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The Revelation of Jesus Christ Pictorial Guide Through Revelation Slide 2 What is Prophesy? A prophet is defined as one who speaks on behalf of another A prophesy is the message that the prophet conveys Bible prophesy is Gods Infallible message to man, Spoken or written by prophets Chosen by God Slide 3 What is Prophesy? Prophesy is not just about end time things Prophecy includes any aspect of Gods revelation to man Slide 4 What is Prophesy? False religions and superstitions are built on clever legend Christianity is built on Gods revelation of himself to us! 12 Peter 1:19 we have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20, knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation (origin). 21, for the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (moved, carried along as a feather in the wind) Slide 5 What is the purpose of a prophesy? To provide a look into the future? To show mankind how things will end? To scare mankind into religion? To show mankind that destiny is unalterable? Slide 6 What is the purpose of a prophesy? God has a purpose in providing mankind insights into the future Prophesy isnt meant to just show us the future, but for us to change our course today Changing our course today, doesnt change the worlds future, but it does change ours Prophesy makes us aware that God does exist, that God is aware and that God is sovereign Slide 7 The Right Focus in Revelation CreationConclusion Jesus has been and will continue to be the preeminent focus! Slide 8 What happens when we have the right focus on the right end? We remain ready for Jesus to return at any time Matt 24:42 watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 1 Thess 5:1-5 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Slide 9 What happens when we have the right focus on the right end? We see our responsibility to proclaim the gospel all the time 1 Peter 2:12 having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Some believe that visitation is when God visits the wicked in judgment Others believe it refers to their salvation looking on them in his mercy and bringing them to conversion Slide 10 What happens when we have the right focus on the right end? We rest in the certainty that God will make the world right again Isaiah 65:17 for, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. Revelation 21:1 and I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was not more sea. Revelation 21:4-5 and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there by any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 and he that sat upon the throne said, behold, I make all things new. Slide 11 5 Good Reasons to Study Revelation 1.Revelation is the Word of God 2.Jesus told us to watch for signs of things to come 3.Revelation provides continuity to the rest of the Bible 4.Revelation is meant to change our lives 5.Revelation will heighten our compassion for those who reject God and Christ Slide 12 The Three Main Divisions Part 1: The Church Age Chapters 1-3 Part 2: The Rapture to the 2 nd Coming Chapters 4-19 Part 3: The Millennium and Beyond Chapter 20-22 Slide 13 Why a Period of Tribulation? Slide 14 To bring time to an end Daniel 9:24 seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make and end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. Slide 15 Why a Period of Tribulation? To fulfill Israels prophesies Many prophesies concerning Israel are yet to be fulfilled They were reestablished as a nation again in 1948 (Exek 36-37) Others yet to be fulfilled Rebuilding of the Temple The renewal of the Temple sacrifices Slide 16 Why a Period of Tribulation? To shake man from his false sense of security A stable world leads men to think that they can function as they please, independent of God The Seals, Trumpets, and Vials remind mankind who is in control Slide 17 Why a Period of Tribulation? To force man to choose Christ or Anti-Christ Billions will not be able to live out their normal lifespans because of the tribulation It puts God right in front of them: choose, make that eternal decision The tribulation seems to be a brute force means of getting people to accept Christ, but brutal tactics are required to move men from their complaciency Slide 18 Revelation 1 An unveiling. Apocalypse Slide 19 The Mountain Peaks of Prophesy Original drawing copyrighted by Clarence Larkin 2004 Slide 20 Revelation Notice the purpose of the book? Rev 1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ We cannot divorce Christ from the Prophesy Without Christ there is no prophesy and no future Col 1:17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. Slide 21 Revelation Christ is not incidental in the book, but the primary subject Rev 1-3 Christ is the exalted Priest/King ministering to the churches Rev 4-5 Christ is the glorified Lamb of God, reigning on the throne Rev 6-18 Christ is the judge Rev 19-22 Christ is the conquering King of Kings Slide 22 Revelation Once done with this book, it is not important that we know future events better, but that we know Christ better Slide 23 Revelation Written to the 7 churches in Asia Minor God promises a 3-fold blessing, vs 3 Reading, provoking attention Hearing, provoking thought Doing, provoking action Slide 24 Revelation The Holy Spirit The 7 Spirits (attributes) of the Holy Spirits work Isaiah 11:2 And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, and spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord; Slide 25 Revelation The Holy Spirit The 7 Spirits (attributes) of the Holy Spirits work The spirit of the Lord: the nature of Jesus The spirit of Wisdom: the ability to make right choices The spirit of Understanding: the ability to understand everything The spirit of Counsel: the ability to give sound advice The spirit of Might: the power to do what God wants done The spirit of Knowledge: the ability to know beyond human comprehension The spirit of Fear of the Lord: the ability to respect Gods will Slide 26 Revelation The 3-fold ministries on earth Prophet: faithful witness Jesus was faithful in all things God gave him to do John 17:4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. Priest: first begotten from the dead The highest of those raised from the dead King: Prince of the kinds of the earth The world doesnt understand, Jesus is in charge! Slide 27 Four Pivotal Events of History Slide 28 Nearly 50% of the Bible 66 books cover mans history ~25% of the Bible contains instructions on how God wants us to live ~28% of the Bible is prophesy Some has already been fulfilled! Slide 29 Four Pivotal Events of History 1.Creation Genesis 1:3 and God said, let there be light: and there was light. Here, God brought light, expanse, waters/earth, heavenly bodies, sea life and air fowl, and animal life Genesis 2:7 and the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul Here, God formed and breathed man into existence! Observe Gods creation and consider what this means to you and me Slide 30 Slide 31 Four Pivotal Events of History 2.The Flood After ~1,600 years, Genesis 6:5 and God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually Vs 6, and it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart Vs 7, and the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. The result of the flood Genesis 7:23 and every living substance was destroyed which was upon the face of the ground, both man, and cattle, and the creeping things, and the fowl of the heaven; and they were destroyed from the earth: and Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the ark. Slide 32 Four Pivotal Events of History 2.The Flood Gods promise to Noah (and mankind) Genesis 9:11-15 And I will establish my covenant with you; neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth. Vs 12, And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: 13 I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth. 14 And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud: Vs 15, And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh. Slide 33 Four Pivotal Events of History 3.Christs First Coming The first prophesy concerning Jesus (Adamic Covenant) Genesis 3:15 and I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Jesus understood his purpose, Mark 10:45 for even the Son of man came not be be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. The gospel expresses his purpose 1 Cor 15:3-4 for I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: Slide 34 Four Pivotal Events of History 3.Christs First Coming So what if Christ had never come? What difference did Christs 1 st coming make to our world? Slide 35 Four Pivotal Events of History 4.Christs Second Coming This is the last thing on the world agenda! No other religion offers anything comparable or with a historical connectedness as Christs second coming The time Matt 25:13 watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. The examination Matt 25:31-46 The separation of the sheep from the goats (the nations) The rule Revelation 19:15 and out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron:. Revelation 20:6 . But they shall be priest of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. Slide 36 Four Pivotal Events of History EdenOld TestamentSilent yearsChurch AgeMillennium To Eternity From Eternity Slide 37 Copy 33-48 Slide 38 A Look at Olivet Slide 39 The Olivet Discourse Vs 1-2, Jesus discusses the destruction of the temple Titus destroyed the temple in 70AD The temple fire melted the gold and silver into the seams of the stones Roman soldiers took the building apart stone by stone to get to the precious metals Jesus provides the disciples with a test prophesy, or short-term prophesy These prophesies that they can witness provide a basis of confidence in the long-term prophesies Slide 40 The Olivet Discourse After leaving the temple, they rested on the mount of Olives It is here that they asked the next series of questions When shall these things be? Luke 21:20-24 What is the sign of thy coming? What is the sign of the end of the age (world)? Slide 41 The Olivet Discourse Jesus answer The warning Vs 4, dont be deceived Vs 5, many will claim to the Christ Many will believe these false claims The first seal Vs 11, many false prophets will become popular Many will believe these false claims Slide 42 The Olivet Discourse Jesus answer The warning Vs 6a, there will be wars and rumors of wars The second seal Vs 6b, the response: dont be alarmed, its part of the plan! Slide 43 The Olivet Discourse Jesus answer The chaos, vs 7 Nation shall rise against nation, Kingdom against kingdom Famines and pestilences The third seal: famine The fourth and fifth seals: death and martydom Earthquakes around the world The sixth seal Vs 8, and this is just the beginning! Slide 44 The Olivet Discourse Jesus answer The condition of man, vs 9-14 Described in more detail in Rev 4-19 Vs 9, affliction, death, hated by all nations Daniel, 7:25 and he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. Vs 10, betrayal and hatred Give believers over to authorities Even within the family Slide 45 The Olivet Discourse Jesus answer The condition of man, vs 9-14 Vs 12, sin will be desired of the commitment of love For God and for each other Vs 13, some will be physically delivered through the tribulation Not salvation based on self-effort, but some believers will enter the Millennial Kingdom in their physical bodies Vs 14, the gospel, though hated will be preached to the world Once the last soul has heard, the end comes! Slide 46 The Olivet Discourse Vs 15, represents the half-way point of the tribulation It is known by events occurring in the temple Daniel 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. The anti-Christ will enter the temple to perform the sacrifice, claiming that he himself is God! Slide 47 The Olivet Discourse Vs 16-20, Jesus tells those that see this to flee immediately Dont go and collect gear, go Pregnant women will not find compassion/exemption Women nursing, wont have time to get packed All this signals the beginning of the great tribulation Matt 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. Slide 48 The Olivet Discourse Vs 23-26, there will be an even greater deception and imitators It someone says they are Christ, they lie Even if they perform signs and wonders, they lie Even if other believers are fooled, they lie Even if they say Christ as arrived, they lie Slide 49 The Olivet Discourse Vs 27-28, tells the tribulation believers what to look for They wont have to wonder if Jesus has returned, the world will KNOW he has returned Once Jesus returns there is no more opportunity to get ready Vs 30 then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn Vs 31, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other Slide 50 The Olivet Discourse Vs 34, verily I say unto you, this generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. Some attempt to prove scripture wrong by suggesting that this refers to the generation at the time of Jesus But this refers to the generation that is alive when this tribulation begins Vs 44, therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh Man is to hear and heed the word, now! Slide 51 The Olivet Discourse Tribulation (7 yrs) Christ Reigns 2 nd Coming Millennium 1,000 yrs Marriage Supper of the Lamb Anti-Christ on the scene Church Age Rapture Matt 24:1-3 Matt 24:9-14 Matt 24:15-20 Matt 25:31-46 Matt 24:21-25 Great Tribulation Matt 24:21-25 Great Tribulation Matt 24:7-8 Matt 24:32-36 Matt 24:26-31 Slide 52 Revelation 1:9-20 Slide 53 Johns Glimpse At Jesus Slide 54 Slide 55 The Seven Churches Why introduce the Book of Revelation with an expose of the seven church of Asia? At least two reasons: 1.If John had simply started with Revelation chapter 4, the readers may not have taken his prophesies too seriously 2.John revealed their innermost secrets about their churches. It would have gotten their attention to trust the rest of the letter Slide 56 The Seven Churches Why introduce the Book of Revelation with an expose of the seven church of Asia? Prophesies occurring in the distant future would be preceded by a near-term prophesy, happening in their lifetime Hezekiah was told he would live another 15 years and it was preceded by a near term fulfillment of moving the sun back 10 o Jesus prophesied about the end times of the tribulation in Mark 13, and also provided a short term prophesy that the temple would be leveled, which occurred in AD 70 by Emperor Titus Slide 57 The Seven Churches Four Considerations 1.Practical Purpose These were real historical churches; the conditions described, existed Jesus commends, condemns and corrects each church 2.Plumb Line Purpose Each church is measured and evaluated by Christ We see how Christ will deal with churches today Slide 58 The Seven Churches Four Considerations 1.Promissory Purpose Christ gives 7 promises to overcomes that applies to believers in the church age 2.Prophetic Purpose The things the churches thought were hidden were revealed by John, but only Christ could know! There are fascinating parallels between these 7 churches and the historical periods (eras) of the church in general Slide 59 Ephesus: the Lacking Church Slide 60 Smyrna: The Loyal Church Slide 61 Pergamos: The Lax Church Slide 62 Thyatira: the Loose Church Slide 63 Sardis: The Lifeless Church Slide 64 Philadelphia: The Loving Church Slide 65 Laodicea: The Lukewarm Church Slide 66 Slide 67 Controversy: The Historic Eras Represented in the 7 Churches Slide 68 Church History Foretold Slide 69 The Age of Grace: Church Age Slide 70 Best View to Take Slide 71 Personal View! Slide 72 The Rapture Revelation 4 Slide 73 Tribulation (7 yrs) Christ Reigns Bema Seat Dead in Christ Bodies reunite w/soul Marriage Of the Lamb Martyrs during tribulation Bodies reunited w/soul 2 nd Coming Millennium 1,000 yrs Final Battle Great White Throne Marriage Supper of the Lamb Anti-Christ on the scene Satan Gone! New Jerusalem New Heaven New Earth Rapture: A movement from earth to heaven Satan cast into the pit for 1,000 yrs Unsaved to the Great White Throne Church Age Rapture 2 nd Coming: A movement from heaven to earth Slide 74 The Rapture: The Event!! John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Fathers house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. Jesus Reveals nothing more than that he is coming back. Slide 75 The Rapture: The Event!! 1 Thess 4:13-18 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words. Slide 76 The Rapture: The Event!! Notice in 1 Thess 4:13-18 The Lord himself descends from heaven With a Shout: The Greek term: a military leader coming out to issue a command The voice of the archangel Used to set Gods plans into motion The trump of God Summons to battle or worship Slide 77 The Rapture: The Event!! 1 Cor 15:52-53 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. We will not all die, but we will all be changed It happens in the twinkling of an eye The last call of his church Corruptible puts on incorruption Slide 78 Tribulation (7 yrs) Dead in Christ Bodies reunite w/soul Martyrs during tribulation Bodies reunited w/soul 2 nd Coming Millennium 1,000 yrs Marriage Supper of the Lamb Anti-Christ on the scene Church Age Rapture Pre-TribulationPre-Tribulation Mid-TribulationMid-Tribulation Post-TribulationPost-Tribulation Which-Trib. Slide 79 Pre-Tribulation View Christ comes in fulfillment of His own Promise in Revelation 3:10 I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth This is the prevailing view Slide 80 Which-Trib. Pre-Tribulation View Partial Rapture View Christ comes in fulfillment of His own Promise in Revelation 3:10 But he will only rapture those that look for him, Heb 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. Some Christians will enter the Tribulation but be raptured at another (undetermined) tim Slide 81 Which-Trib. Mid-Tribulation Rapture Christ raptures his church in the middle of the Tribulation, with the rapture of the two witnesses in Revelation 11 A problem with this view is, the two witnesses that come to witness to Jews in Jerusalem, are not members of the church People who hold this view ignore Revelation 4:1-3 where John (a member of the church), is taken up to heaven! Slide 82 Which-Trib. Post-Tribulation Rapture Christ will come at the end of the Tribulation, This means the church will go through the Tribulation and be raptured just before Christs 2 nd coming This leaves no time to Visit the Fathers house The Bema Seat Judgment The Marriage of the Lamb Proponents of this view forget the Christ promised keep believers from that time of trial (Rev 3:10) Slide 83 Which-Trib. Pre-Tribulation Rapture seems the most reasonable 1.The Lord Himself promised to deliver us Rev 3:10 2.Only the pre-Trib view preserves imminency 3.The church is to be delivered from the wrath to come, 1 Thess 1:9-10 4.Christians are not appointed to wrath 1 Thess 5:9; 1 Thess 4; 1 Thess 5:1-2 5.The church is noticeably absent in Revelation 4-18 Slide 84 Rapture: Old Testament Types of the Rapture Slide 85 Types of the Rapture Noah and the flood Before the floods came, Noah and his family were safe inside the ark While destruction occurred on the earth, Noah rose above the destruction Slide 86 Types of the Rapture Lot and the destruction of Sodom/Gomorrah Lot and his family were warned to leave Sodom and Gomorrah Before the destruction could come, Lot and his family were removed Slide 87 The Bema Seat Slide 88 Bema (judgment seat) in secular usage had four meanings: 1.Ones stride, or manner of walking (which reveals character). 2.A platform for a public official (cf. Acts 25:6, 10, 17). 3.A rewards platform in sporting contests. Because of this meaning, some claim the bema is only a place for rewardsnot judgment. But in secular legal contexts it also denotes judgment 4.The place where litigants stood for trial. Paul repeatedly stressed this meaning; Acts 25:10, Romans 14:12. Slide 89 Dead in Christ Bodies reunite w/soul Incorruptible Victors Crown 1 Cor 9:25Life Martyrs Crown Rev 2:10Glory Elders Crown 1 Peter 5:2-4Righteousness Those who love His appearing 2 Tim 4:8Rejoicing Soul-winners crown 1 Thess 2:19-20 Church Age Rapture BemaJudgment (Believers works are judged) Gold, Silver, precious Stones Wood, hay, stubble Marriage Of the Lamb Retrieving the Bride Purifying the Bride Adorning the Bride Marriage of the Bride Bema Seat Slide 90 The Bema Seat 1 Cor 3:11-15 for other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay stubble; 1 Cor 3:11-15 for other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay stubble; The materials used interpreted: Enduring in quality, or work that is temporary and valueless Enduring in quality, or work that is temporary and valueless Sound doctrine of our lives, or the meaninglessness of false doctrines Sound doctrine of our lives, or the meaninglessness of false doctrines Workers worthy motives, or unworthy motives Workers worthy motives, or unworthy motives Believers who constitute the church, or those that constitute the false church Believers who constitute the church, or those that constitute the false church Slide 91 The Bema Seat 1 Cor 3:13 Every mans work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every mans work of what sort it is. 1 Cor 3:13 Every mans work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every mans work of what sort it is. Christ will judge the quality of His servants work, 2 Cor 5:10 2 Cor 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Not a question of salvation, but of deeds Not a question of quantity, but of quality Slide 92 The Bema Seat 1 Cor 3:14-15 if any mans work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any mans work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 1 Cor 3:14-15 if any mans work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any mans work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. The expert builder will receive praise and reward The inept builder will see the loss of his labor But he himself is saved Slide 93 The Bema Seat 2 Cor 5:10 for we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. 2 Cor 5:10 for we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. After the rapture, believers are recompensed for the things they have done in their lives Good deeds will evoke one response Good deeds will evoke one response Bad (worthless), deeds will evoke another Bad (worthless), deeds will evoke another Again, salvation is not the issue But Paul took this seriously, 2 Cor 5:11 knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men: . Slide 94 The Crowns Slide 95 Crown Me! The Greek language has two words meaning crown. The word diadem Is a kings crown, the crown of a sovereign, a person who is royal by his nature and by his position. This is the kind of crown that Jesus wears. The second Greek word translated crown is stephanos A crown given to an overcomer, a victor, one who has won a race. Available to believers because they overcame in the spiritual warfare and are now crowned at the Judgment Seat of the Messiah. There are five such crowns mentioned in the Scriptures. Slide 96 #1 - Incorruptible Crown 1 Corinthians 9:2425: Know ye not that they that run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? Even so run; that ye may attain. And every man that strives in the games exercises self-control in all things. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. This crown is given to those who exercise self-control and gain the mastery and victory in the spiritual life. It is for those who have gained the victory over the old man or the sin-nature. It is for those who have learned to live a Spirit-controlled life. Slide 97 #2 - Crown of Rejoicing 1 Thessalonians 2:19: For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of glorying? Are not even ye, before our Lord Jesus at his coming? This crown is given to those who win souls for Christ. It is a crown available to all those who do the work of evangelism and the fruit of their labors is seen in people coming to the Lord through them. Slide 98 #3 - Crown of Righteousness 2 Timothy 4:78: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give to me at that day; and not to me only, but also to all them that have loved his appearing. This is a crown for those who have kept the faith both doctrinally and morally in spite of adverse circumstances. It is a crown given to those who have loved his appearing, those who look longingly for the return of Christ. Looking for His return is the result of sound doctrine and keeping the faith. A life lived in conformity with scripture will include the expectation of the soon return of the Lord. For such, there is a crown of righteousness. Slide 99 #4 - Crown of Life The crown of life, is mentioned in two passages. First, it is a crown for those who endure trials James 1:12: Blessed is the man that endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to them that love him. Secondly, it is given to those who suffer martyrdom for their faith Revelation 2:10: Fear not the things which you are about to suffer: behold, the devil is about to cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days. Be you faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. Slide 100 #5 Crown of Glory 1 Peter 5:24: Tend the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not of constraint, but willingly, according to the will of God; nor yet for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as lording it over the charge allotted to you, but making yourselves ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall be manifested, ye shall receive the crown of glory that fades not away. This crown is for faithfully feeding the flock of God. It is available to those pastors, elders, and others who feed the sheep with the milk and meat of the Word of God. Slide 101 The Five Crowns There may be other crowns available, but these are the only ones referred to in the Scriptures. At least these five are available to those whose works remain; those works built of gold, silver, and precious stones. The purpose of these rewards of crowns is to determine the degree of authority in the Messianic Kingdom, not for the Eternal Order. In eternity, all believers will be equal, but this is not so in the Messianic Kingdom, where believers may have different positions of authority. This truth is found in parabolic form in Luke 19:1127. Slide 102 The Beginning of the End The Seven Seals Slide 103 The Relationship of the Seals, Trumpets and Bowls 7 Seals Slide 104 Tribulation 1 st 3 yrs Tribulation 2 nd 3 yrs 2 nd Coming Church Age Rapture Satan cast into the pit for 1,000 yrs Millennium Seven Seals 1.White Horse: Anti-Christ enters; peace thru treaties 2.Red Horse: war and bloodshed 3.Black Horse: Famine 4.Pale Horse: Pestilence with death following 5.Tribulation believers are martyred 6.Great earthquake, cosmic disasters 7.Silence, Golden Censor; introduction of the: Progressive, excruciating suffering for the unrepentant: a foretaste of their eternal destiny 7 Seals Slide 105 Slide 106 The White Horse White horse: conquering ruler/leader Peace maker Bow: distant war threat, but no arrows Bloodless victories, or claims of victory! Crown given him: stephanos crown not diadem Initially, he seems to be a leader with great humility If he were the coming Messiah, humility would not be necessary or expected! Authority to go forth and conquer Imitates the coming Messiah (a.k.a. the instead of Christ Antichrist) Slide 107 The Red Horse Red horse: peace taker Large sword: extensive political power to execute his will Unlike the bow, the sword is up close and personal Slide 108 The Black Horse Black horse: famine Carrying a pair of scales, controlling the economy One days wage = one meal The wage is disproportionate to what it can purchase Controlling food distribution means controlling the world economy This will be extended to all but the rich Oil and wine: luxury items (the rich), were to remain unharmed by the rationing Determining the value of a persons life (who deserves to live or die) There are ~842mil under-nourished people in the world 20,864 will die of starvation today There are ~842mil under-nourished people in the world 20,864 will die of starvation today Slide 109 The Pale Horse Pale horse (green, ashy blue = rotting flesh): Death and hell of the human population dies He seeks out those destined for hell By todays statistics, ~1.79bil people will die US population as of 4/04/12 is 318,443,430 people War brings famine, rationing, class separation and death Each rider is a natural outcome of the first rider Slide 110 The Beginning of the End The Seven Trumpets Slide 111 Tribulation 1 st 3 yrs Tribulation 2 nd 3 yrs 2 nd Coming Church Age Rapture Satan cast into the pit for 1,000 yrs Millennium Seven Trumpets 1.Hail, fire, blood, burning vegetation 2.Mountain burning, sea life destroyed 3.Wormwood descends, waters undrinkable 4.Sun darkened 5.Plague: Demon locusts 6.Plague: Horsemen, deadly plagues Seven Bowls 7.Christ rules; introduction of the Seven Bowls Progressive, excruciating suffering for the unrepentant: a foretaste of their eternal destiny 7 Seals Slide 112 Impact Analysis 1/3 of vegetation is destroyed 1/3 of the sea contaminated, destroying 1/3 of the ships Merchant/pleasure Military Fishing 1/3 of the fresh water is polluted 1/3 of the day/night is reduced (~16 hr day) Slide 113 Locusts and Scorpions Power to hurt men five months They had a king (devil): the angel of the bottomless pit. Slide 114 Locusts and Scorpions Four angels loosed which were bound in the river Euphrates 200 million horsemen 1/3 of men are killed by the fire, smoke and brimstone which came from their mouths Slide 115 The Two Witnesses 1.Two olive trees: the power of the Holy Spirit 2.Two candlesticks: the continuing light of the world. The only spiritual authority from God on earth! Who They Are 1.Enoch and Elijah? These two havent died yet 2.Moses and Elijah? Both were present at the Mt of Transfiguration with Jesus. 3.These miracles are similar to those both did on earth 4.What we know. We dont know! The Two Witnesses What They Do 1.Preach: they may be the catalysts that bring the 144k Jews to repentance. 2.They are invincible until their message is complete 3.They get the beast to reveal himself for the 1 st time, responding to their message 4.They are executed; but 3 days later raise from the dead. 5.Shortly thereafter, they ascend to heaven Slide 116 The Dragon Slide 117 Vs 3 mentions the dragon Vs 9, makes it clear, the dragon is the Devil And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Dragon: the devil Fierce nature; nothing delicate about Satan! Red: associated with death Slide 118 The Dragon The Characteristics of the Dragon Seven heads: the seven world governments 1.Assyria 2.Egypt 3.Babylon 4.Medo-Persia 5.Greek 6.Roman The 10 horns represent the power of the kings All the attributes of each empire, wrapped up in one Seven crowns: the seven divisions of their authority Slide 119 The Dragon Daniel 7:7-8, 24 after this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. (8) I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things. (24) And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings. Slide 120 Satans One Goal Slide 121 The Eviction Michael summoned to expel Satan! Rev 12:7-9 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. No more access, no more accusations No accusation has ever been admissible in Gods heavenly court Satan doesnt have the power to remain in heaven! Could not prevail = didnt have the power to stay! Slide 122 Satans Rage Satans program is intensified Dan 12:1 And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. Slide 123 Tribulation 1 st 3 yrs Tribulation 2 nd 3 yrs 2 nd Coming Church Age Rapture Satan cast into the pit for 1,000 yrs Millennium Slide 124 Satans Imposters Unseen God Satan Experience Real Imposter Seen Jesus Antichrist Aware Holy Spirit False Prophet Slide 125 To Rule An Empire You must control three things Victor on the white horse appearing to bring peace The horn that replaced three others powers Executor of the 2 witnesses The Red Horse exercising extensive political power and killing those who oppose the beast The Red Horse controlling and rationing for the poor and the rich The false prophet assigning the mark of the beast to identify qualified recipients of supplies Peace treaty with Israel (looks political?!!) The false prophet reviving the beast and initiating worship solely to the beast The mark of the beast identifies those that have worshipped the beast Slide 126 Slide 127 The Beginning of the End The Seven Bowls/Vials Slide 128 Tribulation 1 st 3 yrs Tribulation 2 nd 3 yrs 2 nd Coming Church Age Rapture Satan cast into the pit for 1,000 yrs Millennium Seven Bowls 1.Boils 2.Seas turn to blood 3.Rivers turn to blood 4.Scorching heat on man 5.Darkness and pain 6.River Euphrates dries up 7.Hail, final destruction Progressive, excruciating suffering for the unrepentant: a foretaste of their eternal destiny 7 Seals Slide 129 The Bowl Judgment: Final Curtain Slide 130 Comparison: Bowls, Trumpets, and Egyptian Plagues Slide 131 Armageddon Gog and Magog Slide 132 Armageddon The Second Coming of Christ There are 1,845 references to it in the Old Testament, and a total of seventeen Old Testament books give it prominence Of the 260 chapters in the entire New Testament, there are 318 references to the 2 nd Coming, or one out of 30 verses. 23 of the 27 New Testament books refer to this great event. Slide 133 Armageddon The Second Coming of Christ The four missing books include three which are single- chapter letters written to individual persons on a particular subject, and the fourth is Galatians which does imply Christs coming again. For every prophecy on the 1 st Coming of Christ, there are 8 on Christs 2nd Coming. If every 1 st coming of Christ came to pass, what are the chances that the 2 nd coming prophesies will occur? Slide 134 Armageddon Slide 135 Millennial Kingdom Views Slide 136 Post-Millennialism According to this view the thousand years represent the triumph of the gospel in the period leading up to the second coming of Christ The return of Christ will follow the Millennium. Traced to Daniel Whitby, a controversial writer of the 17th century This view has been advanced by other prominent scholars in the history of the church including Charles Hodge, A.H. Strong, David Brown, and more recently, Loraine Boettner. Basically it is an optimistic view that Christ will reign spiritually on earth through the work of the church and the preaching of the gospel. This view has largely been discarded in the 20th century, because many anti-Christian movements have prospered and the world has not progressed spiritually. Slide 137 AMillennialism Amillennialism denies that there is any literal Millennium Kingdom The millennial reign of Christ is reduced to a spiritual reign in the hearts of believers. This reign is either over those on earth who put their trust in Him or over those in heaven. Both the amillennial and postmillennial views must interpret Revelation 20 in a nonliteral sense. Amillenarians differ greatly in their interpretations the Book of Revelation. Amillennialism historically had its first important advocate in Augustine who lived in the 4th and 5th centuries. Before Augustine, it is difficult to find one orthodox amillenarian. Slide 138 Pre-Millennialism Pre-millennialism interprets Revelation 20 as referring to a literal thousand-year reign of Christ following His second coming. As the Second Coming occurs before the Millennium, it is therefore premillennial. Twentieth-century advocates of this position include: Lewis Sperry Chafer, Charles L. Feinberg, A.C. Gaebelein, H.A. Ironside, Alva McClain, William Pettingill, Charles C. Ryrie, C.I. Scofield, Wilbur Smith, and Merrill F. Unger. Other premillenarians can be found from the first century on, including: Papias, Justin Martyr, and many other early church fathers. Arguments for this position are based on the natural sequence of events in chapter 20 following chapter 19, viewing them as sequential and as stemming from the second coming of Christ. Slide 139 Gog and Magog Christ Reigns 2 nd Coming Millennium 1,000 yrs Marriage Supper of the Lamb Slide 140 A New Heaven & A New Earth Chapter 21-22 Epilogue Slide 141 The Childrens Delight Notice things that are gone forever God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes: Gods great compassion. No tears shed in eternity over the sin and sorrow of this life, or the pain for loved ones who are eternally separated from Christ. Those tears or remorse reminded of our times spent alienated from God, rebellious, separated by our lusts. Those things that bring tears: death, sorrow, pain the things that cause the crying, GONE! The tears that come from the mourners eyes, GONE The tears that come from emotional wounds, GONE The pain from a broken heart, broken spirit or broken bone, GONE! Slide 142 The Childrens Delight Notice things that are gone forever 2 Peter 3:1013 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. The former things are passed away: the things that brought death, sorrow and pain are gone; 1) The remorse of exposed sin, 2) The sorrow from the pains of death, 3) The limitations of a disease ridden body, 4) The hurtful words of a callused loved one Slide 143 The Categorically Denied Dr J.I. Packer, Lack of long, strong thinking about our promised hope of glory is a major cause of our plodding, lackluster lifestyle. Fearful: cowardly individuals who will not come to Christ because of what others may say (or potential persecution), Unbelieving: those who professed but never possessed! Their conduct and speech revealed who they really were Abominable: their lifestyle was a stench, foul to God Slide 144 The Categorically Denied Dr J.I. Packer, Lack of long, strong thinking about our promised hope of glory is a major cause of our plodding, lackluster lifestyle. Murderers: malicious, savage killers Fornicators: those who practice sexual immorality Sorcerers: those involved in illegal drug use and magic Idolaters: anything idols that truly sat on the throne of ones heart All liars: deceiving other, deceiving themselves This is not attesting to salvation by works, but that their practice of sin proved they were not saved. He adds, this is the second death. Slide 145 The City Four-squared The Walls 216 ft tall (144 cubits), the backdrop is the city itself which is ~1,500 x 1,500 miles! The wall will not be needed for defense because there are no enemies. It is symbolic of Gods protection and security of paper (wall) against the height of the Sears Tower (city) The Gates There are 12; 3 on each side and have the names of the tribes of Israel. Each opening is gated by 1 pearl. Each gate has an angel (12), as an honor guard (no St. Peter!) Complete and free access to the city of God Slide 146 The City Four-squared The Foundations The foundations have the names of the 12 apostles. We see the link between the Old Testament and New. Both are an integral part of the Salvation story: From Israel came the law and sacrifices: both a picture of the holiness of God and the need for redemption, as well as, Gods desire for a relationship with man From Israel came the Savior, in Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God (Passover Lamb), that would take away the sins of the world (Jew and Gentile) From Israel we have the 12 apostles: they evangelized the gospel message to the world establishing churches as they went Slide 147 The City Four-squared The Foundations Jasper stoneLike a diamond SapphireBlue possibly flecked with gold ChalcedonyMilky/grayish with colored stripes EmeraldBrilliant, grass-green SardonyxOnyx, with alternating brown and white bands SardiusRed translucent stone ChrysoliteResembling a yellow beryl BerylTranslucent bluish or sea-green TopazTranslucent yellow or yellow-green ChrysoprasusTranslucent apple-green JacinthTranslucent bluish-smoke, violet AmethystBrilliant purple Slide 148 We Must Be Prepared Three times (7, 12, 20), is the statement, I come quickly why? 2 Pet 3:8-10 but, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. (9) The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (10) But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. (11) Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of person ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, The invitation from the Spirit and the bride (church) is COME The invitation to the hearer is COME (seed sown) The invitation to the one knowing they need something more is COME The invitation to whosoever will is COME Slide 149 The City A pure river of water of life It is clear, the emphasis is to be on the light and not the water itself Proceeds out of the throne of God: the source of life The river split the street Throughout the river Accessible on both sides is the tree of life. Not guarded, prohibited or limited Producing fruit every month Leaves for healing therapeian (therapeutic) health giving or ministering; The leaves promote the enjoyment of life, not for correcting ills Slide 150 The City Vs 3, no more curse (22:3) The curse or potential for sin to re-enter is gone Our decisions have been made and were moving forward Never dwelling on our past or paralyzed by our circumstances No more spiritual or physical death Opposite of the curse is the presence of God and the Lamb Its a place of service, that of reigning with him, vs 4 We are in a position where we can see his face Moses was told no one could see Gods face and live, but now we can! Slide 151 Lets be spiritually ready to say, Even so, come, Lord Jesus AMEN The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all So Be IT! Slide 152 Appendix Natural Disasters Slide 153 Tribulation 1 st 3 yrs Tribulation 2 nd 3 yrs 2 nd Coming Church Age Rapture Satan cast into the pit for 1,000 yrs Millennium Seven Seals 1.White Horse: Anti-Christ enters; peace thru treaties 2.Red Horse: war and bloodshed 3.Black Horse: Famine 4.Pale Horse: Pestilence with death following 5.Tribulation believers are martyred 6.Great earthquake, cosmic disasters 7.Silence, Golden Censor; introduction of the: Seven Bowls 1.Boils 2.Seas turn to blood 3.Rivers turn to blood 4.Scorching heat on man 5.Darkness and pain 6.River Euphrates dries up 7.Hail, final destruction Seven Trumpets 1.Hail, fire, blood, burning vegetation 2.Mountain burning, sea life destroyed 3.Wormwood descends, waters undrinkable 4.Sun darkened 5.Plague: Demon locusts 6.Plague: Horsemen, deadly plagues Seven Bowls 7.Christ rules; introduction of the Seven Bowls Progressive, excruciating suffering for the unrepentant: a foretaste of their eternal destiny 7 Seals Slide 154 http://www.emdat.be/natural- disasters-trends Slide 155 Slide 156 Slide 157 Slide 158 Slide 159 Periods of Grace Slide 160 The Seven Churches Slide 161 Tribulation: a Time of Death Slide 162 In the 20 th Century World population today: ~7b Rev 6:8, 1/4 dead 1.75b Rev 9:18, 1/3 dead 1.73b Total: 3.48b dead Leaving 3.5b, takes us back to the 60s The US population: ~321m North America:530m Central America:158m Caribbean: 42m South America:390m Total: 1.440b Represents only 21% of the total loss of human life Include the decimation all of Africa (1b) and Europe (733m) and we almost have the equivalent number of casualties NOTE: ~180-205m people have been killed in the 20 th century Slide 163 War on the Unborn >1.2 mil babies were killed through abortion in the US 56mil babies have been killed through abortion in the US since the Roe vs Wade Decision ~42mil abortions occur every year worldwide Abortion killed 73 times more Americans than died in battle in our last 12 wars combined It would take 342 Hiroshima type nuclear attacks to kill as many people as abortion as killed since Roe vs Wade http://prolife.org.ohio-state.edu/Facts.htm