and kept on crying. He cried
BECAUSE NO MAN WAS FOUND WORTHY. Again, note the one qualification to
open the book was worthiness. The Scripture says that ALL HAVE SINNED-Ro
3:23. THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS-Ro 3:10. No one was found worthy
TO OPEN AND TO READ THE BOOK (or scroll),
NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or look inside it). Not only was no one worthy
to open the book and break the seals, no one was worthy to even look
thereon.
5:5. AND ONE OF THE ELDERS SAITH UNTO ME, WEEP NOT: BEHOLD, THE LION OF
THE TRIBE OF JUDAH, THE ROOT OF DAVID, HATH PREVAILED (or triumphed, or
won the right) TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll), AND TO LOOSE (or open) THE
SEVEN SEALS THEREOF. H, BT.
5:5. AND ONE OF THE ELDERS SAITH UNTO ME, WEEP NOT: BEHOLD, THE LION
OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH. This is #22 in the list of the descriptions of
Jesus. Jesus came from the tribe of Judah, the southern kingdom. Jesus is
that LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH. Note Hos 5:14 and Gen 49:9-11. He is
THE ROOT OF DAVID. This is #23 in the list of the descriptions of
Jesus. Jesus came from the lineage of David and will also sit upon the
throne of David. Jesus
HATH PREVAILED (or triumphed, or won the right)
TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll),
AND TO LOOSE (or open)
THE SEVEN SEALS THEREOF. Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the
Root of David, and the Lamb of God. He gave His life for the church and
overcame all things. Jesus won the right to open the scroll.
5:6. AND I BEHELD, AND, LO, IN THE MIDST (or center) OF THE THRONE AND
OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings), AND IN THE MIDST (or
circle) OF THE ELDERS, STOOD A LAMB AS IT HAD BEEN SLAIN (or slaughtered),
HAVING SEVEN HORNS AND SEVEN EYES, WHICH ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or
sevenfold Spirit-JNT127) OF GOD SENT FORTH INTO ALL THE EARTH. Ref Jn 1:29;
Dan 7:24; 1 Ki 22:11; Zech 3:9; 4:10. H, BT.
5:6. AND I BEHELD, AND, LO, IN THE MIDST (or center)
OF THE THRONE AND OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings),
AND IN THE MIDST (or circle)
OF THE ELDERS. It should be noted that Jesus is in the "center" of the
throne and in the "circle" of the elders (the redeemed).
STOOD A LAMB. Jesus is the LAMB OF GOD-Jn 1:29. Today, Jesus may be
sitting, but in that day, He will be standing. Jesus
HAD BEEN SLAIN (or slaughtered). Jesus had been crucified, but now was
alive. He rose from the dead. Jesus, the Lamb, is described as
HAVING SEVEN HORNS. This represents Deity, authority-ref Dan 7:24, and
complete omnipotent power. Horns can also represent strength-ref 1 Ki
22:11.
He is also shown to have
SEVEN EYES. This means that His knowledge and wisdom are complete-ref
Zech 3:9; 4:10. He sees and knows all things. These
ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT127)
OF GOD. Jesus has been described as the Lamb, but He shall return as
the Lion. The sevenfold Spirit of God is
SENT FORTH INTO ALL THE EARTH.
5:7. AND HE CAME AND TOOK THE BOOK (or scroll) OUT OF THE RIGHT HAND OF
HIM THAT SAT UPON THE THRONE. Ref 1 Jn 5:7; Rev 19:13; Jn 17:22,23. H,
BT.
5:7. AND
(1). HE (Jesus)
CAME AND TOOK THE BOOK (or scroll)
OUT OF THE RIGHT HAND OF
(2). HIM (God, the Father)
THAT SAT UPON THE THRONE. Only God could give it, only Jesus could
receive it. As already mentioned, this appears to be some form of a title
deed.
There are some who teach a false doctrine, saying that there are not
three Persons of the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the
Holy Spirit. In this verse, clearly, Jesus is seen as a separate Person
from the Father. Jesus comes and takes the scroll out of the right hand
of the Father, Who is sitting on the throne. In addition, the Spirit of
God is also a separate Person, as He is sent forth into all the earth.
THE TRINITY
It is written, FOR THERE ARE THREE THAT BEAR RECORD IN HEAVEN, THE
FATHER, THE WORD, AND THE HOLY GHOST: AND THESE THREE ARE ONE-1 Jn 5:7.
There are three separate Persons of the Trinity:
1. God the Father.
2. God the Son, which is Jesus. THE WORD is Jesus. It is written, HIS
NAME (Jesus) IS CALLED THE WORD OF GOD-Rev 19:13. Also it is written, IN
THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD (Jesus), AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS WITH GOD,
AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS GOD. Note, Jesus is the Word, and He is God.
AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS MADE FLESH, AND DWELT AMONG US-Jn 1:1,14.
3. God the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit.
Again, it is written, GO YE THEREFORE, AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, BAPTIZING
THEM IN THE NAME OF (1) THE FATHER, AND OF (2) THE SON, AND OF (3) THE
HOLY GHOST-Mt 28:19. Once again, we have the Trinity.
One then might ask, what does it mean when the verse says that THESE
THREE ARE ONE? This is answered in the following verses. AND THE GLORY
WHICH THOU GAVEST ME I HAVE GIVEN THEM; THAT THEY MAY BE ONE, EVEN AS WE
ARE ONE: I IN THEM, AND THOU IN ME, THAT THEY MAY BE MADE PERFECT IN
ONE; AND THAT THE WORLD MAY KNOW THAT THOU HAST SENT ME, AND HAST LOVED
THEM, AS THOU HAST LOVED ME-Jn 17:22,23. Note the words, THAT THEY MAY
BE ONE (or united), EVEN AS WE ARE ONE. The true believers in Christ are
one, in the same way Jesus and His Father are one. The body of Christ
is one, made up of individuals, yet united by one Spirit. In the same
way, Jesus and His Father are one, yet separate Persons. The verse
continues, I IN THEM. We are to be one (or joined) in Christ, though we are
separate persons, yet Jesus dwells in us. The verse continues, EVEN AS
WE ARE ONE. In the same way that Jesus and we are one, yet separate
persons, so the Father and Jesus are one, yet separate Persons. The f!
ollowing are some examples:
(This is further substantiated by many verses.)
THE (1) SPIRIT OF THE (2) LORD GOD IS UPON (3) ME;-Isa 61:1. Note,
there are three separate Persons.
FROM THE BEGINNING; FROM THE TIME THAT IT WAS, THERE (1) AM I: AND NOW
THE (2) LORD GOD, AND HIS (3) SPIRIT, HATH SENT (1) ME-Isa 48:16. Note,
there are three separate Persons.
BEHOLD MY SERVANT, WHOM I UPHOLD; MINE ELECT, IN WHOM MY SOUL
DELIGHTETH; I HAVE PUT (1) MY (2) SPIRIT UPON (3) HIM: HE SHALL BRING FORTH
JUDGMENT TO THE GENTILES-Isa 42:1. Note, there are three separate Persons.
AND THERE SHALL COME FORTH A ROD OUT OF THE STEM OF JESSE, AND A BRANCH
SHALL GROW OUT OF HIS ROOTS: AND THE (1) SPIRIT OF THE (2) LORD SHALL
REST UPON (3) HIM-Isa 11:1,2. Again, the three separate Persons of the
Trinity are revealed.
AND THE EARTH WAS WITHOUT FORM, AND VOID; AND DARKNESS WAS UPON THE
FACE OF THE DEEP. AND THE (1) SPIRIT OF (2) GOD MOVED UPON THE FACE OF THE
WATERS-Gen 1:2. Two Persons of the Trinity are noted here.
Because of the three Persons of the Trinity, we can now understand why
God uses the word "Us" in the following verses.
Adam had sinned. THE LORD GOD SAID, BEHOLD, THE MAN IS BECOME AS ONE OF
US (plural)-Gen 3:22. Us refers to more than one—the Trinity.
AND GOD SAID, LET US (more than one) MAKE MAN IN OUR (plural) IMAGE,
AFTER OUR (plural) LIKENESS-Gen 1:26. Us refers to more than one—the
Trinity.
There are many other verses that also show two or three Persons of the
Trinity. Some of them are listed here: Job 26:13; 27:3; 33:4; 1 Cor
12:4-6; Ps 2:2,7,12; Isa 63:6-16; Ps 50:1; Zech 7:12.
Without question, the Bible shows that the Godhead is one and consists
of three separate Persons—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy
Spirit.
God’s Word has warned over and over that this is the age of deception.
This is the age when many new doctrines have sprung up, and many more
will likely follow before the Lord takes His few faithful ones home.
Beware, that you do not get caught or entangled in one of Satan’s
deceptions. The Scriptures show that "many will be deceived"-ref Mt 24:11.
5:8. AND WHEN HE HAD TAKEN THE BOOK (or scroll), THE FOUR BEASTS (or
living beings) AND FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN BEFORE (or in front
of) THE LAMB, HAVING EVERY ONE OF THEM HARPS, AND GOLDEN VIALS FULL OF
ODOURS (or gold bowls filled with pieces of incense-JNT128), WHICH ARE
THE PRAYERS OF (the) SAINTS (or God’s people). Ref Rev 19:10. H, BT.
THE REDEEMED
ABOUT THE THRONE
5:8. AND WHEN HE (Jesus) HAD TAKEN THE BOOK (or scroll),
THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
AND FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN BEFORE (or in front of)
THE LAMB. Jesus, the Lamb, is God; He is worthy of worship. We are not
to fall down before other saints to worship-ref Rev 19:10. Worship is
reserved for God alone. And
EVERY ONE OF THEM (having)
HARPS. Note that there will be musical instruments in heaven. In the
Revelation, the harp and trumpet are mentioned.
AND GOLDEN VIALS FULL OF ODOURS (or gold bowls filled with pieces of
incense-
JNT 128),
WHICH ARE THE PRAYERS OF (the)
SAINTS (or God’s people). Whether the four living beings are also
holding the bowls is uncertain. This seems to be the prayers of God’s people
that had just been raptured. Some believe these are the prayers from
throughout the ages. Others believe these prayers are being held up by
the very people that made them. (Note Rev 8:3-5.)
5:9. AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG, SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY TO TAKE THE BOOK
(or scroll), AND TO OPEN (or break) THE SEALS THEREOF: FOR THOU WAST
SLAIN (or slaughtered), AND HAST REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased) US
TO (or for) GOD BY THY BLOOD OUT OF EVERY KINDRED (or tribe), AND
TONGUE (or language), AND PEOPLE, AND NATION. Ref Rev 4:1. H, BT.
5:9. AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG. The four living beings and the elders
appear to be singing.
SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY TO TAKE THE BOOK (or scroll),
AND TO OPEN (or break)
THE SEALS THEREOF. In this passage, taking the scroll and breaking the
seals is mentioned. Opening the scroll is not mentioned at this point.
FOR THOU WAST SLAIN (or slaughtered). Jesus is worthy, because He was
slain and has redeemed (or purchased, or ransomed) us, the saints. As it
is written,
AND HAST REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased)
US. Here are the saints, "us," pictured in front of the throne of
God—BEFORE the first seal is ever opened. Here are the saints that have just
been raptured, "us." We are redeemed
TO (or for)
GOD BY THY BLOOD. Angels are not ransomed by the blood of the Lamb—we,
the saints are. Where do we, the saints, come from? We come
OUT OF EVERY KINDRED (or tribe),
AND TONGUE (or language),
AND PEOPLE, AND NATION. It is impossible for these to be angels, as
angels do not come from every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.
John heard the voice, COME UP HITHER-Rev 4:1, which is symbolic of the
Rapture. The church age is over. Now John is relating what he saw. John
saw "us." As it is written,
5:10. AND HAST MADE US UNTO OUR GOD KINGS (or a kingdom) AND PRIESTS
(to serve our God): AND WE SHALL REIGN ON (or rule over) THE EARTH. Ref
Rev 3:10. P, H, JHM, M.
5:10. AND HAST MADE US. This is the second time the word "us" is used
in this passage. It means exactly what it says, "US."
Now, combine this with the words of Rev 3:10: BECAUSE THOU HAST KEPT
(or did obey) THE WORD (or message, or command) OF MY PATIENCE (or to
endure patiently), I ALSO WILL KEEP THEE FROM THE HOUR OF TEMPTATION (or
trial) (that is, the Tribulation), WHICH SHALL COME UPON ALL THE WORLD,
TO TRY (or test) THEM THAT DWELL (or live) UPON THE EARTH.
HERE IS CLEAR, UNMISTAKABLE PROOF
THAT THE SAINTS WILL NOT GO INTO
THE TRIBULATION. THEY SHALL BE RAPTURED AND SHALL BE BEFORE THE THRONE
OF GOD, PRIOR TO THE FIRST SEAL BEING OPENED. THUS IT IS WRITTEN, AND
THUS IT SHALL BE.
The question is, how many are really ready? If Jesus came today, would
"you" be taken?
The verse continues, AND HAS MADE US
UNTO OUR GOD KINGS (or a kingdom) AND PRIESTS (to serve our God). We
are a kingdom unto God, and we shall be kings and priests:
AND WE SHALL REIGN ON (or rule over) THE EARTH. Some may say this verse
does not mean exactly what it says.
The singing in the verse now turns to the future and shows that we (the
saints) shall reign on the earth. This refers to the millennial reign
of Jesus Christ, as we shall reign and rule with Jesus for one thousand
years. Here, the word "we" is used—the saints. Here again, the saints,
"we" are pictured before the throne of God prior to the first seal ever
being opened.
5:11. AND I BEHELD, AND I HEARD THE VOICE OF MANY ANGELS ROUND ABOUT
THE THRONE (they encircled the throne) AND THE BEASTS (or living beings)
AND THE ELDERS: AND THE NUMBER OF THEM WAS TEN THOUSAND TIMES TEN
THOUSAND, AND THOUSANDS OF THOUSANDS. Ref Rev 22:8,9; Mt 22:30; Rev 19:10;
Mt 7:14. H, BT.
5:11. AND I BEHELD, AND I HEARD THE VOICE OF MANY ANGELS. The voices
now include the angels, which were
ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE (they encircled the throne)
AND THE BEASTS (or living beings)
AND THE ELDERS.
The question arises, are these angels? or are they the saints that are
now called angels? The singing that has just been going on used such
words as, "redeemed us, made us, and we shall." If these words were
correctly translated, by the direction of the Holy Spirit, then the angels
before the throne appear to be the saints. Consider, it is written, I
JOHN...FELL DOWN TO WORSHIP BEFORE THE FEET OF THE ANGEL WHICH SHEWED ME
THESE THINGS. THEN SAITH HE UNTO ME, SEE THOU DO IT NOT: FOR I AM THY
FELLOWSERVANT, AND OF THY BRETHREN THE PROPHETS-Rev 22:8,9. This same
John that used the word "angels," in Rev 5:11, thought this was also an
angel, yet he was not. He was a saint that had been redeemed by the
blood of Jesus. We might wonder how this can be. Note the words of Jesus.
FOR IN THE RESURRECTION THEY NEITHER MARRY, NOR ARE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE,
BUT ARE AS THE ANGELS OF GOD IN HEAVEN-Mt 22:30. The saints become as
the angels.
John FELL AT HIS FEET TO WORSHIP what seemingly was an angel. AND HE
SAID UNTO ME, SEE THOU DO IT NOT: I AM THY FELLOWSERVANT, AND OF THY
BRETHREN THAT HAVE THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS-Rev 19:10. Again, note that once
we (the saints) are in heaven, Jesus said we become AS THE ANGELS OF
GOD; however, the true angels of God are not redeemed.
Considering the Scriptures and what was being said, apparently, the
myriad of angels before the throne are the saints that were redeemed.
AND THE NUMBER OF THEM WAS TEN THOUSAND TIMES TEN THOUSAND, AND
THOUSANDS OF THOUSANDS (or thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times
ten thousand-NIV). This totals one hundred million (100,000,000) and
thousands of thousands. This seems like a very large number. "If" this
represents the resurrected and raptured saints of all times, then the
percentage of people that are redeemed, throughout all of history, is
extremely small. Jesus did say, FEW THERE BE THAT FIND IT-Mt 7:14. Some might
say that this simply represents an infinite number which no man can
know.
5:12. SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WORTHY IS THE LAMB THAT WAS SLAIN (or
slaughtered) TO RECEIVE POWER, AND RICHES (or wealth), AND WISDOM, AND
STRENGTH, AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND BLESSING (or praise). H, BT.
5:12. The multitude of angels were
SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WORTHY IS THE LAMB THAT WAS SLAIN (or
slaughtered)
TO RECEIVE POWER, AND RICHES (or wealth),
AND WISDOM, AND STRENGTH, AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND BLESSING (or
praise). (Note the heading on "The Revelation Worship," in part 5A-2.)
5:13. AND EVERY CREATURE (or created thing) WHICH IS IN HEAVEN, AND ON
THE EARTH, AND UNDER THE EARTH, AND SUCH AS ARE IN THE SEA, AND ALL
THAT ARE IN THEM, HEARD I SAYING (or singing), BLESSING (or praise), AND
HONOR, AND GLORY, AND POWER, BE UNTO HIM THAT SITTETH UPON THE THRONE,
AND UNTO THE LAMB FOR EVER AND EVER. H, BT.
5:13. AND EVERY CREATURE (or created thing)
WHICH IS IN HEAVEN, AND ON THE EARTH, AND UNDER THE EARTH, AND SUCH AS
ARE IN THE SEA, AND ALL THAT ARE IN THEM, HEARD I SAYING (or singing).
There are many varied opinions on the previous words in Rev 5:13. They
are saying,
BLESSING (or praise),
AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND POWER, BE UNTO HIM THAT SITTETH UPON THE
THRONE, AND UNTO THE LAMB FOR EVER AND EVER.
5:14. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) SAID (or kept saying),
AMEN. AND THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN AND WOR-SHIPED HIM THAT
LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. H, BT.
HE FIRST SEAL OPENED
THE WHITE HORSE
THE ANTICHRIST
5:14. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
SAID (or kept saying),
AMEN. AND THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN AND WORSHIPED HIM THAT
LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER.
It should be noted that once we are in heaven, we shall be doing much
worshiping and singing. We shall be giving thanks, and praise, and honor
to both Jesus and the Father.
While the saints appear to be singing before the throne of God, the
rebellious people of the earth, who would not commit themselves to Jesus,
are about to undergo many great judgments. The wrath of God is about to
be poured out upon the earth.
The seals appear to have been designed in such a way that, when one is
broken, the scroll is allowed to unfold only until the next seal is
reached. As each seal is broken, the actual words or contents of the
scroll do not appear to be revealed. Instead, we are told of certain events
that take place as each seal is broken.
With the opening of the first seal, God’s patience with those that
would not repent seems to have run out. God’s approach in bringing men to
repentance now changes.
Next, the four horses of the Apocalypse are about to come forth.
6:1. AND I SAW (or watched) WHEN THE LAMB OPENED ONE OF THE SEALS (or
broke the first of the seven seals-JNT129), AND I HEARD, AS IT WERE THE
NOISE (or voice) OF THUNDER, ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
SAYING (in a voice like thunder-NIV), COME AND SEE. Seal 1, BT.
6:1. AND I SAW (or watched)
WHEN THE LAMB (which is Jesus) OPENED ONE OF THE SEALS (or broke the
first of the seven seals-JNT129). Jesus breaks open the first seal. We
see the first major event on the earth coming to pass after the Rapture.
John
HEARD, AS IT WERE THE NOISE (or voice)
OF THUNDER, ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
SAYING (in a voice like thunder-NIV),
COME AND SEE. The first living creature was like a lion-ref Rev 4:7
NIV. John is told to come and see.
6:2. AND I SAW (or looked), AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE (in front of me):
AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (or its rider) HAD A BOW; AND A CROWN WAS GIVEN
UNTO HIM: AND HE WENT FORTH CONQUERING, AND TO CONQUER (or he rode out
as a conqueror bent on conquest-NIV). Ref 2 Cor 11:14; Gen 3:15; Dan
7:8; 1 Jn 2:18,22; Dan 9:26. BT, T1.
(Other reference verses)-2 Thes 2:3,4,9; Rev 13:4; Dan 8:23-25; 9:27; 1
Thes 5:3; Ps 4:8.
THE SECOND SEAL
THE RED HORSE, WAR
6:2. AND I SAW (or looked),
AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE (in front of me). White often represents
purity, peace, or victory. In this case, however, it represents a
counterfeit of these things. John sees a white horse,
AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider). The white horse has a rider
mounted. This rider is the Antichrist coming forth, immediately after the
Rapture, as the first seal is opened. The white color symbolizes, in this
case, the counterfeit Christ—the impostor, the Antichrist, the one that
is impersonating the real Christ. It is written, SATAN...MASQUERADES AS
AN ANGEL OF LIGHT-2 Cor 11:14 NIV. (Note, there are some that mistake
this rider as Jesus coming forth.)
As Jesus is the actual Son of God the Father, so the Antichrist is the
actual seed and son of Satan, THY SEED-ref Gen 3:15. He is mounted on a
horse, indicating he is ready for battle. This is the "little horn" of
Dan 7:8. He is also called the "beast," later in the Revelation. Note,
the name "Antichrist" is used twice in the Bible, in 1 Jn 2:18 and 22.
Many other names are also used for this man of sin.
He HAD A BOW. It may be noted that, while he had a bow, no arrows were
mentioned. He had a method of conquering, but not by war. Scriptures
indicate that he conquers by peace. He conquers with words. This is a
diplomat, of sorts, with supernatural intelligence, as his father is the
devil.
AND A CROWN WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM. He does not have the crown in the
beginning, but rather, it is given to him. He is given authority over
something. It is believed that the crown represents authority over the
European Economic Community. He becomes the leader of, what many call, the
revived Roman Empire. Note, THE PEOPLE (of the Roman Empire are the
people) OF THE PRINCE THAT SHALL COME (the Antichrist)-Dan 9:26.
AND HE WENT FORTH CONQUERING AND TO CONQUER (or he rode out as a
conqueror bent on conquest-NIV). He goes forth on the horse, determined to
conquer. His goal is to be God and rule the world.
Jesus had warned that IF ANOTHER SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME, HIM YE
WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43. This is the one Jesus referred to. This man,
undoubtedly, is alive somewhere on the earth, right now, but cannot come forth
until the first seal is opened.
Jesus returns, after the Tribulation, on a white horse. That white
horse is not to be confused with the one in Rev 6:2.
Although not mentioned in the Revelation, right after receiving his
crown, he confirms a covenant with Israel and others for seven years. This
event begins the Tribulation, which is shown in Daniel to be seven
years in length.
Many verses are given in the Bible about this person.
(Some of the many verses that relate to the coming of the Antichrist,
which is seal one, are):
LET NO MAN DECEIVE YOU BY ANY MEANS: FOR THAT DAY SHALL NOT COME,
EXCEPT THERE COME A FALLING AWAY FIRST, AND THAT MAN OF SIN (the Antichrist)
BE REVEALED, THE SON OF PERDITION; WHO OPPOSETH AND EXALTETH HIMSELF
ABOVE ALL THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED...EVEN HIM, WHOSE
COMING IS AFTER THE WORKING OF SATAN WITH ALL POWER AND SIGNS AND LYING
WONDERS-2 Thes 2:3,4,9. THE DRAGON (Satan)...GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST
(the Antichrist)-Rev 13:4.
AND IN THE LATTER TIME OF THEIR KINGDOM, WHEN THE TRANSGRESSORS ARE
COME TO THE FULL (the Antichrist), A KING OF FIERCE COUNTENANCE, AND
UNDERSTANDING DARK SENTENCES, SHALL STAND UP. AND HIS POWER SHALL BE MIGHTY,
BUT NOT BY HIS OWN POWER: AND HE SHALL DESTROY WONDERFULLY, AND SHALL
PROSPER...HE SHALL CAUSE CRAFT TO PROSPER...AND HE SHALL MAGNIFY HIMSELF
IN HIS HEART, AND BY PEACE SHALL DESTROY MANY-Dan 8:23-25.
AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL CONFIRM THE COVENANT (or treaty, or
agreement) WITH MANY (with Israel and others) FOR ONE WEEK-Dan 9:27. (These
verses should be covered in more detail, under part 4G.)
As a result of this covenant (or treaty), in Daniel 9:27, which the
Antichrist will confirm with Israel and others, Israel will say, "We dwell
in PEACE AND SAFETY." However, when they do, THEN SUDDEN DESTRUCTION
COMETH UPON THEM, AS TRAVAIL UPON A WOMAN WITH CHILD; AND THEY SHALL NOT
ESCAPE-1 Thes 5:3. There is only One that can guarantee us peace and
safety. It is written, I WILL BOTH LAY ME DOWN IN PEACE, AND SLEEP: FOR
THOU, LORD, ONLY MAKEST ME DWELL IN SAFETY-Ps 4:8. Because of the treaty
with the Antichrist, Israel thinks it is dwelling in safety; however,
when the second seal is opened—there is war.
The book sealed with seven seals has been in the Father’s possession.
This seems to imply that, from the beginning of time, it has been kept
for this precise moment.
The first four seals are represented by horses. Horses can appear and
move swiftly, covering much territory; likewise, the events that they
symbolize seem to come forth rapidly.
Each horse is a specific color; this indicates what event will follow.
The riders direct the horses.
Israel now expects there will be peace, because of the covenant (or
treaty) with the Antichrist. As the second seal is broken, however, war
comes unexpectedly—it happens quickly.
6:3. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE SECOND SEAL, I
HEARD THE SECOND BEAST (or living being) SAY, COME AND SEE. Seal 2, T1.
6:3. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)
HAD OPENED (or broke)
THE SECOND SEAL, I HEARD THE SECOND BEAST (or living being)
SAY, COME AND SEE. (The second [living creature] was like an ox [or
calf]-ref Rev 4:7 NIV, KJV.) The second seal is about to be broken: its
events are about to take place.
6:4. AND THERE WENT OUT ANOTHER HORSE THAT WAS RED (a fiery red one):
AND POWER WAS GIVEN TO HIM THAT SAT THEREON (its rider) TO TAKE PEACE
FROM THE EARTH, AND THAT THEY SHOULD KILL ONE ANOTHER (or make men slay
each other-NIV): AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A GREAT (or large) SWORD.
Ref Ezek ch 38,39. T1.
THE THIRD SEAL THE BLACK HORSE, FAMINE
6:4. AND THERE WENT OUT ANOTHER HORSE. John sees another horse
THAT WAS RED (a fiery red one). Red may denote blood.
AND POWER WAS GIVEN TO HIM THAT SAT THEREON (its rider)
TO TAKE PEACE FROM THE EARTH. The second horse is red and represents
war. Note, it says take peace from the earth. This war might be
classified as World War III. As a result of the COVENANT between Israel and the
Antichrist-ref Dan 9:27, Israel SHALL SAY, PEACE AND SAFETY-1 Thes 5:3.
Israel will feel secure; however, THEN SUDDEN DESTRUCTION COMETH UPON
THEM, AS TRAVAIL UPON A WOMAN WITH CHILD; AND THEY SHALL NOT ESCAPE-1
Thes 5:3. Instead of peace, there will be war. The verse continues,
AND THAT THEY SHOULD KILL ONE ANOTHER (or make men slay each
other-NIV). People will be slaughtered in this war.
AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A GREAT (or large)
SWORD. The person or nation that is designated to cause this war will
be given a great (or large) sword. This indicates a nation with great
military power, capable of mass destruction.
The two nations in the world that have the military capability to
fulfill this prophecy are the USA and Russia. The Bible does speak of a
great war to come during the latter days. That war is described in Ezekiel
chapters 38 and 39.
It is the Russian-Arab invasion AGAINST...ISRAEL-Ezek 38:8. God brings
them forth-ref Ezek 38:4, against Israel. Russia has many allies joined
with them. It is A GREAT COMPANY...ALL OF THEM HANDLING SWORDS (or
weapons)-Ezek 38:4. They COME FROM...THE NORTH...A GREAT COMPANY, AND A
MIGHTY ARMY...AGAINST...ISRAEL…IT SHALL BE IN THE LATTER DAYS-Ezek
38:15,16. Apparently, some African nations are allied with Russia as part of
the invasion from the south or southwest. Other verses indicate that
forces will also invade from the west and from the Mediterranean Sea with
many ships. They will COME LIKE A STORM-Ezek 38:9. There are MANY
PEOPLE-Ezek 38:9. In addition, an airborne invasion seems to be described as
A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND-Ezek 38:9. The Scriptures indicate that this
will be the greatest military force ever assembled in the history of
the world.
The war should follow the signing of the covenant and Israel, saying,
"peace and safety." It is expected to occur at the beginning of the
Tribulation. Do not confuse this war with the Battle of Armageddon that
takes place after the Tribulation when Jesus returns.
6:5. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE THIRD SEAL, I
HEARD THE THIRD BEAST (or living being) SAY, COME AND SEE. AND I BEHELD,
AND LO A BLACK HORSE (before me); AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider) HAD
A PAIR OF BALANCES (or scales) IN HIS HAND. Seal 3, T1.
6:5. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)
HAD OPENED (or broke)
THE THIRD SEAL, I HEARD THE THIRD BEAST (or living being)
SAY (the third [living creature] had a face like a man-ref Rev 4:7
NIV). He said,
COME AND SEE. AND I BEHELD, AND LO A BLACK HORSE (before me);
AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider)
HAD A PAIR OF BALANCES (or scales)
IN HIS HAND.
6:6. AND I HEARD (what sounded like) A VOICE IN THE MIDST OF THE FOUR
BEASTS (or living beings) SAY, A MEASURE (or two pounds, or a quart) OF
WHEAT FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages); AND THREE MEASURES (or six
pounds, or three quarts) OF BARLEY FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages); AND SEE
THOU HURT NOT (or do not damage) THE OIL AND THE WINE. Ref Mt 24:7. T1.
THE FOURTH SEAL
THE PALE HORSE, DEATH
6:6. AND I HEARD (what sounded like)
A VOICE IN THE MIDST OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
SAY, A MEASURE (or two pounds, or a quart)
OF WHEAT (or what may be considered a day’s food),
FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages),
AND THREE MEASURES (or six pounds, or three quarts)
OF BARLEY FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages). This seems to depict the
existing food being carefully measured out on a scale or set of balances,
apparently, showing the extreme scarcity of food upon the earth and the
resulting high prices—a day’s wages for a day’s food.
AND SEE THOU HURT NOT (or do not damage)
THE OIL AND THE WINE. Some believe the last part of the passage is
indicating there will not be enough money left over to buy any oil or wine,
or that even the rich may find it difficult to obtain these items. The
exact meaning of this passage is uncertain.
Already there is starvation in some places around the world; however,
seal three describes the results of a massive war. Consider the
aftermath of a massive nuclear war. As radioactive fallout would occur, farm
crops all over the earth could be ruined. Do the Scriptures indicate that
this war will involve nuclear weapons? As we should see shortly, the
answer is, obviously, yes.
Famines are also mentioned during the Tribulation, in Mt 24:7. This
worldwide famine follows the great war, thus it is expected to take place
at the beginning of the Tribulation.
6:7. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE FOURTH SEAL, I
HEARD THE VOICE OF THE FOURTH BEAST (or living being) SAY, COME AND SEE.
Seal 4, T1.
6:7. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)
HAD OPENED (or broke)
THE FOURTH SEAL, I HEARD THE VOICE OF THE FOURTH BEAST (or living
being)
SAY (the fourth living being was like a flying eagle-ref Rev
4:7-JNT130). It said,
COME AND SEE. Some have wondered, since the emblem of the USA is the
flying eagle, if this could mean trouble for the United States.
6:8. AND I LOOKED, AND BEHOLD (in front of me) A PALE (or pallid,
sickly-looking-JNT131) HORSE: AND HIS NAME THAT SAT ON HIM WAS DEATH (its
rider’s name was Death-NIV), AND HELL (or Sh’ol, or Hades) FOLLOWED WITH
HIM (or close behind him). AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM
OVER THE FOURTH PART (or one-quarter) OF THE EARTH, TO KILL WITH (or
by) SWORD (or war), AND WITH HUNGER (or famine), AND WITH DEATH (or
plagues, or pestilence), AND WITH THE (wild) BEASTS (or animals) OF THE
EARTH. Ref Ezek ch 38,39. T1.
THE FIFTH SEAL
MARTYRED FOR JESUS
6:8. AND I LOOKED, AND BEHOLD (in front of me)
A PALE (or pallid, sickly-looking-JNT131)
HORSE. The word used here could indicate a pale green, such as a dead
or dying green.
AND HIS NAME THAT SAT ON HIM WAS DEATH (its rider’s name was
Death-NIV). There has just been a great war. Famines resulted. Death follows.
None of the riders of the first three horses are named. The rider on the
fourth horse is named Death.
AND HELL (or Sh’ol, or Hades)
FOLLOWED WITH HIM (or close behind him, close behind death). What is
being said here, if fully comprehended, is terrifying. Hell followed the
rider of death.
AND POWER (or authority)
WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM (note, plural)
OVER THE FOURTH PART (or one-quarter)
OF THE EARTH. This seems almost unbelievable. As a result of the war,
one-quarter of the earth will die. One might ask, "What on earth could
cause such a thing?" The answer is a war with nuclear weapons. When
Russia attacks Israel-ref Ezek 38, would the United States not respond? It
seems evident that the United States and Russia will become involved in
a nuclear exchange. Other verses also seem to support this. This may
explain why, in the Scriptures, the United States and Russia are both
clearly missing from world events during most of the Tribulation, after
the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel. Some believe an economic collapse
will occur in the United States, before the Tribulation, removing it from
the world scene; however, the Scriptures do not appear to confirm this.
Remember, the Scriptures show that hell followed with death, involving
one-fourth of the earth’s population. This indicates that every single
person who died went to hell—well over one billion people perished to
hell! How can this be? Consider, if the Rapture had just taken place and
all born-again believers were gone, the only ones left would be the
unredeemed. Almost immediately, the great war erupts, followed by a
nuclear exchange. Over a billion people die and are forever lost. Note, the
word "hell," used in Rev 6:8, comes from the same Greek word used in Lk
16:23. This is where the rich man ended up.
Considering the nations that will be involved in the war, according to
the Scriptures, we might conclude that the majority of the casualties
will come from the Middle East, Russia, Europe, Africa, and the United
States. The results, however, will be cataclysmic, affecting the entire
world. Ezek chapters 38 and 39, plus many other verses, tend to support
this.
Power was given to the rider of the pale horse
TO KILL. He kills
WITH (or by)
SWORD (or war),
AND WITH HUNGER (or famine),
AND WITH DEATH (or plagues, or pestilence),
AND WITH THE (wild)
BEASTS (or animals)
OF THE EARTH.
======================================================================
RESPONSE SHEET 179
Please send answers to annsmilymohan@yahoo.com
Q1. Please describe THE HEAVENLY SEEN.
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