How does John describe the new Jerusalem?

I. Video Data.   John Ankerberg Show.  Dr. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.), Dr. Ron Rhodes (Th.M., Th. D.), Dr. Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.),  Dr. Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D. Ph. D.)

II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.), and others.

A. 22:1-5: The new paradise; its river and tree of life. B. 22:6-19: The Last Message of the Bible. C. 22:20-21: Conclusion.

III. Overview.

A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.

1. 22:1-5: Jesus Among His People Forever. 2. 22:6-16: Divine Authority of the Prophecy, 3, 22:17-21: Nearness of Christ’s Return. 

B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.

1. 22:1-5: The River Of Life. 2. 22:6-11: The Time Is Near. 3. 22:12-17: Jesus Testifies To The Churches. 4. 18-19; A Warning. 5. 22:20-21: I Am Coming Quickly. 

C.  Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.

1. 22:1-5: John’s Final Impressions. 2. 22:6-10: The Faithful Word Of God. 3. 22:11-16: The Finished Work Of Christ. 4. 22:17-21: The Final Witness Of The Spirit.

D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.

1. 21:1-22:5: The New Heaven And New Earth. 2. 22:6-21: The Concluding Message.  

E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas  (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.

1. 21:9-22:5: The Holy City. 2. 22:6-7: The Testimony Of The Angel. 3. 22:8-11: The Testimony Of John, 4. 22:12-20: The Testimony Of Jesus And John’s Response. 5. 22:21: The Grace Of The Lord Jesus Be With All.

F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible.

1. 22:1: The River Of the Water Of Life. 2. 22:2. The Tree Of Life. 3: 22:3a: The Removal Of The Curse. 4. 22:3b: The Throne Of God And Of The Lamb. 5. 22:3c-4: The Bliss Of The Godly. 6. 22:5a-5b: The Absence Of Darkness.  7. 22:5c: The Saints Reign. 8. 22:6: The Validity Of The Message. 9: 22:7a. The Coming Of Christ. 10: 22:7b: The Blessedness Of The Obedient. 11. 22:8-9: John’s Reaction To The Revelation. 12: 22:10-19: The Angel’s Final Words. 13: 22:20: The Testimony Of Christ To His Coming. 14. 22:21: Benediction.

G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ. 

“The whole of the things described in the remaining portion of the book are subsequent to the general judgment, and descriptive of the consummation of the triumph and bliss of Christ’s people with Him in the eternal kingdom of God: 1. 22:1-2a: The river of the water of life. 2. 22:2b: The tree of life. 3. 22:3-4: The throne of God. 4. 22:5: The saints’ reign with God. 5. 22:6-7: The certainty of the return of Christ. 6. 22:8-9: The worship by John. 7. 22: 10-11: The Command  to proclaim the prophecy of the book. 8. 22:12:  The coming judgment and reward. 9. 22:13: The eternal Christ. 10. 22:14-15: The coming blessing and judgment. 11. 22:16-17: The invitation of the Spirit and the Bride. 12. 22:18-19: The final warning. 13. 22:20-21: The final prayer and promise. 

H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come.

1. p494. By establishing the theocracy on earth for a thousand years, under the Messianic theocratic King, God has accomplished His purpose of demonstrating His rule in the sphere in which that authority was first challenged. By merging this earthly theocracy with the eternal kingdom, God’s eternal sovereignty is established. Such was the purpose of God in planning the theocratic kingdom and developing it through successive stages throughout history until it reaches the climax of the program in the theocracy under the enthroned Christ in the millennium. That authority, which Satan first challenged, Christ has now demonstrated belongs safely to God. God’s right to rule is eternally vindicated. 2. p561. After the dissolution of the present heaven and earth at the end of the millennium, God will create a new heaven and a new earth (Isa 65:17; 66:22; 2 Pet 3:13; Rev 21:1). By a definite act of creation, God calls into being a new heaven and a new earth. As God created the present heavens and earth to be the scene of His theocratic display, so God will create the new heavens and earth to be the scene of the eternal theocratic kingdom of God.

IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 22 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+22&version=NASB1995

V. Verse Examination. Revelation 202.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).

A. 22:1-2. These descriptive phrases indicate fullness of life and continuous blessing in the New Jerusalem. B. 22:3-5. The “curse” and all darkness will be excluded, and service, communion, and reigning will be the believers’ privileges. C. 22:8-9. Again, John is commanded not to worship angels (see 19:10). D. 22:11. When Christ comes there will be no more opportunity for a man to change his identity. What he is then he will be forever. E. 22:12. Salvation is not of works  but rewards are. F. 22:14. “Blessed are those who wash their robes.” I. e., believers. G. 22:15. “dogs.” Not animals, but people of low character (cf. Phil 3:2). H. 22:16-17. Jesus is gracious because (1) He gave the book of Revelation to the churches, (2) as the son of “David: he will fulfill Israel’s promises, (3) He is the “moring star,” the precursor of the new day, and (4) He offers the “water of life” freely. I. 22:18. For similar OT warnings against additions or omissions, see Deut. 4:2; 12:32; Prov. 30:6. J. 22:20. “Yes, I am coming quickly.” The third occurrence of this promise (see VV. 7, 12). The believer’s reaction is “Do come quickly, Lord Jesus!”

VI. Summary.

Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor). In this twenty-second chapter of Revelation, we see” 1. The river and tree of life. 3. The blessedness of God’s servants. 6  .The conclusion: sundry directions, promises, and exhortations. 18. Nothing may be added to, or taken from, the words of this book.

VII. Parting Thought. The Kingdom which will come.

A. Dr. Andy Woods (Th. M., J. D., Ph. D.)

https://www.bibleprophecyblog.com/2012/04/coming-kingdom-part-1.html

EARLY GENESIS AND THE KINGDOM

1. The biblical story of the kingdom begins as early as the Garden of Eden. Here, God placed Adam and Eve in a position of authority over God’s creation. Gen 1:26-28 says:

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’ God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’”

2. It should be noted that Adam and Eve were given authority over the physical realm (fish, birds, living things that move on the earth). Here, God arranged for humanity’s first couple to govern God’s creation on God’s behalf. The technical term for this hierarchy is the office of Theocratic Administrator. This term simply refers to someone who governs for God. In other words, God ruled the world indirectly through the first Adam.

3. However, Satan soon took the form of a serpent with the specific goal of perverting and reversing this divinely ordained hierarchy. Instead of governing the physical world for God, Adam and Eve were influenced by creation (the serpent) to rebel against God (Gen 3). Such rebellion represented a top to bottom reversal of God’s original intention for the office of Theocratic Administrator. Satan’s success in inciting this rebellion effectively removed the office of Theocratic Administrator from the earth, as Satan became the ruler of the world (Luke 4:5-8; John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; 2 Cor 4:4; Eph 2:2). What then is the story-line of the Bible? It is how this office is restored through the messianic kingdom. Just as God the Father originally intended to indirectly govern the physical world through the first Adam, He will one day govern the world through the Last Adam or God the Son.

4. The restoration of the physical kingdom or office of Theocratic Administrator as the dominant theme of the Bible has been recognized by numerous theologians.  

5. The universal kingdom is eternal, comprehensive, and under God’s direct rule. By contrast, the theocratic kingdom is futuristic, earthly, and under God’s indirect rule. God’s theocratic, mediatorial kingdom is a vast, sweeping subject from the first book of the Bible to the last.

B. Alva J. McLain,   (A.B., LL, D., D.D., B. D., Th. M.) The Greatness Of The Kingdom, p 81.

(1) When the last enemy of God is put down by our Lord, as the Mediatorial King, the purpose of the Mediatorial Kingdom will have been fulfilled (1 Cor 15:25-26). (2). At this time, Christ will hand over the Mediatorial Kingdom to God, to be merged into the eternal Kingdom, so that the Mediatorial Kingdom is perpetuated forever, but no longer having a separate identity (1 Cor 15:24, 28). (3). This does not mean the end of our Lord’s rule. He only ceases to rule as a Mediatorial King. But, as the eternal Son, second person the one true God, He shares the throne with the Father in the final Kingdom (Rev. 22:3-5; cf 3:21). 

C. Merriam-Webster Dictionary. mediatorial: of, relating to, or appropriate to a mediator. 

D. The importance of Prophecy. The prophecies that are written in the Bible will happen.

1. The Coming Kingdom. Jesus told Jews to pray for the Kingdom to come (Matt 6:10). At the end of the Tribulation Israel calls on Jesus to save them from utter annihilation (Zech 12:10). Jesus ascends from Heaven to earth and saves Israel (Rev 19:11-21). The Kingdom has come, and Jesus rules and reigns over the earth from Jerusalem for 1,000 years in the Kingdom Age (Rev 20:4). After 1,000 years Jesus turns over the Kingdom to God (the Father) (1 Cor 15:24-28). But, as the eternal Son, second person the one true God, He shares the throne with the Father in the final Kingdom (Rev. 22:3-5; cf. 3:21).  The Kingdom will come and the eternal state will immediately follow.

2. We will follow this study of the Book of Revelation with the prophetic studies of Daniel, Zechariah, Ezekiel and Matthew. Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (Deceased) said that Daniel is the timeline of the Gentiles, and Ezekiel is the timeline of the Jews; Zechariah also has a sizeable amount of Jewish prophetic flavor in its teachings. The audience of Matthew is Jewish, and tells of the offer of the Kingdom, only to Israel, and of their rejection of that offer. The preaching of Jesus and His disciples went only to Jews. There was no church at the time of the preaching of Jesus to the Jews. Jesus said that He was going to build His church, which did not happen until after His death, burial and resurrection, and ascension to Heaven. Matthew tells of the time that exists between the first and second advents of Christ, and of the time of the Tribulation and Kingdom age, all of which was taught to Jews. 

VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Pages and click on Bucket List.

IX. My Websites To Follow.

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://thechurchoftheopendoor.wordpress.com/ Israel Website

https://success2693.wordpress.com/ Israel, History And Prophecy

What will the new heaven and the new earth be like?

I. Opening Video. John Ankerberg Show. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.) ; Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)

II. Introduction.  Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.).

A. 21:1-8: The new heaven, new earth, and the new Jerusalem.

B. 21:9-27: The Lamb’s wife; the new Jerusalem.

III. Overview.

A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley

(M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.

1. 21:1-8: The Holy Bride City – New Jerusalem.

2. 21:9-21: Description of the Heavenly City and Its Splendor.

3. 21:22-27: The Lord as the Light of All Nations at Last.

B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible. 

1. 21:1-8: All Things Made New.

2. 21:9-21: The New Jerusalem.

3. 21:22-27: The Glory of the New Jerusalem. 

C.  Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary. 

1. 21:1-8: The Bright New World.

a. 21:1: It is planned as a new creation.

b. 21:2: It is provided with a new capital.

c. 21:3-4: It is prepared for a new community.

d. 21:5-8: It is protected by a new constitution.

2. 21:9-22:5: The Brand New City.

a. 21:9-14: John’s first impressions.

b. 21:15-27: John’s further impressions.

D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.

The New Heaven and New Earth. 

E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas  (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.

One might expect the judgment of the Great White Throne to end the last of the seven last plagues, but it does not. One more scene remains. It may seem inappropriate to call this scene a plague or a bowl judgment, but alongside the future bliss of the saints (21:1-7) comes an indication of the exclusion of those in the lake of fire from the promised blessings of the new creation (21:8). So, besides the structural features that indicate a continuation of the last plague in this section, the continuing theme of misery and punishment shows how this section belongs in the scroll of judgments first introduced in chapter 5.

F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).

The New Heavens And New Earth

1. 21:1: Passing of the Old Heaven and Earth. 2. 21:2-7: New Jerusalem. 3. 21:8: The Portion of the Ungodly. 4. 21:9: The Wife of the Lamb.

5. 21:10-27: Description of the New Jerusalem.G.

Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.

Following the judgment of the great white throne depicted in the closing verses of chapter 20, John’s attention is next directed to the new heaven and the new earth which replace the old heaven and the old earth which fled away (20:11). The expression “And I saw” is the first of three such statements in this chapter marking the major elements of the revelation (cf. 21:2, 22). The new heaven and new earth presented here are evidently not simply the old heaven and earth renovated, but an act of new creation (cf. discussion at 20:11). No description is given of either the new heaven or the new earth in verse 1 except for the cryptic statement “There was no more sea.” There is remarkably little revealed in the Bible concerning the character of the new heaven and the new earth, but it is evidently quite different from their present form of existence. Most of the earth is now covered with water, but the new earth apparently will have no bodies of water except for the river mentioned in 22:2.

H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come. p561, 562 

The Creation Of The New Heaven And New Earth

After the dissolution of the present heaven and earth at the end of the millennium, God will create a new heaven and a new earth (Isa. 65:17; 66:22; 2 Pet. 3:13; Rev 21:1). By a definite act of creation, God calls into being a new heaven and earth to be the scene of the eternal “theocratic kingdom” of God (italics, mine). 

Israel’s covenants guarantee that “people the land,” a national existence, a kingdom, a King, and spiritual blessings in perpetuity (italics mine). Therefore, there must be an eternal earth in which these blessings can  be fulfilled. By a translation out of the old earth, Israel will be brought into the new earth, there to enjoy forever all that God has promised to them. Then, it shall be  eternally true, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people (Rev 21:3). The creation of the new heavens and new earth is the final preparatory act anticipating the eternal kingdom of God. It is now true that God has a kingdom “where dwelleth righteousness” (2 Pet 3:13). 

In relation to the eternal destiny of the church saints, it is to be observed that their destiny primarily is related to a Person, rather than a place. While the place looms with importance (John 14:3), the place is overshadowed by the Person into whose presence the believer is taken.

IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 21 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+21&version=NASB1995

V. Verse Examination. Revelation 21.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., Litt. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).

A. 21:1. “a new heaven and a new earth.” The present creation  will be destroyed so that it may be cleansed from all the effects of sin (2 Pet 3:7, 10. 12). No more “sea” because the climactic and human conditions will be completely different.

B. 21:2. “new Jerusalem.” This heavenly city will be the abode of all the saints (Heb 12:22-24), the bride of Christ (vv. 9-10), and the place Christ is preparing for His people (John 14:2). During the Millennium the New Jerusalem will be suspended over the earth, and it will be the dwelling place of all believers during eternity (as is emphasized in 21:1-8). 

C. 21:3-4. People will enjoy a new intimacy with God and the elimination of those sorrows that sin brings.

D. 21:8. Those whose lives can be characterized in these ways will be cast into the lake of fire, because they have shown themselves to be unbelievers. “brimstone” = sulphur.

E.21:11. The city will shine with the “glory of God,” like “crystal-clear Jasper,” which will allow that glory to shine “brilliantly.”

F. 21:12-14. Though both Jewish saints and Christian saints will inhabit the city, the names of the “twelve tribes” and “the twelve apostles” are a witness to their continual distinction.

G. 21:16-17. Shaped foursquare like a cube, the city is 1,380 mi (2,220 km) on each face, including height, with a wall 72 ye (66 m) thick. It has been calculated that even if only 25 percent of this space were used for dwellings, 20 billion people could be accommodated spaciously.

H. 21:19-24. Whether these nations and kings are millennial people, or resurrected people in the eternal state, is unclear. In either case, only the redeemed will be allowed to enter the city (v. 27). 

VI. Summary.

Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this twenty-first chapter of Revelation, we see” 1 A new heaven and new earth. 2 The blessings of God’s people. 8 The doom of the wicked. 9 The heavenly Jerusalem described. 22 No temple there. 23 The light and glory of the city. 27. Nothing that defiles can enter therein.

VII. Parting Thought. 

Dr. Ryrie’s comment on 21:8, “Those whose lives can be characterized in these ways will be cast into the lake of fire, because they have shown themselves to be unbelievers,” shows a relation to 1 Cor 6:9-11. 

1 Cor 6:9-10: 9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, 10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. (This passage is a message to those of us who are present in this age of the church. Each offending identity shows a person who continues in a lifestyle that shows such a person has not been born again, not having the Spirit of God dwelling within their spirit prompting them to righteousness; they will not be caught up in the rapture which will precede the Tribulation, 1 Thess 4:16, “the dead in Christ; 1 Thes 4:17, we who are alive.” Only those “in Christ” will be caught up by Christ and taken to Heaven prior to the Tribulation.)

MacArthur Study Bible note: (1 Cor 6 :9-10).

While believers can and do commit these sins, they do not characterize them as an unbroken life pattern. When they do, it demonstrates that the person is not in God’s kingdom. True believers who do sin resent that sin and seek to gain the victory over it (cf. Rom. 7:14–25). fornicators. All who indulge in sexual immorality, but particularly unmarried persons. idolaters. Those who worship any false god or follow any false religious system. adulterers. Married persons who indulge in sexual acts outside their marriage. homosexuals . . . sodomites. These terms refer to those who exchange and corrupt normal male-female sexual roles and relations. Transvestism, sex changes, and other gender perversions are included (cf. Gen. 1:27; Deut. 22:5). Sodomites are so-called because the sin of male-male sex dominated the city of Sodom (Gen. 18:20; 19:4, 5). This sinful perversion is condemned always, in any form, by Scripture (cf. Lev. 18:22; 20:13; Rom. 1:26, 27; 1 Tim. 1:10).

Rev 21:8: But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” (This passage comes after the Battle of Gog and Magog (Rev 20:7-8). An assault is mounted on God’s people at the end of the Millennium, not the same as Ezek. 38:1. The large number of rebels will come from the many people born during the Millennium, who, though giving outward obedience to the King (Jesus), never accept Him. Those whose lives can be characterized in these ways will be cast into the lake of fire, because they have shown themselves to be unbelievers. (Ryrie Study Bible, Rev 20:8; 21:8). Rev 20:12 shows “the dead,” as opposed to “the dead in Christ” (1 Thes 4:16), with “the dead” being those who had not been born again, and the “dead in Christ” having been born again. 

All unbelievers, typified by their behaviors in 21:8, will be excluded from the new Jerusalem ( Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.

Consider “cowardly: (Rev 21:8). 1169 deilós (an adjective derived from deidō, “fear-driven”) – properly, dreadful, describing a person who loses their “moral gumption (fortitude)” that is needed to follow the Lord. (Bible Hub).

MacArthur Study Bible note. Rev 21:8

A solemn, serious warning about the kinds of people who will be outcasts from the new heaven and the new earth in the lake of fire. The NT often goes beyond just citing unbelief in listing character and lifestyle traits of the outcast, so that believers can identify such people (1 Cor. 6:9, 10; Gal. 5:19; cf. John 8:31).

VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Pages and click on Bucket LIst.

IX. My Websites To Follow.

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://thechurchoftheopendoor.wordpress.com/ Israel Website

https://success2693.wordpress.com/ Israel, History And Prophecy

X. Recommended resource. Things to Come, Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th., D., 1915-2014). 

https://www.christianbook.com/things-to-come-j-pentecost/9780310308904/pd/6355?kw=1241348712202415&mt=b&dv=c&event=PPCSRC&p=1215904&msclkid=5140eb4283a718e6f59689cce305434b&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Dynamic%20Search%20Ads&utm_term=%2Fpd%2F&utm_content=DSA%20detail%20pages#CBD-PD-Description

What will the millennial kingdom be like?

I. Video Data.   John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.), Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021).

II. Introduction.  Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., and others.)

A. 20:1-3 – Satan bound in the abyss during the Kingdom Age.

B. 20:4-6 – Completion of first resurrection and the Kingdom Age.

C. 20:7-9 – Satan loosed at the end of 1000 years; rebellion quelled.

D. 20:10 – Satan cast into the lake of fire.

E. 20:11-15 – Second resurrection and great white throne judgment. 

III. Overview.

A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley

(M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.

(20:1-6)  The Martyrs’ Great Reward. (20:7-10) The Devil’s Final Doom. (20:11-15) The Judge at the White Throne.

B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible. 

(20:1-3) Satan Bound 1,000 Years. (20:4-6) The Saints Reign with Reign with Christ 1,000 years. (20:7-10) The Great White Throne Judgment. 

C.  Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary.

(20:1-10) The Great World Threat At the End Of The Millennium. (20:11-15) The Great White Throne At The Beginning Of Eternity.

D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.(20:1-15) The Millennium.

E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas  (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.

The twentieth chapter is most famous because of its revelation about the millennial kingdom of Christ, but the first ten verses function primarily as a two-part vision of the doom of Satan. First, comes the period of his enforced restraint (20:1-3), and then his permanent assignment to the lake of fire following a desperate, but unsuccessful, attempt to regain power (20:4-10). The chapter closes with a description of the judgment and commitment of lost human beings to that same lake (20:11-15).

F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).

(20:1-15) The millennial reign of Christ. (20:1-3) The binding of Satan. (20:4-6 ) The resurrection and reign of the saints. (20:7-10) The final doom of Satan, the Beast and the False Prophet. (20:11-15) The Great  White Throne Judgment. G.

G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.,1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.

THE REIGN OF CHRIST.  This is one of the great chapters of the Bible. It presents in summary the tremendous series of events which relate to the millennial reign of Christ on earth. In this future period of one thousand years, many expositors believe that hundreds of Old Testament prophecies will be fulfilled, such as that of Jeremiah 23:5-6: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”

H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come: P411.

Scripture shows that Israel will be resurrected at the close of the tribulation period, while the church will be resurrected prior to it. The order of events in the resurrection program would be:

(1) The resurrection of Christ at the beginning of the resurrection program (1 Cor 15:23); (2) the resurrection of the church age saints at the rapture (1 Thes 4:16); (3) the resurrection of the tribulation period saints (Rev 20:3-5), together with, (4) the resurrection of the Old Testament saints (Dan 12:2; Isa 26:19) at the second advent of Christ to the earth; and finally, (5) the final resurrection of the unsaved dead (Rev 20:5, 11-14) at the end of the millennial age. The first four stages would all be included in the first resurrection, or resurrection to life, inasmuch as all receive eternal life, and the last would be the second resurrection, or the resurrection unto damnation, inasmuch as all receive eternal judgment at that time. 

IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 20 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+20&version=NASB1995

V. Verse Examination. Revelation 20.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; Litt. D., 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).

A. “the abyss.” The place  where all evil spirits will ultimately be consigned. (See note on Luke 8:31).

B. “a thousand years” (mentioned six times in this chapter). Since the Latin equivalent for these words is “millennium,” this period of time is called the Millennium. It is the time when Christ shall reign on this earth (Isa 2:3; Dan 7:14; Zech 14:9). Satan will not be free to work (here in v. 2), righteousness will flourish (Isa 11:3-5), peace will be universal (Isa 2:4), and the productivity of the earth will be greatly increased (Isa 34:1-2). At the conclusion of this time Satan will be loosed to make one final attempt to overthrow Christ, but without success (vv 7-9).

C. 20:4. The occupants of the “thrones” are not identified. Some think they are the 12 disciples (Luke 22:29-30); others that they are the church saints (1 Cor 6:2; 2 Tim 12). “the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony of Jesus.” These are martyrs of the tribulation days who will be resurrected to share the joys of the millennial kingdom.  

D. 20:5. “The rest of the dead.” The wicked dead will be raised and judged after the Millennium. “the first resurrection.” Refers back to the end of  verse 4. This resurrection includes all the righteous (the resurrection of life, John 5:29, and the resurrection of the righteous, Luke 14:14), who will be raised before the Millennium begins. 

E. 20:8. “Gog and Magog.” The worldwide enemies of Christ. Not the same battle as described in Ezek 38-39. See note on Ezek 38:1. The large number of rebels will come from the many people born during the Millennium who, though giving outward obedience to the King, never accept Him. 

F. 20:11-15. Here is pictured the judgment of the unbelieving dead. It occurs at the close of the Millennium; it is based on works in order to show that the punishment is deserved (v 12, though, of course these unsaved people are first of all in this judgment because they rejected Christ as Savior during their lifetimes); and it results in everyone in this judgment being cast into the lake of fire. This is the resurrection of judgment. See note on John 5:29.

G. 20:12. “before the throne,” upon which Christ sits as judge (see v 11, John 5:22, 27). 

H. 20:13. The wicked dead will receive some kind of resurrection body in which they will be tormented forever.

VI. Summary.

Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this twentieth chapter of Revelation, we consider the following: 1 Satan bound for a thousand years. 4 The first resurrection. 7 Satan let loose again. 8 Gog and Magog. 10 The devil cast into the lake of fire and brimstone. 11 Resurrection and judgment. 14 The second death. 

VII. Parting Thoughts.

A. This parting thought is made possible by the many Biblical scholars that I have been blessed to have read their books, listened to their sermons, and watched many hours of their video teachings. Dallas Theological Seminary and Moody Bible Institute have provided me with the greatest number of references, in addition to other highly respected institutions of Biblical instruction. The conclusions that I have drawn come from the study, which has blessed me, of such  highly acclaimed theologians, due to their unending deep studies of God’s Holy Word. 

B. The twentieth chapter of Revelation is one of the most important of all areas of Scripture, as it shows in a nutshell, the fulfillment of God’s Covenant with Abraham, which is of “land, seed, and blessing,” which travels through the bloodline of “Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,” with the bloodline of Isaac and Jacob being the nation of Israel, which is identified in Deu 14:2 as being “God’s chosen people.” 

C. The “land blessing” of the Abrahamic Covenant, as stated in Gen 15:18-21, shows a promise of God to Israel of a land stretching from the Nile River in Egypt to the Euphrates River in Iraq, with an eternal permanence that God promised in Gen 17:7-8. This land is far greater than the land of Israel that is drawn on maps today. 

D. The “seed blessing,” of the Abrahamic Covenant, is shown in the Davidic Covenant in 2 Samuel 7:8-16, where a seed of David (Jesus) will reign over David’s Kingdom forever. 

E. The “blessing” of the Abrahamic Covenant is shown in the New Covenant of Jer 31:31-34, which God will make only with the Jews, such as a change of heart, fellowship with God, knowledge of the Lord, and forgiveness of sins. All of this will be fulfilled for Israel when the Lord returns (Rom 11:26-27), per Ryrie Study Bible. 

F. The Abrahamic Covenant will not be fulfilled until Christ has returned to earth from Heaven (Mt 24:29-30), at the time of Armageddon, and He rules and reigns over the earth from Jerusalem (Isa 9:6b-7). The governance of Christ over the earth is a fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Sam 7:12, 13, 16).

G. The Kingdom does not have an Old Testament length of years attached to the teaching. It is in Revelation Chapter 20. that the length of time is stated as being 1,000 years, which is stated six times in Rev 20 (vs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7). Just as “Israel means Israel,” “church means church,” and “Babylon means Babylon, “thousand means thousand,” with no wiggle room for any other duration to be inferred. From Ryrie Study Bible, Rev 20:2, ” a thousand years” (mentioned six times in this chapter). Since the Latin equivalent for these words is “millennium,” this period of time is called “The Millennium.” It is the time when Christ shall reign on this earth (Isa 2:3; Dan 7:14, Zech 14:9. 

H. Kingdom: Universal vs Theocratic. Got Questions.

When Adam ruled the earth, he was God’s theocratic administrator of the earth. When Adam fell, that rule was taken away, and will be given to Christ upon His return to Earth to rule over His Kingdom on Earth, and to no one else in the time in between. In the meantime Satan has gained the title of, “prince of the power of the air.” (Eph 2:1-2, 1 John 5:19, Luke 4:6). This power has been given by God to him (Luke 4:6; Matt 12:24; 9:34; 12:26; Rev 2:13), and has also given Satan power over some illnesses (Heb 2:14 (Got Questions.org) 

I. Kingdom: Universal vs Theocratic. J. Dwight Pentecost, Things To Come.

A. Universal Kingdom. Ps 103:19, “The Lord has prepared His throne in the heavens; and his kingdom rules over all.” ( A good example is that God keeps Jupiter from bumping into Mars, mine.)

B. Theocratic Kingdom. From the onset of God’s program to manifest His sovereignty by His rule in this earthly sphere until the consummation of that program, when universal sovereignty is acknowledged (1 Cor 15:24), there has been one continuous, connected, progressive development of that program. While there might be various phases of the program and different media through which that sovereignty was exercised, it has been the development of one program. This whole program may be called the theocratic kingdom. Alva J. McClain defines this theocratic kingdom as: the rule of God through a divinely chosen representative who speaks for God; a rule which has “especial” reference to the human race, although it finally embraces the universe; and its mediatorial ruler is always a member of the human race. 

C. The theocratic kingdom is that which was discussed with the Jews by John the Baptist (Matt 3:2), Jesus (Matt 4:17), the disciples (Matt 10:7), and “the seventy” (Luke 10:9), and offered, “only to Israel” (Matt 10:5-6). But the Jews rejected the offer to accept God’s chosen King and the Kingdom (Deu 17:15). The theocratic Kingdom offer was postponed (Matt 13:37-39) and will be offered again to the Jews during the Tribulation (Matt 24:14), who must receive the kingdom by calling on Christ before He will return to Earth from Heaven with His saints (Zech 12:10; Ps 118:26). This brings us to the second coming of Christ (Matt 24:29-30, Rev 19:11-21; Zech 14:1-5, 9), which also brings us to Rev 20, where the earth’s conditions will be of perfection, as shown in: Isa 2:1-4; 11:6-9). Christ will rule and reign, per Isa 9:6b-7. The theocratic kingdom will be instituted at the second advent of Christ (Things to Come, p 472, Dwight Pentecost), 

J. The role of Jesus is described as Prophet, Priest, and King, is discussed as follows: 

https://www.christianity.com/wiki/jesus-christ/mean-that-jesus-is-prophet-priest-and-king.html

A. What it means that Jesus is a Prophet.

The role of a prophet in the Old Testament was to speak the word of God. Some would foretell events, perform healings, and/or do miracles. Jesus did all these things (Luke 1:76-77; Matt 4:17). 

B. What it means that Jesus is a Priest.

In the Old Testament, the priests were the temporary mediators between God and man. They offered the sacrifices required under the law. Within that priesthood was a single High Priest. He alone offered the sacrifice on the day of atonement that cleansed the people for one year. Jesus not only fulfilled the role of a priest but he exceeded the role of the High Priest removing our sins forever (Heb 4:15; 10:8-12). 

C. What it means that Jesus Is King.

1. A king is one who has the rightful complete authority over another. This position was decreed over Jesus before his birth. “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end” (Luke 1:31-33).

2. Jesus has passed from Prophet to Priest, where He is seated at the right hand of God making intercession for His believers (Rom 8:34). When He returns to earth, He will rule as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Rev 19:16). At Present time, Jesus is not exercising His earthly role as King. At the time that Jesus sits on His throne in Jerusalem, the world will be the condition of Isa 2:1-4, with that perfection and sinlessness that comes with such Kingdom authority being exercised by Jesus. 

K. In the overview of Dr. Pentecost he gave Scriptures that tell of various stages of “bodily” resurrection. But, it is important to understand the truth of 2 Cor 5:8, “absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.” This promise is for saints of the Old Testament and New Testament periods. Body, soul, and spirit (1 Thes 5:23). The deceased body stays in the grave until the Resurrection takes place (1 Thes 4:16), at which time, the soul (mind, emotions, etc), is removed from the body and is in the Presence of God (Luke 16:23b). Upon the new birth, the spirit dwells within the Spirit of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (John 14:20).  At the time of the rapture, all living born again believers in Christ will be caught up to Heaven by Jesus (1 Thes 4:16-17). There will  be a reunion of believers, of all times, living and deceased, with their glorified bodies and souls, being with their born again spirits. 

L. Consider the commentary of the Ryrie Study Bible to the follow verses: Luke 1:32-33, “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”

1. Ryrie Comment: As the Davidic Messiah, Jesus will reign over the “house of Jacob, which will happen in the millennial kingdom. This promise is not now being fulfilled, simply because the church is not the house of Jacob, and Christ is presently at the right hand of the Father, which is never equated with the throne of David.

2. The Kingship of Jesus during the coming kingdom is a prophetic fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant (2 Cor 7:8-16).  The Kingdom is “yet to come” (Acts 1:6-7), with the earthly conditions of Isa 2:1-4. The church is not spiritual israel. The church is the church and Israel is Israel. The church has not replaced Israel, but will be grafted into the blessings of Israel during the Kingdom Age, such as is seen in Isa 2:1-4.  The church will be raptured after God’s purpose for the church has been fulfilled, with the “fullness of the Gentiles coming in” having been achieved (Rom 11:25). At such a time, God will turn His focus from the Church to Israel, where he will make the identity of Christ known to the Jews. See Ryrie Study Bible note: on Rom 11:25,  as follows:

3. Rom 11:25: Israel’s “hardening” is partial (Jews are being saved today) but temporary (“until” they acknowledge Jesus at His coming). “the fullness of the Gentiles.” I.e., the full number of Gentiles who will be saved (Acts 15:14). After that, God will turn again to the Jews and will save “all Israel” at the Lord’s return (v 26).

M. The Kingdom is a piece of real estate, as stated in Gen 15:18-21, which extends from the Nile River in Egypt, to the Euphrates in Iraq. Such real estate can not be found within anyone. The Kingdom consists of Christ ruling and reigning on the earth, per the Davidic Covenant, and will have people ruling and reigning with Christ. No one can have people “within them.” In some Bible translations, Luke 17:21 is incorrectly translated, to say, “the kingdom of God is within you..” The  correct wording is, “the kingdom of God is in your midst.” per CSB, Darby, ESV, HCSB, NASB, NET, NIV, NLT. Consider the context. In Matt 19:28, Jesus said that the Apostles will rule and reign of the twelve tribes of Israel during the Kingdom Age; in 2 Tim 2:2 , Paul wrote said that New Testament believers will reign with Christ, Interestingly enough, Paul said in 1 Cor 6:2-3 that believers will judge the world, and angels. The Prophet Ezekiel tells of the boundaries of the land of Israel, and the division of the land in Ezekiel 47:13-48:35. Consider Ezekiel 47:13: “This shall be the boundary by which you shall divide the land for an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel.” Two things are apparent. First, the land of Israel has not been divided among the twelve tribes of Israel; therefore, “the kingdom has not yet come.” Second, because the twelve tribes of Israel will reside, and be ruled within the land of Israel, non-Jews will not be ruling and reigning over Jews within the land of Israel, but will have such responsibility outside of the land of Israel, throughout the remaining lands of the world.

N. The grafting in process of gentiles into the blessings of the Jews, will not happen until when Christ returns to earth from heaven, with His born again believers following Him (Rev 19:11-14), thus fulfilling the Abrahamic Covenant with Israel (Gen 15; Deu 29-30 [Land, Land Covenant]; 2 Sam 7:8-16 [Seed, Davidic Covenant]; Jer 31:31-34 [Blessing, New Covenant]). In Revelation 20, we have discussed the Kingdom Age of the Millennial reign of Christ. We have discussed the “grafting in” of born again believers in Christ during the Kingdom age, and the “grafting in again” of Jews who come to belief in Christ (Rom 11:17-24), also during the Kingdom Age. Throughout the study of the Kingdom Age, context has been stressed. It is important to remember that God’s covenants were made with Israel, and not with the Church. The church will be blessed by God’s covenants with Israel, and is presently being blessed through a portion of the new covenant (Jer 31:33b). It must be remembered, though, that before Jesus returns to earth to rule and reign over the kingdom that Israel must accept a King (Jesus) of God’s choosing (Deu 17:15). Israel must call out to Jesus to come (Matt 23:39/Ps 118:26) and save them. Israel will not call out to Jesus to come until the end of the Tribulation period when they are about to be totally annihilated (Zech 12:10), when Israel will recognize Jesus as her Messiah, acknowledging with deep contrition that He was the One whom their forefathers had pierced (Jn 19:37), per Ryrie Study Bible. Regardless of how many Gentiles have believed in Christ for salvation, it will not be until after Israel calls on Jesus to be her Messiah that Jesus will return from Heaven to Earth to begin His rule and reign of the Earth, by sitting on His earthly throne. At the time that Christ assumes His kingship on His throne, on the earth, the conditions of Isa 2:1-4, 9:6-7, 32:18, will be present, and not until then. 

O. Ruling and reigning with Christ is a topic that will be discussed now. Israel is a nation that was promised land. The church is the body of Christ, and has not been promised land. Jews will rule and reign with Christ, during the Kingdom Age, in the land of their promise (Matt 19:28). Christians have also been promised that they will rule and reign with Christ during the Kingdom Age (1 Cor 6:2). Gentiles who survive the Tribulation will be spread throughout the world, and will be required to go to Jerusalem (for the feast of Tabernacles, Zech 14:16-19; Feast of the New Year, Ezek 45:18-20; Feast of Passover Ezek 45:21-25.). They will go to Jerusalem to be taught by the King (Jesus) Isa 2:1-4. Gentiles will come to seek the favor of the LORD (Zech 8:21-23) and to seek the LORD. The physical Land of Israel, is a gift from God to the descendants of the bloodline of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (God’s chosen people, Deu 14:2). God’s chosen people will be ruling over “God’s chosen people,” in the land that has been chosen for Israel to possess. Gentiles will rule and reign, but it seems that such rule will not force the Jews out of the land of God’s choice for them. The remainder of the world, beyond the borders of Israel, will need to have Godly rule and reign over it; it is in that area which is beyond the borders of Israel that saved Gentiles will rule and reign over other saved Gentiles (at least it seems reasonable to me).

P. We have considered the events that lead to the Tribulation, and the conditions within the Tribulation. We have considered the Kingdom Age. Our next stop on the road to eternity is a study of the eternal state of the new heaven, new earth and new Jerusalem, which will be the focus of Revelation 21-22. 

VIII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Pages and click on Bucket List.

IX. My Websites To Follow.

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://thechurchoftheopendoor.wordpress.com/ Israel Website

https://success2693.wordpress.com/ Israel, History And Prophecy

X. Study Resource. Ryrie Study Bible. NASB 1995.

The Ryrie Study Bible NASB 1995 is my favorite study Bible. In the Gospel of Luke, there is an outline of the days of Holy Week, which should be helpful for anyone.

https://www.moodypublishers.com/authors/r/charles-ryrie/

What are Six Differences Between the Rapture and the Second Coming of Christ?

I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.), Dr. Renald Showers, Th. M., Th., D. 1935-2019.

II. Introduction.  Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.)

A. 19:1-6 – Rejoicing in heaven over destruction of the great prostitute.

B. 19:7-10 – Marriage of the Lamb.

C. 19:11-16 – Second coming of Christ in Glory.

D. 19:17:19 – Armageddon.

E. 19:20 – Doom of beast and false prophet.

F. 19:21 – Doom of kings and armies.

III. Overview.

A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley

(M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.

In this chapter, Jesus is portrayed first as a “Bridegroom” ready to enjoy his wedding and wedding supper, then as a warrior “King”  charging forth to do battle against His enemies. In the next chapter we will see him as “Judge.”

B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible. 

Heaven Exults over Babylon (vs 1-10). Christ on a White Horse (vs 11-16). The Beast and His armies Defeated (vs 17-21).

C.  Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary. 

The Results of the Fall of Babylon (18:21-19:6).The True Bride Seen (19:7-10). The Tragic Battle Stilled (19:11-21). 

D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.

The Second Coming of Christ (19:1-21). [The Celebrations of God’s Servants (19:1-10); The Return of Christ (19:11-21)]. 

E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas  (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.

The nineteenth chapter of Revelation has two main segments; songs of rejoicing triggered by the fall of Babylon (19:1-10) and the sequence of events surrounding the Lamb’s return to earth (1911-21).

F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).

(19:1-21) The Supper of the Lamb and the Supper of God. The events toward which the book of Revelation has steadily been leading are recorded here. Until the usurper on earth (the harlot) is judged, the bride (the church) is not made manifest. The harlot and the bride do not occupy the scene of action at the same time.  (19:1-6) Alleluias in Heaven. (19:7-10) The Marriage of the Lamb. (19:11-16) The Visible Coming of Christ. (19:17-19) The Supper of God: Armageddon. (19:20-21) Judgment of the Beast and False Prophet.  

G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.

Chapter 19 marks a dramatic change in the tone of Revelation. The destruction of Babylon, the capital of the Beast’s kingdom, marks the end of the Great Tribulation. The somber gives way to song. The transfer is from darkness to light, from black to white, from dreary days of judgment to bright days of blessing. This chapter makes a definite bifurcation in Revelation, and ushers in the greatest event for this earth— the Second Coming of Christ. It is the bridge between the Great Tribulation and the Millennium.

H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come:

1. P392. a. The second advent is premillennial. The literal method of interpreting the Scriptures makes necessary a premillennial coming of the Lord. b. The second advent is a literal event. In order to fulfill the promises made in the Word concerning (Acts 1:11), His advent must be literal. This necessitates the bodily return of Christ to the earth. c.  The second advent is necessary. The large body of unfulfilled prophecy makes the second advent absolutely essential (Acts 1:11; John 5:28; Luke 12:37; Zech 14:4; 2 Thes 1:8; Matt 24:30; 1 Pet 1:7, 4:13; Job 19:25; 1 Thes 3:13; Jude 14; Rev 1:7; 2 Thes 2:8; Matt 25:31; Rev 5:13; Malt 25:32; Isa 9:6-7; Ezek 21:25-27; Jer 23:5-6; Dan 7:13-14, 18-27 Ps 72:11; Isa 49:6-6, etc.

2. P393. The second advent will be visible (Acts 1:11; Matt 24:30; Matt 16:27, 25:31; Rev 14:7, 18:1, 19:1). 

3. P395. The Old Testament associated the hope of resurrection with the Messianic hope of the Day of the Lord (Dan 12:1, 2; Isa 26:19-21). 

4. P395. The Kinds of Resurrection. 

a. The resurrection to life (Luke 14:13-14; Phil 3:10-14; Heb 11:35; John 5:28-29; Rev 20:6). 

b. The resurrection to damnation (John 5:29; Rev 20:5). 

IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 19 (NASB 1995). Link pasted from Bible Gateway. 

V. Verse Examination. Revelation 19.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible).

A.  19:1-6. “Hallelujah” = Praise the Lord. The word occurs only in this chapter in the entire NT. It does appear as a brief doxology in several psalms, e.g., 150:1, 6. The praise is for salvation (v.1), for righteous retribution (vv. 2-3), for God Himself (vv. 4-5), and for His reign (v. 6.). 

B. 19:8. “the righteous acts of the saints.” The good works of believers will constitute the wedding garment when the congregation of the faithful are joined to Christ in marriage (cf. 2 Cor 11:2; Eph 5:26-27). 

C. 19:9. “marriage supper.” On Jewish weddings, see Matt 25:1.

D. 19:10. “Do  not do that.: Men are not to worship angels, only God. “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Prophecy is designed to reveal the Lord Jesus.

E. 19:11. “heaven opened.” This is the second coming of Christ to the earth—during the war of Armageddon, in which He will be the Victor and in which all who oppose Him will be slain (vv. 19, 21). See 14:20, 16:14, 16 . “Faithful and true.” These terms have been used previously of Christ (1:5; 3:7). 

F. 19:12. “His eyes are a flame of fire.” (See 1:14, 2:18).  “a name written….which no one knows.” This is perhaps the same name He will write on the overcomer (2:17; 3:12).

G. 19:13. “dipped in the blood” of the enemies. He conquers at His coming. “The Word.” This name applied here to Christ, is found only in the writings of John (cf. John 1:1, 14; 1 John 1:1). 

H. 19:15. “rule.” Lit., shepherd. Christ will be a shepherding autocrat. “wine press.” It consisted of two receptacles, or vats, placed at different angles, in the upper one of which the grapes were trodden, while the lower one received the juice (cf 14:20).

I. 19:17-18. So great will be the slaughter in the war of Armageddon that an angel will call together the fowls of heaven to eat the flesh of those who fall in battle.

m. 19:20. The beast and his false prophet will be the first occupants of the “lake of fire;” other unbelievers, now in hades, will join them at the end of the Millennium. (20:14).

V. Summary.

Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this nineteenth chapter of Revelation, we consider the following: 1 Much people in heaven praise God for agenging the blood of the saints; 7 and rejoice that the marriage of the Lamb is come. 10 The angel will not be worshipped. 11 The Word of God with His enemies. 17 The fowls called to the slaughter. 19 The beast and the false prophet cast into a lake of fire. 

VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles.

Bucket List

VII. My Websites To Follow.

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://thechurchoftheopendoor.wordpress.com/ Israel Website

https://success2693.wordpress.com/ Israel, History And Prophecy

https://newsandcommentary38395276.wordpress.com/ Thy Kingdom Come

Why is Babylon singled out for destruction?

I. Video Data.  John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg,  (M. Div., D. Min.), (Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021).

II. Introduction.  Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.).

The Doom Of Babylon, Revelation Chapters 17-18

A. 17:1-6 – The great prostitute exerts power over the revived fourth world empire.

B. 17:7-13 – The prostitute is overthrown.

C. 18: 1-8 – Babylon destroyed.

D. 18:9-19 – Earth dwellers bewail Babylon’s destruction.

E. 18:20-24 – Heaven rejoices over Babylon’s fall.

III. Overview.

A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.

“Babylon the Great,” mistress of the world. God will judge her directly and dramatically. 

B. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible. 

Babylon, in all its religious, political, and economic glory, will be reduced to an ash heap by One with greater authority and glory.

C.  Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary. 

The Babylonish system is both religious and political. The religious system paves the way for the political system, but in the end the political system supplants the religious one. The religious system is symbolized as the Babylonian mother; the political system is symbolized as the Babylonian monster. 

D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.

This part of John’s revelation describes the end for the city of Babylon on the Euphrates, and the world of people that followed her ways. It highlighted the truth of the apostle’s earlier writing (1 Jn 2:15-17). All who loved the power, idolatry, and riches of the world so exemplified by the city would see their dreams destroyed before their eyes. 

E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas  (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.

The seventh bowl description does not terminate at the end of Chapter 16, but continues into Chapters 17-18 with a detailing of Babylon’s downfall. 

F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995).

That the theme of Babylon is an important one in the Revelation can be seen from the fact that the Spirit of God devotes two chapters in this essential book of prophecy to the subject. From Genesis 10:10, which is the first mention, to (Rev) 18:21, which is the last reference, this subject of biblical revelation and prophecy is given extraordinary prominence. 

G. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.

Chapters 17 and 18 of Revelation are dedicated to the description of the final destruction of Babylon in both its ecclesiastical and political forms. John is shown the vision of the destruction of Babylon, as representing false religion, by one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and is invited to behold the judgment of a woman, the symbol of Babylon, described as the great whore (Gr., porne„, usually translated “harlot”), who is seen sitting on many waters. The interpretation of “waters” is that these are the many nations ruled by Babylon. In chapter 18, the context seems to indicate that Babylon here is viewed in its political and economic character rather than in its religious aspect. It seems that chapter 17 deals with the religious aspect and chapter 18 with the political and economic aspects of Babylon. 18:4-8: A voice from Heaven instructed the people of God to leave the city so that they would escape the judgment to come on it (vv. 4-5). Death, mourning, and famine, also fire, will come on the city in one day (v. 8). [See Ryrie comment below (18:4)]

H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come:

1. P195. The  nature of  the 70th week (The Tribulation) is divine “wrath”  and divine “judgment” (Rev 17:1). Jesus bore for us (believers in Christ) His judgment; therefore we who are in Him “shall not come into Judgment” (1 Thes 5:9).

2. P 215. The only organized church ever mentioned in the tribulation period is the Jezebel system (Rev 2:22) and the harlot system (Rev. 17-18).  If the true church were on earth, since it is not mentioned as separate from the apostate system, it must be a part of that apostasy. Such a conclusion is impossible. The believing witnesses, converted during the period, are specifically said to have kept themselves from defilement by this apostate system (Rev 14:4). Since the church is not mentioned as also having kept herself from this system it must be concluded that the church is not there. 

3. P231. “The events of the Day of the Lord” will include the overthrow of the false professing church (Rev 17-18). 

4. P354. The invasion of the land of Israel by the northern confederacy will bring the Beast and his armies to the defense of Israel as her protector. (Daniel 11:40-45)

5. P356. The Beast moves his headquarters into the land of Israel and assembles his armies there. It is there that his destruction will come (Daniel 11:40-45). During the time that the Beast  (Antichrist) is headquartered in Israel, he will make a covenant with Israel, and midway during the covenant period, he will break that covenant with Israel (P 234).

6. P357. With the King of the South defeated by the armies of the Beast, and the northern confederacy defeated by the Lord on the mountains of Israel, we find two opposing forces drawn up in battle array — the armies of the Beast and the armies of the Kings of the East ((Daniel 11:40-45). 

7. P364. The religious system under the Beast is an organized system of worldwide scope (Rev 17:15). The system will be destroyed by the Beast, so that his supremacy may not be threatened (Rev 17:16-17)

8. P368. Regarding the Judgment of the Beast and his armies. In tracing the campaign of Armageddon, it has been seen how God judges the Gentile world powers and brings about their downfall. The northern confederacy was judged by God upon the mountains of Israel in the middle of the Tribulation period. The Kings of the East and their forces, and the armies of the Beast were seen to be destroyed at the second coming of Christ to the earth.

IV. Scripture Text. Reve. Link pasted from Bible Gateway. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+17-18&version=NASB1995

Revelation Chapters 17-18 New American Standard Bible 1995

V. Verse Examination. Revelation 17-18.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., Litt.D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.

A. 17:1. Babylon is represented as a “whore ” whose unfaithfulness affects many people and nations (the “waters” as explained in v. 15). 

B. 17:3. “a scarlet beast.” A reference to Antichrist and his allies on whom Babylon sits (controls).

C. 17:8. This would place the events of this chapter (17) in the first half of the Tribulation before Antichrist comes out of the abyss at its midpoint (cf. 11:7; 13:11).

D. 17:10. “seven kings.” The seven heads of vs. 9, are seven kings, probably a selective list either of Roman emperors or world empires.

E. 17:12. “ten kings.” The 10-nation federation that will be headed by Antichrist. “one hour.”  I.e., for one purpose (as in Luke 22:53). 

F. 17:15. The apostate church will be ecumenical, or worldwide.

G 17:16. “these will hate the harlot.” The political power headed by Antichrist will overthrow the false church organization (probably at mid-point of the Tribulation). 

H. 18:2  “fallen.” The Kings lament this destruction (vs. 9), which apparently will occur at the end of the Tribulation. 

I. 18:4. “my people.” God’s people are to separate themselves from the Babylonian system. (See Walvoord comment above, 18:4).

J. 18:8. “in one day.” The judgment will be consummated in a single day, as it happened once before to Babylon, when it was taken by Darius (Dan. 5:1, 3-5, 30). 

K. 18:20. “God has pronounced judgment for you against her. I. e., Heaven and the martyrs may now rejoice.

L 18:21. Babylon will sink into the sea like a rock. 

V. Summary.

Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In these seventeenth and eighteenth chapters of Revelation, we considered the following: 17:1 A woman arrayed in purple and scarlet, with a golden cup in her hand, sits upon the beast. 5 The mystery of the woman is explained. 18:1 The fall of Babylon. 4 The people of God commanded to come out of her. 9 The lamentation of kings, 11 of merchants, 17 and of seamen, over her fall. 20 The saints are bidden to rejoice. 21 Babylon shall be found no more. 

VI. Parting Thoughts. 

A. The name, Babylon, is written 273 times in the Bible. There is no reason to believe that in Revelation Chapters 14-18, another name is intended for Babylon. Some people have said that when Peter mentions “Babylon” in 1 Peter 5:13, he is using a code that means that he is actually writing from Rome. There is no evidence that Peter was ever in Rome. Paul was said to be the Apostle to the Gentiles (Rom 11:13), with Peter being the Apostle to the Jews (Gal 2:7). Consider Romans 1:11, “I long to see you so that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, that you may be established.” Is Paul saying that since Peter didn’t do a good enough job in Rome, that Paul is going there “to clean up his mess?” If Peter had been in Rome, Paul would not have written such words (Rom 1:11). In 536 B.C. 49, 897 Jews returned to Jerusalem from 70 years of Babylonian captivity. However, many remained in Babylon (Ezra 2:64-65) (Ryrie Study Bible).  The Book of Esther (465 B. C.) describes life for the Jews who remained in Babylon, and the attempted annihilation of the Jews by Haman (Esther 3:1-15, 474 B.C.). There is every reason to believe that Babylon means Babylon. In the Revelation that was given to the Apostle John, of this Chapter 17-18 narrative, was a view of the city of Babylon, far into the future. John saw the city of Babylon, and wrote of that which he saw.

B. The words of Revelation 17:5 are important to be considered in context. 

(CSB) On her forehead was written a name, a mystery: Babylon the Great, the Mother of Prostitutes and of the Detestable Things of the Earth.

(ESV) And on her forehead was written a name of mystery: “Babylon the great, mother of prostitutes and of earth’s abominations.”

(HCSB) On her forehead a cryptic name was written: BABYLON THE GREAT THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE VILE THINGS OF THE EARTH.

(NASB 1995) and on her forehead a name was written, a mystery, “BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.”

(NET) On her forehead was written a name, a mystery: “Babylon the Great, the Mother of prostitutes and of the detestable things of the earth.”

(NIV) The name written on her forehead was a mystery: Babylon the great the mother of prostitutes and of the abominations of the earth.

(NLT) A mysterious name was written on her forehead: “Babylon the Great, Mother of All Prostitutes and Obscenities in the World.”

(KJV) And upon her forehead was a name written, Mystery, Babylon The Great, The Mother Of Harlots And Abominations Of The Earth.

(NKJV) And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

C. Rev 17:7 discusses “the mystery” of Babylon. 

1. (NASB) “And the angel said to me, “Why do you wonder? I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and the ten horns.”

2. The development of evil unto its culmination in the man of sin (2 Thess. 2:7) and the development of the great apostate system religious system (Rev. 17:5, 7) both constitute that which was called a mystery (Pentecost, Things to Come, p 135).

D.  Rev 17:18 shows that Babylon is the name of a city, and not the second word of the incorrect rendering of,  “MYSTERY, BABYLON.”

(NASB 1995). The woman whom you saw is the great city, which reigns over the kings of the earth.”

E. Context is necessary for the understanding of Scripture.  All of the Bible is for us, but not all of the Bible is about us. Lev 24:23 was in context, in the Jewish understanding of Scripture during the time of the Law.  However, it is out of context to say that we stone people today who act improperly. Israel is Israel, and the church is the church; both are addressed in the New Testament (78 times for Israel, and 112 times for the Church.) Israel consists of Jews of the bloodline of Abraham, through Isaac and Jacob. The church consists of the body of Christ (Col 1:24). Gentiles can never become Jews, thereby entering into the Jewish bloodline (whether the Gentiles are Christian, or not). Jews, on the other hand, can become part of the body of Christ, as can Gentiles, through belief in Christ (John 14:20, 2 Cor 5:17).  When we are born again (John 3:3), our spirit enters into the Spirit of Father, Son and Holy Spirit (1 Jn 1:5), with the Spirit of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, dwelling within our spirit (Col 1:27). However, it is not until we are physically in the Kingdom on the earth that we will be grafted into the blessings of the Jews, at which time the Abrahamic Covenant will have been fulfilled. Jesus told the Jews to pray for the Kingdom come (Matt 6:10). At the time that Jesus was to ascend to Heaven (Acts 1:4-7), after the Apostles asked Him if He would, at that time, restore the Kingdom to Israel, that He said, “it was not for them to know the times or the seasons which the Father had put in His own power,” which meant that “the kingdom had not yet come.” During our study of the Kingdom, we will also discuss the roles of Jesus as Prophet (past), Priest (present), and King (future).

VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Pages for “Bucket List.”

VII . My Websites To Follow.

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://newsandcommentary38395276.wordpress.com/ Thy Kingdom Come

VIII. Recommended Resource.

Ryrie Study Bible NASB 1995. The Ryrie Study Bible outlines each day of Holy Week in Luke’s Gospel, which is helpful in identifying the day that Jesus was crucified. This is my favorite study Bible.

https://www.moodypublishers.com/authors/r/charles-ryrie/

What happens to the earth as a result of the vial Judgments?

I. Video Data.  John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg,  (M. Div., D. Min.), (Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021). Notice that Dr. DeYoung uses the correct title, “Campaign of Armageddon,” as opposed to the often used, “Battle of Armageddon.”

II. Introduction. 

Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.).

A. The seven bowls of wrath. B. Parenthetic: Armageddon.

III. Overview.

The following views of different highly respected theologians discuss the outpouring of the bowl (vial) judgments of God on the earth during the second half of the Tribulation. Yet, the “earth dwellers” do not repent. Earth dwellers are those who will be left behind from the Rapture (1 Thes 4:16-17). Earth dwellers identified (Rev 3:10; 6:10; 8:13; 11:10; 13:8; 13:14; 17:8). Earth dwellers not repentant (Rev 16:9; 16:11; 16:21).

A. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div.; Ph. D.) The Book of Revelation, Holman New Testament Commentary.

John witnesses the brief, but intense, scenes of the seven bowls of wrath being poured out on the earth.

B. Dr. Paige Patterson (B.A., D.D., D.D., Th. M., Ph. D.) Revelation Commentary, The New International Version, The New American Commentary. 

In rapid succession the bowls of God’s wrath are poured out on the earth. The crass rebellion of the human heart is displayed through these tragedies; men do not repent.

C. Dr. John Phillips (D. Min; 1927-2010) Revelation Commentary. 

A world ruined by man, and a world ruled by Satan, has been described. Now, the time has come for the world to be rescued by God. Down into the arena of human affairs He comes, shortening the days and making a swift, sudden end of the Beast and his hideous strength. The vials, shallow bowls used in the temple worship, are filled now with wrath and are swiftly out-poured.

D. Dr. Daniel Green (Th. D., D. Min.) The Moody Bible Commentary.

1. First Bowl – Painful sores (16:1-2); 2. Second Bowl – The sea turned to blood (16:3); 3. Third Bowl – Fresh water turned to blood (16:4-7); 4. Fourth Bowl – A scorched earth (16:8-9); 5. Fifth Bowl – Darkness (16:10-11); 6. Sixth Bowl – Demonic assault; 7. Seventh Bowl – Worldwide devastation (16:17-21). 

E. Dr. Robert L. Thomas  (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.

1. First Bowl: Incurable sores on the Beast worshippers (16:1-2). 2. Second Bowl: Death to all sea life (16:3). 3. Third Bowl: Transforming of all fresh water into blood (16:4-7); 4. Fourth Bowl: Scorching of all through the sun’s intensity (16:8-9); 5. Fifth Bowl: Darkening of the Beast’s kingdom (16:10-11); 6. Sixth Bowl: Preparation for the doom of earth’s kings (16:12-16); 7. Seventh Bowl: The destruction of Babylon (16:17-18:24).

F. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.,, Ph. D., 1909-1995).

1. Six Vials of Judgment are seen in Rev 16:1-12:

a. Command to empty the vials (16:1); b. Plague on the earth (16:2); c. Plague on the sea (16:3); d. Plague on the rivers and waters (16:4-7); e. Plague on the sun (16:8-9); f. Plague on the beast’s seat (16:10-11); g. Plague on the Euphrates River (16:12).

2. Preview of Armageddon (16:13-18).

3. The Seventh Vial (16:17-21):

a. Plague on the air (16:17-18); b. The fall of Babylon (16:19);  Nature in upheaval (16:20-21).

G. Dr. John F. Walvoord  (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.

Chronologically, this chapter is close to the time of the second coming of Christ, and the judgments described fall in rapid succession. There can be no doubt here, not only that the series reaches on to the time of the end, but that the whole of it is to be placed close to the same time. Daniel indicated that these closing days of the Tribulation will be a time of world war (Dan 11:36-45). World events are now pictured by John as coming to their climax. Chapter 19 of Revelation follows immediately after chapter 16 in the chronological development.

H. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, 1958, p 363.

The third series of judgments, which complete the outpouring of divine wrath, are the vials (Rev. 16:1-21). Although four of these vials are poured out on the same areas as the trumpets, they do not seem to be the same judgments. The trumpets begin in the middle of the tribulation and depict events during the entire second half of the week (Daniel’s 70th week). The vials seem to cover a very brief period at the end of the tribulation, just prior to the second advent of Christ. These bowls seem to have particular reference to unbelievers, as they undergo the special wrath of God (16:9, 11), and have special reference to the beast and his followers (16:2).

IV. Verse Examination. Revelation Chapter 16, NASB, Link pasted from Bible Gateway.

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+16&version=NASB1995Revelation Chapter 16 NASB 1995

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1925-2016). Ryrie Study Bible.

A. 16:1. Though there are similarities between the bowl judgments and some of the trumpet judgments in chaps. 8-9 there are differences as well, the bowl judgments being more intensive and extensive. Thus, it is best not to see the bowls as repeating the trumpets but as a distinct series of judgments following the trumpets.

B. 16:2. “a loathsome and malignant sore.” LIt., foul and evil sore. Probably, a plague of ulcers. The brief descriptions of these last seven judgments (vv 2-12, 17-21) may suggest that they occur in rapid succession upon a world already battered and bloodied.

C. 16:3. “every living thing in the sea died.” (see 8:9). Imagine the stench and disease that will accompany this event.

D. 16:4. Though drinking bloody salt water would be toxic, drinking bloody fresh water, though disgusting, would not be. 

E. 16:6. “They deserve it .” I.e., they deserve to drink blood because they shed the blood of saints and prophets.

F. 16:8. Side effects of this scorching heat will drastically affect the climate, possibly including excessive evaporation and melting of the great ice areas of the world.

G. 16:9. “they did not repent.” See verse 11 and 9:21. 

H. 16:11. “their sores.” I.e., those referred to in verse 2.

I. 16:12. “the kings from the east.” Lit., the kings from the rising of the sun. The armies of the nations of the Orient will be raided in their march toward Armageddon by the supernatural drying up of the Euphrates River.

J. 16:3. “the dragon.” Satan. the” beast.” Antichrist (13:1-10). “the false prophet.” the lieutenant (13:11-18).

K. 16:14. “the war of the great day of God, the Almighty.” The war will consist of several battles, beginning with Antichrist’s campaign into Egypt (Dan. 11:40-45) and including a siege of Jerusalem (Zech. 14:2) as well as the final battle at Armageddon (v. 16). 

L. 16:15. A call to surviving believers to watch and be alert. The “clothes” of a guard caught asleep on duty were taken from him, leaving him “naked” and disgraced.

M. 16:16. “Har-Mageddon,” or Armageddon. Lit., Mount of Megiddo, near the city of Megiddo at the head of the plain of Esdraelon. This area was the scene of many OT battles, notably those of Barak with the Canaanites (Judg. 4) and of Gideon with the Midianites (Judg. 7).

N. 16:19. “The great city.” Either Jerusalem (11:8; cf. Zech. 14:4) or Babylon (18:2).

O. 16:20-21. The topography of the earth will be drastically changed, and unbelieving survivors of the hailstorm will curse God instead of turning to Him.

V. Summary.

Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this sixteenth chapter of Revelation we considered: The seven angels in succession pour out their vials of wrath upon the earth, and great plagues follow thereupon.

VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my pages for My Bucket List.

VII. My Websites To Follow:

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://newsandcommentary38395276.wordpress.com/ Thy Kingdom Come

VIII. Recommended Resource.

The Coming Kingdom, Dr. Andrew M Woods. Th.M., J.D., Ph.D.

The Coming Kingdom

What happens to the earth as a result of the vial judgments?

I. Video Data. John Ankerberg Show. Dr. John Ankerberg,  (M. Div., D. Min.), (Dr. Jimmy DeYoung (M. Div., Ph. D., 1940-2021)

II. Introduction.  Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.), and others.

The Seven Bowl Judgments. A glorious heavenly scene.

III. Overview.

A. Dr. Tim LaHaye (D. Min., D. Litt.; 1926-2016). Revelation Illustrated & Made Plain. Chapter 15 concludes the events revealed in chapters 10 through 15, concerning visions in heaven or conditions on the earth to the middle of the Tribulation period. The chapter (15) serves as an introduction to the Great Tribulation, which is the latter half of the Tribulation Period described in chapter 16, when the seven angels pour out the bowls of the wrath of God.

B. Dr. Paige Patterson (B.A., D.D., D.D., Th. M., Ph. D.) Revelation Commentary, The New International Version, The New American Commentary. Chapter 15 constitutes an interlude that is also an introduction to the final plagues, which will be enumerated in chap. 16 as part of the tribulation period. However, the interlude is replete with importance for adequate comprehension of what follows in the outpouring of the bowls of wrath. The reader is first introduced to a scene of triumph in heaven where specifically those who withstood the siren songs and the threats of the false prophets are gathered. These extol the majesty of the King. The way is prepared for the introduction of the angels who are the waiters serving up the wrath of God.

C. Dr. Robert L. Thomas (Th. M., Th. D.; 1928-2017). Revelation Commentary.  A scene in heaven precedes the bowl series as happened with the seals (chaps. 4-5) and the trumpets (8:2-6) too. Chapter 15 is a sort of celestial interlude to introduce the pouring out of the seven bowls of the wrath in chapter 16. The former facilitates an understanding of the latter. It is time for what has been anticipated in the cup of wine (14:10), the harvest (14:14-16), and the vintage (14:17-20) to be delineated in its chronological fulfillment. Correspondences between chapter 14 and 15-16 reflect how the visions have prepared the way up to now. Following the sign of the seven angels with the seven last plagues, the fifteenth chapter has two visions, the first one picturing the victors  fresh from their triumph and the second describing the white-and-gold clad angels who hold the seven bowls. 

D. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ. Chapters 15 and 16 of Revelation bring to consummation the chronologically ordered events leading up to the second coming of Christ described in chapter 19. These are introduced in this chapter as “the seven last plagues” which are the divine judgments preceding the second coming of Christ. As previously indicated, the chronological order of events in Revelation is presented basically in the seven seals (6:1-17; 8:1). The seventh seal includes all of the seven trumpets (8:1-9:21; 11:15-19). The seven vials or bowls of divine judgment are included in the seventh trumpet. 

E. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., 1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible. The chapters now under consideration form a literary unit that follows logically after chapter 11, giving the third series of the septenary judgments of God. Why need there be three series of these judgments? They evidently follow the pattern of warfare as men know it: first, the initial encounter; then, the intensive assaults; finally, the consummating blows. Undoubtedly, the vial judgments take place in the Great Tribulation in its last stages. The implication seems to be that they will transpire in a very brief period of time. They will be both rapid and severe. The Revelation does deal repeatedly with judgments, but not exclusively so; for the final prospect is bright indeed.

F. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. B., Th., D., 1915-2014) Things To Come, pp 236-238. From these Scriptures it can not be denied that this period is peculiarly the time when God’s wrath and judgment fall upon the earth. This is not wrath from men, nor from Satan, except as God may use these agencies as channels for the execution of His will; it is tribulation from God. This period differs from all preceding tribulation, not only in intensity but also in the kind of tribulation, since it comes from God Himself. The first great purpose of the tribulation is to prepare the nation of Israel for her Messiah. The prophecy of Jeremiah (30:7) makes it clear that this time that is coming has particular reference for Israel, for it is “the time of Jacob’s trouble.” God’s purpose for Israel in the Tribulation is to bring about the conversion of a multitude of Jews, who will enter the blessings of the kingdom, and experience the fulfillment of all Israel’s covenants. The second great purpose of the tribulation is to pour out judgment on unbelieving man and nations. It is stated in Revelation 3:10, “I will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” From these Scriptures it will be seen that God is judging the nations of the earth because of their godlessness. 

.

IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 15. NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+15&version=NASB1995

Revelation Chapter 15

V. Verse Examination. Revelation Chapter 15.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.

A. 15:2-3. The martyrs sing “the song of Moses,” praising God for His faithfulness and deliverance (Ex. 15 and Deut. 32)  and magnifying God’s holiness and righteousness.

B. 15: 5. “the temple of the tabernacle of testimony.” I.e., the “Holy of Holies.”

VI. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this fifteenth chapter of Revelation, we have considered: 1 Seven angels with the seven last plagues. 3 The song of those that overcome the beast. 7 Seven golden vials full of the wrath of God.

VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Bucket List page.

VIII. My Websites To Follow.

https://equippingblog.wordpress.com/ Eternity

https://untotheleastofthese.home.blog/ Book Prep

https://newsandcommentary38395276.wordpress.com/ Thy Kingdom Come

IX. Recommended Resource.

The Coming Kingdom, Dr. Andrew M Woods. Th.M., J.D., Ph.D.

The Coming Kingdom

Does God Specifically Protect The 144,000, And If So, Why?

I. Opening Video. John Ankerberg Show. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.) ; Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)

II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D., John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.)

Parenthetic. 1. The Lamb and the 144,000 on Mount Zion (14:1-5). 2. Vision of the angel and the eternal Gospel (14:6-7). 3. Babylon’s fall foretold (14:8). 4. Doom to come on worshippers of the beast (14:9-12). 5. Blessedness of the holy dead (14:13).6. Vision of Armageddon (14:14-20).

III. Overview. 

A. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.

These seven visions are not in chronological sequence; they are more like a panoramic view of the Tribulation period. In some respects, this chapter is like a table of contents for the rest of the Book of Revelation, chronicling the salvation of God’s people, the fall of Babylon, the final battle, and God’s judgment on unbelieving humanity.

B. Dr. Kendell H. Easley (M. Div., Ph. D.) Holman New Testament Commentary – Revelation.

In this chapter, John has written for us images, both glorious and terrible. For the righteous, there will be glory and honor, for the Lamb has protected and gathered His people. For the wicked, there will be shame and torment, for the winepress of God’s fury will bring it to pass.

C. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, p 301.

The “destiny” of the remnant. Speaking of those brought to the Lord through the ministry of the 144,000 in Revelation 7:15-16, they are seen “before the throne” (Rev 14:3). Thus the destiny of this remnant is the kingdom over which Christ will rule from the “throne of David.” Those promises are not heavenly, but earthly, and will be fulfilled in the millennium.

D. Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.,1909-1995). Liberty Commentary Bible.

Chapter 14 is the sequel and God’s answer to the wickedness of the persons in Chapter 13. God intervenes in grace and judgment. As stated earlier, Chapters 12-14 form a series of their own and are placed between the trumpet and vial judgments, intending to emphasize the individuals who are prominent in the end time. R.H. Charles claims: “The entire chapter is proleptic in character. That is, the orderly development of future events, as set forth in the successive visions is here … abandoned, and all the coming judgments from 16:17, to 20:7-10, are summarized in 6:6-11, 14, 18-20″ (The Revelation of St. John II, p 1).

E. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., 1910-2002) The Revelation of Jesus Christ.

Chapter 14 brings to a conclusion the material found in the section of chapters 12 through 14. Chapter 12 deals with the important characters of the period, chapter 13 with the wicked rulers of the period, and chapter 14 with the ultimate triumph of Christ. All of this material is not chronological but prepares the way for the climax which begins in chapter 15. Chapter 14 consists of a series of pronouncements and visions assuring the reader of the ultimate triumph of Christ and the judgment of the wicked. Much of the chapter is prophetic of events that have not yet taken place, but which are now impending. The chapter begins with the assurance that the Lamb will ultimately stand in triumph on Mount Zion with his followers, and it concludes with a series of pronouncements of judgments upon the wicked.

IV. Verse Examination.  Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.,Litt. D.1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+14&version=NASB1995

Revelation Chapter 14 New American Standard Bible 1995

A. 14:1. “the Lamb.” I.e., Christ. “one hundred and forty-four thousand.” Evidently the same group that was introduced in 7:4, though now their work on earth is finished and they are in heaven. Another interpretation takes “Mount Zion” as the earthly Jerusalem and the 144,000  as surviving the Tribulation on earth.

B. 14:4. “not … defiled with women.” This may simply mean that the 144,000 were unmarried, or it may indicate their state of separation unto God (cf. 2 Cor 11:2). “first fruits.” The salvation of the 144,000 will precede the salvation of a larger group of Israelites, who will turn to the Lord at the end of the Tribulation (cf. Isa, 2:3; Rom 11:15).

C. 14:6. “an eternal gospel to preach.” God’s last call of grace to the world before the return of Christ in judgment.

D. 14:8. “fallen is Babylon.” This fall is described in detail in chaps. 17-18. 

E. 14:10-13, The wicked will be tormented in the lake of fire forever, with no hope of annihilation or restoration. In contrast, the righteous will have rest forever.

F. 14:12: Saints will be able to endure, knowing that God will punish their enemies (vv. 9-11).G. 14:20. Apparently a reference to Armageddon (16:16; cf. 19:17-19), when the blood from the slaughter will flow 180 miles (290 km) to the depth of about 4.5 feet (1.3 m). The blood or horses added to that of the large armies of human soldiers could easily cause such an enormous river of blood.

V. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this fourteenth chapter of Revelation, we have considered: 1 The Lamb on Mount Zion with His company. 6 The triumph of the gospel. 8 The fall of Babylon. 9 The worshiper of the beast and his image threatened. 13 The reward of the faithful. 15. The harvest of the world.

 
VI. Parting Thought.

A. In Rev 14:3, we see the 144,000 Jews of Rev 7:4.  In 7:4 these Jewish evangelists are “sealed.” In 14:3, these same 144,000 are still alive, having survived the Tribulation. Born again believers in Christ will be saved “from the tribulation,” by the Rapture (John 14:1-6, 1 Cor 15:50-58, 1 Thes 4:13-18, Titus 2:13). These Jews. who were not believers in Christ, at the time of the Rapture, were left behind “from the Rapture” to be present “in the Tribulation.” God sealed them for protection which saved them “through the Tribulation.” The number of these sealed Jews is 144,000  is shown in Rev 7:4, prior to the beginning of their Tribulation ministry. The number of these same Jews is shown to also be 144,000 in Rev 14:3, at the end of the Tribulation. 

B. Rev 14:4 says that these 144,000 Jews “have not defiled themselves with women, for they have kept themselves chaste.” Per the remainder of this verse, it appears that these Jews, whether sexually virgins, or not, were “sold out to Christ.”  In Walvoord’s, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, Dr. Walvoord gave a plausible understanding of these Jews, “referring to spiritual purity, that is, they are not defiled by love of the world or compromise with evil, but keep themselves pure in a world situation which is morally filthy.”

C. In Rev 14:19 the angel, in response to the entreaty, thrusts or “casts” (Gr., ebalen) his sickle into the earth and harvests its vintage casting it into what is described as “the great winepress of the wrath of God.” This action is actually fulfilled in Revelation 19:15, where the same figure of speech is used. (Revelation of Jesus Christ, Walvoord). 

VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Pages for my Bucket List.

VIII. Please follow all of my websites, as follows.

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I. Video Data. Target Israel – Antichrist And The False Prophet. 100huntley. Dr. Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.)

II. Introduction. Dr. C.I. Scofield (D. D.; 1843-1921) Scofield Study Bible (1909, 1917, 1937, 1945, 1984, 1998, 2002, 2006, Editor, C.I. Scofield, Editorial Revision 1967 Committee Members: Charles L. Feinberg, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; John F. Walvoord, Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.)

A. Rev 13. The Rise and Reign of the Beast and the False Prophet. 13:1-10: The beast out of the sea; the deadly wound healed. 13:11-18: The beast out of the earth; the number of a man 666.

B. Revelation Chapter 13 unveils the conditions on the earth at the end of the age when the following factors will be manifest:

C. The first beast of Revelation 13: 1. the world ruler is satanically energized (vv 2, 4). 2. he and his image are worshipped (vv 4, 8, 12, 15). 3. he is acknowledged as possessing supreme military power (v 4). 4. he exercises a universal authority (v 7). 5. he persecutes believers in Christ (vv 6-7).

D. The second beast of Revelation Chapter 13. 1. is a deceiver (vv 13-14). 2. exercises economic dictatorship (vv 16-17).

III. Overview.  

A.  Dr. Charles L. Feinberg (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.) 1909-1995).Liberty Commentary Bible.

The Apostle John continues the delineation of the chief participants of the end times in this chapter, adding to more to those given in chapter 12. A study of Daniel 7, 9, and 11 is essential to the understanding of this vital chapter of the Apocalypse. (See following note).

B. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.; 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.(Rev 1:1 note).

The word “revelation” is a translation of the Greek “apokalypsis,” meaning  “an unveiling” or a “disclosure.” From this word comes the English “apocalypse”

C. Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.; 1910-2002) Every Prophecy of the Bible, p 580.

This narrative covers the remaining 3 1/2 years of the 7 year Tribulation.
In this chapter prophecy focuses on the coming world government and the beast and the false prophet who lead it. This gathers in many prophecies throughout Scripture that speak of this crucial end time of three-and-a half years, culminating in the second coming of Christ. 

D.  Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, p 231. The events of the Day of the Lord (Tribulation and Millennium) will include:

1. Daniel 2 and 7. The prophesied events of the tribulation period, such as the federation of states into a Roman Empire. 2. Daniel 9:27 and Rev 13:1-10. The rise of a political leader who made a covenant with Israel. 3. Rev 13: 11-18.The formulation of a false religious system under the false prophet.

E. Dr. David Hocking. (M. Div., D. Min., Ph. D.)

In Rev 12, the dragon was described as having “seven heads and ten horns.” That description is a prelude to what we discover in Rev 13. It is Satan himself who brings two world leaders to power, one political and the other religious. Both are called “beasts,” one “rising out of the sea” and the other “coming out of the earth.” This unholy trinity includes the following: 1. First beast out of the bottomless pit: Satan. 2. Second beast out of the sea: Antichrist. 3. Third beast out of the earth: False Prophet.

F. Dr. David Jeremiah. (Th. M., D.D.) Jeremiah Study Bible.

1. 13:1-10. The beast that John saw coming out of the sea is a composite of the four wild animals that Daniel saw (Dan 7:2-8). These four creatures (leopard, bear, lion, dragon) represent the four kingdoms that would arise, one after another (Babylon, Greece, Persia and Rome. This beast is the Antichrist (12:3; 17:3; Dan 7:7-8). 2. 13:11-18. John’s vision includes something that Daniel never saw – another beast, rising out of the earth. This beast is the false prophet, referred to in chapters 16, 19, 20. He looks like a lamb – meek and mild. In reality, this leader possessed by Satan has the heart of a serpent, the voice of a dragon, and the authority of the Antichrist. His miracles (great signs) will cause the whole world to bow down to the Antichrist and his image (Matt 7:15).

IV. Verse Examination.  Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible. 

A. 13:1. “a beast.” The Antichrist. See 11:7. Many emperors of Rome deified themselves, but Antichrist will far outstrip all his predecessors in his blasphemous ways. “ten horns.” The 10 kings that will give their power and authority to the Antichrist (17:12-13). 

B. 13:2. “the dragon gives his power.” Satan gives Antichrist his power.

C. 13:3. “had been slain.”  The same word is used in 5:6 of Christ’s actual death, though here it may indicate a wound that normally would be fatal. “his fatal wound was healed.” Apparently, Satan will miraculously restore Antichrist to life in imitation of the resurrection of Christ. No wonder the world will acclaim Antichrist.

D. 13:5. “forty-two months.” Apparently, the last 3 1/2 years of the tribulation period during which Antichrist’s power is practically unrestrained.

E. 13:6. “His tabernacle.” God’s dwelling place in heaven. 

F. 13:7-8. Antichrist’s rule will extend to all, except believers whose names have been written in the “book of life.” The phrase “from the foundation of the world” relates to the writing of the names, not to the crucifixion (cf. 17:8).

G.13:10. Assurance that God will punish evildoers sustains the faith of those who are persecuted during these days. 

H. 13:11. “another beast.” This man is Antichrist’s lieutenant, who will enforce the worship of Antichrist by performing miracles (v 13), by making and animating an image of Antichrist (vv 14-15), by sentencing to death those who disobey (v 15), and by requiring a mark on the hand or forehead in order that men may buy and sell (vv 16-17). Satan, the Antichrist, and his second beast form an evil trinity.

I. 13:18. “his number is 666.” Somehow unknown to us, this number will play an important part in the identification of the Antichrist in a future day.

V. Summary. Dr. Orville J. Nave, Nave’s Study Bible, 1978 (D.D., LL. D., 1841-1917). Orville J. Nave (Editor). Anna Seamans Nave (Editor).

In this thirteenth chapter of Revelation, we have considered the following flow of details: (1) A beast arises out of the sea with seven heads and ten horns, to whom the dragon gives his power. (11) Another beast comes up out of the earth, and causes men to worship the first beast, (16) and to receive his mark.

VI. Parting Thought.

All of the individuals who are seen in the Book of Revelation, beginning in Chapter 6, are those who were left behind from the Rapture (John 14:1-6; 1 Cor 15:50-54; 1 Thes 4:13-18; Titus 2:13). The Rapture will take place only after “the fullness of the Gentiles comes in” (Rom 11:25), with that fullness being determined by God, which relates to a certain number of Gentiles coming to belief in Christ. The Rapture relates only to “the church,” which consists of the born again body of believers in Christ, whether they were prior Jews or Gentiles. The Tribulation is a time in which God will deal with unbelieving Jews (Jer 30:7), to draw them to belief in Christ. During the Tribulation, unbelieving Gentiles who will be left behind from the rapture will also have the ability to come to belief in Christ. Regardless of which group of unbelievers are present on Earth during the Tribulation, they will all have the opportunity to come to belief in Christ as Messiah, as Lord and Savior. The Tribulation will begin only after the Antichrist confirms a covenant with Israel (Daniel 9:27), thereby making the Tribulation an event that relates to Israel, and not to the Church. The Tribulation will not begin immediately after the Rapture takes place, but only after the Antichrist confirms a covenant with Israel (a peace covenant of safety, J. Dwight Pentecost, Bible Knowledge Commentary). The length of time that will exist between the Rapture and the Tribulation is unknown. There are reputable theologians who believe that there may be as much as a fifty-year period of time, or a lesser time period, between the Rapture and the time that the Antichrist confirms a covenant with Israel. The conditions of Revelation 13 are consistent with the headlines of world events that are taking place today. We must understand that the provisions of Romans 11:25 have to take place prior to the Rapture. We must also understand that the events of Revelation, Chapter 6 and following chapters, will not take place until after the Rapture takes place. So, why does so much of current world events especially relate to Revelation 13, as well as to other chapters in the Book of Revelation? The answer to that question is quite simple. The effects of the fall of Adam and Eve, with the resulting curse (Gen 3:14), are easily recognizable in the world today, and will be present until the curse is removed, as is written in Rev 22:3, having been enacted in Rev 21:1. All of the perfection of the Garden conditions of Genesis 1 and 2 are “no more.” Ephesians 2:2, speaks of “the prince of the power of the air” (who is Satan, Ryrie Study Bible), “that is now working in the sons of disobedience.” Born again believers in Christ have the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their spirits, prompting them to righteousness (2 Cor 5:17, 21). Those of whom have not been born again, do not have the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their Spirits, and, therefore are prompted to unrighteousness by Satan. Everyone makes mistakes, but believers in Christ recognize their sinful mistakes and ask for God to lead them to righteous living (1 John 1:9). Unbelievers lead lifestyles that are not consistent with Godly teaching (1 Cor 6:9-11), and lead lifestyles that will lead them to the eternal lake of fire (Rev 20:15), due to their not being born again.. In the meantime, we are seeing the outward effects of the decisions of unbelievers as they are trying to lead our world into a society that exists to make our world into one that is totally opposed to the teachings of God’s Holy Word.  Nobody can claim to be a born again believer in Christ, yet support abortion or homosexuality which is the focus of most of our world’s leaders today. There is no great world-wide revival that is discussed in Scripture that will reverse the effects of sin which is gradually, and, totally. taking over the minds and actions of most of our world’s leaders. So, as believers in Christ, our responsibility is to lead unbelievers to a belief in Christ as Lord and Savior (John 3:16-18), where such new believers will be “born again” (John 3:3), with the result of the Spirit of Christ dwelling within their Spirits, prompting them to righteous lifestyles. There will be revival during the Tribulation, for those who will  be left behind from the Rapture, but it will be difficult for them to come to belief in Christ (2 Thes 2:11, “they will believe what is false,” Ryrie Study Bible note… men will believe what is false, as Satan works through Antichrist); such Tribulation saints will also come under great persecution and death during the Tribulation (Rev 6:9-11).

VII. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles. Please check my Pages for my Bucket List.

Who is the woman described in Revelation 12?

Who is the child mentioned in Revelation 12?

I. Videos Above From The John Ankerberg Show.

II. Video Data. Opening Videos’ Speakers. Drs. John Ankerberg (M. Div., D. Min.); Ron Rhodes (Th. M., Th. D.); Ed Hindson (Th. M., Th. D., D. Min., Ph. D.); Mark Hitchcock (Th. M., J.D., Ph. D.)

III. Overview

A Dr. John F. Walvoord (Th. B., Th. M., Th. D.; 1910-2002) Revelation Commentary.

1. 12:1. The woman symbolized Israel, as indicated by Genesis 37:9-11, where the sun and moon referred to Jacob and Rachel, Joseph’s parents. The stars in the woman’s crown clearly related to the 12 sons of Jacob, and identified the woman as Israel, fulfilling the Abrahamic Covenant. J.B. Smith cites Isaiah 60:1-3, 20, as proof that the sun relates to Israel’s future glory (A Revelation of Jesus Christ, p 182).
2. 12:4. The casting down of a third of the stars out of the sky seemed to imply the satanic power which extended to the heavens and the earth. Satan was seen here to extend his power over those who opposed him spiritually or politically. 

B. Dr. J. Dwight Pentecost (Th. M., Th. D.; 1915-2014) Things To Come, 1958, pp 215, 296.

12:5. This verse can only refer to Christ, the one whose right it is to rule. The Psalmist confirms this interpretation in Psalm 2:9, which is admittedly Messianic. The one from whom Christ came can only be Israel. 
12:7-17. The dragon is seen to have seven heads and ten horns and seven crowns on his heads (Rev 12:3), which are the same as the beast possesses in chapters thirteen through seventeen. It is plainly stated in 13:2 that this individual derives his authority from Satan. This shows us that Satan is seeking a governmental authority over the woman’s “remnant” (12:7), which authority rightly belongs to Christ Himself.

IV. Scripture Text. Revelation Chapter 12. NASB. Pasted from Bible Gateway

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+12&version=NASB

V. Verse Examination.

Dr. Charles C. Ryrie (Th. M., Th. D., Ph. D.; 1925-2016) Ryrie Study Bible.

1. 12:1. “a woman.” She represents Israel, who gave Christ to the world (v 5) and who will be persecuted during the Tribulation (v 13).
2. 12:3. “a great red dragon.” Satan (v 9).
3. 12:4. “a third of the stars of heaven.” This may refer to Satan’s past rebellion against God (Ezek 28:13); if so it suggests that a third of the angels joined Satan and were cast out of heaven with him. Or, the reference may be to a meteor shower judgment on the earth.
4. 12:5. The earthly life and death of Christ are not mentioned, only His birth and ascension.
5. 12:6. “one thousand two hundred and sixty days.” The last 3 1/2 years of the Tribulation will see intense persecution of Israel. Details are given in verse 13-17. No mention is made of the many hundreds of years between the Ascension (v 5) and the future Tribulation (v 6). See Daniel 9:27; Matt 24:14, 21; 1 Thes 4:17.
6. 12:7. “Michael …. the dragon.” This likely will occur at the midpoint of the Tribulation. Michael is the only angel designated an archangel in the Bible (Jude 9).
7. 12:9-11. Notice two of Satan’s activities in these verses: to deceive the world and to accuse the brethren. The believer’s defense against Satan is: (1) to bank on the merits of Christ: (2) to be active in witnessing, and: (3) to be willing to make any sacrifice, including death (v 11).
8. 12:9. Several judgments have, and will be passed on Satan: (1) his removal from guarding the throne of God (Ezek 28:14, 16 ); (2) the prophecy in the garden of Eden (Gen 3:15); (3) his defeat at the Cross (John 12:31); (4) his being barred from heaven (here in v 9); (5) his confinement in the abyss (20:3); and (6) his torment in the lake of fire forever (20:10). 
9. 12:14. Persecuted Israel will flee quickly as if on “wings” to an unspecified place in the “wilderness” where she will have protection and care.
10. 12:15-16 . In an attempt to dislodge the Jews, Satan will bring a flood. God then will cause the earth to open and swallow the water.
11. 12:17. Satan will then attack those who did not flee to the place of asylum.

VI. My Bucket List shows the references, of people and documents, that I use when I write my articles; you can check it in my list of Pages.