Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18
Keys to the Text
Satan: The name Satan, meaning "adversary" or "enemy," appears especially in Job and the Gospels. The term devil comes from a Greek verb meaning "to slander" or "to falsely accuse." The Bible identifies him as a murderer, a liar, a roaring lion seeking to devour, the god of this evil age, the tempter, the dragon, the serpent, and the "accuser of the brethren" (Revelation 12:10). His accusations against the believers are unsuccessful because Christ is our Advocate (1 John 2:1). The Lord provides His saints with sufficient armor to combat and thwart the adversary (Ephesians 6). Ultimately, Satan's power over Christians is already broken and the war is won through Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, which forever conquered the power of sin and death.
Antichrist: A false prophet and evil being who will set himself up against Christ and the people of God in the last days before the second coming of Christ. Used only in the writings of John in the New Testament, the term refers to one who stands in opposition to all that Jesus Christ represents (1 John 2:18; 22; 4:3; 2 John 7). John wrote that several antichrists existed already in his day - false teachers who denied the deity and the incarnation of Christ - but that the supreme Antichrist of history would appear at some future time. Paul called him the "man of sin" and the "lawless one" (2 Thessalonians 2). This man is not Satan, although Satan is the force behind him. He exalts himself, declaring himself to be God and demanding the worship of the world. In this act of satanic self-deification, he defies God. Antichrist (the first beast) will be primarily a political and military leader, but the false prophet (second beast) will be a religious leader. Politics and religion will unite in a worldwide religion of worshipping the Antichrist (see Revelation 17:1-9, 5-17).
1. Give 2 biblical situations (referencing the verses) where Satan has confronted or afflicted someone. How did the person(s) deal with the attack?
2. What does the Scripture teach about the fate of the Antichrist?
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 1 - Devo for 02/23/2009
Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18
Drawing Near
1. How do the media and Hollywood films portray supernatural evil and demonic activity? Is this accurate according to the Bible's view?
2. Have you ever been in a situation or around a person that seemed to epitomize "evil"? Describe your experience of coming "face-to-face" (either literally or figuratively) with such blatant, intense wickedness.
3. What speculations have you heard about the identity of the Antichrist?
The Context
Our world is the theater where God's glorious story of redemption is played out. Satan and his demonic hosts have attacked the human race, turning the earth into the main battleground in their cosmic war against God, the holy angels, and the elect. This study focuses on the terrible three enemies to come: Satan (the dragon), Antichrist (the first beast), and the false prophet (the second beast). The beasts represent the final Antichrist, whose career spans the same time period as the seal and trumpet judgments.
In the future, Satan will serve God's purpose by being permitted to launch another deadly assault against the human race. That attack will take place during the Great Tribulation. He and his demonic forces will unsuccessfully battle Michael and the heavenly host (that is, the holy angels of God). As a result of their defeat, the devil and his demons will be permanently cast down to the earth. With his theater of operations then restricted and his time running out, Satan will marshal all of his malevolent, fallen angels in an all-out attempt to deceive and destroy the souls of men.
Chapters 12-14 are actually a digression in John's vision, taking readers back through the Tribulation from Satan's perspective. These chapters are filled with difficult apocalyptic imagery and symbolism. Take your time as you work through these chapters. It would benefit you to use a commentary or concordance as you study.
Revelation 12:1-13:18
Drawing Near
1. How do the media and Hollywood films portray supernatural evil and demonic activity? Is this accurate according to the Bible's view?
2. Have you ever been in a situation or around a person that seemed to epitomize "evil"? Describe your experience of coming "face-to-face" (either literally or figuratively) with such blatant, intense wickedness.
3. What speculations have you heard about the identity of the Antichrist?
The Context
Our world is the theater where God's glorious story of redemption is played out. Satan and his demonic hosts have attacked the human race, turning the earth into the main battleground in their cosmic war against God, the holy angels, and the elect. This study focuses on the terrible three enemies to come: Satan (the dragon), Antichrist (the first beast), and the false prophet (the second beast). The beasts represent the final Antichrist, whose career spans the same time period as the seal and trumpet judgments.
In the future, Satan will serve God's purpose by being permitted to launch another deadly assault against the human race. That attack will take place during the Great Tribulation. He and his demonic forces will unsuccessfully battle Michael and the heavenly host (that is, the holy angels of God). As a result of their defeat, the devil and his demons will be permanently cast down to the earth. With his theater of operations then restricted and his time running out, Satan will marshal all of his malevolent, fallen angels in an all-out attempt to deceive and destroy the souls of men.
Chapters 12-14 are actually a digression in John's vision, taking readers back through the Tribulation from Satan's perspective. These chapters are filled with difficult apocalyptic imagery and symbolism. Take your time as you work through these chapters. It would benefit you to use a commentary or concordance as you study.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The Two Witnesses - Part 6 - Devo for 02/21/2009
Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Truth for Today
As an exile on the island of Patmos, John had no opportunity to preach to all nations. But John recorded these prophecies to warn all sinners that, while judgment is presently restrained, a future day is coming when the seventh angel will sound his trumpet and sin's dominion will be broken. In that day the freedom of Satan and his demons will come to an end, godless men will be judged, and believers will be glorified. These chapters present an interlude of hope tinged with bitterness that reminds all Christians of their evangelistic responsibilities to warn the world of that day.
Reflecting on the Text
1. In his vision, John ate the "little book" and it was both bitter and sweet to him. In what ways is what you're studying bitter and sweet to you?
2. John's calling to tell the world all that had been revealed to him is reminiscent of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). How passionate are you about sharing God's truth with family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers? What keeps you from being a more active witness for Christ?
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Truth for Today
As an exile on the island of Patmos, John had no opportunity to preach to all nations. But John recorded these prophecies to warn all sinners that, while judgment is presently restrained, a future day is coming when the seventh angel will sound his trumpet and sin's dominion will be broken. In that day the freedom of Satan and his demons will come to an end, godless men will be judged, and believers will be glorified. These chapters present an interlude of hope tinged with bitterness that reminds all Christians of their evangelistic responsibilities to warn the world of that day.
Reflecting on the Text
1. In his vision, John ate the "little book" and it was both bitter and sweet to him. In what ways is what you're studying bitter and sweet to you?
2. John's calling to tell the world all that had been revealed to him is reminiscent of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). How passionate are you about sharing God's truth with family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers? What keeps you from being a more active witness for Christ?
The Two Witnesses - Part 5 - Devo for 02/20/2009
Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Going Deeper
The problem of evil is not new. King David encountered many enemies of God and saw evil men flourish. Read what he observed in Psalm 2:1-12.
Exploring the Meaning
1. Describe the nations' attitude toward God. What is the psalmist's advice to them?
2. Who is the "King of Zion" mentioned here (vv. 6-7)? What will he accomplish?
3. In Revelation 11, we've seen how the two witnesses play a major role in the unfolding of the events. Read Mark 9:1-10. Why do many commentators and Bible scholars believe that the two witnesses will be Moses and Elijah?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 18:15-18; 34:5-6; 2 Kings 2:11; Malachi 4:5, 6; John 1:21; James 5:17)
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Going Deeper
The problem of evil is not new. King David encountered many enemies of God and saw evil men flourish. Read what he observed in Psalm 2:1-12.
Exploring the Meaning
1. Describe the nations' attitude toward God. What is the psalmist's advice to them?
2. Who is the "King of Zion" mentioned here (vv. 6-7)? What will he accomplish?
3. In Revelation 11, we've seen how the two witnesses play a major role in the unfolding of the events. Read Mark 9:1-10. Why do many commentators and Bible scholars believe that the two witnesses will be Moses and Elijah?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 18:15-18; 34:5-6; 2 Kings 2:11; Malachi 4:5, 6; John 1:21; James 5:17)
The Two Witnesses - Part 4 - Devo for 02/19/2009
Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Questions
1. What happened with the sounding of the seventh trumpet (11:15-19)?
2. How does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty?
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Questions
1. What happened with the sounding of the seventh trumpet (11:15-19)?
2. How does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty?
The Two Witnesses - Part 3 - Devo for 02/18/2009
Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Questions
1. In 10:1-2, John saw and angel come down from heaven. What happened next? What did the angel do? What was John commanded to do?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 32:39-42; Psalm 19:7-11; 69:24; Jeremiah 15:16; 25:30)
2. Why was John given a measuring rod and what did the angel tell him to do?
3. Summarize the work of the two witnesses (11:1-14). What will result from their ministry?
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Questions
1. In 10:1-2, John saw and angel come down from heaven. What happened next? What did the angel do? What was John commanded to do?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 32:39-42; Psalm 19:7-11; 69:24; Jeremiah 15:16; 25:30)
2. Why was John given a measuring rod and what did the angel tell him to do?
3. Summarize the work of the two witnesses (11:1-14). What will result from their ministry?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
The Two Witnesses - Part 2 - Devo for 02/17/2009
Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Keys to the Text
Two Witnesses: These are individuals granted special power and authority by God to preach a message of judgment and salvation during the second half of the Tribulation. Fulfilling the Old Testament requirement of two or more witnesses to confirm testimony (see Deuteronomy 19:15; John 8:17; Hebrews 10:28), these two prophets will represent the culmination of God's testimony to Israel: a two-pronged message of His judgment and His gracious offer of the gospel to all who will repent and believe. While it is impossible to be dogmatic about the identity of these two witnesses, several observations suggest they might be Moses and Elijah: (1) like Moses, they strike the earth with plagues, and like Elijah, they have the power to keep it from raining; (2) Jewish tradition expected both Moses and Elijah to return in the future; (3) both Moses and Elijah were present at the Transfiguration, the preview of Christ's second coming; (4) both Moses and Elijah used supernatural means to provoke repentance; (5) Elijah was taken up alive into heaven, and God buried Moses' body where it would never be found; and (6) the length of the drought the two witnesses bring (three-and-one-half-years; see 11:3, 6) is the same as that brought by Elijah.
1. Some suggest that the two witnesses could be Elijah and Enoch. For what reasons would they choose these two?
2. How do the witnesses die and what happens following their death?
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Keys to the Text
Two Witnesses: These are individuals granted special power and authority by God to preach a message of judgment and salvation during the second half of the Tribulation. Fulfilling the Old Testament requirement of two or more witnesses to confirm testimony (see Deuteronomy 19:15; John 8:17; Hebrews 10:28), these two prophets will represent the culmination of God's testimony to Israel: a two-pronged message of His judgment and His gracious offer of the gospel to all who will repent and believe. While it is impossible to be dogmatic about the identity of these two witnesses, several observations suggest they might be Moses and Elijah: (1) like Moses, they strike the earth with plagues, and like Elijah, they have the power to keep it from raining; (2) Jewish tradition expected both Moses and Elijah to return in the future; (3) both Moses and Elijah were present at the Transfiguration, the preview of Christ's second coming; (4) both Moses and Elijah used supernatural means to provoke repentance; (5) Elijah was taken up alive into heaven, and God buried Moses' body where it would never be found; and (6) the length of the drought the two witnesses bring (three-and-one-half-years; see 11:3, 6) is the same as that brought by Elijah.
1. Some suggest that the two witnesses could be Elijah and Enoch. For what reasons would they choose these two?
2. How do the witnesses die and what happens following their death?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Two Witnesses - Part 1 - Devo for 02/16/2009
Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Drawing Near
1. A friend asks you, "If God is so good, why is there so much evil in the world?" How do you respond?
2. These chapters remind us that God is sovereign and that all events (past, present, and future) are under His control. How does this truth encourage you?
The Context
Throughout history, God's people have wondered why God has allowed evil in the world. The wicked often appear to prosper. Sin seemingly runs wild and unchecked. Why, people ask, does God not stop all the carnage, corruption, and chaos in the world? Why does He allow His children to suffer? When will divine justice prevail and the righteous be delivered and the wicked punished?
All the pain, sorrow, suffering, and evil in the world cause the godly to long for God to intervene. A day is coming when He will break His silence, a day when all the purposes of God concerning men and the world will be consummated. At this time, the Lord Jesus Christ will return and establish His earthly kingdom. The sounding of the seventh trumpet, which heralds the imminent return and reign of Christ, will usher in that long-anticipated day.
But before that seventh trumpet sounds there will be an interlude, described in 10:1-11:14. This pause gives John and his readers the occasion to assimilate the startling truths that have just been revealed. It also serves to encourage God's people in the midst of the fury and horror of divine judgment, reminding them that God is still sovereign. During the interlude, God comforts His people with the assurance that He has not forgotten them and that they will ultimately be victorious. The sounding of the seventh trumpet marks the end of this interlude and results in the seven rapid-fire catastrophic bowl judgments described later in chapters 15 and 16.
Revelation 10:1-11:19
Drawing Near
1. A friend asks you, "If God is so good, why is there so much evil in the world?" How do you respond?
2. These chapters remind us that God is sovereign and that all events (past, present, and future) are under His control. How does this truth encourage you?
The Context
Throughout history, God's people have wondered why God has allowed evil in the world. The wicked often appear to prosper. Sin seemingly runs wild and unchecked. Why, people ask, does God not stop all the carnage, corruption, and chaos in the world? Why does He allow His children to suffer? When will divine justice prevail and the righteous be delivered and the wicked punished?
All the pain, sorrow, suffering, and evil in the world cause the godly to long for God to intervene. A day is coming when He will break His silence, a day when all the purposes of God concerning men and the world will be consummated. At this time, the Lord Jesus Christ will return and establish His earthly kingdom. The sounding of the seventh trumpet, which heralds the imminent return and reign of Christ, will usher in that long-anticipated day.
But before that seventh trumpet sounds there will be an interlude, described in 10:1-11:14. This pause gives John and his readers the occasion to assimilate the startling truths that have just been revealed. It also serves to encourage God's people in the midst of the fury and horror of divine judgment, reminding them that God is still sovereign. During the interlude, God comforts His people with the assurance that He has not forgotten them and that they will ultimately be victorious. The sounding of the seventh trumpet marks the end of this interlude and results in the seven rapid-fire catastrophic bowl judgments described later in chapters 15 and 16.
God's Trumpets - Part 6 - Devo for 02/14/2009
Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Truth for Today
There is a sense in which the present age is man's day; he is free to do what he wants within certain limitations. It is also Satan's day, during which the "god of this age" (2 Corinthians 4:4) has been granted certain liberties within the parameters of God's purposeful, sovereign tolerance. But God will not permit the present state of affairs to continue forever. He will end man's day, overthrow the usurper Satan, destroy the present evil world system, and establish the earthly kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ. That future time of judgement is known, appropriately, as the Day of the Lord. That day involves a complete renovation of the universe and the earth by judgment and restoration.
Reflecting on the Text
1. How has your view of God been altered or sharpened by this study?
2. How has your view of Satan and his evils been shaped or modified by the truths of this lesson?
3. What does a healthy fear of God look like? In what areas of your life do you fail to revere God and treat Him as holy?
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Truth for Today
There is a sense in which the present age is man's day; he is free to do what he wants within certain limitations. It is also Satan's day, during which the "god of this age" (2 Corinthians 4:4) has been granted certain liberties within the parameters of God's purposeful, sovereign tolerance. But God will not permit the present state of affairs to continue forever. He will end man's day, overthrow the usurper Satan, destroy the present evil world system, and establish the earthly kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ. That future time of judgement is known, appropriately, as the Day of the Lord. That day involves a complete renovation of the universe and the earth by judgment and restoration.
Reflecting on the Text
1. How has your view of God been altered or sharpened by this study?
2. How has your view of Satan and his evils been shaped or modified by the truths of this lesson?
3. What does a healthy fear of God look like? In what areas of your life do you fail to revere God and treat Him as holy?
God's Trumpets - Part 5 - Devo for 02/13/2009
Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Going Deeper
The Old Testament prophets foresaw a mighty "Day of the Lord." For more insight, read Isaiah 13:1-13.
Exploring the Meaning
1. What added insights does this Old Testament passage provide concerning the Day of the Lord?
2. Why will God judge the earth?
3. Read Luke 10:18. How does this verse help you identify the "star fallen from heaven" in Revelation 9:1?
(Verses to consider: Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-16)
4. Read 2 Peter 2:4. Who are the creatures incarcerated in the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:1-2)? Why is Satan's unlocking of this abyss such a horrible event?
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Going Deeper
The Old Testament prophets foresaw a mighty "Day of the Lord." For more insight, read Isaiah 13:1-13.
Exploring the Meaning
1. What added insights does this Old Testament passage provide concerning the Day of the Lord?
2. Why will God judge the earth?
3. Read Luke 10:18. How does this verse help you identify the "star fallen from heaven" in Revelation 9:1?
(Verses to consider: Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-16)
4. Read 2 Peter 2:4. Who are the creatures incarcerated in the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:1-2)? Why is Satan's unlocking of this abyss such a horrible event?
God's Trumpets - Part 4 - Devo for 02/12/2009
Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Questions
1. What will happen to the earth as a result of the first four trumpet judgments?
2. Some have described the result of the sounding of the fifth trumpet (9:1-12) as "hell on earth." Why? What will happen when this event unfolds?
3. How do you explain the response of those who are left after the sixth trumpet's horrible judgment (9:13-21)?
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Questions
1. What will happen to the earth as a result of the first four trumpet judgments?
2. Some have described the result of the sounding of the fifth trumpet (9:1-12) as "hell on earth." Why? What will happen when this event unfolds?
3. How do you explain the response of those who are left after the sixth trumpet's horrible judgment (9:13-21)?
God's Trumpets - Part 3 - Devo for 02/11/2009
Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Questions
1. What events unfold with the breaking of the seventh seal (8:1-5)?
2. What is the meaning of the angel standing at the altar, holding the golden censer?
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Questions
1. What events unfold with the breaking of the seventh seal (8:1-5)?
2. What is the meaning of the angel standing at the altar, holding the golden censer?
God's Trumpets - Part 2 - Devo for 02/10/2009
Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Keys to the Text
Seven Trumpets: In Revelation, trumpets primarily announce impending judgment. The trumpets are of greater intensity than the seals but not as destructive as the final bowl judgments will be (see 16:1-21). They occur during the final three and one-half years, but the time of each is indefinite, except the effects of the fifth trumpet judgment, which will last five months (9:10). The first four trumpets announce the divine destruction of earth's ecology (vv. 6-12), while the final three involve demonic devastation of earth's inhabitants (9:1-21; 11:15-19).
Day of the Lord: This will be a day of wrath, trouble, distress, devastation, desolation, darkness, gloominess, clouds, thick darkness, trumpet, and alarm (Zephaniah 1:15-16, 18). There are nineteen indisputable uses of "the Day of the Lord" in the Old Testament and four uses of it in the New Testament (see Acts 2:20; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10). The Old Testament prophets used "Day of the Lord" to describe near (current) historical judgments or far (future) eschatological divine judgments. Six times it is referred to as the "day of doom" and four times as the "day of vengeance." The New Testament calls it a day of "wrath," day of "visitation," and the "great day of God Almighty" (Revelation 16:14). These are terrifying judgments from God for the overwhelming sinfulness of the world. The future "Day of the Lord" which unleashes God's wrath falls into two parts: (1) the end of the seven-year Tribulation period (Revelation 19:11-21) and (2) the end of the Millennium. These two events are actually 1,00o years apart, and Peter refers to the end of the 1,000 year period in connection with the final "Day of the Lord" (2 Peter 3:10).
1. List out the seven trumpet judgments.
2. The Old Testament prophet Joel speaks of the "Day of the Lord." What are some of the things he says about this time period?
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Keys to the Text
Seven Trumpets: In Revelation, trumpets primarily announce impending judgment. The trumpets are of greater intensity than the seals but not as destructive as the final bowl judgments will be (see 16:1-21). They occur during the final three and one-half years, but the time of each is indefinite, except the effects of the fifth trumpet judgment, which will last five months (9:10). The first four trumpets announce the divine destruction of earth's ecology (vv. 6-12), while the final three involve demonic devastation of earth's inhabitants (9:1-21; 11:15-19).
Day of the Lord: This will be a day of wrath, trouble, distress, devastation, desolation, darkness, gloominess, clouds, thick darkness, trumpet, and alarm (Zephaniah 1:15-16, 18). There are nineteen indisputable uses of "the Day of the Lord" in the Old Testament and four uses of it in the New Testament (see Acts 2:20; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10). The Old Testament prophets used "Day of the Lord" to describe near (current) historical judgments or far (future) eschatological divine judgments. Six times it is referred to as the "day of doom" and four times as the "day of vengeance." The New Testament calls it a day of "wrath," day of "visitation," and the "great day of God Almighty" (Revelation 16:14). These are terrifying judgments from God for the overwhelming sinfulness of the world. The future "Day of the Lord" which unleashes God's wrath falls into two parts: (1) the end of the seven-year Tribulation period (Revelation 19:11-21) and (2) the end of the Millennium. These two events are actually 1,00o years apart, and Peter refers to the end of the 1,000 year period in connection with the final "Day of the Lord" (2 Peter 3:10).
1. List out the seven trumpet judgments.
2. The Old Testament prophet Joel speaks of the "Day of the Lord." What are some of the things he says about this time period?
God's Trumpets - Part 1 - Devo for 02/09/2009
Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Drawing Near
A new Christian confides in you: "I'm reading the book of Revelation and, frankly, I don't understand most of it. But I do understand that the notes in my study Bible clearly say that all these terrible judgments will be poured out on unbelievers - maybe even some of my friends! Do you believe that? I'm having a hard time believing that a loving God could do that to His beloved creatures!" How do you respond?
The Context
The first five seals (false peace, war, famine, death, and vengeance) describe the preliminary judgments leading to the full outpouring of divine wrath. As horrifying as those preliminary judgments are, they pale before the terrors of the sixth seal, which marks the beginning of the Day of the Lord. So terrifying are the judgments of the sixth seal that people are finally forced to acknowledge God as the Source of the calamities. At that point they will cry "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: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?'" (Revelation 6:16-17).
When the Lamb opens the seventh and last seal on the scroll, the judgments of the Day of the Lord will intensify and expand dramatically. This final seal contains the trumpet and bowl judgments. While the exact timetable for these judgments is not revealed, their escalating devastation indicates they all occur during the last half of the Great Tribulation. Therefore, the seventh seal encompasses all God's final wrath up to the triumphant return of the Lord Jesus Christ in glory.
Revelation 8:1-9:21
Drawing Near
A new Christian confides in you: "I'm reading the book of Revelation and, frankly, I don't understand most of it. But I do understand that the notes in my study Bible clearly say that all these terrible judgments will be poured out on unbelievers - maybe even some of my friends! Do you believe that? I'm having a hard time believing that a loving God could do that to His beloved creatures!" How do you respond?
The Context
The first five seals (false peace, war, famine, death, and vengeance) describe the preliminary judgments leading to the full outpouring of divine wrath. As horrifying as those preliminary judgments are, they pale before the terrors of the sixth seal, which marks the beginning of the Day of the Lord. So terrifying are the judgments of the sixth seal that people are finally forced to acknowledge God as the Source of the calamities. At that point they will cry "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: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?'" (Revelation 6:16-17).
When the Lamb opens the seventh and last seal on the scroll, the judgments of the Day of the Lord will intensify and expand dramatically. This final seal contains the trumpet and bowl judgments. While the exact timetable for these judgments is not revealed, their escalating devastation indicates they all occur during the last half of the Great Tribulation. Therefore, the seventh seal encompasses all God's final wrath up to the triumphant return of the Lord Jesus Christ in glory.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Opening the Seals - Part 6 - Devo for 02/07/2009
Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17
Truth for Today
While Scripture reveals that God is loving, merciful, and gracious - the Savior of sinners - one truth about Him that is decidely unpopular today is that He is a God of vengeance against those who reject both Him and salvation in His Son. The Bible repeatedly affirms that to be the case. God's vengeance is not to be equated with petty human vindictiveness and bitter desire for revenge. God's holiness, righteousness, and justice demand that He take vengeance on unrepentant sinners. Vengeance belongs to God alone because all sin is ultimately against Him and an offense to Him.
Reflecting on the Text
1. The unleashing of divine judgment after the breaking of the fifth seal brings to mind the subject of the age-old persecution of God's people. In what ways have you experienced animosity from unbelievers because of your faith? How can you better glorify God in the future in the midst of such circumstances?
2. As you study John's vision of the future and ponder all that is to come, how specifically are you motivated, challenged, and convicted to:
- Walk with Christ more closely?
- Share your faith with others?
- Worship God?
- Study the Word?
Revelation 6:1-7:17
Truth for Today
While Scripture reveals that God is loving, merciful, and gracious - the Savior of sinners - one truth about Him that is decidely unpopular today is that He is a God of vengeance against those who reject both Him and salvation in His Son. The Bible repeatedly affirms that to be the case. God's vengeance is not to be equated with petty human vindictiveness and bitter desire for revenge. God's holiness, righteousness, and justice demand that He take vengeance on unrepentant sinners. Vengeance belongs to God alone because all sin is ultimately against Him and an offense to Him.
Reflecting on the Text
1. The unleashing of divine judgment after the breaking of the fifth seal brings to mind the subject of the age-old persecution of God's people. In what ways have you experienced animosity from unbelievers because of your faith? How can you better glorify God in the future in the midst of such circumstances?
2. As you study John's vision of the future and ponder all that is to come, how specifically are you motivated, challenged, and convicted to:
- Walk with Christ more closely?
- Share your faith with others?
- Worship God?
- Study the Word?
Opening the Seals - Part 5 - Devo for 02/06/2009
Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17
Going Deeper
When Jesus' disciples asked Him what would be the signs of the end of the age, Jesus mentioned many things similar to John's vision in Revelation. Read Matthew 24:6-33.
Exploring the Meaning
1. What destructive events in nature will come at the end of the age?
2. How do these future events described by Christ dovetail with the events depicted in Revelation 6 and 7?
3. Read 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10. Compare what it reveals to John's description of events surrounding the breaking of the fifth seal (Revelation 6:9-11).
4. Read Joel 2:28-32. How does the Old Testament prophecy of the great and terrible Day of the Lord compare to the description by John in Revelation 6:12-17?
Revelation 6:1-7:17
Going Deeper
When Jesus' disciples asked Him what would be the signs of the end of the age, Jesus mentioned many things similar to John's vision in Revelation. Read Matthew 24:6-33.
Exploring the Meaning
1. What destructive events in nature will come at the end of the age?
2. How do these future events described by Christ dovetail with the events depicted in Revelation 6 and 7?
3. Read 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10. Compare what it reveals to John's description of events surrounding the breaking of the fifth seal (Revelation 6:9-11).
4. Read Joel 2:28-32. How does the Old Testament prophecy of the great and terrible Day of the Lord compare to the description by John in Revelation 6:12-17?
Opening the Seals - Part 4 - Devo for 02/05/2009
Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17
Questions
1. What did John see when the sixth seal was broken?
2. Who will be in heaven worshipping together? Describe the tone of this scene (7:9-12).
3. What is promised to those who endure (7:13-17)?
Revelation 6:1-7:17
Questions
1. What did John see when the sixth seal was broken?
2. Who will be in heaven worshipping together? Describe the tone of this scene (7:9-12).
3. What is promised to those who endure (7:13-17)?
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