Seven Churches (Revelation 2-3) Book

 

Seven Churches

(Revelation 2-3)

 

 

Chapter 1

Seven Churches in Revelation 2-3 – Introduction

 

I am starting a series of teaching on the Seven Churches in Revelation 2-3. We will also be covering Chapter 1 of Revelation, and just briefly touching on some other things in the Book of Revelation.

 

The author of Revelation is the Apostle John the Beloved. Historians believe John wrote this book around 95-96 AD. John was caught up in a vision while exiled on the Isle of Patmos. He saw the Throne Room in Heaven, the casting down of Lucifer from Heaven, and end-time happenings.

 

Although the focus in the Body of Christ, generally speaking, is usually on end-time events and the rapture as it concerns the Book of Revelation, the theme of this Book is that it’s a revelation or unveiling of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the focal point, not the Anti-Christ or things that will transpire in the last days.

 

The primary focus of this series will be on the letters written to the seven churches in Revelation 2-3. John the Beloved sent a letter to each of the seven churches. 

 

When John beheld Jesus in His majesty and glory in Revelation 1, Jesus is actually the One who spoke the messages to each of the seven churches and John wrote down the vision exactly as he saw and heard it.

 

In each letter, John addresses each church in the same format.

 

1.        Salutation to the pastor or leaders of the church

2.        Commendations (the things they are doing right)

3.        Liabilities (the things where they have missed the mark and have gotten off track)

4.        Promises to those who overcome (promises are given to each of the seven churches)

5.        Each letter is ended with the admonition: “He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

 

There are three major interpretations of the messages to the seven churches. I would also like to add a fourth possible interpretation.

 

1.        The seven churches represent seven actual churches in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) existing at the time the book was written and the messages apply to them.

2.        The seven churches are representative of periods in church history during the Church Age from the Apostolic Church to the end of the Age of Grace.

3.        The seven churches are prophetic pictures of end-time churches and the admonitions may be applied to given churches in this day.

4.        The seven churches represent seven major groups of people within the Corporate Body of Christ.

 

The most meaningful interpretation of the above is that they are all correct.

 

In my Shiloh Bible College handbook on the Seven Churches, they also point out the correlation between the seven churches and the seven seals, trumpets and vials. Also, they show the association between the seven churches and the Kingdom parables in Matthew 13 and the seven doctrines listed in Hebrews 6:1-2.

 

Here is a chart listing each of the seven churches, and how it correlates to the church history period:

 

 

Jesus is still saying to the Church today, “I know thy works.” He is still examining motives, longing for fellowship with His people, and extending promises to those who choose to be overcomers in this life for His sake and that of the Gospel.

 

Revelation is the only book in the Bible which promises a blessing to those who read it. “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein for the time is at hand” (Revelation 1:3).

 

It is also the only book in the Bible which pronounces a curse on anyone who adds to it or takes away from it. Revelation 22:18-19 says:

 

18 “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:

19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”

 

Seven times in the Book of Revelation the Lord says, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches.” The Lord has a message for us in each of the seven churches. May we hear what the Spirit is saying to us today.

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 2

Seven Churches – Significant Triplets, Chapter 1

 

 

Throughout Chapters 1-3 of Revelation, we see significant number patterns that are used frequently.

 

(Actually, throughout the entire book of Revelation we see these same numbers and patterns. However, in this study we are going to deal primarily with Chapters 1-3.)

 

Beginning with Chapter 1, we see patterns of triplets (3’s). Jesus, in His prose and speech, communicated in a poetic language style where there are patterns of three's in most of the verses in the first three chapters.

 

Also, we see patterns of sevens (7’s) mentioned. We also see patterns of doubles (2’s) which could be used for emphasis, or could be synonyms or antonyms. There are also significant patterns of fours (4’s) and fives (5’s).

 

 

Triplets (3’s) (Taken from the New King James Version)

 

Chapter 1

 

Verse 1

1.      The Revelation of Jesus Christ

2.      Which God gave him (John) to show His servants

3.      Things which must shortly take place

 

 

 

Verse 2

1.      Who bore witness to the Word of God

2.      And to the testimony of Jesus Christ

3.      To all things that he saw

 

Verse 3

1.      Blessed is he who reads

2.      And those who hear the words of this prophecy

3.      And keep those things which are written in it

 

Verse 4

1.      Him who is, and who was, and who is to come

2.      And from the Seven Spirits who are before His Throne

3.      From Jesus Christ

 

Verse 5a

1.      The faithful witness

2.      The firstborn from the dead

3.      And the ruler over the kings of the earth

 

Verse 5b and 6

1.      To Him who loved us

2.      And washed us from our sins in His own Blood

3.      And has made us kings and priests to His God and Father

 

Verse 7

1.      Behold, He is coming with the clouds

2.      And every eye will see Him

3.      Even they who pierced Him

 

 

 

 

Verse 8

1.      I am the Alpha and the Omega

2.      The Beginning and the End

3.      Who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty

 

Verse 9

1.      Tribulation

2.      Kingdom

3.      Patience

 

Verse 11

1.      I am the Alpha and the Omega

2.      The First and the Last

3.      What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia

 

Verse 13

1.      One like the Son of Man

2.      Clothed with a garment down to the feet

3.      Girded about the chest with a golden band

 

Verse 14

1.      His head and hair were white like wool

2.      As white as snow

3.      And His eyes like a flame of fire

 

Verse 16

1.      He had in His right hand seven stars

2.      Out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword

3.      His countenance was like the sun shining in all its strength

 

 

 

Verse 17

1.      And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead

2.      But He laid His right hand on me saying to me

3.      Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last

 

Verse 18

1.      I am He who lives

2.      And was dead

3.      I am alive forevermore

 

Verse 19

1.      Write the things which you have seen

2.      And the things which are

3.      And the things which will take place after this

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 3

Seven Churches – Significant Triplets, Chapter 2

 

Throughout Chapters 1-3 of Revelation, we see significant number patterns that are used frequently.

 

We see patterns of triplets (3’s). Jesus, in His prose and speech, communicated in a poetic language style where there are patterns of three's in most of the verses in the first three chapters.

 

Also, we see patterns of sevens (7’s) mentioned. We also see patterns of doubles (2’s), fours (4’s) and fives (5’s).

 

This is a continuation of Chapter 2.

 

Verse 2a

1.      I know your works

2.      Your labor

3.      Your patience

 

Verse 2b

1.      You cannot bear those who are evil

2.      You have tested those who say they are apostles and are not

3.      And have found them liars

 

Verse 3

1.      Persevered

2.      Have patience

3.      Labored

 

Verse 5

1.      Remember therefore from where you have fallen

2.      Repent and do the first works

3.      Or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place – unless you repent

 

Verse 6

1.      But this you have

2.      That you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans

3.      Which I also hate

 

Verse 8

1.      First and the Last

2.      Who was dead

3.      And came to life

 

Verse 9

1.      Works

2.      Tribulation

3.      Poverty

 

Verse 13

1.      I know your works

2.      And where you dwell

3.      Where Satan’s throne is

 

Verse 14

1.      Who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel

2.      To eat things sacrificed to idols

3.      To commit sexual immorality

 

 

Verse 18

1.      Son of God

2.      Eyes like a flame of fire

3.      Feet like fine brass

 

Verse 22-23

1.      I will cast her into a sickbed

2.      Into great tribulation

3.      I will kill her children with death

 

Verse 24

1.      Now to you I say and to the rest in Thyatira

2.      As many as do not have this doctrine

3.      Who have not known the depths of Satan

 

Verse 26

1.      And he who overcomes

2.      Keeps My works until the end

3.      I will give power over the nations

 

Verse 27-28

1.      He shall rule them with a rod of iron

2.      They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter’s vessels

3.      I will give him the morning star

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 4

Seven Churches – Significant Triplets, Chapter 3

 

Throughout Chapters 1-3 of Revelation, we see significant number patterns that are used frequently. These include 2's, 3's, 4's, 5's and 7's.

 

We see patterns of triplets (3’s) in Revelation 1-3. The way in which the letter was written and the poetic style in which Jesus dictated the message to John in the vision, we see repeated patterns of three's being used.

 

This is a continuation of Parts 2-3.

 

Chapter 3

 

Verse 1

1.      I know your works

2.      You have a name that you are alive

3.      But you are dead

 

Verse 2

1.      Be watchful

2.      Strengthen the things which remain

3.      I have not found your works perfect before God

 

Verse 5

1.      He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments

2.      I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life

3.      I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels

 

Verse 7

1.      He who has the Key of David

2.      He who opens and no one shuts

3.      And shuts and no one opens

 

Verse 8a

1.      I know your works

2.      I have set before you an open door

3.      No one can shut it

 

Verse 8b

1.      You have a little strength

2.      Have kept My Word

3.      Have not denied My Name

 

Verse 9

1.      I will make those of the synagogue of Satan

2.      Come and worship before your feet

3.      And to know that I have loved you

 

Verse 10

1.      Because you have kept My command to persevere

2.      I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world

3.      To test those who dwell on the earth

 

Verse 11

1.      I am coming quickly

2.      Hold fast what you have

3.      That no one may take your crown

 

 

 

Verse 12

1.      I will make him a pillar in the Temple of My God

2.      I will write on him the Name of My God and the Name of the City of My God

3.      I will write on him My new Name

 

Verse 14

1.      These things says the Amen

2.      The Faithful and True Witness

3.      The Beginning of the Creation of God

 

Verse 15

1.      I know your works

2.      You are neither cold nor hot

3.      I wish you were cold or hot

 

Verse 16

1.      You are lukewarm

2.      Neither cold nor hot

3.      I will vomit you out of My mouth

 

Verse 18

1.      Buy from Me gold refined in the fire

2.      And white garments

3.      Anoint your eyes with eye salve

 

Verse 19

1.      As many as I love

2.      I rebuke and chasten

3.      Be zealous and repent

 

 

 

Verse 20

1.      Behold, I stand at the door and knock

2.      If anyone hears My Voice and opens the door

3.      I will come in to him and dine with him and he with Me

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 5

Seven Churches – Significant Doubles (2’s)

 

 

Throughout Chapters 1-3 of Revelation, we see significant numerical patterns that are used frequently. These include 3’s, 2’s, 4’s, 5’s and 7’s.

 

In Parts 2-4, we saw patterns of triplets (3’s). It’s very interesting that Jesus conveyed His message in a poetical style of language where you see repeated patterns of three's all throughout the first three chapters.

 

Also, Revelation 1-3 contains patterns of doubles (2’s). Some doubles are for emphasis or explanation (such as the Seven Stars represent the Seven Angels – the angels not being celestial beings, but rather bishops or pastors of the churches).

 

Other doubles could be synonyms and antonyms, or similarities and contrasts.

 

Some doubles are symbolic representations. For instance, the phrase 1) “proceeding out of Jesus' mouth was a 2) sharp two-edged sword.” The words “mouth and sharp two-edged sword” go together. This phrase is talking about speaking the Word of God (the two-edged sword is the Word).

 

Another example of a pair of symbolic representations are: 1) Seven Lampstands (Menorah's with 7 pipes) and 2) Seven Churches. Jesus goes on to explain that the 7 Lampstands represent the 7 actual churches in Ephesus, Philadelphia, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Smyrna and Lacodicea.

 

Doubles (2’s) (Taken from the New King James Version)

 

Chapter 1

 

Verse 1a

1.      Sent

2.      Signified

 

Verse 1b

1.      His Angel

2.      His servant John

 

Verse 3

1.      Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it

2.      For the time is near

 

Verse 4a

1.      Seven churches

2.      Asia

 

Verse 4b

1.      Grace

2.      Peace

 

Verse 4c

1.      Seven Spirits (Seven Spirit Beings according to Kat Kerr who has been to Heaven many times, xref Isaiah 11:1-4)

2.      Before His Throne

 

Verse 5

1.      Loved us

2.      Washed us

 

Verse 6a

1.      Kings

2.      Priests

 

Verse 6b

1.      God

2.      Father

 

 

Verse 6c

1.      Glory

2.      Dominion

 

Verse 6d

1.      Forever

2.      And Ever

 

Verse 7

1.      He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him

2.      All the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him

 

Verse 8a

1.      Alpha

2.      Omega

 

Verse 8b

1.      Beginning

2.      End

 

Verse 8c

1.      Who was, and who is, and who is to come

2.      The Almighty

 

Verse 9a

1.      Brother

2.      Companion

 

Verse 9b

1.      Word of God

2.      Testimony of Jesus Christ

 

Verse 10

1.      I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day

2.      I heard behind me a loud Voice as a trumpet

 

Verse 11a

1.      Alpha

2.      Omega

 

Verse 11b

1.      Write in a book

2.      Send it

 

Verse 11c

1.      Seven Churches

2.      Asia

 

Verse 12

1.      I turned to see the Voice that spoke with me

2.      I saw seven golden Lampstands (7-Branched Menorahs)

 

Verse 13

1.      In the midst of the seven golden Lampstands

2.      One like the Son of Man

 

Verse 14a

1.      Head

2.      Hair

 

Verse 14b

1.      White

2.      Wool

 

Verse 14c

1.      White

2.      Snow

 

Verse 14d

1.      Eyes

2.      Flame of fire

 

Verse 15a

1.      Feet

2.      Fine brass refined in a furnace

 

Verse 15b

1.      Voice

2.      Sound of many waters

 

Verse 16a

1.      Right Hand

2.      Seven Stars

 

Verse 16b

1.      Mouth

2.      Sharp two-edged sword (Word of God, xref Eph 6:17 and Heb 4:12)

 

Verse 16c

1.      Countenance

2.      Sun shining in all its strength (visible bright glory emanating out of Him)

 

Verse 17a

1.      I saw Him

2.      I fell at His feet as dead

 

Verse 17b

1.      He laid His right hand on me

2.      Saying “Do not be afraid”

 

Verse 17c

1.      First

2.      Last

 

Verse 18a

1.      Dead

2.      Alive forevermore

 

Verse 18b

1.      Keys of Hades

2.      And of Death

 

Verse 19

1.      Write

2.      Things you have seen

 

Verse 20a

1.      Seven Stars

2.      Right Hand

 

Verse 20a

1.      Seven Stars

2.      Seven Angels (pastors, leaders, bishops)

 

Verse 20b

1.      Seven Lampstands

2.      Seven Churches

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 6

Seven Churches – Significant Doubles (2’s)

 

We are talking about the significant numerical patterns that are used frequently throughout Revelation 1-3 (and all throughout the entire Book of Revelation). These include 3’s, 2’s, 4’s, 5’s and 7’s.

 

In Parts 2-4, we saw patterns of triplets (3’s).

 

Revelation 1-3 also contains patterns of doubles (2’s). Some doubles are for emphasis or explanation (such as the Seven Lampstands representing the seven churches). Another example is 1) Antipas and 2) Faithful Martyr. Faithful martyr explains who Antipas was.

 

An example of doubles for emphasis purposes are: 1) Hold fast to My Name and 2) Did not deny My faith. They are both saying the same thing, but Point #2 emphasizes Point #1.

 

Other doubles could be synonyms and antonyms, or similarities and contrasts.

 

Some doubles are symbolic representations. For example, 1) Seven Stars and 2) Right Hand.

 

Another example is: 1) “Jesus' feet were like 2) fine brass in a furnace.” The feet having the appearance of fine brass is explained in Ezekiel 1. The brass is talking about the color of amber mentioned in Ezekiel 1. Amber and flames of fire symbolizes the Glory of the Lord. The Glory is in reference to the Shekinah (which is a visible manifestation or appearance of God's Glory, such as smoke, fire, bright light, a rainbow, etc.)

 

This is a continuation of Part 5.

 

 

Chapter 2

 

Verse 1a

1.      Angel

2.      Church of Ephesus

 

Verse 1b

1.      Seven Stars

2.      Right Hand

 

Verse 1c

1.      Walks

2.      Midst of seven golden Lampstands

 

Verse 3

1.      Labored for My Name’s sake

2.      Have not become weary

 

Verse 4

1.      I have this against you

2.      You have left your first love

 

Verse 5a

1.      Remember

2.      Where you have fallen

 

Verse 5b

1.      Repent

2.      Do the first works

 

Verse 5c

1.      I will come to you quickly

2.      Remove your Lampstand from its place

 

Verse 6

1.      Hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans

2.      Which I also hate

 

Verse 7a

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

Verse 7b

1.      Overcomes

2.      Partake of Fruit

 

Verse 7c

1.      Tree of Life

2.      Paradise of God

 

Verse 8a

1.      Angel

2.      Church of Smyrna

 

Verse 8b

1.      First

2.      Last

 

Verse 8c

1.      Dead

2.      Came to Life

 

Verse 9a

1.      Poverty

2.      Rich

 

Verse 9b

1.      Blasphemy

2.      Synagogue of Satan

 

Verse 10a

1.      Fear

2.      Suffer

 

Verse 10b

1.      Prison

2.      Tested

 

Verse 10c

1.      Tribulation

2.      Ten Days

 

Verse 10d

1.      Be faithful until death

2.      I will give you the Crown of Life

 

Verse 11a

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

Verse 11b

1.      He who overcomes

2.      Shall not be hurt of the second death

 

Verse 12a

1.      Angel

2.      Church of Pergamos

 

Verse 12b

1.      Says (speaks)

2.      Sharp Two-Edged Sword (Word of God)

 

Verse 13a

1.      Hold fast to My Name

2.      Did not deny My faith

 

Verse 13b

1.      Antipas

2.      Faithful Martyr

 

Verse 14

1.      I have a few things against you

2.      Hold to the doctrine of Balaam

 

Verse 15

1.      Doctrine of the Nicolaitans

2.      Which thing I hate

 

Verse 16a

1.      Repent

2.      Or else I will come to you quickly

 

Verse 16b

1.      Fight against them

2.      Sword of My Mouth

 

Verse 17a

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let Him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

Verse 17b

1.      To him who overcomes

2.      Give some of the hidden manna to eat

 

Verse 17c

1.      Give him a white stone

2.      On the stone a new name written

 

Verse 18a

1.      Angel

2.      Church of Thyatira

 

Verse 18b

1.      Eyes

2.      Flame of fire

 

Verse 18c

1.      Feet

2.      Fine brass

 

Verse 19

1.      Works

2.      The last are more than the first

 

Verse 20a

1.      Woman

2.      Jezebel

 

Verse 20b

1.      Teach

2.      Seduce

 

Verse 20c

1.      Commit sexual immorality

2.      Eat things sacrificed to idols

 

Verse 21

1.      Time to repent

2.      Sexual immorality

 

Verse 22

1.      Those who commit adultery with her

2.      Great tribulation

 

Verse 23a

1.      Searches the minds

2.      And hearts

 

Verse 23b

1.      Give to each one of you

2.      According to your works

 

Verse 24a

1.      As many as do not have this doctrine

2.      Who have not known the depths of Satan

 

Verse 24b-25

1.      I will put on you no other burden

2.      Hold fast what you have until I come

 

Verse 26a

1.      He who overcomes

2.      Keeps my works until the end

 

Verse 26b

1.      To him I will give

2.      Power over the nations

 

Verse 27a

1.      Rule

2.      Rod of iron

 

Verse 27b

1.      Dashed to pieces

2.      Potter’s vessels

 

Verse 29

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 7

Seven Churches – Significant Doubles (2’s), Chapter 3

 

There are significant numerical patterns that are used frequently throughout Revelation 1-3. These include 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, 5’s and 7’s.

 

In Parts 2-4, we saw patterns of triplets (3’s).

 

Revelation 1-3 also contains patterns of doubles (2’s). Some doubles are for emphasis or explanation. Some doubles are symbolic comparisons (such as Jesus' eyes are like a flame of fire).

 

Other doubles could be synonyms and antonyms, or similarities and contrasts.

 

This is a continuation of Parts 5-6.

 

Chapter 3

 

Verse 1a

1.      Angel

2.      Church of Sardis

 

Verse 1b

1.      Seven Spirits of God

2.      Seven Stars

 

Verse 1c

1.      You have a name that you are alive

2.      You are dead

 

Verse 2

1.      Be watchful

2.      Strengthen the things that remain

 

Verse 3a

1.      Received

2.      Heard

 

Verse 3b

1.      Hold fast

2.      Repent

 

Verse 3c

1.      I will come upon you like a thief

2.      You will not know the hour I will come upon you

 

Verse 4

1.      A few names in Sardis who have not defiled their garments

2.      They shall walk with Me in white

 

Verse 5a

1.      He who overcomes

2.      Shall be clothed in white garments

 

Verse 5b

1.      I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life

2.      I will confess his name

 

Verse 5c

1.      Father

2.      His angels

 

Verse 6

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

Verse 7a

1.      Angel

2.      Church in Philadelphia

 

Verse 7b

1.      Holy

2.      True

 

Verse 7c

1.      Key

2.      David

 

Verse 7d

1.      He who opens and no one shuts

2.      He who shuts and no one opens

 

Verse 8

1.      I have set before you an open door

2.      No one can shut it

 

Verse 9a

1.      I will make those of the synagogue of Satan

2.      Who say they are Jews and are not

 

Verse 9b

1.      Come and worship before your feet

2.      To know that I have loved you

 

Verse 10

1.      You have kept My command to persevere

2.      I will keep you from the hour of trial

 

Verse 11

1.      I am coming quickly

2.      Hold fast to what you have so no one can take your crown

 

Verse 12a

1.      He who overcomes

2.      I will make a pillar in the Temple of My God

 

Verse 12b

1.      Name of My God

2.      Name of the City of My God (New Jerusalem)

 

Verse 12c

1.      New Jerusalem

2.      Comes down out of Heaven from My God

 

Verse 13

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

Verse 14a

1.      Angel

2.      Church of the Laodiceans

 

Verse 14b

1.      Faithful

2.      True

 

Verse 14c

1.      Beginning

2.      Creation of God

 

Verse 15

1.      I know your works

2.      You are neither cold nor hot

 

Verse 16

1.      You are lukewarm

2.      I will vomit you out of My Mouth

 

Verse 17

1.      I am rich

2.      Have need of nothing

 

Verse 18a

1.      Gold refined in the fire

2.      That you may be rich

 

Verse 18b

1.      White garments

2.      That you may be clothed

 

Verse 18c

1.      Anoint your eyes with salve

2.      That you may see

 

Verse 19a

1.      Rebuke

2.      Chasten

 

Verse 19b

1.      Zealous

2.      Repent

 

Verse 20a

1.      Stand at the door

2.      Knock

 

Verse 20b

1.      Hear My Voice

2.      Opens the door

 

Verse 20c

1.      I will come in to him

2.      Dine with him and he with Me

 

Verse 21a

1.      He who overcomes

2.      I will grant with Me to sit on My Throne

 

Verse 21b

1.      I also overcame

2.      Sat down with My Father on His Throne

 

Verse 22

1.      He who has an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 8

Seven Churches – Significant 4’s, Chapter 1

 

We are discussing the significant numerical patterns that are used frequently throughout Revelation 1-3 (and all throughout the entire Book of Revelation). These include 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, 5’s and 7’s.

 

In addition, I also found a few patterns of 8’s, 9’s and 12’s which I will mention in a future chapter.

 

In Parts 2-4, we saw patterns of triplets (3’s). Triplets could be in the form of three phrases in one sentence that are unified or in agreement, or three concepts that are alike in one sentence.

 

In Parts 5-7, we saw patterns of doubles (2’s). Doubles are for emphasis, explanation, synonyms and antonyms, similarities and contrasts, or symbolic representations.

 

In this chapter, and the next two, I will show you significant patterns of fours that are used. The patterns of fours are four phrases in each verse or verses that form a paragraph, regardless of whether or not the concepts are alike or united.

 

The difference between the four's and the three's is that the triplets usually are three related words or concepts within the same sentence or verse. The four's are four phrases within one or two verses which form a paragraph.

 

 

 

 

 

Fours (4’s) (Taken from the King James Version)

 

Chapter 1

 

Verse 1

1.      The Revelation of Jesus Christ

2.      Which God gave unto him (John)

3.      Things which must shortly take place

4.      He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John

 

Verse 3

1.      Blessed is he that readeth

2.      And they that hear the words of this prophecy

3.      And keep those things which are written therein

4.      For the time is at hand

 

Verse 4

1.      John to the seven churches which are in Asia

2.      Grace be unto you, and peace

3.      From Him which is, and which was, and which is to come

4.      And from the seven Spirits which are before His Throne

 

Verse 5a

1.      From Jesus Christ

2.      Who is the faithful witness

3.      The first begotten of the dead

4.      The Prince of the kings of the earth.

 

Verse 5b-6

1.      Unto Him that loved us

2.      Washed us from our sins in His own Blood

3.      Hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father

4.      To Him be Glory and Dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Verse 7

1.      Behold, He cometh with clouds

2.      Every eye shall see Him

3.      They also which pierced Him

4.      All kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him.

 

Verse 8

1.      I am Alpha and Omega

2.      The Beginning and the Ending

3.      Which is, and which was, and which is to come

4.      The Almighty

 

Verse 9

1.      I John, who also am your brother and companion in tribulation

2.      In the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ

3.      In the isle that is called Patmos

4.      For the Word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ

 

Verse 10-11a

1.      I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day

2.      Heard behind me a great voice as of a trumpet

3.      I am Alpha and Omega

4.      First and the Last

 

Verse 11b

1.      That thou seest

2.      Write in a book

3.      Send it unto the seven churches

4.      Which are in Asia

 

 

 

Verse 13

1.      In the midst of the seven candlesticks

2.      One like unto the Son of Man

3.      Clothed with a garment down to the foot

4.      Girt about the paps with a golden girdle

 

Verse 14-15

1.      His head and His hairs were white like wool, as white as snow

2.      His eyes were as a flame of fire

3.      His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace

4.      His Voice as the sound of many waters

 

Verse 16-17a

1.      He had in His right hand seven stars

2.      Out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword

3.      His countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength

4.      When I saw him, I fell at His feet as dead

 

Verse 17b-18

1.      Fear not

2.      I am the First and the Last

3.      I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore

4.      And have the keys of hell and of death

 

Verse 20

1.      The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in My right hand

2.      The seven golden candlesticks (Menorahs with 7 pipes)

3.      The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches

4.      The seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 9

Seven Churches – Significant 4’s, Chapter 2

 

We are discussing the significant numerical patterns that are used frequently throughout Revelation 1-3 (and all throughout the entire Book of Revelation). These include 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, 5’s and 7’s.

 

In addition, I also found a few patterns of 8’s, 9’s and 12’s which I will mention in a future post.

 

In Parts 2-4, we saw patterns of triplets (3’s). In Parts 5-7, we saw patterns of doubles (2’s).

 

In Part 8, I showed you significant patterns of fours that are used in Chapter 1 of Revelation. This post will focus on Chapter 2.

 

 

Chapter 2

 

Verse 2

1.      Works

2.      Labor

3.      Patience

4.      Thou canst not bear them that are evil

 

Verse 3

1.      Persevered

2.      Have patience

3.      Labored

4.      Not become weary

 

Verse 5

1.      Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent

2.      Do the first works

3.      Or else I will come unto thee quickly

4.      And will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent

 

Verse 7

1.      He that hath an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches

3.      To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life

4.      Which is in the midst of the Paradise of God

 

Verse 8

1.      And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write

2.      These things says the First and the Last

3.      Who was dead

4.      And came to life

 

Verse 9a

1.      Works

2.      Tribulation

3.      Poverty

4.      Rich

 

Verse 9b-10a

1.      I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not

2.      But are the synagogue of Satan

3.      Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer

4.      The devil shall cast some of you into prison

 

 

Verse 10b

1.      Ye shall be tried

2.      Ye shall have tribulation ten days

3.      Be thou faithful unto death

4.      I will give thee a Crown of Life.

 

Verse 11

1.      He that hath an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches

3.      He that overcometh

4.      Shall not be hurt of the second death

 

Verse 12-13a

1.      To the angel of the church in Pergamos write

2.      These things saith He which hath the sharp sword with two edges

3.      I know thy works

4.      And where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is

 

Verse 13b

1.      Thou holdest fast My Name

2.      Hast not denied My Faith

3.      Even in those days wherein Antipas was My faithful martyr

4.      Who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth

 

Verse 14

1.      But I have a few things against thee

2.      Thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam

3.      Who taught Balak to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel

4.      To eat things sacrificed unto idols and to commit fornication

 

 

Verse 15

1.      So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate

2.      Repent

3.      Or else I will come unto thee quickly

4.      Will fight against them with the sword of My mouth

 

Verse 17a

1.      He that hath an ear

2.      Let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches

3.      To him that overcometh

4.      Will I give to eat of the hidden manna

 

Verse 17b

1.      Will give him a white stone

2.      And in the stone a new name written

3.      Which no man knoweth

4.      Saving he that receiveth it

 

Verse 18

1.      Unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write

2.      These things saith the Son of God

3.      Who hath His eyes like unto a flame of fire

4.      His feet are like fine brass

 

Verse 26-27a

1.      He who overcomes

2.      And keeps My works until the end

3.      To him I will give power over the nations

4.      He shall rule them with a rod of iron

 

 

 

Verse 27b-29

1.      They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels, as I also have received from My Father

2.      I will give him the morning star

3.      He who has an ear

4.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 10

Seven Churches – Significant 4’s, Chapter 3

 

We are discussing the significant numerical patterns that are used frequently throughout Revelation 1-3 (and all throughout the entire Book of Revelation). These include 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, 5’s and 7’s.

 

In addition, I also found a few patterns of 8’s, 9’s and 12’s which I will mention in a future post.

 

In Parts 2-4, we saw patterns of triplets (3’s). In Parts 5-7, we saw patterns of doubles (2’s).

 

In Parts 8-9, I showed you significant patterns of fours that are used in Chapters 1-2 of Revelation. This post will focus on Chapter 3.

 

 

Chapter 3

 

Verse 1

1.      These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars

2.      I know your works

3.      That you have a name that you are alive

4.      But you are dead

 

Verse 2

1.      Be watchful

2.      Strengthen the things which remain

3.      That are ready to die

4.      For I have not found your works perfect before God

Verse 3

1.      Remember therefore how you have received and heard

2.      Hold fast and repent

3.      Therefore, if you will not watch I will come upon you as a thief

4.      You will not know what hour I will come upon you

 

Verse 4-5a

1.      You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments

2.      They shall walk with Me in white

3.      They are worthy

4.      He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments

 

Verse 5b-6

1.      I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life

2.      I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels

3.      He who has an ear

4.      Let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches

 

Verse 7a

1.      And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write

2.      These things says He who is holy

3.      He who is true

4.      He who has the key of David

 

Verse 7b

1.      He who opens

2.      And no one shuts

3.      And shuts

4.      And no one opens

 

 

 

Verse 8

1.      I will make those of the synagogue of Satan

2.      Who say they are Jews and are not, but lie

3.      I will make them come and worship before your feet

4.      And to know that I have loved you

 

Verse 14

1.      And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write

2.      These things says the Amen

3.      The Faithful and True Witness

4.      The Beginning of the creation of God

 

Verse 20

1.      Behold, I stand at the door and knock

2.      If anyone hears My voice and opens the door

3.      I will come in to him and dine with him

4.      And he with Me

 

Verse 21

1.      To him who overcomes

2.      I will grant to sit with Me on My throne

3.      As I also overcame

4.      And sat down with My Father on His throne

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 11

Seven Churches – Number 5 and Its Meaning

 

The number 5, in Scripture, usually speaks of grace and goodness.

 

It also represents the Pentateuch, or also called the Torah (five books of Moses consisting of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy).

 

In Scripture, the number 5 is often associated with law (as 10 is the number of law and testimony, and half of 10 is 5). While ten (being the law, i.e. 10 commandments) usually speaks of judgment without mercy when breaking the law, five means that God desires to show mercy over that of judgment.

 

Five is often associated with the sacrifices (such as offering 5 lambs, 5 goats, 5 rams, etc).

 

In addition, five symbolizes the 5-fold (or hand) ministry mentioned in Ephesians 4:11 (Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers). The Apostle is the thumb, who is able to touch the other 4 fingers.

 

The Apostle is a pastor (and a founder of multiple churches or works), prophet (or prophetic), an evangelist (or evangelistic), and a teacher all in one. The prophet is the index finger, who points getting his/her message across.

 

The evangelist is the middle finger, the longest finger. The evangelist extends themselves the farthest out from home to reach the lost masses. The pastor is the ring finger, who is married to the church. The teacher is the smallest finger, who is concerned about details and able to get into tiny crevices.

 

Five, in the Bible, was often used in terms of measurements, much like in the same way that we use the dozen as a common measurement. Multiples of fives were also used in terms of numbering (a group, an army, monetary figures), such as 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 500,000.

 

In Revelation 1-3, patterns of fives can be seen.

 

Notice that the majority of Scripture verses (in Revelation 1-3) with five phrases are verses that deal with heavy issues, or disciplinary or even judgment issues. However, the Lord is looking for repentance because He desires grace (or mercy) over judgment.

 

 

Lists of Fives (5’s)

 

Revelation 2:19

1.      Works (mentioned twice in Verse 19)

2.      Love

3.      Service

4.      Faith

5.      Patience

 

Revelation 3:17

1.      Wretched

2.      Miserable

3.      Blind

4.      Poor

5.      Naked

 

 

Five “Seven’s”

1.      Seven churches

2.      Seven golden candlesticks (lampstands)

3.      Seven stars

4.      Seven angels

5.      Seven Spirits of God

 

 

Five “Firsts”

1.      First begotten of the dead (Rev 1:5)

2.      First and the Last (Rev 1:11,17; 2:8)

3.      First Love (Rev 2:4)

4.      First Works (Rev 2:5)

5.      More and improved works than the first (Rev 2:19)

 

 

Five Times the Golden Candlesticks Are Mentioned

1.      Rev 1:12 – I saw seven golden candlesticks

2.      Rev 1:13 – In the midst of the seven candlesticks

3.      Rev 1:20 – And the seven golden candlesticks

4.      Rev 1:20 – The seven candlesticks which thou sawest

5.      Rev 2:1 – In the midst of the seven golden candlesticks

 

 

Five Times the Seven Stars Are Mentioned

1.      Rev 1:16 – He had in His right hand the seven stars

2.      Rev 1:20 – The mystery of the seven stars

3.      Rev 1:20 – The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches

4.      Rev 2:1 – He that holds the seven stars in His right hand

5.      Rev 3:1 – These things says He who has the Seven Spirits of God and the seven stars

 

Verses With Five Phrases

Revelation 2:12-13a

1.      To the angel of the church in Pergamos write

2.      These things saith He which hath the sharp sword with two edges

3.      I know thy works

4.      And where thou dwellest

5.      Even where Satan's seat is

 

Revelation 2:13b

1.      Thou holdest fast My Name

2.      Hast not denied My Faith

3.      Even in those days wherein Antipas was My faithful martyr

4.      Who was slain among you

5.      Where Satan dwelleth

 

Revelation 2:14

1.      But I have a few things against thee

2.      Thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam

3.      Who taught Balak to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel

4.      To eat things sacrificed unto idols

5.      To commit fornication

 

Revelation 2:15

1.      So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans

2.      Which thing I hate

3.      Repent

4.      Or else I will come unto thee quickly

5.      Will fight against them with the sword of My mouth

 

 

 

Revelation 2:17

1.      He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches

2.      To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna

3.      Will give him a white stone

4.      And in the stone a new name written

5.      Which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it

 

Revelation 2:20

1.      Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee

2.      Thou sufferest that woman Jezebel

3.      Which calleth herself a prophetess

4.      To teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication

5.      And to eat things sacrificed unto idols

 

Revelation 2:21-22

1.      And I gave her space to repent of her fornication

2.      She repented not

3.      I will cast her into a bed of sickness

4.      And them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation

5.      Except they repent of their deeds

 

Revelation 2:23

1.      I will kill her children with death

2.      All the churches shall know that I am He who searches

3.      Minds and hearts

4.      I will give to each one of you according

5.      To your works

 

 

 

 

 

Revelation 2:24-25

1.      Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira

2.      As many as do not have this doctrine

3.      Who have not known the depths of Satan

4.      I will put on you no other burden

5.      But hold fast what you have till I come

 

Revelation 3:8

1.      I know your works

2.      I have set before you an open door and no one can shut it

3.      For you have a little strength

4.      You have kept My word

5.      Have not denied My name

 

Revelation 3:10-11

1.      Because you have kept My command to persevere

2.      I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world

3.      To test those who dwell on the earth

4.      I am coming quickly

5.      Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown

 

Revelation 3:12

1.      He who overcomes

2.      I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God

3.      He shall go out no more.

4.      I will write on him the Name of My God and the Name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem

5.      And I will write on him My new name

 

 

 

 

Revelation 3:15-16

1.      I know your works

2.      You are neither cold nor hot

3.      I could wish you were cold or hot

4.      You are lukewarm

5.      I will vomit you out of My mouth

 

Revelation 3:17a

1.      Because you say

2.      I am rich

3.      Have become wealthy

4.      Have need of nothing

5.      And do not know that you

 

Revelation 3:17b

1.      Are wretched

2.      Miserable

3.      Poor

4.      Blind

5.      Naked

 

Revelation 3:18a

1.      I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire

2.      That you may be rich

3.      And white garments

4.      That you may be clothed

5.      That the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed

 

Revelation 3:18b-19

1.      Anoint your eyes with eye salve

2.      That you may see

3.      As many as I love

4.      I rebuke and chasten

5.      Be zealous and repent

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 12

Seven Churches – Significant Sevens (7’s)

 

Key Phrases to Each of the Seven Churches

 

“To him who overcomes” … is mentioned 7 times, once to each of the seven churches (Rev 2:7,11,17,26; 3:5,12,21). “Overcomes” is mentioned 8 times in the entire Book of Revelation.

 

“I know your works” is mentioned 7 times, once to each of the seven churches (Rev 2:2,9,13,19; 3:1,8,15). “Works” is mentioned 12 times in the entire Book of Revelation.

 

 

Key Admonition to Each of the Seven Churches

 

“He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” is mentioned 7 times, once to each of the seven churches (Rev 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22).

 

 

Key Words Repeated Seven Times

“Church” (i.e. To the church at Ephesus write … To the church at Smyrna write … etc).

 

“Repent” is mentioned seven times (Rev 2:5,16,21,22; 3:3,19). The word “repent”, in the Greek, means to change one’s thinking. When a person’s thinking is changed, then their actions will follow.

 

“Right hand” is mentioned seven times in the entire Book of Revelation (Rev 1:16,17,20; 2:1; 5:1,7; 13:16). The right hand symbolizes strength, honor, authority.

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Revelation 1:11

 

1.      Ephesus

2.      Smyrna

3.      Pergamos

4.      Thyatira

5.      Sardis

6.      Philadelphia

7.      Laodicea

 

 

Seven Angels

 

In this reference, the angels are talking about bishops or pastors.

 

In the Greek, the word angel is defined as: “a messenger; to bring tidings; a heavenly spirit being sent to earth to execute God’s purposes; guardian angels; by implication, a pastor.”

 

1.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Ephesus (Rev 2:1)

2.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Smyrna (Rev 2:8)

3.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Pergamos (Rev 2:12)

4.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Thyatira (Rev 2:18)

5.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Sardis (Rev 3:1)

6.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Philadelphia (Rev 3:7)

7.      To the angel (pastor) of the church of Laodicea (Rev 3:14)

 

Sevens Mentioned in Revelation 1-3

 

1.      Seven Churches

2.      Seven Golden Candlesticks (or Lampstands) – referring to the Jewish Menorah with 7 lamps.

3.      Seven Stars

4.      Seven Angels

5.      Seven Spirits of God

 

 

Format of Letters to Each of the Seven Churches

 

1.      Seven Salutations

2.      Seven Promises to those who overcome

3.      Seven times ending each letter with “He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches”

 

NOTE: There are only five liabilities mentioned, where the churches have missed the mark. Philadelphia and Smyrna are the churches with no liabilities, where there was nothing that Jesus needed to bring correction to.

 

There are only six commendations mentioned, where the churches did things that were right and pleasing in God’s eyes. Laodicea is the only church where Jesus had nothing to commend them for.

 

 

Seven Promises To the Seven Churches For Those Who Overcome

 

1.      I will give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God (Rev 2:7).

 

2.      Shall not be hurt of the second death (Rev 2:11).

 

3.      I will give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it (Rev 2:17).

 

4.      To him will I give power over the nations. And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. (Rev 2:26b-28)

 

5.      Shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels (Rev 3:5).

 

6.      I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the Name of My God, and the Name of the City of My God, which is New Jerusalem, which cometh down out of Heaven from My God: and I will write upon him My new Name. (Rev 3:12)

 

7.      To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My Throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His Throne (Rev 3:21)

 

Seven Church Headings (according to the New King James Version)

 

1.      Ephesus - Loveless Church

2.      Smyrna - Persecuted Church

3.      Pergamos - Compromising Church

4.      Thyatira - Corrupt Church

5.      Sardis - Dead Church

6.      Philadelphia - Faithful Church

7.      Laodicea - Lukewarm Church

 

Seven Beatitudes in Revelation

 

1.      Rev 1:3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy.

 

2.      Rev 14:13 Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

 

3.      Rev 16:15 Blessed are all who are watching for Me, who guard their clothing.

 

4.      Rev 19:9 Blessed are those who are called to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

 

5.      Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.

 

6.      Rev 22:7 Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.

 

7.      Rev 22:14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the Tree of Life, and enter through the gates into the city.

 

 

Significant 7’s:

 

1.            Seven heads of the great red dragon (Revelation 12:3)

2.            Seven crowns on the heads on the great red dragon (Revelation 12:3)

3.            Seven heads of a Beast rising up from the sea (Revelation 13:1; 17:3)

4.            Seven heads of Scarlet Beast (Revelation 17:3)

5.            Seven days of rain coming upon the earth (Genesis 7:4)

6.            Seven ewe lambs (Genesis 21:28-30)

7.            Seven years (Genesis 29:18,20)

8.            Seven days journey (Genesis 31:23)

9.            Seven kine (Genesis 41:3)

10.       Seven ears of corn (Genesis 41:5)

11.       Seven years of famine (Genesis 41:27)

12.       Seven years of plenty (Genesis 41:47)

13.       Seven daughters (Exodus 2:16)

14.       Seven days of eating unleavened bread (Exodus 12:15,19; 13:7)

15.       Seven lamps (Exodus 25:37)

16.       Seven times sprinkle the blood before the Lord (Leviticus 4:6)

17.       Seven Sabbaths (Leviticus 23:15)

18.       Seven altars (Numbers 23:1)

19.       Seven oxen (Numbers 23:1)

20.       Seven rams (Numbers 23:1)

21.       Seven bullocks (Numbers 23:29)

22.       Seven nations (Deuteronomy 7:1)

23.       Seven weeks (Deuteronomy 16:9)

24.       Seven ways will your enemies flee from you (Deuteronomy 28:7)

25.       Seven priests (Joshua 6:4)

26.       Seven trumpets (Joshua 6:4)

27.       Seven times compass the city (Joshua 6:15)

28.       Seven tribes (Joshua 18:2)

29.       Seven locks of his head (Judges 16:19)

30.       Seven sons (Ruth 4:15)

31.       Seven children the barren has borne (1 Samuel 2:5)

32.       Seven months (1 Samuel 6:1)

33.       Seven hundred wives Solomon had (1 Kings 11:3)

34.       Seven times the child who came back to life sneezed (2 Kings 4:35)

35.       Seven years old was Joash when he began to reign (2 Kings 11:21)

36.       Seven thousand men (1 Chronicles 19:18)

37.       Seven days of joy (Ezra 6:22)

38.       Seven princes of Persia (Esther 1:14)

39.       Seven maidens (Esther 2:9)

40.       Seven sons and three daughters (Job 1:2)

41.       Seven thousand sheep (Job 1:3)

42.       Seven days and nights (Job 2:13)

43.       Seven times purified (Psalms 12:6)

44.       Seven times a day do I praise Thee (Psalms 119:164)

45.       Seven abominations (Proverbs 26:25)

46.       Seven pillars (Proverbs 9:1)

47.       Seven times does a just man fall (Proverbs 24:16)

48.       Seven women (Isaiah 4:1)

49.       Seven steps (Ezekiel 40:22,26)

50.       Seven day feast (Ezekiel 45:25)

51.       Seven pipes to the seven lamps (Zechariah 4:2)

52.       Seven eyes of the Lord (Zechariah 4:10)

53.       Seven loaves and fishes (Matthew 15:36)

54.       Seven baskets full (Matthew 15:37)

55.       Seven brethren (Matthew 22:25)

56.       Seven times in a day forgive him who trespasses (Luke 17:4)

57.       Seven men of honest report (Acts 6:3)

58.       Seven nations in the land of Canaan (Acts 13:19)

59.       Seven churches (Revelation 1:4)

60.       Seven Spirits which are before His Throne (Revelation 1:4)

61.       Seven golden candlesticks (Revelation 1:12)

62.       Seven stars (Revelation 1:16)

63.       Seven lamps of fire burning before the Throne (Revelation 4:5)

64.       Seven seals (Revelation 5:5)

65.       Seven angels (Revelation 8:2)

66.       Seven trumpets (Revelation 8:2)

67.       Seven thunders (Revelation 10:3-4)

68.       Seven heads and ten horns of the beast (Revelation 12:3)

69.       Seven last plagues (Revelation 15:1,6)

70.       Seven golden vials of the wrath of God (Revelation 15:7)

71.       Seven heads are the seven mountains (Revelation 17:9)

72.       Seven kings (Revelation 17:10)

 

 

Seven Year Tribulation

 

See Daniel, chapters 7-12.

 

 

Seven Spirits of God

 

Revelation 1:4, 3:1, 4:5, 5:6. Cross Reference: Isaiah 11:2-4

 

Also known as the “Seven-fold” Spirit of the Lord. The seven Spirits of God are not only seven characteristics of the Holy Spirit (which they are), but also seven Spirit Beings in Heaven who minister before the Throne and are sent into all the earth to minister. Seven is the number of totality and fullness.

 

In the Tabernacle of Heaven where God’s Throne is, the Holy Spirit is symbolized by the seven lamps (some versions say torches) of fire burning before the Throne (Rev 4:5).

 

In the earthly tabernacle, the seven-fold Spirit of God (Holy Spirit) is symbolized by the 7-branched Menorah.

 

The Holy Spirit brings illumination and revelation, as well as sanctifies the heart just as fire purges the dross.

 

The seven Spirits of God are also known as the seven Horns and seven Eyes mentioned in Revelation 5:6 that are sent to and fro throughout the whole earth to minister.

 

 

Isaiah 11:2-4

 

If Interpreting This Passage as seven Spirit Beings:

 

1.      Spirit of the Lord

2.      Spirit of Wisdom

3.      Spirit of Understanding

4.      Spirit of Counsel

5.      Spirit of Might

6.      Spirit of Knowledge

7.      Spirit of the Fear of the Lord

 

 

If Interpreting This Passage as the Seven-fold Character of God:

 

1.      Spirit of Wisdom

2.      Spirit of Understanding

3.      Spirit of Counsel

4.      Spirit of Might

5.      Spirit of Knowledge

6.      Spirit of the Fear of the Lord

7.      Righteousness (vs 4)

 

 

Seven-fold unity expressed in Ephesians 4:4-6

 

1.      One body

2.      One Spirit

3.      One hope

4.      One Lord

5.      One faith

6.      One baptism

7.      One God and Father of all

The seven principles of the Doctrine of Christ in Hebrews 6:1-2

 

1.      Repentance from dead works and of faith toward God

2.      Doctrine of baptisms (Baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues)

3.      Doctrine of baptisms (Water baptism)

4.      Doctrine of baptisms (Baptism into the Body of Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:13)

5.      Laying on of hands – 1 Timothy 4:14

6.      Resurrection of the dead

7.      Eternal Judgment

 

 

Seven Feasts of Israel

 

1.      Passover

2.      Unleavened Bread

3.      Firstfruits

4.      Pentecost

5.      Trumpets

6.      Day of Atonement

7.      Tabernacles

 

 

Seven Days of Creation

 

1.      Light, Day, Night

2.      Heavens, Sky

3.      Land, Seas, Trees, Flowers, Plants

4.      Sun, Moon, Stars

5.      Sea Life, Birds

6.      Animals, Mankind

7.      God Rested

 

 

Seven Deacons in the Early Church

 

1.      Stephen

2.      Philip

3.      Prochorus

4.      Nicanor

5.      Timon

6.      Parmenas

7.      Nicolas

 

 

Armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18

 

1.      Belt of Truth

2.      Breastplate of Righteousness

3.      Feet Prepared with the Gospel

4.      Shield of Faith

5.      Helmet of Salvation

6.      Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God

7.      Pray in the Spirit

 

 

Nations Conquered in Deuteronomy 7:1

 

1.      Canaanites

2.      Hittites

3.      Girgashites

4.      Amorites

5.      Perizzites

6.      Hivites

7.      Jebusites

 

 

It is considered in the Jewish culture that bearing seven children is the highest blessing and honor, especially if a woman was previously infertile. And bearing more sons than daughters is considered to be the highest blessing and honor as well. “The barren has borne seven.” 1 Samuel 2:5

 

In the Jewish culture, to bear seven sons is considered to be one of the highest honors. “And he (Boaz) shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, Ruth, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him.” Ruth 4:15

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 13

Seven Churches – Meaning of the Number 7

 

 

Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary says:

A sacred number to the ancient Hebrew people. The word is used often in the Bible to symbolize perfection, fullness, abundance, rest, and completion.

 

Smith’s Bible Dictionary says:

The first mention of the number seven occurs in Genesis 2:2-3. God created the world in six days, but on the seventh day he rested from His work, setting aside the seventh day as holy. The fourth of the Ten Commandments states, “Remember the Sabbath day [that is, the seventh day], to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).

 

The number seven also had a ritual importance to the Hebrews. Several of the religious acts of the Old Testament received a sevenfold repetition, for instance, the sprinkling of blood (Leviticus 4:6), or the dipping of Naaman the leper in the Jordan River (2 Kings 5:10,14).

 

Periods of time composed of seven units are often used in the Old Testament (Genesis 2:2; Daniel 9:25). Within visions and dreams, the number seven often plays a prominent part. Pharaoh dreamed of two herds composed of seven animals each. These symbolized the seven years of famine and the seven years of plenty, as did the two groups of seven heads of grain (Genesis 41:1-36).

 

 

In the New Testament, Jesus cast seven demons out of Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:2) and fed the 4,000 with seven loaves of bread and a few small fish (Matthew 15:32-39). The number seven appears frequently in the Book of Revelation.

 

The Sabbath being the seventh day suggested the adoption of seven as the coefficient, so to say, for their appointment of all sacred periods; and we thus find the 7th month ushered in by the Feast of Trumpets, and signalized by the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles and the Great Day of Atonement; 7 weeks as the interval between the Passover and the Pentecost; the 7th year as the sabbatical year; and the year: succeeding 7X7 years as the Jubilee year.

 

Seven days were appointed as the length of the feasts of Passover and Tabernacles; 7 days for the ceremonies of the consecration of priests, and so on; 7 animals to be offered on any special occasion, as in Balaam's sacrifice. Numbers 23:1, and especially at the ratification of a treaty, the notion of seven being embodied in the very term signifying to swear, literally meaning to do seven times. Genesis 31:28.

 

Seven is used for any round number, or for completeness, as we say a dozen, or as a speaker says he will say two or three words.

 

 

Easton's Bible Dictionary

 

This number has been called the symbol of perfection, and also the symbol of rest. “Jacob's seven years' service to Laban; Pharaoh's seven fat oxen and seven lean ones; the seven branches of the golden candlestick; the seven trumpets and the seven priests who sounded them; the seven days' siege of Jericho; the seven churches, seven spirits, seven stars, seven seals, seven vials, and many others, sufficiently prove the importance of this sacred number” (see Leviticus 25:4; 1 Samuel 2:5; Psalms 12:6; 79:12; Proverbs 26:16; Isaiah 4:1; Matthew 18:21,22; Luke 17:4).

 

The feast of Passover (Exodus 12:15,16), the feast of Weeks (Deuteronomy 16:9), of Tabernacles (13:15), and the Jubilee (Leviticus 25:8), were all ordered by seven.

 

Seven is the number of sacrifice (2 Chronicles 29:21; Job 42:8), of purification and consecration (Leviticus 4:6,17; 8:11,33; 14:9,51), of forgiveness (Matthew 18:21,22; Luke 17:4), of reward (Deuteronomy 28:7; 1 Samuel 2:5), and of punishment (Leviticus 26:21,24,28; Deuteronomy 28:25).

 

It is used for any round number in such passages as Job 5:19; Proverbs 26:16,25; Isaiah 4:1; Matthew 12:45. It is used also to mean “abundantly” (Genesis 4:15,24; Leviticus 26:24; Psalms 79:12).

 

Bearing seven children is considered to be the most tremendous blessing there is (1 Samuel 2:5). The barren has borne seven.

 

 

McClintock and Strong Encyclopedia

The symbolism of the number seven would be traced back to the symbolism of its component elements three and four, the first of which = Divinity, and the second = Humanity, whence seven = Divinity+ Humanity, or, in other words, the union between God and man, as effected by the manifestations of the Divinity in creation and revelation.

 

So again the symbolism of twelve is explained as the symbolism of 3 x 4, or a second combination of the same two elements.

 

 

 

Fausset's Bible Dictionary

Seven represents rest and release from toil, also a divine work, in judgment or mercy or revelation (Genesis 4:24; 41:3,7; Matthew 18:22; Exodus 7:25). Leviticus 26:18, “I will punish you seven times more for your sins,” Leviticus 26:21,24,28; Isaiah 4:1; 11:15; 2 Samuel 24:13. Daniel 4:16,25, “seven times shall pass over thee” (Nebuchadnezzar).

 

Revelation 15:1, “the seven last plagues.” divine fullness and completeness is the thing signified; as Revelation 1:4, “the seven spirits ... before His throne” are the one Holy Spirit in His manifold fullness; Isaiah 11:2-3 corresponds. So in offerings and divine rites: Leviticus 12:2,5; 13:4,6,21,26,31,33,50,54; 14:7-9,16,27,38,51; 15:13,19,28; 16:14,19; Numbers 12:14; 2 Kings 5:10,14.

 

The seven days' grace (Genesis 7:1-10); and at the taking of Jericho (Joshua 5:13-6:20); the antitype, spiritual Babylon, shall fall at the sounding of the seventh trumpet (Revelation 11:13,15; 14:8). The sevenfold candlestick (Exodus 25:37), the seven churches corresponding (Revelation 1:12,20), the seven deacons (Acts 6), the sevenfold ministry (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12:1).

 

Seven prayers are given in full in the Old Testament. Seven petitions of the Lord's prayer in the New Testament.  The seven beatitudes (Matthew 5; Psalms 12:7). Satan mimics the divine seven (Proverbs 6:16; 26:25): Mary Magdalene's seven devils (Mark 16:9; Luke 8:2); the unclean spirit returning with seven more wicked spirits (Matthew 12:45); the seven Canaanite nations subdued by Israel (Deuteronomy 7:1; Acts 13:19); the dragon with seven heads and seven crowns (Revelation 12:3; Numbers 23:1).

 

 

 

 

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

 

Historical use of seven

The number 7 also figures prominently in a large number of passages which occur in historical narrative, in a way which reminds us of its symbolic significance.

 

The following are some of the most remarkable: Jacob's 7 years' service for Rachel (Genesis 29:20; compare verses 27 f), and his bowing down 7 times to Esau (Genesis 33:3); the 7 years of plenty, and the 7 years of famine (Genesis 41:53 f).

 

Samson's 7 days' marriage feast (Judges 14:12 ff; compare Genesis 29:27), 7 locks of hair (Judges 16:19), and the 7 withes with which he was bound (verses 7 f); the 7 daughters of Jethro (Exodus 2:16), the 7 sons of Jesse (1 Samuel 16:10), the 7 sons of Saul (2 Samuel 21:6), and the 7 sons of Job (Job 1:2; compare 42:13).

 

The 7 days' march of the 7 priests blowing 7 trumpets around the walls of Jericho, and the 7-fold march on the 7th day (Joshua 6:8 ff); the 7 ascents of Elijah's servant to the top of Carmel (1 Kings 18:43 f); the 7 sneezes of the Shunammitish woman's son (2 Kings 4:35); the heating of Nebuchadnezzar's furnace 7 times more than it was wont to be heated (Daniel 8:19), and the king's madness for 7 times or years (4:16,23,25,32).

 

Anna's 7 years of wedded life (Luke 2:36); the 7 loaves of the 4,000 (Matthew 15:34-36 parallel) and the 7 baskets full of fragments (Matthew 15:37 parallel); the 7 brothers in the conundrum of the Sadducees (Matthew 22:25 parallel); the 7 demons cast out of Mary Magdalene (Mark 16:9 parallel Luke 8:2); the 7 ministers in the church at Jerusalem (Acts 6:3 ff), and the 7 sons of Sceva (19:14, but the Western text represents them as only 2).

 

The number must no doubt be understood literally in many of these passages, but even then its symbolic meaning is probably hinted at by the historian. When a man was said to have had 7 sons or daughters, or an action was reported as done or to be done 7 times, whether by design or accident, the number was noted, and its symbolic force remembered.

 

It cannot indeed be regarded in all these cases as a sacred number, but its association with sacred matters which was kept alive among the Jews by the institution of the Sabbath, was seldom, if ever, entirely overlooked.

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 14

Seven Churches – Two’s and Their Meaning

 

 

Two’s (2’s) in Revelation 1-3

 

Revelation 1:8 and 11, Jesus says twice that He is:

 

Alpha and Omega (meaning, He is the A-Z and everything in between). He’s the first and the last, the beginning and the end. The first alphabetical letter in the Greek is called Alpha and the last letter is called Omega. This is equivalent to our A and Z.

 

 

Revelation 1:4 and 8, Jesus gives the salutation twice:

 

Which is, and which was, and which is to come

 

 

Revelation 1:4 and 3:1, twice it mentions the Seven Spirits (Holy Spirit):

 

Seven Spirits of God (Revelation 3:1) and Seven Spirits before His Throne (Revelation 1:4)

 

 

Revelation 2:6 and 15, Jesus says that He hates:

 

Doctrine (vs. 15) and deeds (vs. 6) of the Nicolaitans

 

 

 

Revelation 1:5 and 3:14. twice it says that Jesus is the:

 

Faithful Witness (3:14 says “Faithful and True Witness”)

 

 

Revelation 2:10 and 13 mentions twice about His people being faithful:

 

Faithful until death (2:10) and Antipas My faithful martyr (2:13)

 

 

Revelation 1:17 and 2:10 says to not fear:

1.      Fear not, I am the First and the Last (1:17)

2.      Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer (2:10)

 

 

Revelation 1:11 and 19 says twice to write the vision in a book:

1.      What thou seest, write in a book and send it unto the seven churches (1:11)

2.      Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which shall be hereafter (1:19).

 

 

Revelation 1:4 and 11 mentions the key phrase twice:

 

“To the seven churches which are in Asia”

 

 

Revelation 1:20 and 3:5 mentions angels twice:

 

The angels (pastors) of the seven churches

 

The Father’s angels (heavenly beings)

 

 

Revelation 1:14 and 2:18 says twice:

 

His eyes were like a flame of fire

 

 

Revelation 1:15 and 2:18 says twice:

 

His feet were like fine brass

 

 

 

The Meaning of 2 in the Bible:

 

Union (Two are better than one – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

 

Double portion restoration (Isaiah 61:7, Zechariah 9:12)

 

Testimony (two tables of the testimony – Exodus 31:18)

 

Witness (God’s witness is two-fold: His Word and His Oath) - Hebrews 6:13,17

 

Witness (as in “in the mouth of two or three witnesses let every word be established”) – Matthew 18:16

 

Covering, Protection, Support (two cherubim covering the Ark of the Covenant and two associates, Aaron and Hur, upholding Moses’ hands) – Exodus 17:12

 

Division (as in two opposing groups) - John 9:16

 

Division (as in separating two things) - Hebrews 4:12

 

Requital in full (Exodus 22:4, Job 42:10)

 

The Father and His Son (John 8:17-18; 10:30; 14:9)

 

God instituted marriage between a man and a woman. Adam and Eve were the first husband and wife in Genesis.

 

Covenant (such as between husband and wife, God and Abraham, God and Jacob, etc.)

 

 

Two-fold concepts in Scripture:

·       Grace and Peace

·       Grace and Truth

·       Grace and Favor

·       Mercy and Judgment

·       Faithful and Unfaithful

·       Honor or Dishonor

·       True and False

·       Strong and Weak

·       Awake or Asleep

·       Rock Solid or Wavering

·       Doubt and Unbelief

·       Health and Sickness

·       Rich and Poor

·       Wealth and Prosperity

·       Riches and Honor

·       Power and Dominion

·       Green Light and Red Light

·       Stop or Proceed

·       Cleansed Conscience and Evil Conscience

·       Good and Bad

·       Obedience or Disobedience

·       Respect or Disrespect

·       Fear and Torment

·       Fear and Punishment

·       Fear and Guilt

·       Fear and Condemnation

·       Mature and Immature

·       Fruitful or Unfruitful

·       Sadness or Gladness

·       Far or Near

·       Blessing or Cursing

·       Strife and Every Evil Work

·       Unity and the Anointing

·       Wisdom from above

·       Wisdom of earth

·       Suffering or Prospering

·       Genuine or Fake

·       Friend or Enemy

·       Gratitude or Complaining

·       Houses and Lands

·       Wellness and Sickness

·       Health and Healing

·       Acceptance or Rejection

·       Promise Keeper or Promise Breaker

·       Keep your word / don’t follow through on your promises

·       Faithful and True

·       Beginning and the End

·       First and the Last

·       Lord and Savior (Jesus Christ)

·       Healer and Redeemer (Jesus Christ)

·       King and Royalty (Jesus Christ)

·       God and Master (Jesus Christ)

·       Good Shepherd and Protector (Jesus Christ)

·       Defender and Shelter from the storm (Jesus Christ)

·       Edify and Esteem

·       Encourage and Exhort

·       Listen and Speak

·       Give and Take

·       Give and Receive

·       Loyal and Loving

·       Salvation and Everlasting Life

·       Good Fruit and Bad Fruit

·       Ripe Fruit and Unripe Fruit

·       Plant and Reap

·       Trust and Obey

·       Happiness and Contentment

·       Faith and Rest

·       Rest and Relaxation

·       Rest and Recreation

·       Family and Friends

·       Delight and God’s Presence

·       Delight and Enjoyment

·       Delight and Satisfaction

·       Delight and Pleasure

·       Delight and Glory

·       Delight and Joy

·       Delight and Rejoicing

·       Delight and Peace

·       Delight and Love

·       Delight and Bliss

·       Delight and Happiness

·       Delight and Gladness

·       Delight and Blessedness

·       Delight and Seventh Heaven

·       Heaven and Paradise

·       Paradise and Tree of Life

·       Beauty and Splendor

·       Majesty and Magnificence

·       Holiness and Being Set Apart

·       Honor and Respect

·       Respect and Reverence

·       Radiant and Full of Glory

·       Joy Unspeakable and Full of Glory

·       Unity and Harmony

·       Agreement and being in one accord

·       Secure and Insecure

·       Fear or Faith

·       Hope or Despair

·       Rude or Courteous

·       Polite or Unmannerly

·       Arrogant or Humble

·       Hard Worker or Laziness

·       Diligent and Thorough

·       Blameless and Pure

·       Wholesome and Clean

·       Virtuous and Excellence

·       Wisdom and Discretion

·       Wisdom and Understanding

·       Wisdom and Prudence

·       Wisdom and Long Life

·       Wisdom and Wealth

·       Wisdom and Health

·       Wisdom and Revelation

·       Wisdom and Insight

·       Pure or Impure

·       Integrity or Dealing with a Slack Hand

·       Husband and Wife

·       Man and Woman

·       Boys and Girls

·       Sisters and Brothers

·       Alpha and Omega

·       Kings and Priests

·       First and the Last

·       Beginning and the End

·       Light and Darkness

·       Joy and Gladness

·       Joy and Peace

·       Joy and Love

·       Joy and Celebration

·       Joy and Rejoicing

·       Joy and Strength

·       Righteousness and Peace

·       Mourning and Dancing

·       Day and Night

·       Praise and Worship

·       Garment of Praise or Spirit of Heaviness

·       Grieving and Rejoicing

·       Black and White

·       Glory and Honor

·       Wealth and Riches

·       Rich and Poor

·       Power and Dominion

·       Faith and Love

·       Faith and Works

·       Faith and Patience

·       Faith and Hope

·       Love and Hate

·       Forgiveness and Unforgiveness

·       Honesty and Integrity

·       Heaven and Earth

·       Heaven and Hell

·       Serving two masters (God and mammon)

·       Kingdom of God and kingdom of this world

·       Believers and Unbelievers

·       Redeemed and the Lost

·       Sheep and Goats

·       Tares and Wheat

·       Wise and foolish virgins

·       Good and Evil

·       Truth and Deception

·       Truth and Error

·       “Let the weak say I am strong”

·       “Let the poor say I am rich”

·       Winter and Spring

·       Summer and Fall

·       Land and Sea

·       Planting and Harvesting

·       Sowing and Reaping

·       Spirit and Soul

·       Joints and Marrow

·       Death and Life

·       Cursing or Blessing

·       Laughter and Tears

·       Singing and Dancing

·       Loud or Quiet Spirit

·       Peace or Turmoil

·       Pride and Humility

·       Gentleness and Meekness

·       Sweet and Sour

·       Gentle and Rough

·       Kind or Cruel

·       Thoughtful and Considerate

·       Thoughtful or Selfish

·       Happy or Angry

·       Sweetness or Bitterness

·       Freedom or Bondage

·       Mountains and Valleys

·       Day and Night

·       Cold and Heat

·       Sunshine and Dark Clouds

·       Moon and Stars

·       Two Great Lights (Sun and Moon)

·       Bride and Groom

·       Mother and Father

·       Best friend and lover (Song of Solomon)

·       Teaching and Preaching

·       Piano and Organ

·       Decree and Declare

·       Speak the Promise and Receive the Answer

·       Tried and True

·       Refined as pure gold and Vessel of Honor

·       Stable and Strong

·       Dependable and Reliable

·       Teachable and Trainable

·       Correctable and Quick to Repent

·       Family and Friends

·       Companionship and Love

·       Home and Hospitality

·       Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren

·       Fun and Recreation

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 15

Seven Churches – Number 3

 

We're talking about the significance and meaning of key numbers that are often seen, or number patterns revealed, in the Book of Revelation.

 

Three is a Divine number, much like seven is. In the next post we will look at the Biblical meaning of number three. In this post, we will see patterns of three's as it concerns the seven churches in Revelation 1-3.

 

Clothed in White Garments

In three verses (Revelation 3:4,5,18) it talks about being clothed in white garments.

 

Warning Against Fornication

Jesus gives a strong warning concerning fornication three times in Revelation Chapter 2 (Revelation 2:14,20,21).

 

In the entire Book of Revelation, the Lord warns against this 12 times.

 

First and the Last

In three verses (Revelation 1:11,17; 2:8), Jesus says He is the “First and the Last”.

 

Eyes

In three verses, eyes are mentioned:

1.      Revelation 1:14, 2:28 – referring to Jesus’ natural eyes being as a flame of fire

2.      Revelation 3:18 – referring to the Lacodiceans’ spiritual eyes

 

Seven Churches Is Symbolized By:

1.      Seven Candlesticks (Menorah’s with seven lamps)

2.      Seven Angels (pastors of the seven churches)

3.      Seven Stars (angels or pastors of the seven churches)

 

Was dead, but is Alive

1.      First begotten of the dead (1:5)

2.      I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore (1:18).

3.      These things saith the First and the Last, which was dead, and is alive (2:8).

 

Thrones

In three verses, thrones are mentioned three times

1.      Seven Spirits before the Throne (Revelation 1:4)

2.      Son’s Throne (Revelation 3:21)

3.      Father’s Throne (Revelation 3:21)

 

Three-Fold Salutation

Greeting from John to the Seven Churches

1.      Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come (Revelation 1:4)

2.      And from the seven Spirits who are before His throne (Revelation 1:4)

3.      And from Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:5a)

 

Three Amen’s

1.      To Him be glory and dominion forevermore. Amen. (Revelation 1:6)

2.      All kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him. Even so. Amen. (Revelation 1:7)

3.      I am alive forevermore. Amen. (Revelation 1:18)

 

The 4^th Amen is one of the many Names of Jesus (“These things saith the Amen” – Revelation 3:14).

 

The word Amen, is derived from Hebrew origin, meaning: “Surely, trustworthy, so be it, truth, faithful, firm, truly.”

 

 

Three-Fold Descriptive Name in Which John Introduces Jesus

In John’s greeting to the seven churches, he introduces Jesus as:

1.      The Faithful Witness (Revelation 1:5)

2.      Firstborn from the dead (Revelation 1:5)

3.      Ruler over the kings of the earth (Revelation 1:5)

 

 

Three-Fold Descriptive Names in Which Jesus Introduces Himself

 

Jesus’ Introduction of Himself to the seven churches:

1.      Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8)

2.      Beginning and the End (Revelation 1:8)

3.      Who is, and who was, and who is to come – the Almighty (Revelation 1:8)

 

To the church at Smyrna Jesus introduces Himself as:

1.      First and the Last (Revelation 2:8)

2.      Was dead (Revelation 2:8)

3.      And came to life (Revelation 2:8)

 

To the church at Thyatira Jesus introduces Himself as:

1.      Son of God (Revelation 2:18)

2.      Who has eyes like a flame of fire (Revelation 2:18)

3.      And His feet like fine brass (Revelation 2:18)

 

 

To the church at Philadelphia Jesus introduces Himself as:

1.      Holy (Revelation 3:7)

2.      True (Revelation 3:7)

3.      Has the Key of David (Revelation 3:7)

 

To the church of the Laodiceans Jesus introduces Himself as:

1.      The Amen (Revelation 3:14)

2.      Faithful and True Witness (Revelation 3:14)

3.      Beginning of the Creation of God (Revelation 3:14)

 

 

Name of God

An attributive Name of God with three parts:

Which is, and which was, and which is to come (Revelation 1:4,8)

 

This is saying that God is in the present, the past and the future all at the same time. He is eternal.

 

 

Write the Vision

1.      Write the things which you have seen (Revelation 1:19)

2.      The things which are (Revelation 1:19)

3.      The things which will take place after this (Revelation 1:19)

 

 

A Blessing For Hearing and Reading the Book of Revelation

 

1.      Blessed is he that reads (Revelation 1:3)

2.      And they that hear the words of this prophecy (Revelation 1:3)

3.      And keep those things which are written therein (Revelation 1:3)

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 16

Seven Churches – Meaning of 3

 

Three Means:

·       Unity

·       Divine completeness and perfection

·       Divinity (Godhead)

·       The Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) – Revelation 1:4-5, Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14

·       Christian marriage union (God, Husband and Wife united as one)

·       Three-fold cord not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12)

·       Witness (“in the mouth of two or three witnesses let every word be established” – 2 Corinthians 13:1)

·       Three Crosses (Jesus being crucified in the middle)

·       Inner Circle in ministry (i.e. Peter, James and John were Jesus’ closest associates; Moses, Aaron and Miriam were 3 siblings, who were the three main leaders in delivering the Israelites out of Egypt and establishing the tabernacle in the wilderness)

 

Fausset's Bible Dictionary says:

Three, like seven, is a divine number. The Trinity (Revelation 1:4; 4:8); three great feasts (Exodus 23:14-17; Deuteronomy 16:16); the threefold blessing (Numbers 6:14,24); the thrice holy (Isaiah 6:3); the three hours of prayer (Daniel 6:10; Psalms 55:17); the third heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2). Christ is “the Way, the Truth, the Life,” “Prophet, Priest, and King.” The threefold theophany (Genesis 18:2; 1 Samuel 3:4,6,8; Acts 10:16).

 

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia says:

 

Three

Heaven, earth, and sea (or “the abyss”); morning, noon and night; right, middle, and left, etc. In other words, 3 readily suggested completeness, and was often used with a glance at that meaning in daily life and daily speech.

 

Three is often found of persons and things sacred or secular, e.g. Noah's 3 sons (Genesis 6:10); Job's 3 daughters (Job 1:2; 42:13) and 3 friends (Job 2:11); Abraham's 3 guests (Genesis 18:2); and Sarah's 3 measures of meal (verse 6; compare Matthew 13:33 parallel); 3 in military tactics (Judges 7:16,20; 9:43; 1 Samuel 11:11; 13:17; Job 1:17); 3 great feasts (Exodus 23:14); the 3 daily prayers (Psalms 55:17; Daniel 6:10,13); the 3 night watches (Judges 7:19).

 

God's 3-fold call of Samuel (1 Samuel 3:8); the 3 keepers of the temple threshold (Jeremiah 52:24); the 3 presidents appointed by Darius (Daniel 6:2); the 3 temptations (Matthew 4:3,5 f. 8 f parallel); the 3 prayers in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39,42,44 parallel); Peter's 3 denials (Matthew 26:34,75 parallel); the Lord's 3-fold question and 3-fold charge (John 21:15 ff); and the 3-fold vision of the sheet (Acts 10:16).

 

In a very large number of passages 3 is used of periods of time: 3 days; 3 weeks; 3 months and 3 years. Jesus’ resurrection “on the 3rd day” or “after 3 days” (Matthew 16:21; 27:63, etc.).

 

The number 3 is also used in a literary way, sometimes appearing only in the structure. Note as examples the 3-fold benediction of Israel (Numbers 6:24 ff); the Thrice Holy of the seraphim (Isaiah 6:3); the 3-fold overturn (Ezekiel 21:27 (:32 in Heb); the 3-fold refrain of Psalms 42-43 regarded as one psalm (Psalms 42:5,11; 43:5).

 

The 3 names of God (the Mighty One, God, Yahweh, Joshua 22:22; compare Psalms 50:1); the 3 graces of 1 Corinthians 13; the 3 witnesses (1 John 5:8); the frequent use of 3 and 3rd in Revelation; the description of God as “who is and who was and who is to come” (Revelation 1:4); and “the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 17

Seven Churches – Number 4 and Its Meaning

 

 

Four’s (4’s) in Revelation

 

The words “right hand” is mentioned 4 times to the seven churches (Revelation 1:16,17,20; 2:1). The right hand, in Scripture, signifies strength, honor, authority. The right hand is mentioned 7 times in the entire Book of Revelation.

 

The word “mystery” is mentioned 4 times in the entire Book of Revelation (Revelation 1:20; 10:7; 17:5,7).

 

The Heavenly City, New Jerusalem, is built foursquare like a cube (1500 miles in length, width and height) – Revelation 21:16.

 

Four Living Creatures, each having four faces (man, ox, lion, eagle) – Revelation 4:6-11; 5:6,8,14; 6:1,6; 7:11; 14:1-3; 15:7; 19:4.

 

Four angels – Revelation 7:1-2; 9:14-15

 

Four corners of the earth – Revelation 7:1

 

Four winds of the earth – Revelation 7:1

 

Twenty Four elders (24 means “apostolic government” – i.e. two 12’s = 24, twelve meaning government, apostolic authority, perfect order) – Revelation 4:4-11; 7:11; 11:16-17; 14:1-3; 19:4

 

 

 

144,000 – Revelation 7:4; 14:1-3 (12 tribes of Israel multiplied by 12,000 each = 144,000) = 12,000 is a round figure representing governmental authority in God’s kingdom (12 = Government and 1000 = Divine Completeness, the Father’s Glory, Righteous Reign)

 

Four Horns – Revelation 9:13

 

Four divisions of time (year, month, day, hour) – Revelation 9:15

 

Four quarters of the earth – Revelation 20:8

 

144 cubits is the thickness of the wall of the New Jerusalem (Amplified Version says 72 yards thick and the Living Bible says 216 feet across) – Revelation 21:17-18

 

 

Meaning of Four (4)

·       Four corners of the earth (North, South, East, West)

·       Worldwide Extension

·       All Nations of the world

·       Creation

·       Creative works of God

·       The whole earth

·       Four Gospels

 

Smith's Bible Dictionary

Four is used in reference to the 4 winds, Daniel 7:2, and the 4 corners of the earth; the creatures, each with 4 wings and 4 faces, of Ezekiel, Ezekiel 1:5, ff.; 4 Rivers of Paradise Genesis 2:10; 4 Beasts, Daniel 7:1, and Revelation 4:6 The 4 equal-sided temple-chamber. Ezekiel 40:47.

 

 

Fausset's Bible Dictionary says:

Four symbolizes worldwide extension. The four winds and quarters of the earth (Revelation 7:1; Daniel 7:2). The four living creatures or cherubim with four wings and four faces (Ezekiel 1:5, etc.; Revelation 4:6, in contrast to the four beasts, Daniel 7; 2:40 the four kingdoms); Eden's four streams (Genesis 2:10; Ezekiel 40:47). Four expresses the spread of God's kingdom over the earth. As Christ's seamless vest marks its unity, so the rending of the outer garment into four by the four Roman soldiers symbolizes its ultimate worldwide extension (John 19:23-24).

 

 

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

The Number Four: The 4 points of the compass and the 4 phases of the moon will have been early noticed, and the former at any rate will have suggested before Biblical times the use of 4 as a symbol of completeness of range, of comprehensive extent.

 

The 4 winds are mentioned again and again (Jeremiah 49:36; Ezekiel 37:9), and the 4 quarters or corners (Isaiah 11:12; Ezekiel 7:2; Revelation 20:8). We read also of the 4 heads of the river of Eden (Genesis 2:10 ff), of 4 horns, 4 smiths, 4 chariots, and horses of 4 colors in the visions of Zechariah (Zechariah 1:8, Septuagint, 18 ff; 6:1 ff), the chariots being directly connected with the 4 winds; 4 punishments (Jeremiah 15:3; Ezekiel 14:21, the latter with a remarkable Assyrian parallel).

 

The 4 kingdoms in Nebuchadnezzar's dream as interpreted (Daniel 2:37 ff) and Daniel's vision (7:3 ff); the 4 living creatures in Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:5 ff; compare 10), each with 4 faces and 4 wings, and the 4 modeled after them (Revelation 4:6, etc.). Four sets of hearers of the gospel in the parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:19-23).

 

24 Crowns Mentioned in the Bible

 

 

Crown of Life (James 1:12 KJV) – “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” Revelation 2:10b NKJV “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

 

Crown of Righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8 KJV) – “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

 

Crown of Glory (1 Peter 5:2-4 NKJV) – “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.”

 

Crown of Splendor (Isaiah 62:3 NIV) – “Thou shalt also be a crown of splendor in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.”

 

Crown of Rejoicing (1 Thessalonians 2:19 KJV) – “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?”

 

Crown of Beauty (Isaiah 61:3 NIV) – “To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”

 

Crown (wreath or garland) of gracefulness (Proverbs 4:8-9 AMP) – “Prize Wisdom highly and exalt her, and she will exalt and promote you; she will bring you to honor when you embrace her. She shall give to your head a wreath of gracefulness; a crown of beauty and glory will she deliver to you.”

 

Crown of eternal blessedness (1 Corinthians 9:25 AMP) – “Now every athlete who goes into training conducts himself temperately and restricts himself in all things. They do it to win a wreath that will soon wither, but we [do it to receive a crown of eternal blessedness] that cannot wither.”

 

Crown of Loving-Kindness and Tender Mercies (Psalms 103:4 NKJV) – “Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercies.”

 

Crown of Conquering (Revelation 6:2 NKJV) – “And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to Him, and He went out conquering and to conquer.”

 

Crown of Victory (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NKJV) – According to Dr. David Jeremiah, the imperishable crown is a crown of victory. “And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.”

 

Crown of Goodness (Psalms 21:3 NKJV, 103:4-5 AMP) – “For You meet him with the blessings of goodness; You set a crown of pure gold upon his head.” “Who redeems your life from the pit and corruption, Who beautifies, dignifies, and crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercy. Who satisfies your mouth [your necessity and desire at your personal age and situation] with good so that your youth, renewed, is like the eagle's [strong, overcoming, soaring]!”

 

Crown of a Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 12:4 NIV) – “A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.”

 

Crown of Flourishing (Psalms 132:18 AMP) – “His enemies will I clothe with shame, but upon himself shall his crown flourish.”

 

Crown of Riches and Wisdom (Proverbs 14:24 AMP) – “The crown of the wise is their wealth of Wisdom, but the foolishness of [self-confident] fools is [nothing but] folly.”

 

Crown of Children’s Children (Proverbs 17:6 KJV) – “Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.”

 

Crown of the Bride and Bridegroom (Song of Solomon 3:11 NKJV) – “Go forth, O daughters of Zion, and see King Solomon with the crown with which his mother crowned him on the day of his wedding, the day of the gladness of his heart.”

 

Crown of the High Priest (Exodus 29:6 AMP) – “And you shall put the turban or miter upon his head and put the holy crown upon the turban.”

 

Crown of Holiness unto the Lord (Exodus 39:30 NKJV) – “Then they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote on it an inscription like the engraving of a signet: HOLINESS TO THE LORD.”

 

Crown of the Anointing Oil (Leviticus 21:12 AMP) – “Neither shall he go out of the sanctuary nor desecrate or make ceremonially unclean the sanctuary of his God, for the crown or consecration of the anointing oil of his God is upon him. I am the Lord.” 

 

Crown of Ruling and Reigning (2 Kings 11:12 AMP) – “And Jehoiada brought out the king's son and put the crown on him and gave him the Testimony [the Mosaic Law]; and they proclaimed him king and anointed him, and they clapped their hands and said, Long live the king!”

 

Crown of Majesty (Esther 2:17 KJV) – “And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.”

 

Crown of Triumph in Battle (1 Chronicles 20:2 AMP) “David took their king's crown from off his head and found that it weighed a talent of gold and that precious stones were in it. It was set upon David's head. He brought also very much spoil out of the city of Rabbah.”

 

Crowns of Worship that the 24 elders cast down to the Lamb of God who sits upon the Throne (Revelation 4:4,10-11 NKJV) – “Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on the Thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white robes; and they had crowns of gold on their heads.” “The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 18

Seven Churches – Four Living Beasts

 

Text:  Revelation 4:6-11 (KJV)

 

Revelation 4:6-11

6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

 

7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.

 

8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

 

9 And when those beasts give glory and honor and thanks to Him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

 

10 The four and twenty elders fall down before Him that sat on the throne, and worship Him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

 

11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

 

Cross Reference Text:  Ezekiel 1:4-15 (Four Living Creatures)

 

Four Beasts Are Emblematic of the Divine Providential Administration

 

The four living beasts are associated with decreeing and executing the holy judgments of God. They represent the righteous government of God.

 

The four beasts are specifically mentioned in Revelation as proclaiming the judgments contained in each of the first four seals when the Lamb (Jesus) opened each one.

 

 

1st Seal - White Horse Conquering

Revelation 6:1-2  And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

 

2nd Seal – War

Revelation 6:3-4  And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

 

3rd Seal – Famine

Revelation 6:5-6  And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

 

4th Seal – Death

Revelation 6:7-8  And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

 

The four living creatures are not specifically mentioned in the execution of the 5th, 6th and 7th seals, but is assumed to be associated because later on in Revelation 15 one of the four beasts gave to the seven angels (in the 7th seal) seven bowls of the wrath of God to pour out.

 

 

5th Seal - Martyrs

Revelation 6:9-11 

9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

 

10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?

 

11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow-servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

 

 

 

 

 

6th Seal - Worldwide Catastrophes and Terrorism

Revelation 6:12-17

 

12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

 

13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.

 

14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.

 

15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

 

16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

 

17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

 

 

7th Seal - Silence in Heaven for half an hour (brief period of time), followed by seven angels blowing seven trumpets.

 

Revelation 8:1-2  And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets.

 

The first six trumpets sounded the alarm of six worldwide calamities that are the same kind of plagues as the first six seals, but far worse in severity and destruction (Rev 8:1-9:21). 

 

The seventh trumpet heralds the ushering in of Christ setting up His kingdom on the earth and the world being under the control of God's righteous universal government (Rev 11:15).

 

The phrase: “The kingdoms of this world have now become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ” (Revelation 11:15) could have a two-fold meaning: 

 

1. Since the fall of Adam into sin, the kingdom of this world was under the rule of Satan.  Through Jesus' shed Blood, death and resurrection, He defeated the devil and triumphantly gained back the kingdom of the earth.  We as His children have been granted dominion and vested with authority to rule and reign with Christ—not only in eternity but in the here and now.  The only power the devil has is the power of suggestion, deception, oppressing with fear, control and manipulation tactics. 

 

2. Refers to the millennium when Christ's kingdom is set up on this earth and all His enemies are subdued. 

 

The four living creatures are specifically mentioned again in Revelation 15:5-8 in association with executing the righteous judgments of God.

 

Revelation 15:5-8

5 After these things I looked, and the temple of the tabernacle of testimony in Heaven was opened.

6 and the seven angels who had the seven plagues came out of the temple, clothed in linen, clean and bright, and girded around their chests with golden sashes.

7 Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever.

8 And the temple was filled with smoke from the Glory of God and from His Power, and no one was able to enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished.

 

 

Physical Description of the Four Beasts

 

Faces

The four holy beasts in Revelation and the four living creatures in Ezekiel are similar in description. The difference is that Ezekiel described them as having four faces each (a man's face in front, face of an eagle in the back, the face of a lion on the right side, the face of an ox on the left side - Ezekiel 1:6,10).

 

John describes the four beasts in Revelation 4:7 as each beast having their own separate face and appearance. The first beast is the likeness of a lion. The second beast is the likeness of a calf. The third beast has the face of a man. The fourth beast is like a flying eagle.

 

 

Wings

Each living beast in Revelation has six wings (Rev 4:8).

 

The four living creatures in Ezekiel are mentioned as having four wings each (Ezekiel 1:5-6).

 

 

Eyes

The four beasts in Revelation are covered with eyes all around -- in front and in back, and even under their wings (Rev 4:6,8).

 

The four living creatures in Ezekiel are also described as having eyes all around their body (Ezek 10:12). The Wheels (an angelic order similar to but unique from the cherubim) are mentioned along with the four living creatures in Ezekiel.

 

 

Symbolism of the Appearance of the Four Beasts

 

Wings

The wings express the rapidity of fulfilling God's will.

 

 

Eyes All Around

Manifold wisdom of God

Omni-presence of God (everywhere at the same time)

Omniscience of God (all knowing)

 

 

Four Faces

1. Lion = king of the forest; Gospel of Matthew; Christ as King; Jesus is Majesty; kingly righteousness with hatred of evil, as a lion springing on its victim; the Church having the boldness and strength of a lion; the lion is the symbol on the banner of the tribe of Judah (Judah means “praise”).

 

2. Ox = king of the field; Gospel of Mark; Christ's laborious endurance; servanthood; diligence and patience in duty (as an ox is bound to the soil); able to bear others' burdens; very gentle and meek; the ox is the symbol on the banner of the tribe of Ephraim (Ephraim means “double fruitful”).

 

 

3. Man = king of creation; Gospel of Luke; Christ as fully man and fully God; Christ's brotherly love and compassion for the whole human race; intelligence and wisdom of man; face of a man speaks of the mind, reason, affections, emotions and all the things that encompass humanity; a man is the symbol on the banner of the tribe of Reuben (Reuben means “behold a son”).

 

4. Eagle = king of the birds of the air; Gospel of John; Divinity; Heavenly; Christ shown as being God Almighty; the soaring majesty of the Divine Word made flesh; ascending to heavenly places in Christ Jesus; soaring above the storms and distresses of life; incredible vision; wisdom; faithfulness; freedom in the Spirit; contemplation of heavenly things as the eagle; being renewed like the eagles; a swift bird strong and powerful, not becoming weary; feasting on pure things; the eagle is the symbol on the banner of the tribe of Dan (Dan means “a judge”).

 

The four beasts (or living creatures) represent the elect redeemed from the four corners of the earth - the Body of Christ worldwide.

 

The Church is being perfected to walk in its four-fold aspect, ministering and functioning as king-priests unto God.

 

The lion and eagle speak of kingship or dominion, and the ox and man speak of priesthood.

 

1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

 

Revelation 5:10 says, “And has made us unto our God kings and priests; and we shall reign on the earth.”

 

 

The four standards (banners) under which Israel encamped in the wilderness was a lion for Judah on the East, an eagle for Dan on the North, an ox for Ephraim on the West, and a man for Reuben on the South. In the middle was the tabernacle with the Shekinah Glory Cloud, which is God's Presence visibly seen.

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 19

Seven Churches – Number 8 and Its Meaning

 

Key word: “Spirit” is mentioned 8 times in Revelation 1-3 (Revelation 1:10; 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22). “Spirit” is mentioned 16 times in the entire Book of Revelation.

 

Key word: “Angel” is mentioned 8 times throughout Revelation 1-3. In Rev 1:1, the angel is referring to a heavenly being sent from God to explain the vision to John. The other 7 references to angels are talking about bishops or pastors. In the Greek definition of the word “angel”, depending on the context of the verse, it could be referring to a celestial being sent from the Lord or could be talking about a pastor.

 

Key word: “Overcomes” is mentioned 8 times in the entire Book of Revelation – once to each of the seven churches, and then near the end of Revelation where the Lord says that he who overcomes will inherit all things (Revelation 2:7,11,17,26; 3:5,12,21; 21:7).

 

 

Meaning of 8

·       New beginnings

·       New era

·       New series

·       New birth

·       New life

·       New start

·       Resurrection

 

Fausset’s Bible Dictionary says:

Eight begins a new era and life after the seven has been completed (Exodus 22:30; Leviticus 9:1; 22:27). Lepers are reinstated on the eighth day (Leviticus 14:10; 15:13,29). Circumcision on the eighth day begins a new life in the covenant. The eighth day after the seven of the feast of tabernacles (Leviticus 23:36). From the eighth day, when the firstfruit sheaf was waved, the seven sevens were counted; and on the 50th day or Pentecost (the eighth day after seven) a new era began (Leviticus 23:11,15-16; Acts 2:1).

 

Leviticus 25:8-9, type of the eternal Sabbath, the new era of a regenerated world (Romans 8:21; Isaiah 61:1; Acts 3:21); the Lord's day, the eighth after the seventh, ushers in the new Christian era. The eight saved souls left the ark on the eighth day, after the last seven of anxious waiting, the representative heads of regenerated mankind. Of man in his fallen state Ecclesiastes 1:15 writes, “that which is crooked cannot be made straight,” but what is “impossible with man is possible with God” (Luke 18:27); at Messiah's coming “the crooked shall be made straight” (Isaiah 40:4).

 

 

Eight Types of Prayer:

 

1.      Prayer of consecration

2.      Prayer of petition

3.      Prayer of authority

4.      Prayer of faith

5.      Prayer of thanksgiving

6.      Prayer of agreement

7.      Prayer of supplication

8.      Prayer of intercession

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 20

Seven Churches – Number 9 and Its Meaning

 

 

Key word: “Hear” (what the Spirit says) is mentioned 9 times in Revelation 1-3 (Revelation 1:3; 2:11,17,29; 3:6,13,20,22).

 

Key word: “Write” (what the Spirit shows you) is mentioned 9 times to the seven churches (Revelation 2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,12,14).

 

Meaning of the Number 9

Number 9 speaks of the Holy Spirit and His work of regeneration and sanctification in our lives. Nine is the number of Divine completeness from the Father.

 

Nine Fruits of the Spirit – Galations 5:22-23

 

1.      Love

2.      Joy

3.      Peace

4.      Longsuffering (or patience)

5.      Kindness

6.      Goodness

7.      Faith (or faithfulness)

8.      Gentleness

9.      Self-Control (or temperance)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nine Graces of the Spirit – 2 Peter 1:5-8

 

1.      Diligence

2.      Faith

3.      Virtue

4.      Knowledge

5.      Temperance

6.      Patience

7.      Godliness

8.      Brotherly Kindness

9.      Love

 

Verse 8:

For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

 

Nine Gifts of the Spirit – 1 Corinthians 12:8-10

 

1.      Word of Wisdom

2.      Word of Knowledge

3.      Faith

4.      Gifts of Healing

5.      Working of miracles

6.      Prophecy

7.      Discerning of Spirits

8.      Diverse kinds of tongues

9.      Interpretation of tongues

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nine Basic Forms of Davidic Worship in the Tabernacle of David:

 

1.      Speaking

2.      Singing

3.      Shouting

4.      Lifting up of holy hands

5.      Clapping

6.      Use of musical instruments

7.      Bowing and kneeling

8.      Standing

9.      Dancing

 

 

Nine Beatitudes – Matthew 5:3-11

 

Vs 3 - Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Vs 4 - Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

Vs 5 - Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

Vs 6 - Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

Vs 7 - Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

Vs 8 - Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

Vs 9 - Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Vs 10 - Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Vs 11 - Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 21

Seven Churches – Number 10 and Its Meaning

 

 

Meaning of 10

 

1.      Law

2.      Responsibility

3.      Testimony (as in a court of law)

4.      Political consummation

5.      World’s activity

 

 

Ten Commandments – Exodus 20:3-17

 

The Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary says:

 

The ten laws given by God as guidelines for daily living. They are part of a covenant between God and His people (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; 10:4). These laws are often called the Decalogue, from the Greek word which means “ten words.”

 

Although God gave the Ten Commandments to His people through Moses at Mount Sinai more than 3,000 years ago, they are still relevant today. They have an abiding significance, for God's character is unchangeable. These laws originate from God and from His eternal character; therefore, their moral value cannot change.

 

 

 

 

 

These ten laws include:

 

1.        Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.

2.        Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image nor bow down to it.

3.        Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain.

4.        Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

5.        Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

6.        Thou shalt not kill.

7.        Thou shalt not commit adultery.

8.        Thou shalt not steal.

9.        Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

10.   Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.

 

 

Ten’s in the Book of Revelation:

 

1.        Ten days of tribulation – Revelation 2:10

 

2.        Ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands and thousands – Revelation 5:11

 

3.        Ten horns – Revelation 12:3; 13:1; 17:3,7,12,16

 

4.        Ten crowns – Revelation 13:1

 

5.        Ten kings – Revelation 17:12

 

 

 

 

Other Ten’s in the Bible

 

1.        Ten years

2.        Ten camels

3.        Ten shekels

4.        Ten times

5.        Ten bulls

6.        Ten foals

7.        Ten donkeys

8.        Ten brethren

9.        Ten curtains

10.   Ten pillars

11.   Ten cubits

12.   Ten sockets

13.   Ten thousand

14.   Ten women

15.   Ten days

16.   Ten homers

17.   Ten cities

18.   Ten portions

19.   Ten princes

20.   Ten men

21.   Ten sons

22.   Ten loaves

23.   Ten cheeses

24.   Ten parts

25.   Ten oxen

26.   Ten bases of brass

27.   Ten lavers

28.   Ten candlesticks

29.   Ten tables

30.   Ten pieces

31.   Ten tribes

32.   Ten talents of silver

33.   Ten changes of raiment

34.   Ten chariots

35.   Ten degrees

36.   Ten rulers

37.   Ten-stringed instrument

38.   Ten mighty men

39.   Ten acres

40.   Ten baths

41.   Ten horns

42.   Ten kings

43.   Ten disciples

44.   Ten talents

45.   Ten virgins

46.   Ten silver coins

47.   Ten lepers

48.   Ten servants

49.   Ten pounds

50.   One hundred and ten years old

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 22

Seven Churches – Number 12 and 24, and Its Meaning

 

 

Key word: “Works” is mentioned 12 times in Revelation 1-3 (Revelation 2:2,5,9,13,19,23,26; 3:1,2,8,15)

 

Key word: “Churches” (plural) is mentioned 12 times in Revelation 1-3 (Revelation 1:4,11,20; 2:7,11,17,23,29; 3:6,13,22).

 

In the entire Book of Revelation, a warning is given 12 times concerning fornication (Revelation 2:14,20,21; 9:21; 14:8; 17:2,4; 18:3,9; 19:2).

 

 

Meaning of the Number 12

 

1.      Government

2.      Apostolic authority

3.      Perfect order

 

24 (double 12’s) = Apostolic Government (24 Elders who are seated around the Throne of God)

 

Fausset’s Bible Dictionary says:

Twelve is the church number. The 12 tribes; 12 Elim wells; 12 stones in the high priest's breastplate; 12 shewbread loaves; 12 patriarchs; 12 apostles; 12 foundation stones; 12 gates; 12,000 furlongs of New Jerusalem; 12 angels (Revelation 21:16-21; 12:1). Twelve squared and multiplied by 1,000, the symbol of the world divinely perfected, gives 144,000, the sealed Israelites (Revelation 7:4).

 

The twelve disciples of Jesus in Luke 6:13-16 include:

 

1.        Simon Peter

2.        Andrew

3.        James

4.        John

5.        Philip

6.        Bartholomew

7.        Matthew

8.        Thomas

9.        James the son of Alphaeus

10.   Simon

11.   Judas the brother of James

12.   Judas Iscariot (After Judas’ death, he was replaced by Matthias)

 

 

The 24 elders are the 12 heads of the Old Testament and the 12 of the New Testament churches combined, “elders” is the term for ministers; the 24 courses of priests anticipate the final combination of the two, Jews and Gentiles, made one new man in Christ (Revelation 4:4).

 

Seven times twelve is connected with the Lamb's bride. Six is to twelve as three and a half to seven. Six symbolizes the world given over to judgment. The judgments on the world are complete in six; by the fulfillment of seven the world kingdoms become Christ's. Hence there is a pause between the sixth and seventh seals, the sixth and seventh trumpets.

 

As 12 is the church's number, so six (its half) symbolizes the world kingdom broken. Six, the world number, is next to the sacred seven which it mimics (Revelation 13:1) but can never reach.

 

 

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia says:

 

The 12 pillars set up by Moses (Exodus 24:4); the 12 jewels in the high priest's breast-plate (Exodus 28:21); the 12 cakes of shewbread (Leviticus 24:5); the 12 rods (Numbers 17:2); the 12 spies (Numbers 13); the 12 stones placed by Joshua in the bed of Jordan (Joshua 4:9); the 12 officers of Solomon (1 Kings 4:7); the 12 stones of Elijah's altar (1 Kings 18:31); the 12 disciples or apostles.

 

The number pointed in the first instance at unity and completeness which had been sanctioned by Divine election, and it retained this significance when applied to the spiritual Israel. Philo indeed calls it a perfect number. Its double in Revelation 4:4, etc., is probably also significant.

 

 

Twelve’s in the Book of Revelation

 

1.          Twelve thousand sealed from each tribe (12 tribes), totaling 144,000 (Revelation 7:5-8)

2.          Twelve stars (Revelation 12:1)

3.          Twelve gates (Revelation 21:12,21)

4.          Twelve angels (Revelation 21:12)

5.          Twelve tribes of Israel (Revelation 21:12)

6.          Twelve foundations (Revelation 21:14)

7.          Twelve Apostles of the Lamb (Revelation 21:14)

8.          Twelve thousand furlongs (Revelation 21:16)

9.          Twelve pearl gates (Revelation 21:21)

10.     Twelve fruits (Revelation 22:2)

 

 

 

 

24 Crowns Mentioned in the Bible

 

 

1.        Crown of Life – James 1:12; Revelation 2:10 (KJV)

 

2.        Crown (or royal diadem) of Glory – 1 Peter 5:4; Isaiah 62:3; Proverbs 4:8-9 (AMP)

 

3.        Crown of Righteousness – 2 Timothy 4:8 (KJV)

 

4.        Crown of Rejoicing – 1 Thessalonians 2:19 (KJV)

 

5.        Crown of Splendor – Proverbs 4:9 (NIV)

 

6.        Crown (or garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes – Isaiah 61:3 (AMP)

 

7.        Crown (wreath or garland) of gracefulness – Proverbs 4:8-9 (AMP)

 

8.        Crown of eternal blessedness – 1 Corinthians 9:25 (AMP)

 

9.        Crown of Loving-Kindness and Tender Mercies – (Psalms 103:4)

 

10.   Crown of Conquering – (Revelation 6:2)

 

11.   Crown of Victory – (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) – According to Dr. David Jeremiah, the imperishable crown is a crown of victory.

 

12.   Crown of Goodness – Psalms 21:3, 103:4-5

 

13.   Crown of a Virtuous Woman – Proverbs 12:4

 

14.   Crown of Flourishing – Psalms 132:18

 

15.   Crown of Riches and Wisdom – Proverbs 14:24

 

16.   Crown of Children’s Children – Proverbs 17:6

 

17.   Crown of the Bride and Bridegroom – Song of Solomon 3:11

 

18.   Crown of the High Priest – Exodus 29:6

 

19.   Crown of Holiness unto the Lord – Exodus 39:30

 

20.   Crown of the Anointing Oil – Leviticus 21:12

 

21.   Crown of Ruling and Reigning – 2 Kings 11:12

 

22.   Crown of Majesty – Esther 2:17

 

23.   Crown of Triumph in Battle – 1 Chronicles 20:2

 

24.   Crowns of Worship that the 24 elders cast down to the Lamb of God who Sits Upon the Throne – Revelation 4:4,10-11

 

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 23

Seven Churches – Number 16 and Its Meaning

 

The word “seven” is mentioned 16 times in Revelation 1-3. (Revelation 1:4,11,12,13,16,20; 2:1; 3:1)

 

The word “write” is mentioned 16 times in the entire Book of Revelation. (Revelation 1:11,19; 2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,12,14; 10:4; 14:13; 19:9; 21:5)

 

The word “dead” is mentioned 16 times in the entire Book of Revelation. (Revelation 1:5,17,18; 2:8; 3:1; 11:8,9,18; 14:13; 16:3; 20:5,12,13)

 

 

Meaning of Sixteen

 

Two 8’s. Eight means “new beginnings”, a “fresh start” or a “resurrection” of some kind. Sixteen may imply double portion new beginnings or resurrection.

 

God did promise to give us a double portion recompense of blessings and joy for the trouble and shame we’ve been through (Isaiah 61:7).

 

God can certainly resurrect dead dreams and give you a fresh start with double joy.

 

Sixteen also speaks of “love” (according to John Paul Jackson).

 

There is very little information about this number, but it’s apparent that there is some significance since there are at least three patterns of 16’s in the Book of Revelation.

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 24

Seven Churches – Maps of the Seven Churches

 

The seven churches, during the time that John wrote to the churches in 95 AD, was located in Asia Minor, which is present-day Turkey. John was exiled on the Isle of Patmos in the Aegean Sea when persecution was fierce against Christians. While on Patmos, he had the vision of Jesus Christ and all the things he wrote about in the Book of Revelation.

 

Each church was situated along a major highway in the Roman Empire. The distance from one church to the next closest church was anywhere from 20 – 50 miles away.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 Chapter 25  

Churches – (A) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church

 

Revelation 1-3 contains messages and admonitions written to the seven churches in western Asia Minor. These seven churches include Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos (or Pergamum), Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.

 

These churches were in geographical existence during the time that John the Beloved Apostle had the vision while on the Isle of Patmos and then wrote letters to each of the seven churches.

 

God spoke to each of these churches revealing to them how He viewed them. Jesus acknowledged their strengths and commendable actions. Promises were given to the overcomers in each of these seven churches.

 

The Lord also gently confronted their liabilities and areas of sin, and gave them warnings and admonitions. Jesus said that who He loves, He chastens and rebukes.

 

Any time we are disciplined by the Lord, it’s proof of how much He loves us — because He desires to show mercy over that of judgment. He wants to see repentance on our part. He lets us know where we're missing it and gives us many chances to make right choices. And He will even help us to repent by giving us strength and grace, or delivering us from situations.

 

God wants to add blessing upon blessing to our lives. He’s trying to teach His children obedience, just like natural parents discipline their children so that their children learn responsibility, learn to make better choices and have a better future.

The admonitions written to the seven churches apply to the Church (corporate Body of Christ) today. The number seven is the sum of totality, completion and fullness. Out of the many churches in existence around 95-96 AD, the Lord chose only seven to send letters to. That is because these seven churches represent to us today all the types of Christian churches around the world.

 

Many churches are Philadelphia churches (faithful to the Lord and on fire for God). Some churches are like Sardis where the people gather, they have programs, but the church is dead spiritually. Some churches are like Thyatira where there is the tolerance of false doctrine and even sexual immorality condoned.

 

Some churches around the world, such as the underground churches in China or Christians in some middle eastern countries, are like the church of Smyrna where they go through persecution for their faith.

 

Also, even within the same church, not everyone necessarily will be likeminded or at the same level spiritually. People's experiences may be different. You may see seven different groups of individuals who are characteristic of the seven churches (Philadelphia Christians, Sardis Christians, Ephesus Christians, Thyatira Christians, Laodicea Christians and Pergamos Christians).

 

Also, there are Smyrna Christians who undergo persecution for their faith, are mocked or reviled for Christ's sake, go through religious discrimination on their jobs or in the city in which they live. God has promises for those who are overcomers.

 

God has not changed and His message is still the same. Seven times (once to each of the seven churches), Jesus ends each letter with “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

 

A continual prayer of mine is “Lord, give me eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart to comprehend what you are saying and showing me.”

 

The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works.

 

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church and in your personal lives.

 

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious.

 

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled.

 

5.      Repent from being spiritually lukewarm.

 

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today.

 

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 26

Seven Churches – (B) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church

 

 

We are talking about the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. The admonitions and promises given to the seven churches apply to the corporate Church today. God has not changed and His message is still the same. The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled

5.      Repent from spiritual lukewarmness

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them

 

The Spirit is saying to return to our first love and do the first works. For many Christians, the honeymoon with Jesus is over with. When once they were filled with passion and zeal for Him, the flame has died down. The Lord wants us to fall in love with Him again afresh, and be on fire for Him as we were when we were first born again.

 

God also wants us to love others in the same way He loves them. He wants us to see people through His eyes. We demonstrate our love for Jesus as we show love to others.

 

God wants us to get back to the basics. Some examples include prayer, studying the Word, faith in action, worship and praise, holiness, labor and patience, spiritual discernment, practical wisdom for everyday living, and getting back to the simplicity of the salvation message and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.

 

The Spirit is saying that the Church is to repent of allowing false doctrines to enter in, as well as justifying sinful practices. During the time these letters were written to the seven churches, false doctrine and deception had crept into the church. An example was Balaam worship and the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Today there are false doctrines that enter into the Church. Cults are a result of this.

 

For centuries a Jezebel spirit has infiltrated the churches in order to weaken God’s people and ultimately bring destruction. Some examples of a Jezebel spirit include witchcraft and occultic practices, magical arts, false prophetic experiences that are of the dark realm (God said to test the spirits - there is the true prophetic), idolatry, control, rebellion, sexual immorality, pornography, addictions, and preaching a gospel where you can get to Heaven without going through the Cross and Jesus.

 

We are responsible to study the Word of God and to guard against deception entering in. As we study the Word of God, we will be able to rightly divide it, and the truth of the Word will set us free.

 

The Spirit is also saying that the Church is to speak up about purity and holiness. Today there is much carnality mixed in to the Church. It goes undealt with. We all have weaknesses and areas of sin that we struggle with. We are all dependent on God’s grace and mercy. However, many churches today are silent about moral issues of our day.

 

Many churches do not teach what the Scriptures say about what is right and wrong. Many Christians today are living the same way as the world. There should be a distinction between light and darkness.

 

Some examples of carnality, besides what I mentioned above, include dishonesty and lack of integrity, hatred, slander, backbiting, abusive behavior, pride, lying, strife. Ephesians 4 says that at one time we lived like the world. But we are no longer children of darkness, but children of light, and should put aside deeds of darkness.

 

Reverence for the Lord, and for the House of the Lord, is lacking in our day and age. God is calling His people back to the reverential fear of the Lord. This means to hold Him in high esteem, showing Him respect and honor, wanting to please Him and do that which is right.

 

Psalm 15 talks about who may enter God’s holy hill. It’s those with a pure heart, clean hands, honest gain, and a reverential fear of the Lord. The Spirit is calling the Church back to holiness and uprightness.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 27

Seven Churches – (C) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church

 

 

We are talking about the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. The admonitions and promises given to the seven churches apply to the Church today. God has not changed and His message is still the same.

 

The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled

5.      Repent from spiritual lukewarmness

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them

 

The Spirit is saying that He wants us to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, which is entirely different than being religious. (I’m talking about intimacy in spirit and soul.)

 

 

The Pharisees and Sadducees were very religious in Jesus’ day. They observed all the religious ceremonies and feasts. They wore clergy robes. They were experts in the law and knew the Scriptures backwards and forwards. However, they did not mix the truth of the Scriptures with faith.

 

Jesus compared the Pharisees and religious leaders to white-washed tombs. They looked clean on the outside, but were dead on the inside. He compared them to cups that are clean on the outside but not washed on the inside. They had a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.

 

They were not transformed on the inside. Their righteousness came more from outward things than from being clothed in Jesus’ righteousness. They were even involved in corruption.

 

A person can be a church member, or even a pastor of a church, yet not be saved. The difference between religion and a relationship with Christ is that religion involves certain beliefs about God, religious activities, as well as the keeping of rituals. A relationship with the Lord may also involve all of that, but to be born again, it’s not by observing religious activities. Salvation is by accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior and making Him Lord of your life.

 

To be born again also means that you are filled with the Holy Spirit and alive in Christ. A relationship with the Lord is a transformation experience from the inside out. Religion focuses on reforming the outward part of man through man’s own efforts, but until there is a change of heart true reformation won’t take place.

 

A relationship with Christ is not just a one-time prayer, but an ongoing relationship of love, intimacy in spirit and soul, faithfulness and commitment. It’s a marriage. The Church is likened to the Bride of Christ.

 

Religion seeks to be righteous through man’s own works and keeping of the laws of God. Works and keeping God’s laws are vitally important. However, there is none righteous, not even one. The Word says that our own righteousness is as filthy rags.

 

We are MADE righteous, and DECLARED righteous by the Blood of Jesus (not by how good we can be in our own efforts). The Lord clothes us in a robe of righteousness (but it’s not our own righteousness, but His righteousness).

 

The spirit of religion is an antagonistic spirit against Jesus Christ, the truths of God’s Word, and against Christians who do choose to have a close walk with the Lord. Religion tries to quench the moving of the Holy Spirit and does not even welcome the Holy Spirit. Religion is antagonistic against the anointing of God flowing.

 

Religion can also be mean towards people. Religion can either keep people in bondage by the keeping of all the rules and the focus on the outward, or it can be the other way around where anything goes.

 

God doesn’t want us to be focused on just religious activities, but to seek to know Him intimately. He wants to do a work on the inside of us and change our hearts. Religion won’t change a person’s heart, but relationship with Christ will. It’s all about Him (Jesus).

 

The church of Sardis had a reputation of being alive, when in reality they were spiritually dead. The people gathered together, they came dressed very nice, the church had programs and activities. But spiritually, the church was dead. The Holy Spirit was not welcomed in that church. On the inside of people’s hearts, they were dead inwardly while alive physically.

 

The Spirit is saying that we are to become alive in Christ Jesus. To be alive in Him means to be born again and to abide in Him, receiving our life from Him, in the same way the branch receives life from the vine. Jesus is the Vine and we are the branches. If we remain connected to Him, we will bear much fruit (John 15).

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 28

Seven Churches – (D) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church

 

 

We are talking about the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. The admonitions and promises given to the seven churches apply to the Church today. God has not changed and His message is still the same.

 

The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled

5.      Repent from spiritual lukewarmness

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them

 

The Spirit is saying that the Church is to put on their spiritual garments. Galatians 3:27 says, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” (NIV).

 

 

We are also to keep our garments clean – by staying in close relationship with the Lord, obeying His Word, letting Him do a work of purification in our lives. If our robes should become soiled, they can be washed clean in the Blood of Jesus.

 

In the natural, garments keep us warm, protect us from exposure to the elements, and cover our nakedness. In the spiritual, the garments God provides for us acts as warmth to our soul and spirit, and protects us from the wiles of the enemy.

 

Examples of spiritual garments include:

 

1.      Salvation (Isaiah 61:10, Ephesians 6:17)

2.      Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18)

3.      Joy and Gladness (Psalm 30:11)

4.      Praise (Isaiah 61:3)

5.      Name and Blood of Jesus (covered by the Blood; Atonement)

6.      Cloak of Zeal (Isaiah 59:17)

 

In Ephesians 6:11 we are told to put on the whole armor of God. The garment, or loin belt, of truth binds and encircles us. As the loin belt held the other pieces of armor in place, the truth holds everything together. When the truth is missing, everything begins to unravel at the seams and fall apart.

 

The garment or breastplate of righteousness guards our hearts and emotions. This garment represents holiness, purity, uprightness and integrity.

 

The shoes of the Gospel of peace represent our daily walk with Christ. As we live out what we share with others, the world will be drawn to hear the message of the Gospel – which is peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

The garment of faith acts as a shield, repelling the fiery darts of Satan. These fiery darts come in the form of lies, accusations, words of doubt, verbal abuse, gossip, fear and intimidation, and curses spoken against us. The shield of faith causes these fiery darts, that would otherwise wound us severely, to fall to the ground extinguished and powerless.

 

The garment of salvation is like a helmet which protects our spirit, our minds, our intellect, and our thought processes.

 

The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, is both a defensive and offensive weapon used against the devil. When the enemy comes at us with all his lies and tricks, we can declare like Jesus did: “It is written …” (and confess those Scriptures from the Word) and the devil will flee eventually.

 

(The devil knows the Scriptures better than many Christians and will use it against you to control and manipulate you, or to whip you and keep you in bondage and guilt. However, the enemy will distort and twist the Scriptures, or tell you partial truth but not quote the entire passage or give you the whole counsel of God about a particular matter. That’s why it’s so important to study the Word and to rightly divide it, so that you are on guard against the devil’s schemes.)

 

As we look into the Word of God, we will be changed into His likeness. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says that we are transformed into His image, from glory to glory (one level of glory to the next level of glory).

 

And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the Glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 AMP

 

It is possible for us to remove our spiritual garments. We lay aside our garments when we are out of fellowship with God, or in total or partial disobedience. If our clothes are missing, then we are vulnerable and exposed. We are wide open to being wounded by the attacks of the enemy.

 

Our garments can become soiled through any kind of sin, sexual immorality, corruption or spiritual adultery (referring to idolatry and witchcraft/occultic practices). Our garments are soiled when we refuse to repent of areas of sin that the Holy Spirit has pointed out to us.

 

The Greek definition of “repent” means to change one’s thinking. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). Before our actions can change, our minds and thinking must first be transformed. We must begin to think differently. As we begin to change the way we think, then the course of our life will begin to go in a different direction. The Word of God has the power to renew the mind (Romans 12:2).

 

The Blood of Jesus can wash us, remove every stain, and give us clean white garments to wear. 1 John 2:1 says, “If any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous.” And 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

 

White garments (or robes of righteousness) in the Scriptures is talking about the righteousness of the saints.

 

And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. Revelation 19:8

 

The Spirit is saying to put on our spiritual garments, to keep them from becoming spotted and soiled, to live holy lives, to obey the Lord and His Word, and to allow Him to cleanse and purify us.

 

Always be clothed in white, and always anoint your head with oil (the anointing of the Holy Spirit and also the oil of joy). Ecclesiastes 9:8

 

These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14 NKJV

 

I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10 NKJV

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 29

Seven Churches – (E) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church

 

 

We are talking about the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. The admonitions and promises given to the seven churches apply to the Church today. God has not changed and His message is still the same.

 

The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled

5.      Repent from spiritual lukewarmness

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them

 

The Spirit is saying to repent from being lukewarm. God would rather us be hot or cold, but not lukewarm. We cannot have one foot in the world and one foot in the kingdom of God.

 

 

 

 

Many Christians have become lukewarm because of the cares of this world, materialism and working hard to have sustenance for everyday living. While they are not necessarily out of fellowship with God, they have become distracted.

 

Many have developed apathy when it comes to spiritual things. For example, they may be born again, and yet have no time to pray, worship, read the Word, or attend church. It’s not a priority because they have so many other things going on.

 

Many are saved, yet show little interest in talking about God or about spiritual matters. They would rather discuss business, sports, the news, the weather. And those things aren’t bad necessarily. Usually what is of utmost importance to you, and on your heart, are the things that will come out of your mouth.

 

In our society, lukewarmness is prevalent. There are many who believe in God, who go to church, who have truly been born again. However, their passion and zeal for God has grown cold. God wants us to burn with passion and love for Him, and His kingdom.

 

The Spirit wants us to make a decision whether or not we will be hot or cold, but He doesn’t want us to be lukewarm. May the Lord restore that burning passion and zeal.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 30

Seven Churches – (F) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church (Key of David)

 

 

We are talking about the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. The admonitions and promises given to the seven churches apply to the Church today. God has not changed and His message is still the same.

 

The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled

5.      Repent from spiritual lukewarmness

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revelation 3:7 refers to the Key of David. What is the Key of David?

 

1.      Access

2.      Authority

3.      Opening Doors and Closing Doors

4.      Locking Doors and Unlocking Doors

5.      Governmental and Kingly ruling and reigning

6.      Priestly Anointing

7.      Prophetic Anointing

8.      Praise and worship as it was in the Tabernacle of David

9.      Intercession

 

 

Rebuilding the Tabernacle of David

 

Acts 15:16-17 NKJV

16 After this I will return and will rebuild the Tabernacle of David, which has fallen down; I will rebuild its ruins, and I will set it up;

17 So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who are called by My name, says the Lord who does all these things.

 

Cross reference:  Amos 9:11

 

 

Praise and Worship

In the last 30 years, the Holy Spirit has been restoring to the corporate Body of Christ the praise and worship as it was in the Tabernacle of David. In David’s Tabernacle, worship went on continually day and night, and the Shekinah Glory of the Lord dwelt there.

 

There was no Veil separating the Ark of the Covenant from the people. David’s Tabernacle was a prophetic picture of the time when Jesus would come and shed His Blood as a ransom for sin, and the way would be made for us to have free access to the Presence of God. The Ark of the Covenant symbolizes the Throne Room of God and the Mercy Seat in Heaven.

 

David came into the Holy of Holies not with an animal sacrifice, but with the sacrifice of praise. Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise.” The gates and courts are referring to the outer court of the Tabernacle. This verse is telling us the protocol of how to come into the King’s chambers. We enter in by praise and thanksgiving.

 

In David’s Tabernacle (where there was an atmosphere of worship and glory 24 hours a day), it was the place of communion and intimacy with God. It was the place of revelation. Worship and the Word are the keys to unlocking the treasures of wisdom and revelation (Ephesians 1:17-18).

 

The prophetic gifts flow in an atmosphere of worship. Somehow the Lord created the sound of musical chords, instruments and worship to be a carrier of the presence and glory of the Lord. Worship is like a current that keeps the anointing flowing like a river.

 

When we worship the Lord, His glory descends upon our lives. Worship is one of the keys to ushering in the glory of the Lord and revival. Praise is a key to victory and triumph in our Christian life. Praise is a form of spiritual warfare which puts the enemy in confusion, as well as strengthening God's angels to fight for us.

 

 

 

 

 

Psalms 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” God wants us to always have a song, and word, of praise on our tongue.  We can choose to bless the Lord or say something negative.

 

Worship magnifies the Lord, helps us take our focus off of our problems, and gives us a new perspective on situations. There is an old chorus which says that the things of this earth will grow dim in the light of God's glory and grace, as we turn our eyes upon Jesus and look full in His wonderful face.

 

The worship in David’s Tabernacle is being restored to the Church today. Some forms of Davidic worship include: the use of musical instruments, singing, choirs, kneeling, bowing, dancing (choreographed and spontaneous), lifting up holy hands, clapping, shouting, laying prostrate before the Lord, silence at times, use of flags and banners, a prophetic flow. Worship could include speaking your praise as well as singing praises, and standing in honor of His presence.

 

In David’s Tabernacle, there was freedom in the Spirit to worship, and it went on day and night. The singers and musicians ministered in shifts.

 

 

Prophet, Priest and King

The Key of David also involves the role of prophet, priest and king as David operated in a three-fold anointing. Jesus is also Prophet, Priest and King.

 

 

 

 

 

Revelation 1:5-6 And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

 

Revelation 5:9-10 And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.”

 

1 Peter 2:9-10 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

 

A king has dominion and authority. God wants to raise up sons and daughters who would take dominion in the earth, and authority over the devil’s wickedness.

 

A prophet decrees, declares and proclaims God’s will in the earth. The prophet summons the people together.

 

The priest offers up prayer and intercession to God on behalf of others and himself. The priests also are the worshippers and musicians.

 

An intercessor operates in the role of prophet, priest and king.

 

 

 

 

 

Kingly Office

 

The Key of David involves walking in the kingly anointing. A king has access, authority and dominion. Isaiah 22:22, in the Amplified, says: “And the key of the house of David I will lay upon his shoulder; he shall open and no one shall shut, he shall shut and no one shall open.”

 

A key is a symbol of authority and access. With a key, you are authorized to go in and out.

 

Jesus said that He would open doors that no man can shut, and shut doors that no man can open (Revelation 3:7). Then in the next verse Jesus says, “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it.” The Lord has an open door for you to walk through.

 

Isaiah 2:2, in the KJV, says that nations shall flow through us. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.”

 

In early February 2011, I attended a Harp & Bowl Meeting at my church. The harp represents our worship. The bowls represent our prayers and intercessions going up as incense before God. See Revelation 5:8 in the NKJV or AMP. There was one particular prophetic word I wanted to mention that was given concerning the kingly anointing.

 

“God is birthing kings in the Spirit (the Bible says we are kings and priests, a royal priesthood). These kings will take on the 7 mountains (7 worldly systems):

 

 

1.      Family

2.      Government

3.      Business

4.      Education

5.      Religion

6.      Media

7.      Arts and Entertainment

 

There is the spirit of momentum and escalation. You will get more done in less time. There is a remnant who will arise and build by faith.

 

These kings will release God’s children from a poverty and beggar’s mentality. God’s people will be infused with the spirit of dominion, at which the oceans would obey at our mouth. (The oceans refer to the sea of humanity.) Kings and Priests are being raised up.”

 

 

Prophetic Song after the above prophetic word was given:

 

Come kings, be crowned tonight

Come kings, come kings

 

Come kings, be crowned tonight

Come kings, come kings

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 31

Seven Churches – (G) What the Spirit is Saying to the Church

 

 

We are talking about the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. The admonitions and promises given to the seven churches apply to the Church today. God has not changed and His message is still the same.

 

The question may be asked, “What is the Spirit saying to the Church today?” Out of many things He is speaking, seven themes stand out in particular:

 

1.      Return to your first love and do the first works

2.      Repent from allowing false doctrines and carnality to remain in the Church

3.      Seek a relationship with Jesus Christ, as opposed to just being religious

4.      Put on your spiritual garments and guard against getting them soiled

5.      Repent from spiritual lukewarmness

6.      God is restoring the Tabernacle of David and the Key of David today

7.      God is looking for overcomers and has many blessings for them

 

The Spirit is saying that God desires for us to be overcomers. He does not want us to lay down and accept defeat or mourning as our lot in life. He doesn’t want us to give up or have a failure mentality.

 

 

 

 

He wants us to rise up, trust God, and allow Him to turn our weaknesses into strengths. He wants to turn our sorrows into joy. He wants to turn disappointments or setbacks into opportunities for advancement. He wants us to have faith and speak those things that are not as though they were (Romans 4:17).

 

We are not to give in or shrink back, but to stand strong and move forward. 2 Corinthians 2:14 says, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphant procession in Christ, and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him” (NIV).

 

God has rich rewards for those who overcome. He has made specific promises to overcomers in this life.

 

1.      I will give to eat of the Tree of Life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God (Rev 2:7).

 

2.      You shall not be hurt of the second death (Rev 2:11).

 

3.      I will give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knows saving he that receives it (Rev 2:17).

 

4.      To him will I give power over the nations. And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. (Rev 2:26b-28)

 

5.      Shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels (Rev 3:5).

 

6.      I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the Name of My God, and the Name of the City of My God, which is New Jerusalem, which cometh down out of Heaven from My God: and I will write upon him My new Name. (Rev 3:12)

 

7.      To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My Throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His Throne (Rev 3:21)

 

 

In Revelation 2-3, seven times it says, “He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches.” The Spirit says that He has rich and eternal rewards for those who overcome.

 

Through Christ, we are strengthened and can do all things (Philippians 4:13). 1 John 5:4 says that our faith is the victory that overcomes the world.

 

Revelation 21:7 (NKJV) is a very encouraging Scripture. It says, “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son.”

 

Overcomers are not limited to seven promises, but they shall inherit ALL things according to Revelation 21:7.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 32

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:1-2

 

 

We are discussing the seven churches in Revelation 1-3. I have given an overview and introduction of the seven churches, listed the promises to overcomers, and talked about the significant number patterns found in the Book of Revelation.

 

I am going to now start with Chapter 1 and go verse by verse explaining what it means. After Chapter 1, I will go through each of the seven churches, one by one.

 

Chapter 1

 

Verses 1-2 (Amplified Version)

 

1 This is the revelation of Jesus Christ [His unveiling of the divine mysteries]. God gave it to Him to disclose and make known to His bond servants certain things which must shortly and speedily come to pass in their entirety. And He sent and communicated it through His angel (messenger) to His bond servant John,

2 Who has testified to and vouched for all that he saw [in his visions], the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.

 

The Book of Revelation was authored by Jesus Christ and given (by way of vision) to John the Apostle around 95-96 AD. John was affectionately known as John the Beloved, but also Son of Thunder. He was full of love, yet also zeal. He was very outspoken and fiery in his preaching, and especially dealing with issues of sin and walking in love.

 

 

John was also Jesus’ cousin, as well as appointed caretaker of Jesus’ mother Mary. John's death was around 100 AD, and church records report that he lived to be in his upper 90's.

 

The book entitled “The Twelve: The Lives of the Apostles After Calvary” by C. Bernard Ruffin says on Page 89 that according to the Apostolic History of Abdias, it stated that John was 97 when he died. That means he would have been in his early 90's when he had the Vision in 95-96 AD.

 

The Roman Emperor Domitian ruled from 81-96 AD. Persecution and martyrdom against Christians was intense during that time.

 

Earlier attempts during the reign of Domitian were made to persecute, torture and martyr John, but were unsuccessful (God supernaturally intervened and he lived and escaped). Later on John was exiled to the Isle of Patmos to a prison camp as a form of persecution for preaching the Gospel.

 

It was while he was at Patmos that he received the Vision. Patmos is a tiny, rocky island in the Aegean Sea, around 25 miles off the coast of Miletus – Miletus is around 35 miles south of Ephesus.

 

The word “revelation” comes from the Greek word apokalupsis from which we have our word Apocalypse. It is defined as: “disclosure of what was concealed or hidden, an uncovering, to lay open what has been veiled, manifestation, to make known, a revealing, an appearance.”

 

The main theme of the Book of Revelation is that it is a revelation of Jesus Christ. The Amplified says “His unveiling of the divine mysteries.”

 

 

The Bible Exposition Commentary says,

 

“John's prophecy is primarily the revelation of Jesus Christ, not the revelation of future events.

 

In Revelation 1-3, Christ is seen as the exalted Priest King ministering to the churches.

 

In Revelation 4-5, He is seen in heaven as the glorified Lamb of God, reigning on the throne.

 

In Revelation 6-18, Christ is the Judge of all the earth; and in Revelation 19, He returns to earth as the conquering King of kings.

 

The book closes with the heavenly Bridegroom ushering His bride, the church, into the glorious heavenly city.”

 

God first imparted the revelation to His Son Jesus Christ.

 

Then Christ sent an angel to reveal the Vision to His servant John.

 

Then John sent the Vision to the seven churches.

 

According to Bible Knowledge Commentary, the angel who appeared to John is not named, but some theologians believe the angel was Gabriel, who explained visions to Daniel, and who brought messages to Mary and Zacharias (Daniel 8:16; 9:21-22; Luke 1:5-31).

 

The Greek word for angel is agellos, and it simply means “a messenger; to bring tidings; one who is sent.”

 

 

 

The definition also says that the word angel could apply to a heavenly spirit-being or could be in reference to a pastor. In Revelation 1:1, the angel is a heavenly being, probably Gabriel.

 

In the letters to the seven churches (Revelation 2-3), the seven angels are seven pastors or bishops.

 

The phrase, in the NKJV, “The revelation which God (the Father) gave Him (His Son Jesus) to show (for Jesus to show) His servants (servants would be John, the seven pastors of the seven churches and other servants)”—the Amplified Version uses the word disclose.

 

The Greek word translated as show or disclose is the word deixai or deiknuoo which means: “to point out, to cause to see, to present to the sight, to give evidence or proof of a thing, to show by words, to teach.” This suggests that what was to be revealed was to be presented to the sight by tokens, symbols and words.

 

The phrase, “certain things which must shortly and speedily come to pass in their entirety” could mean:

 

1.      That the action will be sudden when it comes, not necessarily that it will occur immediately. Once the end-time events begin, they will occur in rapid succession.

 

2.      Time does not exist with God in the same way that we have time here on the earth. A thousand years is as a day in light of eternity, and a day is as a thousand years. On earth, we live in chronos time (the ticking away of the clock in terms of years, months, weeks, days, hours, and minutes). Kairos time is the set appointed time for something to be fulfilled when everything is in place.

 

 

The phrase: “He sent and communicated it through His angel” (AMP). The KJV says “sent and signified”. The Greek word translated as communicated or signified is the word semaino meaning “to make known by signs or symbols,” but the verb also includes communication by words.

 

The word “bondservant” (referring to John) in Verse 1 denotes the idea of being a love slave of Christ. It also refers to being a servant leader. Jesus said that he who is greatest in the kingdom of God must first of all be a servant (Matthew 23:11).

 

The term bondservant is used by Jesus (Philippians 2:7 NKJV), Paul (Romans 1:1, Galations 1:10, Philippians 1:1, Titus 1:1 NKJV), Timothy (Philippians 1:1 NKJV), Epaphras (Colossians 4:12 NKJV), James (James 1:1 NKJV), Peter (2 Peter 1:1 NKJV), John (Revelation 1:1 AMP) and Jude (Jude :1 NKJV).

 

Philippians 2:7 says that Jesus, Himself, was a bondservant—serving His Father and serving others around Him. Mark 10:45 NKJV says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served (to be ministered to - KJV), but to serve (minister - KJV), and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

 

Philippians 2:5-11 NKJV

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,

6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God,

7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.

8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the Cross.

9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name,

10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth,

11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

 

Verse 2 – John was an eyewitness of what had occurred in the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus.

 

In John’s writings and public ministry (preaching, teaching, working of miracles and healings, testifying about Christ), John regarded himself as a witness of what he had seen and heard, and claimed only to make a faithful and fair record of it.

 

The phrase “The Word of God” could be referring to:

 

1.      The teachings of God

 

2.      A Name of Jesus Himself (i.e. John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”).

 

The phrase “testimony of Jesus” could be referring to:

 

1.      John testifying of what he had seen with his own eyes and heard with his own ears the things which Jesus taught, the miracles He performed and other displays of Jesus’ glory (such as on the Mount of Transfiguration in Matthew 17:1-8 when Jesus transformed into spirit, yet man. Bright light emanated from Him. He spoke with Moses and Elijah. The Father’s Voice from Heaven said “This is My Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.” They were all enveloped by the Shekinah glory cloud.)

 

2.      The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy (Revelation 19:10).

 

 

The words “witness” and “testimony” are legal terms. It gives the picture of being in a court room and giving an eyewitness account of what happened, what you saw and heard, what was said, what was done, who was involved, when it happened, and so forth.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 33

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:3-5a

 

Chapter 1

 

Verses 3-5a (New King James Version)

 

Revelation 1:3-5a

3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.

Greeting the Seven Churches.

4 John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne,

5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.

 

 

Verse 3

 

“Blessed” in the Greek means:  happy, well off, fortunate, to be envied.

 

“Blessed” (in Verse 3) is the first of seven blessings, or beatitudes, in the Book of Revelation. The seven beatitudes are:

 

1.      Rev 1:3  Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written in it.

 

2.      Rev 14:13  Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

 

3.      Rev 16:15  Blessed are all who are watching for Me, who guard their clothing.

 

4.      Rev 19:9  Blessed are those who are called to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

 

5.      Rev 20:6  Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection.

 

6.      Rev 22:7  Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.

 

7.      Rev 22:14  Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the Tree of Life, and enter through the gates into the city.

 

In Verse 3, a blessing is given to the reader of the prophecy. Writings were copied by hand, and so therefore, not everyone in the seven churches had their own scroll to read on their own. An appointed speaker would stand up at the podium in the public assembly and read outloud the words of the prophecy to the congregation.

 

A blessing is given to the hearers of what they heard being read outloud. As the people heard this book being read, its message would give them strength and hope. The message would also help them examine their own lives, and each local assembly, to determine those areas needing correction.

 

A blessing is given to those who keep those things written in it. The blessing would come not just by hearing, but putting into practice what they heard and guarding it as a precious treasure. James 1:22-25 (Amplified Version) tells us:

 

22 But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth].

23 For if anyone only listens to the Word without obeying it and being a doer of it, he is like a man who looks carefully at his [own] natural face in a mirror;

24 For he thoughtfully observes himself, and then goes off and promptly forgets what he was like.

25 But he who looks carefully into the faultless law, the [law] of liberty, and is faithful to it and perseveres in looking into it, being not a heedless listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he shall be blessed in his doing (his life of obedience).

 

“For the time is near”, in Verse 3, means that we are in the last days for all these prophecies to be fulfilled and for the second return of Christ to occur. Jesus said He was coming soon 2000 years ago. To us, 2000 years does not sound like anytime soon.

 

In the third chapter of Peter, the Apostle Peter talks about the return of Jesus Christ as well as false teachers. He said in Verse 8-10a:

 

8 But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.

9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

10 The Day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night.

 

Time is different in heaven than here on earth. In Heaven, a thousand years is as if one day had elapsed and a day could seem like a thousand years.

 

 

 

Time here on earth is chronos time (the ticking away of the clock which is measured in terms of years, months, days, hours, minutes, seconds). Kairos time (God's timing) means the appointed time, the set time for something to be fulfilled or to happen.

 

One reason for the delay in Christ’s coming, is that the Lord is merciful and is giving people more time to repent. His will is that all would come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). God sent His Son Jesus to die for everyone in the world, and His will is that all would be saved and none would be lost.

 

The Greek definition for the word repent means “to change one's thinking.” The mindset has to be changed or enlightened first before one's actions change. A person cannot go beyond their level of thinking. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). For true repentance (a turnaround) to take place, one has to begin to think in a new way. Mental strongholds and traditions are powerful and keep the mind locked in to think a certain way. However, the Word of God is more powerful and has the ability to renew the mind so that we are transformed (Romans 12:2).

 

“Greeting to the Seven Churches” (Verse 3) is in reference to seven actual historical churches in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). There were many more than just seven churches, but Jesus chose seven, out of all, of the churches to give a message to.

 

Seven is the number of totality, perfection, completion, fullness. The seven churches encompass every church in the world to ever exist, as well as seven groups of people within the Body of Christ. The messages to the seven churches are applicable to every church, and every Christian, today.

 

The seven churches included: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.

 

“Grace and peace” (Verse 4) is a common salutation throughout the New Testament. To wish someone grace, is to wish them goodwill, lovingkindness, favor, benefits, and that which affords joy, pleasure, delight and sweetness. Grace is also defined as the unmerited favor of God and mercy.

 

To wish someone peace is the same as saying “Shalom”. Shalom is defined as:

 

1.          Peace, quietness, tranquility

 

2.          Salvation and Baptism of the Holy Spirit

 

3.          Rest, Joy, Hope, Faith

 

4.          Love

 

5.          Absence of war

 

6.          Absence of strife and contention

 

7.          Harmonious state of the soul and mind

 

8.          Covenant relationship with God

 

9.          Peace in our spirit (rational intellect, the part of us that communes with God)

 

10.     Peace in our soul (mind, will, emotions)

 

11.     Peace with God, especially in covenant relation

 

12.     Peace that surpasses our understanding; peace like a river

 

13.     Unity; concord; harmony (the anointing oil flows with unity)

 

14.     Freedom from confusion and captivity of any kind

 

15.     The Lord looses the prisoners

 

16.     Success and Blessings (family, children, grandchildren, houses, lands, cars, both material and non-material things)

 

17.     Giving thanks for all your blessings

 

18.     Prosperity; wealth; living debt free; debts cancelled

 

19.     Satiation of God’s goodness

 

20.     Being filled up with the Word of God

 

21.     Possessing the promises of God

 

22.     Completeness, Wholeness

 

23.     Restoration; Rejuvenation; Refreshment; Relaxation; Recreation

 

24.     Contentment

 

25.     Friendship; Friendliness (especially friendship with God)

 

26.     Soundness in mind and physical body; excellent health; wellness; healing

 

27.     With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation

 

28.     Security

 

29.     Welfare, Happiness

 

30.     Nothing missing and nothing broken

 

31.     Safe (in mind, body or estate)

 

32.     Restitution; compensation

 

33.     To walk in favor with God and man

 

34.     God gives His Beloved sleep

 

35.     Days of Heaven upon earth

 

36.     A greeting (“May it be well with you”)

 

37.     Messianic Reign

 

 

“Him who is and who was and who is to come” (Verse 4) is based on God's self-identification in Exodus 3:14, “I am who I am,” or, “I will be who I will be” (from Jewish New Testament Commentary).

 

“Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ”. This salutation may be alluding to the Trinity. John mentions the Godhead in other writings of his. I’ll mention one in particular. In 1 John 5:7, John records: “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word (Jesus is the Word made flesh), and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.”

 

“Seven Spirits” is in reference to the Holy Spirit. It’s talking about the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Seven is the number of totality, perfection, fullness and completion.

 

The Seven Spirits of God are also known as “the seven-fold Spirit of the Lord.” See Isaiah 11:2-4 as a cross reference. Other references of the Seven Spirits of God are found in Revelation 3:1, 4:5, 5:6.

 

In addition to the seven-fold Spirit of God being seven characteristics of the Holy Spirit, the seven Spirits of God are also seven Spirit Beings that minister in front of the Throne and are sent out into all the earth to minister. They are also known as the seven Horns and seven Eyes in Revelation 5:6.

 

In the Throne Room of Heaven, the seven-fold Spirit of God is symbolized by the seven lamps (torches) of fire burning before the Throne (Rev 4:5).

 

In the earthly tabernacle (which was patterned after the real Sanctuary in Heaven), the seven-fold Spirit of God is symbolized by the 7-branched Menorah that continually burned day and night.

 

The seven torches of fire, and the seven-branched Candelabra symbolizes the Holy Spirit bringing illumination and revelation. The Holy Spirit also sanctifies us just as fire purges the dross.

 

In Revelation 3:1, Jesus is said to have those Seven Spirits of God. This is symbolized by the seven horns and seven eyes of the Lamb in Revelation 5:6. This verse says: “And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.”

 

The horns speak of Jesus’ power and the eyes speak of Jesus’ manifold wisdom.

 

The Holy Spirit is the spirit of the Father (Matt 10:20, John 15:26) AND the Son (Gal 4:6, Phil 1:19). The Son issues out of the Father (John 8:42). 

 

Isaiah 11:2-4a

2 The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.

3 His delight is in the fear of the Lord, and He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, nor decide by the hearing of His ears;

4a But with righteousness He shall judge the poor.

 

If interpreting this passage as the seven-fold character or attributes of God:

1.      Spirit of Wisdom

2.      Spirit of Understanding

3.      Spirit of Counsel

4.      Spirit of Might

5.      Spirit of Knowledge

6.      Spirit of the Fear of the Lord

7.      Righteousness (vs 4)

 

 

If interpreting this passage as Seven Spirit Beings:

1.      Spirit of the Lord

2.      Spirit of Wisdom

3.      Spirit of Understanding

4.      Spirit of Counsel

5.      Spirit of Might

6.      Spirit of Knowledge

7.      Spirit of the Fear of the Lord

“The faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth”. The Bible Exposition Commentary says, “Jesus Christ is seen in His threefold office as Prophet (faithful Witness), Priest (First-begotten from the dead), and King (Prince of the kings of the earth).

 

First-begotten does not mean ‘the first one raised from the dead,’ but ‘the highest of those raised from the dead.’ Firstborn is a title of honor (see Romans 8:29; Colossians 1:15,18).”

 

A faithful witness is a reliable one. Proverbs 14:5,25 says, “A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies. A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.”

 

“Firstborn” and “ruler over the earth's kings” corresponds to Psalms 89:27, which says: “Also I will make him my firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth.”

 

The messages to the seven churches was given during a time of heavy persecution against the Church. The Jewish New Testament Commentary says the following:

 

“The original readers were greatly encouraged in their struggle against persecution by these three aspects of Yeshua the Messiah:

 

1.      He is the faithful witness (or “the faithful martyr”). He witnessed unto the point of his own death, and especially through his own death, that God is in control of history.

 

2.      He is the firstborn (or “foremost, chief”) of those who get raised from the dead. This means that faithful believers too can look forward to being resurrected and having eternal fellowship with God, even if in this world they receive no reward and die ignominiously.

 

3.      He is the ruler of the earth's kings, the “King of Kings” (17:14, 19:16) who will one day subject to himself even the most unbridled and oppressive governments.”

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

 

Chapter 34

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:5b, Part 1

 

 

Revelation 1:5b

5 To Him who loved us …

 

Just those four words are a powerful statement. Who can comprehend the vastness of the love of God? God’s love is an ocean that never runs dry.

 

God loved us while we were yet sinners and was willing to sacrifice His only Son so that you and me, and all mankind, may have eternal life.

 

Romans 5:8-9, in the Amplified Version, says:

8 But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us.

9 Therefore, since we are now justified (acquitted, made righteous, and brought into right relationship with God) by Christ's blood, how much more [certain is it that] we shall be saved by Him from the indignation and wrath of God.

 

The word “love” is Revelation 1:5 is agapao (Strong’s #26 in the New Testament). Agapao is a verb, which is an action word. Love is not just a feeling, but love is action. Love is demonstrated by deeds (primarily) as well as words.

 

The Greek word agape (Strong’s #25) is a noun.

 

Agapao is defined as:

 

A.     to love, to be full of good-will and exhibit the same

B.     to have a preference for, wish well to, regard the welfare of

C.    used often in the First Epistle of John of the love of Christians toward one another

D.    used of the benevolence which God, in providing salvation for men, has exhibited by sending his Son to them and giving him up to death

E.     used of the love which led Christ, in procuring human salvation, to undergo sufferings and death

F.     used of the love with which God regards Christ

G.    When used of love to a master, God or Christ, the word involves the idea of affectionate reverence, prompt obedience, grateful recognition of benefits received

H.    to take pleasure in the thing, prize it above other things, be unwilling to abandon it or do without it

I.        to welcome with desire, long for

J.      Concerning the unique proof of love which Jesus gave the apostles by washing their feet

 

(from Thayer's Greek Lexicon, Electronic Database. Copyright © 2000, 2003, 2006 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)

 

 

Love is essential for faith to work. Galatians 5:6 says, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.”

 

Kenneth E. Hagin Sr. tells of an account of when he was asked to pray for someone’s child who had an affliction in their body. When he went to pray for the child, the Lord told him that the mother was not walking in love, but was carrying bitterness in her heart towards someone.

 

The mother’s bitterness opened a door for the devil to afflict her child with sickness. When the mother repented of bitterness and began to walk in love and forgiveness, her child became well.

 

This situation is not always the case of why a person is sick, but bitterness and unforgiveness is one door where the enemy may get in.

 

Faith alone is not always enough to get prayers answered. Faith must be combined with its twin in order for it to work. Faith twins include:

 

1.              Faith and works (corresponding action)

 

2.              Faith and love

 

3.              Faith and patience

 

4.              Faith and hope

 

5.              Faith and grace

 

6.              Faith and favor of God

 

7.              Faith and speaking to the mountain

 

8.              Faith and saying positive things

 

9.              Faith and speaking the Word of God

 

10.         Faith and calling those things which do not exist as though they did exist

 

11.         Faith and meekness

 

12.         Faith and joy of the Lord

 

13.         Faith and trust

 

14.         Faith and peace of God

 

15.         Faith and diligence

 

16.         Faith and holiness

 

17.         Faith and obedience

 

18.         Faith and the reverence of the Lord

 

19.         Faith and praise

 

20.         Faith and worship

 

21.         Faith and delighting yourself in the Lord

 

22.         Faith and decreeing a thing

 

23.         Faith and asking God

 

24.         Faith and learning to forgive others

 

25.         Faith and leaning on the Lord

 

26.         Faith and the zeal of the Lord

 

27.         Faith and resting in the Lord

 

28.         Faith and confidence

 

29.         Faith and claiming what belongs to you

 

30.         Faith and boldness

 

31.         Faith and Thanksgiving

 

32.         Faith and giving of one’s time, resources, finances, compliments, friendship, love, gifts

 

33.         Faith and Blessing Others

 

34.         Faith and Labor

 

35.         Faith and rightly dividing the Word

 

36.         Faith and Perseverance

 

37.         Faith and Overcoming

 

38.         Faith and Sowing Seed

 

39.         Faith and Declaring the Promise

 

40.         Faith and Preparing for the Promise to arrive

 

41.         Faith and Being a Good Steward of your Finances and Assets

 

42.         Faith and Being Optimistic

 

43.         Faith and Kindness

 

44.         Faith and Believing for the Best

 

45.         Faith and Looking at a Vision Board Everyday

 

46.         Faith and Mercy, Compassion

 

47.         Faith and Faithfulness

 

48.         Faith and Generosity

 

49.         Faith and Goodness

 

50.         Faith and Power of the Holy Spirit

 

51.         Faith and Family

 

52.         Faith and Salvation

 

53.         Faith and Justification

 

54.         Faith and Repentance

 

55.         Faith and Conquering

 

56.         Faith and Provision

 

57.         Faith and Abundant Life

 

58.         Faith and Bearing Good Fruit

 

59.         Faith and Victory

 

60.         Faith and Courage

 

61.         Faith and Edification

 

62.         Faith and Encouragement

 

63.         Faith and Esteeming Others

 

64.         Faith and Unity with other believers

 

65.         Faith and Ministry

 

66.         Faith and Prosperity

 

67.         Faith and Promotion

 

68.         Faith and Wisdom

 

69.         Faith and the Word

 

70.         Faith and Liberty in Christ

 

71.         Faith and Wealth

 

72.         Faith and Health

 

73.         Faith and Success

 

74.         Faith and Triumph

 

75.         Faith and Gladness of Heart

 

76.         Faith and Purity in heart, spirit, soul and body

 

77.         Faith and Fidelity

 

78.         Faith and Consecration

 

79.         Faith and Truth

 

80.         Faith and Wholeness

 

81.         Faith and Gentleness

 

82.         Faith and a Quiet Spirit

 

83.         Faith and Yielded to God

 

84.         Faith and Prayer, Intercession

 

85.         Faith and Performing Miracles

 

86.         Faith and Humility, Servanthood

 

87.         Faith and Obeying Laws of the Land

 

88.         Faith and Bearing Trials

 

89.         Faith and Submission to Authority

 

90.         Faith and Being Trustworthy

 

91.         Faith and Flourishing

 

92.         Faith and Multiplication

 

93.         Faith and Mighty in God

 

94.         Faith and the Anointing

 

95.         Faith and being an Oak Tree of righteousness – strong and sturdy

 

96.         Faith and Fun and Laughter

 

97.         Faith and the fruit of the Spirit

 

98.         Faith and the sword of the Spirit

 

99.         Faith and Sonship, Co-Heir with Christ

 

100.     Faith and Accepted in the Beloved

 

101.     Faith and Integrity

 

102.     Faith and Honesty

 

103.     Faith and Righteousness

 

104.     Faith and being Blameless

 

105.     Faith and having clean deeds

 

106.     Faith and Restoration

 

107.     Faith and Rejuvenation

 

108.     Faith and Recompense

 

109.     Faith and Glory

 

110.     Faith and Presence of God

 

111.     Faith and Remission of Sins

 

112.     Faith and Eternal Life in Heaven

 

113.     Faith and Being Complete in Christ

 

114.     Faith and Abiding Fully Satisfied

 

115.     Faith and Seeking after God as the deer pants after the water brooks

 

116.     Faith and Sanctification

 

117.     Faith and Protection in the shelter of the Most High

 

118.     Faith and soaring like the eagles

 

119.     Faith and your desert turned into an Eden

 

120.     Faith and Rivers of Living Water that proceed from the Throne of God

 

121.     Faith and Redemption through the Blood of Jesus

 

122.     Faith and the Cross of Christ

 

123.     Faith and Propitiation of sin through Christ

 

124.     Faith and every good gift proceeds from the Father above

 

125.     Faith and every spiritual and physical blessing flows from above

 

126.     Faith and having an excellent spirit

 

127.     Faith and being a virtuous woman

 

128.     Faith and being a diligent and skillful worker

 

129.     Faith and raising godly children in the fear and admonition of the Lord

 

130.     Faith and taking responsibility for your pets and flocks

 

131.     Faith and studying to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed.

 

132.     Faith and loving-kindness that is everlasting.

 

133.     Faith and leveling the mountains and obstacles in our lives through our faith-filled words.

 

134.     Faith and positive confession

 

135.     Faith and forgiving others so that we may be forgiven

 

136.     Faith and being rooted and grounded in God and His Word

 

137.     Faith and blossoming out like the rose

 

138.     Faith and having intimacy in spirit and soul with Jesus Christ

 

139.     Faith and having a dear friendship with the Holy Spirit and calling Him “Papa” affectionately

 

140.     Faith and knowing God the Father as “Abba Father”

 

141.     Faith and being satiated in God’s goodness

 

142.     Faith and flourishing like new, fresh, green grass

 

143.     Faith and having the knowledge of Christ

 

144.     Faith and baptism (in the Holy Spirit, immersed in water, and baptism into the Body of Christ)

 

145.     Faith and partaking of the Eucharist or Holy Communion

 

146.     Faith and our white robes of righteousness having no spots or wrinkles or stains, but being bright white by the Blood of the Lamb

 

147.     Faith and Light (if we dwell in love, we also dwell in light)

 

148.     Faith and not having any fear, guilt or unworthiness

 

149.     Faith and our conscience purged by the Blood of Jesus

 

150.     Faith and no condemnation in Christ Jesus

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 35

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:5b, Part 2

 

 

Revelation 1:5b  NKJV

5 To Him who loved us …

 

The Greek word for “loved” in Revelation 1:5 is agapao, which is a verb or action word.

 

In 1 Corinthians 13, the Greek word for “love” (translated as charity in the KJV) is agape, which is a noun.

 

In the Greek there are various words for love, but the kind of love that Jesus loves us with is agape (noun) or agapao (verb) love. He wants to fill our hearts with His love so that we are able to love others in the same way He loves us.

 

Romans 5:5 says, “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

 

Agape love, in 1 Corinthians 13, is defined as:

 

1.          Patient (Strong’s New Testament #3114 makrothumeo) – to be long-spirited, forbearing, patient; to be patient in bearing the offenses and injuries of others; to be mild and slow in avenging; to be long-suffering; slow to anger; slow to punish.

 

2.          Kind (5541 chresteuomai) – to show oneself helpful; i.e. act benevolently; to show oneself mild.

 

3.          Not Envious (2206 zeloo) – to have warmth of feeling against; to be heated or boiling; jealousy.

 

4.          Not Boastful (4068 perpereuomai) – braggart; to vaunt oneself.

 

5.          Not Proud or Arrogant (5448 phusioo) – to be haughty; to inflate; blow up; blow out; to cause to swell up.

 

6.          Not Rude (807 aschemoneo) – to be (or act) unbecoming; behave unseemly.

 

7.          Not Self-Seeking (2212 zeteo) – seek; require; demand (one’s own way); selfish; self-centered.

 

8.          Not Easily Angered (3947 paroxuno) – to exasperate; to irritate; provoke; rouse to anger; to talk sharp.

 

9.          Thinking No Evil (2556 kakos) – troublesome; injurious; pernicious; destructive; baneful; [keeping a record of wrongs].

 

10.     Not Rejoicing in Iniquity (93 adikia) – injustice; moral wrongfulness (of character, life or act).

 

11.     Rejoices in Truth (225 aletheia) – what is true in any matter under consideration (opposed to what is feigned, fictitious, false); truth as a personal excellence; that candor or mind which is free from affectation, pretence, simulation, falsehood, deceit.

 

12.     Beareth all Things (Protects) (4722 stego) – to roof over, i.e. (figuratively) to cover with silence; to keep secret; to hide; conceal; to protect or keep by covering; to preserve; to bear up against; hold out against; and so to endure, bear, forbear.

 

13.     Believeth all Things (Trust) (4100 pisteuo) – to have faith (in, or with respect to, a person); to think to be true; to be persuaded of; to credit; place confidence in.

 

14.     Hopeth all Things (Expect) (1679 elpizo) – to expect; [expect the best].

 

15.     Endures all Things (5278 hupomeno) – abide; remain; i.e. bear (trials); have fortitude; persevere.

 

16.     Love Never Fails (or Falls) (4098 pipto) – to fall; used of descent from a higher place to a lower; used of descent from a standing to a prostrate position; to fall from a state of uprightness; i.e. to sin; to come to an end; cease.

 

Years ago I watched the Believer’s Voice of Victory television broadcast, week after week, where Gloria Copeland was teaching on the subject of love.

 

She said that if one personalizes this passage by replacing the word “love” with the word “I”, and declares it aloud as an act of faith, then after a while it will take root and will come to fruition.

 

Declare aloud …

 

I am patient.  I am long-suffering.  I am slow to anger.  I am patient in bearing the offenses of others.

 

I am kind.  I am mild.  I am benevolent.  I am helpful.

 

I am not envious.  I have no feelings of jealousy against another.

 

I am not boastful.  I do not vaunt or brag on myself.

 

I am not proud or arrogant.  I am not haughty.  I am not puffed up.

 

I am not rude.  I do not act unbecoming.  I do not behave unseemly.

 

I am not self-seeking.  I do not demand my own way.  I am not selfish or self-centered.

 

I am not easily angered.  I do not get exasperated quickly.  I am not easily provoked.  I am not sharp with others.

 

I think no evil.  I do not keep a record of wrongs.  I do not have spiteful, destructive, injurious or malicious thoughts towards anyone.

 

I do not rejoice in iniquity.  I do not take pleasure in injustice and moral wrongfulness.  I do not rejoice in someone else’s calamity.

 

I rejoice in the truth.  I do not pay heed to what is fictitious and false.  I take no part in rumors.

 

I bear all things.  I protect and cover.  I do not expose the secrets of others.  I can be trusted to keep a confidence.

 

I believe all things.  I have faith in that person.  I trust that person.  I have confidence in that person.  (This is not saying that you should trust every person because not every person can be trusted.  This passage may be saying to look for the best in every person.)

 

I hope all things.  I expect for the best.

 

I endure all things.  I remain steadfast in bearing trials.  I have an attitude of fortitude and perseverance.

 

I will never fall away from Christ because I walk in love. 

 

I will not fall into sin as long as I put on love.  My love for Jesus Christ and others will never end. 

 

I will never cease to show love.  Love is always the answer.  Love never fails.

 

Amen, so be it!

 

If there is fear in your life, the love of God is the solution to that. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear; because fear has torment. He that fears is not made perfect (mature, complete) in love.”

 

2 Timothy 1:7 tells us: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” He’s given us a sound mind because we are filled with His love and power.

 

John the Beloved Apostle teaches much about walking in love in his writings. In 1 John 4:19-21, John writes:

 

19 We love Him (Jesus) because He first loved us.

20 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?

21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.

 

John goes on to say that if we do not walk in love, we walk around in darkness. But if we walk in love, we abide in the light as Christ is in the light (1 John 2:9-11, 1 John 1:5-10), and there is no cause of stumbling in us.

 

The prayer of my heart is “Lord, teach me how to love. Baptize me in Your love.”

Sources:

 

The Holy Bible, King James Version, Biblesoft Electronic Database, PC Study Bible

 

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, Electronic Database, PC Study Bible, Copyright 2000 by Biblesoft

 

Biblesoft’s New Exhaustive Strong’s Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary.  Copyright 1994.  Biblesoft and International Bible Translators, Inc.

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 36

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1 5c

 

 

Revelation 1:5c  Unto Him that …. washed us from our sins in His own Blood.

 

The Greek word translated as “washed” is the word luo. It means to loosen, unbind, to set free, release from bonds, to loose one who is bound, to dissolve, to loose any person tied or fastened.

 

Jesus has set us free from our sins by His Blood. His Blood breaks off every fetter and delivers us from the power of sin. The Blood of Jesus gives us the power to crucify sin in our own lives.

 

If you are struggling with any sin or addiction, and you are bound, be encouraged by this verse which says that Jesus washed (loosed) [past tense – He already loosed us] from our sins in His own Blood. There is tremendous power in the Blood of Jesus when it’s applied to your life.

 

How is the Blood of Jesus applied to your life? By faith.

 

It begins with accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. If you would like to receive salvation, just pray:

 

Dear Lord Jesus,

I receive you as my Lord and Savior. Come into my heart. Wash me from all my sins and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I believe that You died and rose again. Help me become the person you created me to be. Thank You for saving me today. Thank You for eternal life.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 37

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:6

 

 

Revelation 1:6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

 

Jesus Christ is a Priest-King like Melchizedek (Hebrews 7), and we are seated with Him on His throne ruling and reigning with Him (Ephesians 2:1-10).

 

1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

 

A royal priesthood reigns on this earth in the here and now (not just when they get to heaven or during the millennium). Revelation 5:10 tells us: “And have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.”

 

Kings and priests exercise spiritual authority and serve God in this earth.

 

Kings rule and reign. Kings decree a thing and so shall it be established. Kings make laws and change laws and regulations. Kings have dominion. Kings conquer their enemies and have the victory. Kings are wealthy. Kings have an audience with people in high places. Kings primarily serve in the marketplace and governmental reigning.

 

 

 

At my church, a prophetic word was given in January 2011 concerning the role of kings. The word is:

 

God is birthing kings in the Spirit. These kings will take on the 7 mountains (the 7 mountains being the 7 worldly systems):

 

1.    Family

2.    Government

3.    Business

4.    Education

5.    Religion

6.    Media

7.    Arts and Entertainment

 

There is the spirit of momentum and escalation. You will get more done in less time. There is a remnant whom will arise and build by faith.

 

These kings will release God’s children from a poverty and beggar’s mentality. God’s people will be infused with the spirit of dominion, at which the oceans would obey at our mouth. (The oceans refer to the sea of humanity.) Kings and Priests are being raised up.

 

Priests primarily serve in the five-fold ministry. Ephesians 4:11-12 refers to the five-fold ministry.

 

11 And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

12 For the perfecting (equipping, maturing) of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.

 

The Barnes’ Notes Commentary says the following regarding kings and priests in Revelation 1:6:

 

The quotation in 1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6 and Revelation 5:10 comes from Exodus 19:6: “And ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests.”

 

This idea is expressed here by saying that Christ had made us in fact kings and priests; that is, Christians are exalted to the dignity and are invested with the office, implied in these words.

 

The word “kings,” as applied to them, refers to the exalted rank and dignity which they will have; to the fact that they, in common with their Savior, will reign triumphant over all enemies; and that, having gained a victory over sin and death and hell, they may be represented as reigning together.

 

The word “priests” refers to the fact that they are engaged in the holy service of God, or that they offer to him acceptable worship.

 

In the Levitical priesthood, a priest could not be a king and a king could not be a priest. They were two separate offices.

 

However, since Jesus comes from the priesthood of Melchizedek (who was both a priest and a king), and because we are in Christ we have the divine nature of God living on the inside of us, we can reign in this life as both kings and priests.

 

King David was a type of Christ in that he was a king, priest and prophet all at the same time. And David came from the tribe of Judah (the tribe of kings).

 

In a teaching I posted about intercession, we see how intercessors operate in the 3-fold anointing as prophet, priest and king.

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 38

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:7

 

 

Revelation 1:7 Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.

 

Cross Reference:

 

Matthew 24:30-31

30 And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

 

Also see: Matthew 26:64, Mark 13:26, Mark 14:62, 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17

 

This coming of the Lord is His second coming. It could be talking about one of two things:

 

1.    The rapture, because it says that His angels shall gather together His elect from the four winds (four corners of the earth … worldwide extension … north, south, east, west).

 

2.    This verse could be talking about Jesus’ coming after the rapture has already occurred, when Jesus comes to set up His kingdom on this earth during the millennium.

 

The Lord, when He returns, will come accompanied with clouds. Clouds are symbols of Majesty and the Shekinah Glory.

 

God spoke from the Cloud that led the Israelites through the wilderness.

 

Jesus will appear in the sky, in the literal clouds. In the same way He ascended to heaven, is the same way in which He will return to earth. Acts 1:9-11.

 

They who pierced Him is probably in reference to those who crucified Him (the Jewish people and the Gentiles). His feet and hands were pierced, as was His side. This is also in reference to those who have pierced His heart (figuratively speaking) through habitual sin, rebellion, rejection and wrong doing.

 

Every eye will be able to see Him … this is possible with modern-day media and satellite. His coming will be a visible appearing.

 

All the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. The Barnes’ Notes Commentary says they shall:

 

“Wail on account of their treatment of Jesus. The coming of the Savior will be an event which will call to remembrance the sins of the people and they will be overwhelmed with the apprehension of wrath to come.”

 

The word “Amen” means:  so be it, assuredly, certainly. The word “Amen” in this verse is an affirmation of a certainty, rather than an expression of a wish.

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 39

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:8

 

 

Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

 

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet. It looks exactly like an “A” in the English alphabet.

 

Omega is the last letter of the Greek alphabet. It is equivalent to the letter “Z” in the English alphabet.

 

Jesus is the A to the Z, and everything in-between.

 

“I am Alpha and Omega” — I am from eternity to eternity.

 

“The Beginning and the End” — God is the establisher of all things and the end of all things. He has always existed and will always exist. He was there at the beginning of creation and will be there at the close of the world as we know it now.

 

The language in this verse implies Divinity, and can be applied to no one but the true living God. Jesus is God. In other writings of John, he establishes the Divinity of Jesus Christ. John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” The Word is talking about Jesus.

 

“Who is” – God is in the present

“Who was” – God is in the past

“Who is to come” – God is in the future

 

God can be in the past, present and future all at the same time because He’s eternal.

 

If you have pressing needs that you are praying about, be assured that God has already worked it out for you. He’s prepared the way and gone ahead into your future, and already taken care of the matter. Not too long from now you’ll begin to see the manifestation of answered prayer.

 

“The Almighty” — The All-Powerful One. The Hebrew name for Almighty is El Shaddai.

 

Other references in which Jesus introduces Himself as the Alpha and Omega are:

 

Revelation 1:11

Revelation 21:6

Revelation 22:13

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 40

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:9

 

 

Revelation 1:9  I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the Word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

 

Adam Clarke’s Commentary says:

 

[Your brother] A Christian, begotten of God, and incorporated in the Heavenly family.

 

[Companion in tribulation] Suffering under the persecution in which you also suffer.

 

[In the kingdom] For we are a kingdom of priests unto God.

 

[And patience of Jesus] Meekly bearing all indignities, privations, and sufferings, for the sake and after the example of our Lord and Master.

 

[For the testimony of Jesus Christ.] For preaching Christianity, and converting pagans to the Lord Jesus.

 

Information below is derived from Adam Clarke’s Commentary and an article by Rick Renner entitled “A Light in Darkness”, June 2011 issue of Victory Magazine (Kenneth Copeland Believers Voice of Victory). The article is based on Rick Renner’s new book called “A Light in Darkness – Seven Messages to the Seven Churches”.

 

 

 

Patmos was a small, desolate island of about 30 miles in circumference. It belonged to a group of islands called the Sporades. It’s located in the Aegean in the region known as the Icarian Sea. Patmos is around 60 miles from Ephesus and 25 miles to the nearest coastline of Asia Minor (modern day Turkey).

 

Patmos was the “Alcatraz” of the first century. The worst of the common criminals (murderers, rapists) and political offenders were brought to this island. It was an open-air prison. Common criminals were fettered, scourged and treated very harshly. They had to do hard labor.

 

Political offenders were treated with more respect and were allowed to roam the island freely. However, no food, clothing, supplies or medical care was provided. Political offenders formed communities to create a better chance of survival.

 

John was exiled to this island as a political offender for spreading the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. It was here that John had the Vision and was caught up to Heaven (in his spirit).

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 41

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:10-11

 

 

Revelation 1:10-11

10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,

11 saying, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last,” and, “What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea.”

 

[I was in the Spirit] The Spirit of Prophecy; under the influence of the Holy Spirit; in a trance; shutting the outer world and everyone else out; in a state of ecstasy; the inner spirit of man being under total possession of the Holy Spirit, establishing an immediate connection with the invisible world.

 

[Lord’s Day] The first day of the week; the Christian Sabbath; Sunday; the day of the week that Jesus rose from the dead. A distinction was made between the Sabbath Day and the Lord’s Day.

 

[I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet] Loud, clear, bright and distinct like a trumpet; the clarion call; the trumpet was used for calling assemblies together, for going to battle, summoning to religious feasts, etc.

 

[I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last]

 

[What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia]

 

 

John was told to record on paper the visions God showed him. Journaling what the Lord shows you and speaks to you is very important. If you do not write things down, you may forget important details.

 

Habakkuk 2:2-3 says:

 

2 Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.

3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not delay.”

 

The seven churches are: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. These seven churches were in geographical existence in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) during that time.

 

These seven churches represent churches and groups of Christians today. The messages given to each church applies to churches and groups of Christians.

 

Seven is the number of rest, totality, fullness and perfection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 42

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:12

 

 

Revelation 1:12  Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven Golden Lampstands.

 

The Lampstand (also called the Golden Candlestick) is the seven-branched Menorah.

 

In verse 20, Jesus explains that the seven Lampstands are the seven churches, which are:

 

1.      Ephesus

2.      Smyrna

3.      Pergamos

4.      Thyatira

5.      Sardis

6.      Philadelphia

7.      Laodicea

 

 

The symbolism of the Lampstand with seven stems represents:

 

1.      The seven Spirits of God (which is interpreted two ways: 1) the characteristics of the Holy Spirit and 2) Seven actual Spirit Beings).

 

2.      The Lord Jesus Christ as the Light of the world (John 8:12; 9:5)

 

3.      The New Testament Church, both local and universal (Matthew 5:14-16 and Revelation 1:12, 20)

 

In Keven J. Connor’s book entitled The Tabernacle of Moses, City Bible Publishing, p. 41-46, he brings out some good points.

 

The Golden Candlestick did not have candles that burned. Rather, it was a Lampstand filled with oil and wicks that were trimmed daily. Candles burn by self-consumption, while lamps burn by the continual supply of the Oil of the Holy Spirit.

 

The chief purpose of the Lampstand was to give light and to illumine all that was in the Sanctuary.

 

Jesus is the light of the world and He has called us to let our light shine before men (Matthew 5:16).

 

The Lampstand was made out of pure gold. Gold symbolizes the Divinity of Christ. The gold of the Candlestick speaks to us of Deity and Divine nature as first seen in Christ, and second in the Church. It is in the Church that the Divine nature of Jesus will be revealed.

 

Gold is put through a refining process and impurities are removed. After the gold is brought to this point, it can be fashioned in the hands of the goldsmith. This process is typical of that which God works in His Church. God, by His Spirit, purifies and sanctifies the Church.

 

The Golden Candlestick was fashioned out of one piece of gold. It had a central shaft from which proceeded six branches – three on either side of the main shaft. This speaks to us that Jesus is the Vine (central shaft) and we are the branches (John 15).

 

The Lampstand burned continually. The flames never went out. In the same way, God wants us as individuals, and His Church, to burn continually for Him and to let our light shine.

 

The Candlestick had three types of ornamentation:

 

1.      Knops (or buds)

2.      Flowers

3.      Almond Bowls

 

The knop, or round unopened bud is a type of the Father God who is the source and beginning of everything.

 

The central flower is a type of the Son of God who was crushed as a flower emitting a sweet-smelling savor.

 

The almond bowl is a type of the Holy Spirit who proceeds from the Father and produces fruitfulness in the people of God.

 

In Walter L. Wilson’s book entitled A Dictionary of Bible Types, Hendrickson Publishers, he says the following regarding the Candlestick:

 

The Candlestick is a type of the Holy Spirit illuminating all the things of God. The pure gold represents the purity of the Spirit and of His Word. The seven branches or stems represent the fullness and completeness of the revelation of the Spirit. The bowls represent the great provision of the Spirit. The flowers represent the beauty of the Spirit.

 

The Candlestick also represents God’s people (Revelation 1:12,20). In Revelation 1:20 we find a type of the church as she gives light on the Scriptures and reveals Christ by her ministries.

 

Numbers involved in the Lampstand:

 

One piece of gold — unity, oneness, one accord, one Body of Christ

Three knops — the Godhead; Father, Son and Holy Spirit

 

Seven Lamps — Fullness, completion, totality and perfection. The Seven Spirits of God in Isaiah 11:1-2; Revelation 1:4, 3:1, 4:5. Seven horns (authority, power, anointing) and seven eyes (manifold wisdom of God, Omniscience) in Revelation 5:6. Six days of creation culminating with the Sabbath. Seven doctrines of Christ in Hebrews 6:1-2. Seven Churches in Revelation 2-3.

 

Nine Ornaments — In each of the six branches there were three bowls, three knops and three flowers. Each branch had nine ornaments in all. The number 9 is the number of the Holy Spirit. Nine fruits of the Spirit (Galations 5:22-24). Nine gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12). Nine graces of the Spirit (2 Peter 1:5-7).

 

Twelve Ornaments — On the main shaft, there were four sets of three knops, three bowls and three flowers, totaling twelve ornaments. The number twelve speaks of Apostolic Fullness and Government.

 

Sixty-Six — When the knops, bowls and flowers on the branches and shaft are totaled, it adds up to sixty-six ornaments. Sixty-six speaks of the 66 books of the Canon (Bible).

 

The Canon is the sixty-six books of the bible recognized as God-Breathed and written under Divine inspiration. Several very stringent guidelines and standards were put into place to determine, out of thousands of manuscripts dating back to the Old Testament and New Testament era, which ones were God-Breathed. Only sixty-six of the writings met the strict criteria and were included in the Canon, or known today as the Holy Bible.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 43

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:13-15

 

 

Revelation 1:13-15

13 And in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band.

14 His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire;

15 His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters.

 

[Seven Lampstands] The seven lampstands are the seven churches, according to verse 20. These churches include:

 

1.        Ephesus

2.        Smyrna

3.        Pergamos

4.        Thyatira

5.        Sardis

6.        Philadelphia

7.        Laodicea

 

These churches were in geographical existence in John’s day and located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Each of these churches was located along a major highway.

 

[Son of Man] The Son of Man is another name for Jesus Christ. There are multiple references for this:

 

Matt 8:20; 9:6; 10:23; 11:19; 12:8,32,40; 13:37,41; 16:13,27-28; 17:9,12,22; 18:11; 19:28; 20:18,28; 24:27,30,37,39,44; 25:13,31; 26:2,24,45,64. Mark 2:10,28; 8:31,38; 9:9; 12:31; 10:33,45; 13:26,34; 14:21,41,62. Luke 5:24; 6:5; 7:34; 9:22,26,44,56,58; 11:30; 12:8,10,40; 17:22,24,26,30; 18:8,31; 19:10; 21:27,36; 22:22,48,69; 24:7. John 1:51; 3:13-14; 5:27; 6:27,53,62; 8:28; 12:23,34; 13:31. Acts 7:56. Rev 1:13; 14:14. Daniel 7:13-14.

 

Daniel 7:13-14 is a cross reference to Revelation 1:13. This was Daniel’s vision of the Son of Man:

 

13 I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of Man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought Him near before Him.

14 And there was given Him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve Him: His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

 

[Clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band] This is a description of a Priest-King. The garment is a long robe like the priest wears. The sash around His chest is regal. Jesus is our Great High Priest who ever lives to make intercession for us (Hebrews 7:25). Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16, Revelation 17:14, 1 Timothy 6:15).

 

Daniel 10:5-6 is a cross reference to Revelation 1:13 (and also verses 14-15).

 

5 I lifted my eyes and looked, and behold, a certain man clothed in linen, whose waist was girded with gold of Uphaz! 

6 His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightning, his eyes like torches of fire, his arms and feet like burnished bronze in color, and the sound of his words like the voice of a multitude.

 

[His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow] This verse corresponds to Daniel 7:9 which says, “I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, its wheels a burning fire.”

 

The white hair is an emblem of Jesus’ antiquity. Also, it’s His glory. The whiteness of His head and hair proceeded from the rays of bright light and glory emanating from Him.

 

[His eyes like a flame of fire] Jesus’ eyes are penetrating. When He looks at you, it’s a look where you know that He knows every secret and everything about you. There is nothing you can hide from Him. You feel completely exposed. Yet He loves and accepts you just the way you are.

 

In 2000 I had a dream where I saw Jesus and His eyes are what stood out the most. I could literally feel the weight of His stare. As He looked at me, I literally felt heat penetrating holes in my heart (but no pain), as if there were invisible laser beams coming from Jesus’ eyes. The fire also speaks of the Lord being a refining fire. He purges sin and all impurities from our lives through the refining process.

 

In Daniel 10:6, it is said of the man who appeared to the prophet on the banks of the river Hiddekel, that his eyes were “as lamps of fire.”

 

[His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace] This is an emblem of stability and permanence, as brass being the most durable of all metallic compounds. Brass is the color of amber. In Ezekiel 1:26-28, amber is associated with the Glory of God.

 

 

 

 

Ezekiel 1:26-28

26 And above the firmament over their heads was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like a sapphire stone; on the likeness of the throne was a likeness with the appearance of a man high above it.

27 Also from the appearance of His waist and upward I saw, as it were, the color of amber with the appearance of fire all around within it; and from the appearance of His waist and downward I saw, as it were, the appearance of fire with brightness all around.

28 Like the appearance of a rainbow in a cloud on a rainy day, so was the appearance of the brightness all around it. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord.

 

[His voice as the sound of many waters.] The same description is found in Ezekiel 43:2: The glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east; and his voice was like the noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.

 

Daniel 10:6 says that the voice of His words is like the voice of a multitude.

 

His voice is loud and majestic.

 

Jesus speaks through His Church (Body of Christ). I’ve been in a church service where there were 2000 people present, and the whole church was praying out loud in small groups of 3 or 4 people. It sounded like the rushing of many waters.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 44

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:16

 

 

Revelation 1:16 He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength.

 

[Right hand] The hand of strength, protection, honor, pronouncing the blessing

 

[Seven stars] Seven pastors or bishops of the seven churches

 

[Sharp two-edged sword] The Word of God. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

 

The Word of God is termed the sword of the Spirit in Ephesians 6:17. This verse says, “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.”

 

The Barnes’ Notes Commentary says “the two edges of the sword were designed to cut both ways; and such a sword is a striking emblem of the penetrating power of truth, or of words that proceed from the mouth; and this is designed undoubtedly to be the representation here – that there was some symbol which showed that his words, or his truth, had the power of cutting deep, or penetrating the soul.”

 

 

 

In Revelation 1:16, it says that the sword of the Spirit (or the Word of God) proceeded from Jesus’ mouth. He spoke the Word and it produced substance.

 

God has made us speaking spirits. When we speak what the Word says, we will see more answers to prayer. The Lord wants us to come into agreement with what His Word says and speak that only. Don’t speak the problem, or doubt and unbelief. Find Scriptures that pertain to your situation and confess that. The Word says that we will have what we say. Speak what you would like to see happen and watch God move in your situation.

 

2 Corinthians 4:13 says, “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak.”

 

[His countenance] Jesus’ face

 

[The sun shining in its strength] Full sun as on a clear summer day with no clouds. This is talking about the majesty and glory of God shining from His countenance.

 

When Moses had spent time with God on Mt. Sinai, when he came down from the mountain his face was so bright that he had to wear a veil when speaking to the Israelites (Exodus 34:32-35).

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 45

Seven Churches – Revelation Chapter 1:17-20

 

 

Revelation 1:17-20

17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.

18 I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.

19 Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.

20 The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.

 

[I fell at His feet as dead] The appearance of the glory of the Lord had the same effect on Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:28), and when Gabriel appeared to Daniel (Daniel 8:17). Paul was struck to the ground in a similar way when he saw Christ in His glory (Acts 9:4).

 

The splendor and majesty of the Lord was more than John’s mortal body could withstand, and he fell down deprived of his senses and consciousness. John was overwhelmed with the suddenness of the vision.

 

[He laid His right hand on me] The touch of Jesus’ hand imparted strength to John to behold the vision.

 

[Do not be afraid] Jesus was giving John reassurance that all was well. Others in the Old and New Testaments who saw a supernatural appearance of the Lord or of an angel were also told to fear not.

 

The Bible Exposition Commentary says:

 

We need not fear life, because He is "The Living One." We need not fear death, because He died and is alive, having conquered death. And we need not fear eternity because He holds the keys of hades (the world of the dead) and of death. The One with the keys is the One who has authority.

 

[I am the First and the Last] Jesus is eternal. The Barnes’ Notes Commentary says: “I always live – have lived through all the past, and will live through all which is to come – and therefore I can accomplish all my promises, and execute all my purposes."

 

[I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.] This is referring to Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. The Adam Clarke’s Commentary says:

 

He (John) now saw that he was in the presence of that Savior whom more than half a century before he had so tenderly loved when in the flesh, and whom, though now long absent, he had faithfully served, and for whose cause he was now in this lonely island. His faith in his resurrection had not been a delusion; he saw the very Redeemer before him who had once been laid in the tomb.

 

Because Jesus lives, we who are in Christ shall live also.

 

John 11:25-26 says, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

 

[Amen] This word is used as a strong affirmation, meaning “truly” or “certainly so”. This expression was used by Jesus often when He wished to give emphasis or to express anything strongly.

 

[I have the keys of Hades and of Death] The key here signifies the power and authority over life, death, and the grave.

 

When Jesus died, He went to hell for you and for me. Jesus disarmed the principalities and powers, making a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in the Cross (Colossians 2:15). The One who possesses the keys is the One in authority.

 

[Write the things which you have seen] Write a record of what he has already experienced up till the Vision

 

[Write the things which are] Write Revelation 2-3, which are the messages to the seven churches

 

[Write the things which will take place after this] Write the rest of the Vision which is recorded in Revelation 4-22

 

Verse 20 – Jesus defines that the seven stars are the seven pastors or bishops of the seven churches. He also defines that the seven Lampstands represent the seven churches in Asia Minor (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea).

 

Jesus’ right hand denotes strength, protection, honor and blessing.

 

Are you saved? Have you accepted Jesus Christ into your heart as your personal Savior? If you would like to be born again, just pray this prayer:

 

 

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I invite You to come into my heart. Be my Lord and Savior. I believe that You died and rose again. Wash away all of my sins by Your Blood. Holy Spirit, you are welcome to come and dwell in me. Help me to live for you.

 

In Jesus' Name, Amen

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 46

Seven Churches – Ephesus: The Loveless Church (A)

 

 

Historical City

Ephesus had been the home of the Apostle John for several years before he was exiled to the Isle of Patmos.  John cared for Mary, the mother of Jesus, until her death. According to author Rick Renner of the book entitled A Light in Darkness, there is historical evidence that Mary lived in Ephesus. The most significant evidence of Mary’s residency is that a church was named in her honor (the first church to be named in her honor).  Churches were built in honor of local saints at that time, so it’s reasonable to conclude that Mary was a local resident.

 

Author Rick Renner also states that John lived in a Christian community right on the outskirts of Ephesus at a location known as Mount Ayasuluk. This small Christian community was situated high above the temple of Artemis, just beyond the notice of Roman authorities.

 

A higher level of toleration was given to people living outside the city limits because their refusal to conform to local standards was not as obvious. The authorities were more concerned about in-town citizens who violated Roman law or the Emperor’s edicts for all to worship him. There was more freedom for believers to gather together and for spreading the Gospel.

 

Rick Renner goes on to say that the most important reason John lived on the outskirts of the city is because he had oversight of all the churches in Asia Minor. He met with leaders who traveled to see him. If they had met within the city limits of Ephesus, the situation would have been more dangerous and a higher chance of being arrested.

 

Ephesus was an important seaport on the Mediterranean, handling more trade than any other city in Asia Minor. People of many nationalities were drawn to this center of commerce where wealth flowed in abundance.

 

It was at Ephesus that Paul asked the brethren, “Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?” and they answered, “We have not as much heard whether there be any Holy Ghost” (Acts 19:2). Paul laid hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit, and he stayed in the city two years. All they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks (Acts 19:10).

 

Paul’s preaching impacted the commerce of Ephesus since one of the major businesses was the making of silver shrines in honor of Diana. Ephesus boasted of a temple larger than the Greek Parthenon in honor of this many-breasted goddess. Worship of Diana was the worship of sexual lasciviousness.

 

As the city began to feel the impact of the Gospel, Demetrius, a silversmith, called the craftsmen together (Acts 19:25-27). The Gospel was affecting their income because they were getting less business. The town clerk succeeded in quieting the uproar and dismissed the assembly. The opposition to Paul was only the beginning of persecution for the Ephesian church.

 

Today the city of Ephesus lies in ruins.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 47

Seven Churches – Ephesus: The Loveless Church (B)

 

 

Salutation — Revelation 2:1

 

To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, “These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands.”

 

The angel is the presiding bishop of the church. Timothy was the pastor of the congregation at Ephesus.

 

The seven stars are the seven pastors of the seven churches. The seven golden lampstands (seven-branched Menorah’s) represent the seven churches.

 

God’s right hand represents strength, safety, protection, honor and blessing. In other words, Jesus was holding the seven pastors in the palm of His hand.  He was upholding them with His righteous right hand.

 

 

Assets — Revelation 2:2-3

 

I know your works — your deeds and actions

 

Your labor — industry, activity

 

Your patience — endurance, stability

 

And that you cannot bear those who are evil — holiness expressed in hatred of evil

 

And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars — spiritual discernment

 

You have persevered and have patience — you have stuck in there and have forbearance

 

And have labored for My Name's sake — not labored for themselves, but for the Lord.  

 

And have not become weary — have waited on God, Isaiah 40:31

 

You hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate — a false sect which had also infiltrated the church of Pergamos

 

 

Liabilities – Revelation 2:4-5

 

Nevertheless, I have this against you, that you have left your first love — hearts have grown cold.  Lack of love for Jesus and for one another.

 

Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent — Get back to the basics or your light (revelation) will be removed.

 

This verse could possibly be interpreted as the Lord removing the church unless they return to their first love.

 

 

The church of Ephesus was busy doing the work of the ministry. They started out right (reaching out to people because of the love of God in their hearts). However, they got off track and their motivations for doing things changed.

 

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 that if we speak in tongues, prophesy, have all knowledge, give to the poor, have faith to move mountains, give our body to be martyred ... yet have not love, it profits us nothing.

 

Our personal relationship with God is our first priority. It’s from that intimacy with the Lord that we reach out in ministry. 

 

 

Promise — Revelation 2:7

 

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 48

Seven Churches – Smyrna: The Persecuted Church

 

 

Historical City

The name Smyrna means “myrrh”. Myrrh has a sweet-smelling aroma, but is very bitter. Myrrh prophetically speaks of suffering.

 

Smyrna was 40 miles north of Ephesus.

 

Smyrna was called the “Crown of Asia” because of its beauty. This city was well planned and laid out, having beautiful temples, noble buildings and broad, paved streets. Beautiful mountains began at the harbor and circled the entire city. 

 

Its natural harbor made the city an important commercial center. Smyrna enjoyed the trade of the rich. Because of its loyalty to Rome, it obtained permission to build a large and splendid temple for cult emperor worship.

 

This is the city which is noted as having the “Synagogue of Satan”. These were those who said they were Jews, but were not. They professed to be worshipers of God, but rather were regarded as being in the service of Satan.

 

Smyrna was the home of the Roman Forum. Today the city is known as Izmir in Anatolia.

 

Salutation

“To the angel of the church in Smyrna write … “

 

The angel is the pastor. Polycarp was the leader of the church of Smyrna. He was a pupil of the Apostle John. In 155 A.D. Polycarp was arrested and brought to the public arena. There he was given a choice. He refused to worship Caesar and was burned at the stake. When urged to recant he said, “four-score years and six I have served the Lord, and He never wronged me; how then can I blaspheme my King and Savior?” (from Fausset's Bible Dictionary)

 

There were many in Smyrna who would not go to the temple of Caesar, burn incense or worship him. Extensive persecution was the result. When John’s letter arrived in Smyrna, Polycarp read the message from God to the church: “Fear none of these things which thou shalt suffer – prison – tribulation – be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).

 

The sword of persecution was wielded mightily against the Church for two hundred years. The devil sought to destroy the Church, but it only caused a purging and an increase in the number of those willing to be faithful unto death.

 

“These things says the First and the Last” – Jesus is Alpha and Omega, He is Sovereign and in control, He is eternal, He knows the beginning from the end.

 

“Who was dead and came to life” – the One who conquered death has conquered it also for you.

 

 

Assets

“I know your works …”

 

“Tribulation” – great trouble, severe trial

 

“Poverty” – poor in material goods but rich in eternal things

 

“I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan” – pretenders cleansed out. 2 Timoty 2:19 “The Lord knoweth them that are His.”

 

 

Encouragement

“Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days” – ten days means a short period of time.

 

 

Liabilities

None (Jesus had nothing negative to say to the churches of Smyrna and Philadelphia)

 

 

Promise

Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Also see James 1:12.

 

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 49

Seven Churches – Pergamos: The Compromising Church

 

 

Historical City

Pergamos was the chief city of Mysia, near the Caicus River in northwest Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The city was 15 miles from the Aegean Sea.

 

Great buildings were erected. The city was noted for its vast library, containing 200,000 volumes. The Egyptians, concerned with this library which rivaled their own at Alexandria, refused to ship papyrus to Pergamos. As a result, a new form of writing material, Pergamena charta, or parchment, was developed.

 

In the days of Roman dominance throughout Asia Minor, Pergamos became the capital of the Roman province of Asia.

 

Pergamos was a government center with splendid temples built to Athena, Zeus and Asklepios (the Greco-Roman god of medicine and healing).

 

In the Book of Revelation, John spoke of Pergamos as the place “where Satan’s throne is” (Revelation 2:13). This could be a reference to the cult of emperor worship, because Pergamos was a center where this form of loyalty was pledged to the emperor of the Roman Empire (Nelson’s Bible Dictionary). Some suppose “Satan’s throne” to be in reference to the worship of Aesculapius, from the serpent being his characteristic emblem (Smith’s Bible Dictionary).

 

 

 

 

Pergamos was noted for its wickedness, insomuch that our Lord says “Satan’s seat” was there. The church of Pergamos was rebuked for swerving from the truth and embracing the doctrines of Balaam and the Nicolaitans. Antipas, Christ’s “faithful martyr”, here sealed his testimony with his blood (Easton’s Bible Dictionary).

 

The modern name of the city is Bergama.

 

 

Salutation

Revelation 2:12: “These things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword”

 

The sword is the Word of God spoken out of the mouth of Jesus Christ (see Revelation 1:16). We are to have a two-edged sword in our hand according to Psalm 149:6. “Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand.” The sword brings either mercy or judgment.

 

 

Assets

“I know your works” — your deeds

 

“And where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is” — living in a place that is the center of cult worship and much Satanic activity

 

“You hold fast to My Name” — did not deny the Lord

 

“And did not deny My faith” — even when Antipas was martyred they did not deny their faith

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

“There are those who hold to the doctrine of Balaam” — Numbers 22:5-7; 31:16; 25:1-2.

1.    Associating with the evil one

2.    Eating meat sacrificed to idols

3.    Committing fornication

 

“You also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which I hate.”

1.    Licentiousness

2.    Unrestrained indulgence

3.    Abusing the grace of God

 

“Repent or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth” — turn quickly to God to avoid certain judgment. You don’t ever want the Lord fighting against you.

 

 

Promises

“I will give some of the hidden manna to eat” — spiritual food, rhema, revelation in the Word

 

“I will give him a white stone” — a stone of acquittal

 

“On the stone a new name written” — a new name denotes a change of character (such as Jacob to Israel, and Saul to Paul).

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 50

Seven Churches – Thyatira: The Corrupt Church

 

 

Thyatira was located on the borders of Lydia and Mysia in Asia Minor (Turkey). Its modern name is Akhissar (meaning “white castle”).

 

Lydia, the seller of purple (cloth dyed this color), was from this city (Acts 16:14). She was the Apostle Paul’s first convert in Europe.

 

Although never a large city, Thyatira was a thriving manufacturing and commercial center during New Testament times. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of many trade guilds and unions here. Membership in these trade guilds, necessary for financial and social success, often involved pagan customs and practices such as cult worship, union feasts using food sacrificed to idols, and loose sexual morality (Nelson’s Bible Dictionary).

 

There was a certain woman named “Jezebel” who taught and beguiled Christians to conform to pagan practices and to commit sexual immorality. She called herself a prophetess. Fausset’s Bible Dictionary says that it could have been a collection of prophets (the feminine in Hebrew idiom expressing a multitude).

 

Whether “Jezebel” was one woman, or a company of so-called prophets, Jezebel was closely attached to and influential over the church of Thyatira and its presiding bishop, just as Jezebel in the Old Testament had control over her weak husband Ahab.

 

The presiding bishop should have exercised his authority, as Jezebel seduced many into the practices of Balaam and the Nicolaitans.

 

 

Balaam worship (Numbers 22:5-7; 31:16; 25:1-2) included:

 

1.    Associating with the evil one

2.    Eating meat sacrificed to idols

3.    Committing fornication

 

 

The doctrine of the Nicolaitans included:

1.    Licentiousness

2.    Unrestrained indulgence

3.    Abusing the grace of God

 

 

Salutation

Son of God — divine authority

 

Who has eyes like a flame of fire — intense love. His eyes also purge the soul.

 

His feet are like fine brass — strong and immovable

 

 

Assets

I know your works — your deeds

 

1.      Love — love for all, beginning with love for God

2.      Service — showing faith by works, James 2:18

3.      Faith — faith in God to do what He has promised

4.      Patience — endurance

 

As for your works, the last are more than the first.

 

 

Liabilities

You allow that woman Jezebel

 

1.      Which calls herself a prophetess

2.      To teach

3.      To seduce My servants into sexual immorality

4.      Gave her time to repent of sexual immorality, but she did not repent

 

Sexual immorality also applies to pornography and racy pictures. Behind pornography is the spirit of Jezebel. This spirit seduces men (and women, but mostly men), and even men of God, into sexual immorality.

 

Pornography is a form of adultery and fornication, because Jesus said that if a man lustfully looks on a woman, he has committed adultery in his heart. Pornography also leads to acting out behaviors. Pornography hurts marriages.

 

Pornography opens the door to demons in your life. The only way to get free from this spirit is by prayer, intercession, fasting, and submitting to accountability (such as a Christian men’s group or a group that focuses on getting set free from addictions).

 

The result of being under Jezebel’s seducing control is great tribulation for her and them that commit adultery with her. Idolatry is spiritual adultery.

 

Death to her children — all she produces will die.

 

All the churches shall know that I am He who searches the reins and the hearts.

 

Psalms 7:9 Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins.

 

Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

 

I will give to each one of you according to your works.

 

In John Paul Jackson’s book entitled Unmasking the Jezebel Spirit he goes into a detailed description of the characteristics of the Jezebel spirit. It’s a spirit that can work through both men and women. John Paul Jackson goes into great detail about how this spirit works in churches.

 

 

Promises

Dominion and authority. Overcomers shall have equal power and authority with Jesus.

 

And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations. He shall rule them with a rod of iron. They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels — as I also have received from My Father.

 

And I will give him the morning star.

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 51

Seven Churches – Sardis: The Dead Church

 

 

Sardis was the capital of Lydia in Western Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). It was 50-60 miles northeast of Smyrna. Sardis stood on the river Pactolus, at the foot of Mount Tmolus.

 

Sardis was the capital of the ancient Lydian Empire and the residence of kings. It passed to the Persians, Greeks and Romans during their dominance of the ancient world. In AD 17, an earthquake desolated Sardis and eleven other cities in Asia Minor. The city was rebuilt, although it did not thrive like it did prior to its destruction. 

 

The church of Sardis had a reputation of being alive, although it was spiritually dead. The church of Sardis was affected by the complacency of the city and its reliance on its past glory.

 

Sardis was like whitewashed tombs which appear outwardly beautiful, but are full of dead men’s bones (Matthew 23:27). Its thriving, healthy appearance masked an inner decay (Nelson’s Bible Dictionary).

 

 

Salutation

“These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God” – xref Isaiah 11:2-4

 

1.    Spirit of the Lord

2.    Spirit of wisdom

3.    Spirit of understanding

4.    Spirit of counsel

5.    Spirit of might

6.    Spirit of knowledge

7.    Spirit of the fear of the Lord

 

The seven Spirits of God are the seven-fold character of the Lord. (Kat Kerr, who has been caught up to Heaven on many occasions, says that the seven Spirits of God are seven actual literal Spirit Beings who minister before God’s Throne.)

 

“And the seven stars” – the seven stars are the seven angels (bishops) of the seven churches, according to Revelation 1:20.

 

 

Assets

I know thy works …

 

1.      Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent.

2.      You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.

 

 

Liabilities

 

1.      I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead – physically alive, but spiritually dead (a church, nation, individual)

2.      Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.

3.      Hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.

 

Promises

“He that overcomes …”

 

1.      Shall be clothed in white garments (Revelation 19:8 – robe of righteousness).

 

2.      I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life.  Those whose names are written in the Book of Life will have access forever to the tree of life in Revelation 22:2

 

3.      I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels (Matthew 10:32)

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 52

Seven Churches – Philadelphia: The Faithful Church

 

 

The name “Philadelphia” means love of the brethren or brotherly love.

 

Philadelphia was a city of the province of Lydia in Western Asia Minor (modern day Turkey). Philadelphia was about 28 miles southeast of Sardis.

 

Philadelphia was a center of the wine industry. Volcanic activity contributed richness to the soil for growing vines.

 

Philadelphia has been nearly destroyed several times by earthquakes. The promise, “him that overcometh I will make a pillar,” i.e. immovably firm, stands in contrast to Philadelphia often shaken by earthquakes. A portion of a stone church wall topped with arches of brick remains; the building must have been magnificent, and dates from Theodosius. This church had but “little strength,” i.e. was small in numbers and poor in resources, of small account in men's eyes. The cost of repairing the often shaken city taxed heavily the citizens (from Fausset's Bible Dictionary).

 

Still a city of considerable size, Philadelphia is known today by the Turks as Allah-shehr “the city of God” (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary).

 

 

Revelation 3:7-13

 

 

 

Salutation

 

“These things says …

 

1.    He who is holy (pure, undefiled, set apart)

 

2.    He that is true (faithful)

 

3.    He that has the Key of David (Amos 9:11 and Acts 15:16 refer to the Tabernacle of David being restored).  The Key of David is praise and worship, kingly authority, prophet and priestly authority, governmental authority.

 

4.    He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens (cross reference is Isaiah 22:22) – has access to go through doors and authority to lock and unlock doors

 

 

Assets

 

“I know thy works …

 

1.      See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it (“A great and effectual door is opened unto me” – 1 Corinthians 16:9)

 

2.      For you have a little strength, and have kept My word (small in number, not rich, not strong and powerful, yet faithful to the Word)

 

3.      And have not denied My Name (have not denied the faith, have not denied that His Name is Lord)

 

4.      Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie — indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

 

5.      Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth.

 

6.      Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.

 

 

Liabilities

 

None (Jesus had nothing negative to say to the churches of Philadelphia and Smyrna)

 

 

Promises

 

“He who overcomes …

 

1.      I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more (a strong support in God’s house, steadfast and unmovable); see Galations 2:9 – James, Peter and John were regarded as pillars.

 

2.      “I will write upon him …

 

a.    The Name of My God (those who belong to Him bear His Name, Revelation 14:1, Acts 9:15)

 

b.    The name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God (Revelation 21:2 and Galatians 4:26)

 

c.    My new name (bridal relationship with Jesus, Revelation 2:17)

 

 

 

 

Seven Churches

 

Chapter 53

Seven Churches – Laodicea: The Lukewarm Church

 

 

Revelation 3:14-22

 

In writing to the seven churches, the Holy Spirit through the Apostle John, drew spiritual applications from the natural surroundings in which the people found themselves.

 

To the Laodiceans it was written: “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth” (Verse 16).

 

Laodicea, directly east of Patmos from which John wrote, was in the Lycus Valley. Its water was obtained from the hot springs nearby. Tumbling over rocks and cliffs, it was lukewarm by the time it reached the city.

 

Other references to the city’s status are given:

 

1.      It was a banking center – “Thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods … I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire (Verses 17 and 18).

 

2.      Sheep grown in the valley produced luscious wool, making Laodicea a clothing center – they were told to buy “white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed” (Verse 18).

 

3.      The city had a medical school and made eye salve – Jesus said “Anoint thine eyes with eye salve, that thou mayest see” (Verse 18).

 

Material prosperity and affluence characterized this city, but they were warned that spiritually they were “wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked” (Verse 17).

 

Perhaps even worse than these characteristics is the attitude which says, “I have need of nothing” (Verse 17). God can meet the need of the miserable, poor, blind and naked, but there is no hope for the individual, the city, or the nation that says they have no need of God.

 

God’s mercy is indeed longsuffering for He issues to this church an invitation of fellowship that He does not include in any of the other letters: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me” (Verse 20).

 

 

Salutation

 

“These things saith … “

1.      “The Amen” - Once in the New Testament “Amen” is a title of Christ, Revelation 3:14, because through Him the purposes of God are established, 2 Corinthians 1:20 (from Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words).

 

2.      “The faithful and true witness” – this is an amplification of the word “Amen”, as one of the definitions of “Amen” is:  “God is faithful”. 

 

3.      “The beginning of the creation of God” – John 1:1-2

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

 

There is nothing to commend them for.

 

 

Liabilities

 

“I know thy works … “

1.      “Thou art neither cold nor hot” – be either for Me or against Me, but not apathetic.

 

2.      “Thou art lukewarm” – implies that they were once hot and then cooled off.

 

3.      “Thou sayest, I am rich and increased with goods” – spiritual pride. Material prosperity had become idolatry to them.  It is possible to be rich and yet not make money an idol, or to put your trust in riches. It all depends on the condition of the heart.

 

4.      “And have need of nothing” – this is the epitome of the independent or prideful spirit.

 

5.      “Knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked” – they didn’t know their own position before God.

 

6.      “I counsel thee to buy of me” – I advise you to purchase from me these things:

a.      “gold tried in the fire” – deity, purity, divine nature

b.      “that thou mayest be rich” – spiritually rich

c.       “white raiment” – marriage garment

d.      “that thou mayest be clothed” – fit to come into my presence

e.      “eye salve” – revelation of God, insight into the Word of God

f.        “that thou mayest see” – see God for who and what He is and then see your spiritual condition

 

7.      “Be zealous … and repent” – chastening is for sons and daughters because of love. Proverbs 3:11-12, Hebrews 12:5-11

 

 

Promise

 

“To him that overcomes” …

 

Will I grant to sit with me in my throne, as I also overcame and have sat down in My Father’s Throne” — to him who overcomes he shall sit where I sit, having the same power and authority that I have.

 

The highest promise given to the seven churches is for the ones that can overcome the apostasy of the last days.