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The Book of Revelation                                                  03/04/2007




                        Lesson 1
             The Alpha and the Omega (Part 1)


              Amen! Hallelujah! – A Study of the Book of Revelation
                                  By Dale Wells
                         Text: Rev 1.1-8; Rev 22.8-12




                 Revelation is a book to be
                        understood
                                            Rev 1:1-3 WEB This is
                                            the Revelation of Jesus
                                            Christ
                                            Apocalypsis – an
                                            “unveiling”, “revealing”,
                                            or “disclosure”
                                            The book is not a
                                            “mystery” (mysterion),
                                            but a “revelation”




                 "Blessed is he who reads"

           Rev 1:3 WEB Blessed
           is he who reads and
           those who hear the
           words of the prophecy,
           and keep the things that
           are written in it...
           Ho anaginooskon – “the
           one reading aloud”
             Apparent in blessing
             “those who hear”
             Envisions one reading to
             a congregation




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The Book of Revelation                                                          03/04/2007




              “Blessed are those who hear”

                                              Akouoo with a genitive
                                              noun meant “hear”
                                              With the accusative, as
                                              here, it meant
                                              “understand”
                                              Jesus intended the
                                              message to be
                                              understood




           “Blessed are    those who                              keep
                   the things   in it”
           Terountes means “observe”, or “obey”
             God intended people to “understand” and “obey”
             the book, so he must have written one they could
             understand and were capable of obeying!
           Why is the book misunderstood?
             People misunderstand the book because of faulty
             assumptions they bring to the text, not because of
             what the text, itself, says




           Popular approaches to Revelation

           Some see it as a “summary of history”
             They see the Catholic Church, Reformation, Luther & Calvin
                Philip Melanchthon, Luther’s contemporary, took this approach
                Recent authors are Albert Barnes and John Hinds
             Each reapplies history to put himself in the last days
           Some believe it only deals with the end of time
             Authors since 1948 think we are in the last moments of time
             Each rewrites when time proves him wrong
           Something is wrong with an approach that rewrites
           interpretation every time history disproves it




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           The time frame is set by two phrases

            Dei genesthai en tachei - “which must happen soon”
               Rev 1:1 WEB     the Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God
               gave him to show     the things which must happen soon...
               Rev 22:6 WEB He said to me, “ The Lord God         sent his
               angel to show    the things which must happen soon.”
            Some believe that en tachei means “certainly”
               Not so! Tacheoo always means “quickly”.
                  Act 22:17-18 WEB “ while I prayed         I fell into a trance, and
                  saw him saying to me, 'Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly,”
                  Gal 1:6-7 WEB I marvel that you are so quickly deserting him
                  who called you in the grace of Christ to a different gospel
                  2Ti 4:9 WEB Be diligent to come to me soon...
            Readers of Revelation understood that the fulfillment
            would be soon - from their point of view, not ours!




                         The time is at hand

            Ho gar kairos engus – “for the time is at hand”
               Engus means “in hand” or “within reach”
            The use of “the time is at hand”
               Rev 1:3 WEB Blessed is he who reads           those who hear
               and keep the things    written in it, for the time is at hand.
               Rev 22:10 WEB He said to me, “Don't seal up the words of
               the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand.
            This same expression is used elsewhere
               Mar 1:14-15 WEB        Jesus came     saying, “The time is
               fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand! ”
               Rom 10:8-9 WEB The word is near you...
               Phi 4:5 WEB The Lord is at hand.
            No text uses engus of something far away




           Reasons for interpreting the book in
                    light of its time:
            It was a “revelation” to its readers, not a “mystery”
            It was intended to be read, understood and acted on
            Its time of fulfillment was close at hand
            Picture yourself as a Christian in Pergamum
               Antipas has been executed for his faith. You may be next!
               A messenger comes with John's letter.
               Do you want to know what to expect in 2000 years? No!
                  You want to know if you’re going to be alive tomorrow! If not,
                  what then? Was it worth it for Antipas – or for you?
                  You don’t care about 21st Century writers. You want to know
                  what’s going to happen to you and what God is doing about it!
            A message to early Christians about their concerns!




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            Keys to understanding Revelation

           All literature is not read alike
              Elizabeth Barrett Browning vs. Edgar Allen Poe
              William Shakespeare vs. Stephen King
              Newspaper vs. poetry; biography vs. prophecy;
              history vs. a math textbook
              They are not interpreted the same way
           Revelation is written in apocalyptic style
              Makes heavy use of symbols
              Imagery that is not intended to be taken literally




            What if I told you that yesterday, I
                        saw a vision
           I saw what looked like a living creature
              It had four legs, but it stood up on two, like a man. It had a
              prominent nose. It was brown with long ears
           I saw another living creature
              It looked like a bird without wings. It was blue and had two
              legs with three toes on each foot
           The first creature sat astride a red cylinder
           The first creature sped toward the second creature
           The second stepped aside as the first sped past
           Who are the two creatures?




           Read Revelation the way you watch
            animations – use your imagination
                                               7-headed dragon, 7-
                                               headed beast, lamb
                                               with 7 horns and eyes,
                                               prostitute on a beast
                                               Don’t let details distract
                                               you from the picture
                                               Let the picture grab
                                               your imagination and
                                               you will understand it
                                               Revelation uses
                                               symbols extensively
                                                   Some are self-evident




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           Consider John's description of one
            like a son of man in Rev 1:13-18
           Robe and gold sash
           Hair like white wool
           Eyes like a flame of fire
           Feet like brass
           Sword out of his mouth
           Face like the sun
           I am the first and the
           last, and the Living one
           I was dead, and      I am
           alive forevermore
           This is clearly Jesus.




           Look at the description of the Lamb
                   of God in Rev 5:5-6
                                       Lion of Judah
                                       Root of David
                                       He who opens the book
                                       and its seven seals
                                       Lamb standing, as
                                       though it had been slain
                                       It cannot be anyone but
                                       Jesus




            Consider the vignette about two
                witnesses in Rev 11:6
           Shut up the sky that
           it may not rain
              Comes from Elijah
           Turn water into
           blood and strike the
           earth with plagues
              Come from Moses




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             A radiant woman gives birth to a
                unique child in Rev 12:1-5
                                       Clothed with the sun
                                       Moon under her feet
                                       Crown of twelve stars
                                       Pregnant and in labor
                                       Gives birth to a son who
                                       is to rule the nations
                                       with a rod of iron
                                       John expects his
                                       readers to identify the
                                       woman as Mary, and
                                       her child as Jesus




           A conquering king rides in on a white
                 horse in Rev 19:11-16
            Faithful and True
            Eyes are a flame of fire
            Many crowns
            Covered with blood
            “The Word of God”
            Sword out of his mouth
            Rules with a rod of iron
            King of Kings and Lord
            of Lords
            No doubt this is Jesus




            The text explains the less obvious
                         symbols
                                       What are the stars and
                                       lampstands?
                                         Rev 1:20 WEB      The
                                         seven stars are the
                                         angels of the seven
                                         assemblies. The seven
                                         lampstands are seven
                                         assemblies.
                                       The lampstands are
                                       churches and the stars
                                       are their messengers




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           What about the dragon out to devour
                        the child?
            Rev 12:9 WEB The
            great dragon , the old
            serpent, he who is
            called the devil and
            Satan ...
            In the Apocalypse, the
            dragon is Satan




            John sees a prostitute riding on a
             seven-headed beast in Rev 17
                                     Rev 17:18 WEB The
                                     woman       is the great
                                     city which reigns over
                                     the kings of the earth.”
                                     Rev 17:9-11 WEB The
                                     seven heads are seven
                                     mountains, on which
                                     the woman sits. They
                                     are also seven kings
                                     Rome sat on 7 hills and
                                     ruled the world – the
                                     prostitute is Rome




            A puzzle to solve, not a mystery to
                          ignore
                                     Start with what you
                                     know
                                        Lamb is Jesus
                                        Dragon is Satan
                                        Prostitute is Rome
                                        Heads are emperors
                                     Start there and the
                                     picture comes together!




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The Book of Revelation                                                 03/04/2007




                   Revelation for Dummies

           God Rules!

           Jesus is Lord!

           We win!




                The symbolism of numbers

           Apocalyptic literature
           used numbers
           symbolically
           Four numerals are
           oppositional pairs.
               7 stands opposed to 3 ½
              12 stands opposed to 6
           Others are not paired
              1/3, 2, 4, 10, 1,000
           Oppositional pairs are a
           feature of Revelation




                       There are two lambs

                                         The Lamb of God
                                           Rev 5:6 WEB I saw in
                                           the midst of the throne
                                           a Lamb standing, as
                                           though it had been slain
                                         A lamb that speaks with
                                         the voice of a dragon
                                           Rev 13:11 WEB I saw
                                           another     He had two
                                           horns like a lamb, and he
                                           spoke like a dragon.




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                  Two oppositional women

           The prostitute
              Rev 19:1-2 NIV   God
                 has condemned the
              great prostitute
           The bride of the Lamb
              Rev 19:7 NIV Let us
              rejoice and be glad and
              give him glory! For the
              wedding of the Lamb has
              come, and his bride has
              made herself ready.




                  Two who claim dominion

                                          God on the throne
                                            Rev 4:2 WEB       Behold,
                                            there was a throne
                                            and one sitting on the
                                            throne
                                          Dragon who attempts to
                                          invade heaven
                                            Rev 12:7 WEB
                                            Michael and his angels
                                            made war on the dragon.
                                            The dragon and his
                                            angels made war.




           Two marks on people’s foreheads

           The seal of God
              Rev 7:3 WEB Don't
              harm the earth until we
              have sealed the
              bondservants of our God
              on their foreheads!
           The mark of the beast
              Rev 13:16-17 WEB He
              causes all    to be given
              marks on their right
              hands, or on their
              foreheads




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           Kings of the earth and the King of
                         Kings
                                        Rev 17:12 WEB The
                                        ten horns    are ten
                                        kings
                                        Rev 19:16 WEB He
                                        has    a name written,
                                        “KING OF KINGS, AND
                                        LORD OF LORDS.”
                                        There are other
                                        opposites, but this gives
                                        you the idea
                                        Some numbers are also
                                        in oppositional pairs




           Seven symbolizes God's completed
                         work
           7 occurs
             more in Revelation than
             the rest of the NT
             more in Revelation than
             in any OT book
           7 symbolizes God
           finishing his work
             Gen 2:1-3 WEB      On
             the seventh day God
             finished his work   and
             he rested on the seventh
             day ...




           Revelation begins with a letter to 7
                       churches.
                                        Rev 1:4 WEB John, to
                                        the seven assemblies ...
                                        Rev 1:11 WEB ... “What
                                        you see, write in a book
                                        and send to the seven
                                        assemblies ”
                                        Rev 1:20 WEB ... The
                                        seven lampstands are
                                        seven assemblies.
                                        Ekklesiai is “churches”
                                        in other translations




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           The first vision features two sevens

           The son of man is
           among 7 lampstands
              Rev 1:20 WEB ... The
              seven lampstands are
              seven assemblies.
           He is holding 7 stars
              Rev 1:20 WEB ... The
              seven stars are the
              angels of the seven
              assemblies...




           Before God's throne were 7 lamps

                                       Rev 4:5 WEB ... There
                                       were seven lamps of
                                       fire burning before his
                                       throne, which are the
                                       seven Spirits of God.
                                       These are seen
                                       elsewhere
                                          Rev 1:4 WEB ... Grace to
                                          you and peace ... from
                                          the seven Spirits who are
                                          before his throne




           A 7-sealed scroll was opened by a
             Lamb with 7 horns and 7 eyes
           Rev 5:1-6 WEB I saw,
           in the right hand of him
           who sat on the throne, a
           book written inside and
           outside, sealed shut
           with seven seals      (6)
           I saw     a Lamb
           standing, as though it
           had been slain, having
           seven horns, and seven
           eyes




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           God's judgments were announced by
                7 angels with 7 trumpets.
                                       Rev 8:2-6 WEB I saw
                                       the seven angels who
                                       stand before God, and
                                       seven trumpets were
                                       given to them    (6)
                                       The seven angels who
                                       had the seven trumpets
                                       prepared themselves to
                                       sound.




           7 angels administer God's judgments

            Rev 15:1 WEB I saw
            seven angels having
            the seven last plagues,
            for in them God's wrath
            is finished.
            Rev 15:6-8 WEB
            One of the four living
            creatures gave to the
            seven angels seven
            golden bowls full of the
            wrath of God...




           7 bowls of wrath were poured out on
                        the earth.
                                       Rev 16:1 WEB I heard
                                       a loud voice out of the
                                       temple, saying to the
                                       seven angels, “Go and
                                       pour out the seven
                                       bowls of the wrath of
                                       God on the earth!”




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           3½ depicts Satan's attempt to thwart
                     God's purpose
            3 ½ is opposed to 7
              7 is God doing his will.
              3½ is a time of suffering
            Daniel envisioned a 3 ½
            year oppression
              Dan 7:25 WEB He shall
              speak      against the
              Most High, and      the
              saints     be given into
              his hand until a time and
              times and half a time.
              A year (“time”) + 2 years
              (“times”) + 6 months
              (“half a time”).




           A time of oppression and provision

                                             Drought during the
                                             reign of Ahab
                                               Jam 5:17 WEB Elijah
                                               prayed     that it might
                                               not rain, and it didn't rain
                                               on the earth for three
                                               years and six months.
                                             God provided for Elijah
                                               1Ki 17:3-6 WEB        (6)
                                               The ravens brought him
                                               bread and flesh in the
                                               morning, and bread and
                                               flesh in the evening; and
                                               he drank of the brook.




             The picture comes from military
                          sieges
            Measured in months
              Roman army surrounded
              a city, cutting off supplies
              Built siegeworks and
              starved the city
            Jewish-Roman War
              Began in 66 AD
              Jerusalem fell 42 months
              later in 70 AD
            A time when Satan tries
            to stop God’s work, but
            God is still in control!




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The Book of Revelation                                                 03/04/2007




                 3½ years in Revelation 11

                                       Gentiles besiege God’s
                                       city for 42 months
                                          Rev 11:1-2       They will
                                          tread the holy city under
                                          foot for forty-two months.
                                       God's witnesses preach
                                       for the same 1260 days
                                          Rev 11:3    my two
                                          witnesses   will
                                          prophesy one thousand
                                          two hundred sixty days




           3½ years as 1260 days and “a time,
                 times, and half a time”
                                       God cares for the
                                       woman for 1260 days
                                          Rev 12:6
                                       Satan tries to get at the
                                       woman for a time, times
                                       and half a time
                                          Rev 12:13-14
                                       He can’t get to her,
                                       because God is
                                       protecting her
                                       The outcome is always
                                       the same – God wins!




            Twelve symbolizes God's people

           12 and multiples (24,
           12,000, 144,000) is the
           second most prominent
           number in Revelation
           In Rev 4:4, 24 elders sit
           on thrones
           24 elders are God’s
           people in two covenants
              12 patriarchs (Old
              Testament)
              12 apostles (New
              Testament)




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            In Revelation 7 there are 144,000
                     people sealed
                                Rev 7:4 WEB         one
                                hundred forty-four
                                thousand, sealed out of
                                every tribe of the
                                children of Israel
                                These are people with
                                God’s seal of approval
                                on their foreheads
                                12,000 from each of the
                                12 tribes of Israel
                                The number is not literal




           The radiant woman in Rev 12 wears
                 a crown of twelve stars
                                Rev 12:1 WEB        a
                                woman       and on her
                                head a crown of twelve
                                stars
                                We saw this woman
                                earlier as an idealized
                                picture of Mary
                                The 12 stars represent
                                God’s people – her
                                crowning glory




           12 dominates the description of the
                holy city in Rev 21:10-17
           12 gates
           12 angels
           Names of 12 tribes
           12 foundations
           12 names of the 12
           Apostles
           12,000 stadia
           Wall is 144 cubits




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The Book of Revelation                                                 03/04/2007




           This is the city where God’s people
                            live!
                                          It is a cube 12,000
                                          stadia on each side,
                                          with 12 gates, having
                                          walls 144 cubits thick.
                                          The city has plenty of
                                             access (gates)
                                             room (dimensions)
                                             security (angels at the
                                             gates)
                                             protection (walls)




           6 symbolizes rebellion against God

                                          It depicts man’s attempt
                                          to dispense with God
                                          Contrast of 6 and 12
                                             12 is God’s faithful
                                             people protected by him
                                             6 is man in rebellion
                                             against God
                                          Like Satan’s attempts to
                                          stop God (3 ½), man’s
                                          rebellion always fails




           The most infamous use of 6 is the
           number of the beast in Rev 13:18
           Rev 13:18 WEB      His
           number is six hundred
           sixty-six.
             Rebellion compounded
             Man’s attempt to usurp
             God’s throne
           666 is a gematria
             The number concealed a
             name the readers knew,
             but history quickly forgot
             Irenaeus (2nd Century)
             suggested names, but
             couldn’t determine the
             name behind the number




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           Ancient alphabets were not like our
                   modern alphabets
                                              Hebrew and Greek had
                                              alphabets composed of
                                              characters that served a
                                              dual purpose as letters
                                              and numbers
                                              Thus “a” could either
                                              serve as a letter, or it
                                              could be the numeral
                                              “1”, “b” could be used
                                              as the numeral “2”, etc.




                Ancient writers engaged in
              “gematria” (Greek isopsephia)
           They added the letter values and the sum was the
           "number" of the name
              The sum represented the name when they wanted to reveal
              the identity to some, but conceal it from others
              This is important to understanding “666” in Rev 13:18
           Ancient examples of gematria
              Graffiti in Pompeii: “I love her whose number is 545.” Only
              the couple would know about whom he was writing.
              A Roman inscription describes Gaius as holy and good
                 Gaios = 3 + 1 + 10 + 70 + 200 = 284
                 (Ha)gios = 1 + 3 + 10 + 70 + 200 = 284
                 Aga(th)os =1 + 3 + 1 + 9 + 70 + 200 = 284
                 The words are gematrically interchangeable




           Possible names that make sense in
              light of the historical setting
           Lateinos = “Latin” (e.g. Rome, the city or the empire)
           = 30+1+300+5+10+50+70+200 = 666
           Teitan = “Titus” (common name of the Flavian
           Emperors. Vespasian was emperor when Revelation
           was written. Titus ascended shortly thereafter.
           Domitian began the empire-wide persecution of
           Christians.) = 300+5+10+300+1+50 = 666
           Kaisarsebaston = “Caesar Augustus” (“worshipful
           Caesar”). The imperial name =
           20+1+10+200+1+100+200+5+2+1+6+70+50 = 666
              (Note: this requires using the obsolete letter stigma (= 6) in
              the place of the letters sigma (= 200) and tau (= 300). Recall
              the book was intended to be read aloud. The hearers would
              be used to associating the “st” sound with the value of 6.)




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             1/3 symbolizes God’s restraint in
                  judgment in Rev 8:6-12
            1/3 earth burnt up
            1/3 trees burnt up
            1/3 sea became blood
            1/3 sea creatures died
            1/3 ships destroyed
            1/3 rivers struck by star
            1/3 waters became
            wormwood
            1/3 sun, moon and stars
            darkened




            Old Testament roots in Ezekiel 5
           where he was told to shave his head
                                            Eze 5:1-2 WEB            (2)
                                            A third part you shall
                                            burn       in the     city
                                            take a third part, and
                                            strike with the sword
                                            a third part you shall
                                            scatter to the wind .
                                            Eze 5:12 WEB A third
                                                shall die     and a
                                            third     shall fall by the
                                            sword        and a third
                                            I will scatter to     the
                                            winds, and        draw      a
                                            sword after them




                  Two symbolizes testimony

            Emissaries sent in pairs
               Mar 6:7 WEB He
               began to send them out
               two by two
               Mat 11:2-3 WEB        John
                 sent two ... disciples
            Jewish law of evidence
            required two witnesses
               Deu 19:15 WEB One
               witness shall not rise up
               against a man      at the
               mouth of two witnesses,
               or   three     shall a
               matter be established.




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           The only significant usage of two is in
                       Rev 11:3-11
                                       2 witnesses
                                       prophesy 1260 days
                                         They are 2 olive
                                         trees
                                         They are also 2
                                         lampstands, standing
                                         before the Lord
                                         They are also 2
                                         prophets




           The image comes from Zechariah 4

            Zec 4:2-3 WEB       “I
            have seen, and behold,
            a lampstand all of gold,
                (3) and two olive
            trees by it ”
            Zec 4:11-14 WEB Then
            I asked him, “What are
            these two olive trees
            (14) Then he said,
            “These are the two
            anointed ones who
            stand by the Lord of the
            whole earth.”




            The two represent the testimony of
                  the Law and Prophets
                                       Moses and Elijah at
                                       Transfiguration
                                         Mat 17:1-3 WEB         (2)
                                         He was transfigured
                                         before them. His face
                                         shone like the sun, and
                                         his garments became as
                                         white as the light. (3)
                                         Behold, Moses and Elijah
                                         appeared to them talking
                                         with him.
                                       In Rev 11 they are sent
                                       to proclaim God's word




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           Four symbolizes the entire earth and
                        universe
            Symbol of 4 derives
            from 4 compass points,
            4 wind directions and 4
            seasons
            Babylonian mythology:
            4 signs of the Zodiac,
            Taurus, Leo, Scorpio
            and Aquarius, powerful
            figures supporting
            heaven by 4 corners, or
            as the beasts of burden
            of the 4-wheeled
            heavenly chariot




            Ezekiel 1 described 4 creatures of
               God's heavenly entourage
                                         4 living creatures
                                         Each had 4 faces: man,
                                         lion, ox and eagle
                                         Each had 4 wings
                                         Eze 1:4-28 WEB This
                                         was the appearance of
                                         the likeness of the glory
                                         of Yahweh.




           John saw 4 creatures around God's
           throne worshiping him in Rev 4:6-8
            Rev 4:6-8 WEB
            around the throne were
            four living creatures ...
            (7) The first     like a
            lion,     the second
            like a calf, and the third
                had a face like a
            man, and the fourth
            like a flying eagle. (8)
                They have no rest
            day and night, saying,
            “Holy, holy, holy is the
            Lord God, the Almighty
               ”




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           The 4 creatures worship the Lamb in
                       Rev 5:6-14
                                       Rev 5:6-14 WEB            (8)
                                           the four living
                                       creatures       fell down
                                       before the Lamb         (9)
                                           saying, “You are
                                       worthy      (11)      I
                                       heard      a voice of
                                       many angels          (12)
                                       saying      “Worthy is the
                                       Lamb ” (14) The four
                                       living creatures said,
                                       “Amen!”




           Zechariah 6 has 4 chariots depicting
           God's omnipresence & omniscience
                                       4 chariots drawn by
                                       red, black, white, and
                                       dappled horses
                                       Zec 6:5-8 WEB
                                       “These are the four
                                       winds of the sky, which
                                       go forth from standing
                                       before the Lord of all
                                       the earth. ” (7)     So
                                       they walked back and
                                       forth through the earth




           In Rev 6:1-8, 4 creatures announce 4
             horses with the opening of 4 seals
            1st seal – 1st creature
            announces 1st rider on a
            white horse
            2nd seal – 2nd creature
            announces 2nd rider on
            a red horse
            3rd seal – 3rd creature
            announces 3rd rider on
            a black horse
            4th seal – 4th creature
            announces 4th rider on
            a pale horse




Lesson 1                                                                      21
The Book of Revelation                                                         03/04/2007




           The OT mentions the 4 winds & the 4
                  corners of the earth
                                              4 corners of the earth
                                              from which God gathers
                                                 Isa 11:12 WEB He will
                                                    assemble     Israel,
                                                 and gather     Judah from
                                                 the four corners of the
                                                 earth.
                                              4 winds by which God
                                              scatters his enemies
                                                 Jer 49:36 WEB On Elam
                                                 will I bring the four winds
                                                 from the four quarters of
                                                 the sky ,




           Revelation has 4 angels at 4 corners
            of the earth holding back judgment
            Rev 7:1 WEB I saw
            four angels standing at
            the four corners of the
            earth, holding the four
            winds of the earth
            Rev 9:13-15 WEB
            (15) The four angels
            were freed who had
            been prepared for that
            hour and day and
            month and year, so that
            they might kill one third
            of mankind.




                      Ten symbolizes limits




            Relates to anatomy: ten fingers on the human hand
               Once you’ve counted to ten, you’ve exhausted all of your
               fingers, and all of your chances
            Many places in the Bible where one counts to ten and
            then says: “Enough!”




Lesson 1                                                                              22
The Book of Revelation                                                   03/04/2007




              Ten years was limit of Abram's
               patience with God's promise
                                             Gen 13:16 WEB I will
                                             make your offspring as
                                             the dust of the earth
                                             Gen 16:3 WEB Sarai,
                                             Abram's wife, took
                                             Hagar the Egyptian, her
                                             handmaid, after Abram
                                             had lived ten years in
                                             the land of Canaan, and
                                             gave her to Abram her
                                             husband to be his wife.




            Ten was the limit of God's patience
                      with Sodom
            Abraham bargained
            with God to spare
            Sodom, testing God’s
            limits till he reached the
            ten
               Gen 18:32 WEB “Oh
               don't let the Lord be
               angry      What if ten are
               found there?” He said, “I
               will not destroy it for the
               ten's sake.”




           Ten changes in terms was the limit of
               Jacob's patience with Laban
                                             Gen 31:41 WEB These
                                             twenty years I have
                                             been in your house. I
                                             served you fourteen
                                             years for your two
                                             daughters, and six
                                             years for your flock, and
                                             you have changed my
                                             wages ten times.




Lesson 1                                                                        23
The Book of Revelation                                              03/04/2007




            The Ten Commandments were the
             limits God set on Israel's conduct
            Exo 34:28 WEB He was
            there with Yahweh forty
            days and forty nights;
            he neither ate bread,
            nor drank water. He
            wrote on the tablets the
            words of the covenant,
            the ten commandments.
            God gave people ten
            chances – as seen in
            two other events during
            the life of Moses




             Ten plagues showed the limit of
               God's patience with Egypt.




            Egypt suffers for Pharaoh's refusal to let Israel go
            In spite of plague after plague, Pharaoh continues to
            harden his heart
            The tenth plague results in final judgment on Egypt




           Ten rebellions test the limits of God's
           patience with the Exodus generation
            Num 14:20-23 WEB
            Yahweh said,
            because all those men
            who have seen my
            glory, and my signs
            yet have tempted me
            these ten times, and
            have not listened to my
            voice; surely they shall
            not see the land which I
            swore to their fathers




Lesson 1                                                                   24
The Book of Revelation                                                 03/04/2007




             The uses of “ten” in Revelation

                                      Pergamum would suffer
                                      ten days before God
                                      said, “Enough!”
                                         Rev 2:10 WEB        the
                                         devil is about to throw
                                         some of you into prison
                                             and you will have
                                         oppression for ten days.
                                         Be faithful to death, and I
                                         will give you the crown of
                                         life.
                                      Devil is limited by what
                                      God allows him to do!




           The dragon and the sea beast have
                       10 horns
           Rev 12:3 WEB Behold,
           a great red dragon,
           having seven heads
           and ten horns
           Rev 13:1 WEB I saw a
           beast coming up out of
           the sea, having ten
           horns     On his horns
           were ten crowns
           They have power,
           (horns), but only the
           power God gives them
           – God sets their limits!




            10 horns are 10 kings – God sets
               limits on the beast's power
                                      Rev 17:7 WEB I will tell
                                      you the mystery of the
                                      woman, and of the
                                      beast     which has the
                                      seven heads and the
                                      ten horns.
                                      Rev 17:12 WEB The
                                      ten horns that you saw
                                      are ten kings who have
                                      received no kingdom as
                                      yet, but they receive
                                      authority as kings, with
                                      the beast, for one hour.




Lesson 1                                                                      25
The Book of Revelation                                                            03/04/2007




              1,000 symbolizes limitlessness

            Psa 50:10 WEB For
            every animal of the
            forest is mine, and the
            livestock on a thousand
            hills.
            God is not exempting
            the livestock on other
            hills, nor the livestock in
            valleys. What he’s
            saying is that all
            livestock belongs to him




                Apply that reasoning to other
                         passages:
            Deu 7:9 WEB    Yahweh your God     keeps
            covenant  with them who love him and keep his
            commandments to a thousand generations
               Message: God loves everyone who loves and obeys him
            Psa 68:17 WEB The chariots of God are tens of
            thousands and thousands of thousands
               Message: God has immeasurable power
            And when we come to that text about 1,000 years
               Time is insignificant to God. Man’s eon is God’s moment
                  Psa 90:4 WEB For a thousand years in your sight are just like
                  yesterday when it is past, like a watch in the night.
               God’s schedule is not to be judged by man's.
                  2Pe 3:8 WEB But don't forget    that one day is with the Lord
                  as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.




           Remember the symbolic use of 1,000
              when we get to Rev 20:2-7
                                                 He seized the dragon
                                                    and bound him for a
                                                 thousand years      I saw
                                                 the souls of those who
                                                 had been beheaded for
                                                 the testimony of Jesus
                                                    They lived, and
                                                 reigned with Christ for a
                                                 thousand years
                                                 Devil’s power is limited
                                                 (10 horns), but God’s
                                                 dominion over him is
                                                 unlimited (1,000 years)




Lesson 1                                                                                 26

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130825 sins of our youth psalm 25 4-7
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130721 five biblical amens 1 chronicles 16 34-36 (no video) abridged
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130728 confessing to blessing luke 18 10-14 abridged
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130714 the meaning of the cross 1 corinthians 2 1-5 abridged
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130616 a man to admire hebrews 11 32-38 abridged
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130602 pardoned not perfect 1 john 1 5-2-2 abridged
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130505 integrity a new way of thinking - romans 12 1-2 & 1 timothy 4-12 (ab...
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130512 sm 26 location location location matthew 7 24-29 (abridged)
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130505 sm 25 beware of sheep imitations matthew 7 15-23
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130428 sm 24 most likely to succeed matthew 7 13-14 (abridged)
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130421 sm 23 how would you like it matthew 7 12 (abridged)
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130414 sm 22 may i take your order matthew 7 7-11 (abridged)
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130407 sm 21 who are you to judge matthew 7 1-6 (abridged)
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130331 he took my place isaiah 53 (abridged)
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130324 sm 20 first things first matthew 6 33-34 (abridged)
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130317 sm 19 social security matthew 6 25-32
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130310 sm 18 let it ride matthew 6 21-24 (abridged)
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01 the alpha and the omega (part 1) slideshow

  • 1. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Lesson 1 The Alpha and the Omega (Part 1) Amen! Hallelujah! – A Study of the Book of Revelation By Dale Wells Text: Rev 1.1-8; Rev 22.8-12 Revelation is a book to be understood Rev 1:1-3 WEB This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ Apocalypsis – an “unveiling”, “revealing”, or “disclosure” The book is not a “mystery” (mysterion), but a “revelation” "Blessed is he who reads" Rev 1:3 WEB Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and keep the things that are written in it... Ho anaginooskon – “the one reading aloud” Apparent in blessing “those who hear” Envisions one reading to a congregation Lesson 1 1
  • 2. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 “Blessed are those who hear” Akouoo with a genitive noun meant “hear” With the accusative, as here, it meant “understand” Jesus intended the message to be understood “Blessed are those who keep the things in it” Terountes means “observe”, or “obey” God intended people to “understand” and “obey” the book, so he must have written one they could understand and were capable of obeying! Why is the book misunderstood? People misunderstand the book because of faulty assumptions they bring to the text, not because of what the text, itself, says Popular approaches to Revelation Some see it as a “summary of history” They see the Catholic Church, Reformation, Luther & Calvin Philip Melanchthon, Luther’s contemporary, took this approach Recent authors are Albert Barnes and John Hinds Each reapplies history to put himself in the last days Some believe it only deals with the end of time Authors since 1948 think we are in the last moments of time Each rewrites when time proves him wrong Something is wrong with an approach that rewrites interpretation every time history disproves it Lesson 1 2
  • 3. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The time frame is set by two phrases Dei genesthai en tachei - “which must happen soon” Rev 1:1 WEB the Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show the things which must happen soon... Rev 22:6 WEB He said to me, “ The Lord God sent his angel to show the things which must happen soon.” Some believe that en tachei means “certainly” Not so! Tacheoo always means “quickly”. Act 22:17-18 WEB “ while I prayed I fell into a trance, and saw him saying to me, 'Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly,” Gal 1:6-7 WEB I marvel that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ to a different gospel 2Ti 4:9 WEB Be diligent to come to me soon... Readers of Revelation understood that the fulfillment would be soon - from their point of view, not ours! The time is at hand Ho gar kairos engus – “for the time is at hand” Engus means “in hand” or “within reach” The use of “the time is at hand” Rev 1:3 WEB Blessed is he who reads those who hear and keep the things written in it, for the time is at hand. Rev 22:10 WEB He said to me, “Don't seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is at hand. This same expression is used elsewhere Mar 1:14-15 WEB Jesus came saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand! ” Rom 10:8-9 WEB The word is near you... Phi 4:5 WEB The Lord is at hand. No text uses engus of something far away Reasons for interpreting the book in light of its time: It was a “revelation” to its readers, not a “mystery” It was intended to be read, understood and acted on Its time of fulfillment was close at hand Picture yourself as a Christian in Pergamum Antipas has been executed for his faith. You may be next! A messenger comes with John's letter. Do you want to know what to expect in 2000 years? No! You want to know if you’re going to be alive tomorrow! If not, what then? Was it worth it for Antipas – or for you? You don’t care about 21st Century writers. You want to know what’s going to happen to you and what God is doing about it! A message to early Christians about their concerns! Lesson 1 3
  • 4. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Keys to understanding Revelation All literature is not read alike Elizabeth Barrett Browning vs. Edgar Allen Poe William Shakespeare vs. Stephen King Newspaper vs. poetry; biography vs. prophecy; history vs. a math textbook They are not interpreted the same way Revelation is written in apocalyptic style Makes heavy use of symbols Imagery that is not intended to be taken literally What if I told you that yesterday, I saw a vision I saw what looked like a living creature It had four legs, but it stood up on two, like a man. It had a prominent nose. It was brown with long ears I saw another living creature It looked like a bird without wings. It was blue and had two legs with three toes on each foot The first creature sat astride a red cylinder The first creature sped toward the second creature The second stepped aside as the first sped past Who are the two creatures? Read Revelation the way you watch animations – use your imagination 7-headed dragon, 7- headed beast, lamb with 7 horns and eyes, prostitute on a beast Don’t let details distract you from the picture Let the picture grab your imagination and you will understand it Revelation uses symbols extensively Some are self-evident Lesson 1 4
  • 5. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Consider John's description of one like a son of man in Rev 1:13-18 Robe and gold sash Hair like white wool Eyes like a flame of fire Feet like brass Sword out of his mouth Face like the sun I am the first and the last, and the Living one I was dead, and I am alive forevermore This is clearly Jesus. Look at the description of the Lamb of God in Rev 5:5-6 Lion of Judah Root of David He who opens the book and its seven seals Lamb standing, as though it had been slain It cannot be anyone but Jesus Consider the vignette about two witnesses in Rev 11:6 Shut up the sky that it may not rain Comes from Elijah Turn water into blood and strike the earth with plagues Come from Moses Lesson 1 5
  • 6. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 A radiant woman gives birth to a unique child in Rev 12:1-5 Clothed with the sun Moon under her feet Crown of twelve stars Pregnant and in labor Gives birth to a son who is to rule the nations with a rod of iron John expects his readers to identify the woman as Mary, and her child as Jesus A conquering king rides in on a white horse in Rev 19:11-16 Faithful and True Eyes are a flame of fire Many crowns Covered with blood “The Word of God” Sword out of his mouth Rules with a rod of iron King of Kings and Lord of Lords No doubt this is Jesus The text explains the less obvious symbols What are the stars and lampstands? Rev 1:20 WEB The seven stars are the angels of the seven assemblies. The seven lampstands are seven assemblies. The lampstands are churches and the stars are their messengers Lesson 1 6
  • 7. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 What about the dragon out to devour the child? Rev 12:9 WEB The great dragon , the old serpent, he who is called the devil and Satan ... In the Apocalypse, the dragon is Satan John sees a prostitute riding on a seven-headed beast in Rev 17 Rev 17:18 WEB The woman is the great city which reigns over the kings of the earth.” Rev 17:9-11 WEB The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sits. They are also seven kings Rome sat on 7 hills and ruled the world – the prostitute is Rome A puzzle to solve, not a mystery to ignore Start with what you know Lamb is Jesus Dragon is Satan Prostitute is Rome Heads are emperors Start there and the picture comes together! Lesson 1 7
  • 8. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Revelation for Dummies God Rules! Jesus is Lord! We win! The symbolism of numbers Apocalyptic literature used numbers symbolically Four numerals are oppositional pairs. 7 stands opposed to 3 ½ 12 stands opposed to 6 Others are not paired 1/3, 2, 4, 10, 1,000 Oppositional pairs are a feature of Revelation There are two lambs The Lamb of God Rev 5:6 WEB I saw in the midst of the throne a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain A lamb that speaks with the voice of a dragon Rev 13:11 WEB I saw another He had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke like a dragon. Lesson 1 8
  • 9. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Two oppositional women The prostitute Rev 19:1-2 NIV God has condemned the great prostitute The bride of the Lamb Rev 19:7 NIV Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Two who claim dominion God on the throne Rev 4:2 WEB Behold, there was a throne and one sitting on the throne Dragon who attempts to invade heaven Rev 12:7 WEB Michael and his angels made war on the dragon. The dragon and his angels made war. Two marks on people’s foreheads The seal of God Rev 7:3 WEB Don't harm the earth until we have sealed the bondservants of our God on their foreheads! The mark of the beast Rev 13:16-17 WEB He causes all to be given marks on their right hands, or on their foreheads Lesson 1 9
  • 10. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Kings of the earth and the King of Kings Rev 17:12 WEB The ten horns are ten kings Rev 19:16 WEB He has a name written, “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.” There are other opposites, but this gives you the idea Some numbers are also in oppositional pairs Seven symbolizes God's completed work 7 occurs more in Revelation than the rest of the NT more in Revelation than in any OT book 7 symbolizes God finishing his work Gen 2:1-3 WEB On the seventh day God finished his work and he rested on the seventh day ... Revelation begins with a letter to 7 churches. Rev 1:4 WEB John, to the seven assemblies ... Rev 1:11 WEB ... “What you see, write in a book and send to the seven assemblies ” Rev 1:20 WEB ... The seven lampstands are seven assemblies. Ekklesiai is “churches” in other translations Lesson 1 10
  • 11. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The first vision features two sevens The son of man is among 7 lampstands Rev 1:20 WEB ... The seven lampstands are seven assemblies. He is holding 7 stars Rev 1:20 WEB ... The seven stars are the angels of the seven assemblies... Before God's throne were 7 lamps Rev 4:5 WEB ... There were seven lamps of fire burning before his throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. These are seen elsewhere Rev 1:4 WEB ... Grace to you and peace ... from the seven Spirits who are before his throne A 7-sealed scroll was opened by a Lamb with 7 horns and 7 eyes Rev 5:1-6 WEB I saw, in the right hand of him who sat on the throne, a book written inside and outside, sealed shut with seven seals (6) I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, having seven horns, and seven eyes Lesson 1 11
  • 12. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 God's judgments were announced by 7 angels with 7 trumpets. Rev 8:2-6 WEB I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them (6) The seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound. 7 angels administer God's judgments Rev 15:1 WEB I saw seven angels having the seven last plagues, for in them God's wrath is finished. Rev 15:6-8 WEB One of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God... 7 bowls of wrath were poured out on the earth. Rev 16:1 WEB I heard a loud voice out of the temple, saying to the seven angels, “Go and pour out the seven bowls of the wrath of God on the earth!” Lesson 1 12
  • 13. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 3½ depicts Satan's attempt to thwart God's purpose 3 ½ is opposed to 7 7 is God doing his will. 3½ is a time of suffering Daniel envisioned a 3 ½ year oppression Dan 7:25 WEB He shall speak against the Most High, and the saints be given into his hand until a time and times and half a time. A year (“time”) + 2 years (“times”) + 6 months (“half a time”). A time of oppression and provision Drought during the reign of Ahab Jam 5:17 WEB Elijah prayed that it might not rain, and it didn't rain on the earth for three years and six months. God provided for Elijah 1Ki 17:3-6 WEB (6) The ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook. The picture comes from military sieges Measured in months Roman army surrounded a city, cutting off supplies Built siegeworks and starved the city Jewish-Roman War Began in 66 AD Jerusalem fell 42 months later in 70 AD A time when Satan tries to stop God’s work, but God is still in control! Lesson 1 13
  • 14. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 3½ years in Revelation 11 Gentiles besiege God’s city for 42 months Rev 11:1-2 They will tread the holy city under foot for forty-two months. God's witnesses preach for the same 1260 days Rev 11:3 my two witnesses will prophesy one thousand two hundred sixty days 3½ years as 1260 days and “a time, times, and half a time” God cares for the woman for 1260 days Rev 12:6 Satan tries to get at the woman for a time, times and half a time Rev 12:13-14 He can’t get to her, because God is protecting her The outcome is always the same – God wins! Twelve symbolizes God's people 12 and multiples (24, 12,000, 144,000) is the second most prominent number in Revelation In Rev 4:4, 24 elders sit on thrones 24 elders are God’s people in two covenants 12 patriarchs (Old Testament) 12 apostles (New Testament) Lesson 1 14
  • 15. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 In Revelation 7 there are 144,000 people sealed Rev 7:4 WEB one hundred forty-four thousand, sealed out of every tribe of the children of Israel These are people with God’s seal of approval on their foreheads 12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel The number is not literal The radiant woman in Rev 12 wears a crown of twelve stars Rev 12:1 WEB a woman and on her head a crown of twelve stars We saw this woman earlier as an idealized picture of Mary The 12 stars represent God’s people – her crowning glory 12 dominates the description of the holy city in Rev 21:10-17 12 gates 12 angels Names of 12 tribes 12 foundations 12 names of the 12 Apostles 12,000 stadia Wall is 144 cubits Lesson 1 15
  • 16. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 This is the city where God’s people live! It is a cube 12,000 stadia on each side, with 12 gates, having walls 144 cubits thick. The city has plenty of access (gates) room (dimensions) security (angels at the gates) protection (walls) 6 symbolizes rebellion against God It depicts man’s attempt to dispense with God Contrast of 6 and 12 12 is God’s faithful people protected by him 6 is man in rebellion against God Like Satan’s attempts to stop God (3 ½), man’s rebellion always fails The most infamous use of 6 is the number of the beast in Rev 13:18 Rev 13:18 WEB His number is six hundred sixty-six. Rebellion compounded Man’s attempt to usurp God’s throne 666 is a gematria The number concealed a name the readers knew, but history quickly forgot Irenaeus (2nd Century) suggested names, but couldn’t determine the name behind the number Lesson 1 16
  • 17. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Ancient alphabets were not like our modern alphabets Hebrew and Greek had alphabets composed of characters that served a dual purpose as letters and numbers Thus “a” could either serve as a letter, or it could be the numeral “1”, “b” could be used as the numeral “2”, etc. Ancient writers engaged in “gematria” (Greek isopsephia) They added the letter values and the sum was the "number" of the name The sum represented the name when they wanted to reveal the identity to some, but conceal it from others This is important to understanding “666” in Rev 13:18 Ancient examples of gematria Graffiti in Pompeii: “I love her whose number is 545.” Only the couple would know about whom he was writing. A Roman inscription describes Gaius as holy and good Gaios = 3 + 1 + 10 + 70 + 200 = 284 (Ha)gios = 1 + 3 + 10 + 70 + 200 = 284 Aga(th)os =1 + 3 + 1 + 9 + 70 + 200 = 284 The words are gematrically interchangeable Possible names that make sense in light of the historical setting Lateinos = “Latin” (e.g. Rome, the city or the empire) = 30+1+300+5+10+50+70+200 = 666 Teitan = “Titus” (common name of the Flavian Emperors. Vespasian was emperor when Revelation was written. Titus ascended shortly thereafter. Domitian began the empire-wide persecution of Christians.) = 300+5+10+300+1+50 = 666 Kaisarsebaston = “Caesar Augustus” (“worshipful Caesar”). The imperial name = 20+1+10+200+1+100+200+5+2+1+6+70+50 = 666 (Note: this requires using the obsolete letter stigma (= 6) in the place of the letters sigma (= 200) and tau (= 300). Recall the book was intended to be read aloud. The hearers would be used to associating the “st” sound with the value of 6.) Lesson 1 17
  • 18. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 1/3 symbolizes God’s restraint in judgment in Rev 8:6-12 1/3 earth burnt up 1/3 trees burnt up 1/3 sea became blood 1/3 sea creatures died 1/3 ships destroyed 1/3 rivers struck by star 1/3 waters became wormwood 1/3 sun, moon and stars darkened Old Testament roots in Ezekiel 5 where he was told to shave his head Eze 5:1-2 WEB (2) A third part you shall burn in the city take a third part, and strike with the sword a third part you shall scatter to the wind . Eze 5:12 WEB A third shall die and a third shall fall by the sword and a third I will scatter to the winds, and draw a sword after them Two symbolizes testimony Emissaries sent in pairs Mar 6:7 WEB He began to send them out two by two Mat 11:2-3 WEB John sent two ... disciples Jewish law of evidence required two witnesses Deu 19:15 WEB One witness shall not rise up against a man at the mouth of two witnesses, or three shall a matter be established. Lesson 1 18
  • 19. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The only significant usage of two is in Rev 11:3-11 2 witnesses prophesy 1260 days They are 2 olive trees They are also 2 lampstands, standing before the Lord They are also 2 prophets The image comes from Zechariah 4 Zec 4:2-3 WEB “I have seen, and behold, a lampstand all of gold, (3) and two olive trees by it ” Zec 4:11-14 WEB Then I asked him, “What are these two olive trees (14) Then he said, “These are the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of the whole earth.” The two represent the testimony of the Law and Prophets Moses and Elijah at Transfiguration Mat 17:1-3 WEB (2) He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light. (3) Behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking with him. In Rev 11 they are sent to proclaim God's word Lesson 1 19
  • 20. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Four symbolizes the entire earth and universe Symbol of 4 derives from 4 compass points, 4 wind directions and 4 seasons Babylonian mythology: 4 signs of the Zodiac, Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius, powerful figures supporting heaven by 4 corners, or as the beasts of burden of the 4-wheeled heavenly chariot Ezekiel 1 described 4 creatures of God's heavenly entourage 4 living creatures Each had 4 faces: man, lion, ox and eagle Each had 4 wings Eze 1:4-28 WEB This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of Yahweh. John saw 4 creatures around God's throne worshiping him in Rev 4:6-8 Rev 4:6-8 WEB around the throne were four living creatures ... (7) The first like a lion, the second like a calf, and the third had a face like a man, and the fourth like a flying eagle. (8) They have no rest day and night, saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty ” Lesson 1 20
  • 21. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The 4 creatures worship the Lamb in Rev 5:6-14 Rev 5:6-14 WEB (8) the four living creatures fell down before the Lamb (9) saying, “You are worthy (11) I heard a voice of many angels (12) saying “Worthy is the Lamb ” (14) The four living creatures said, “Amen!” Zechariah 6 has 4 chariots depicting God's omnipresence & omniscience 4 chariots drawn by red, black, white, and dappled horses Zec 6:5-8 WEB “These are the four winds of the sky, which go forth from standing before the Lord of all the earth. ” (7) So they walked back and forth through the earth In Rev 6:1-8, 4 creatures announce 4 horses with the opening of 4 seals 1st seal – 1st creature announces 1st rider on a white horse 2nd seal – 2nd creature announces 2nd rider on a red horse 3rd seal – 3rd creature announces 3rd rider on a black horse 4th seal – 4th creature announces 4th rider on a pale horse Lesson 1 21
  • 22. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The OT mentions the 4 winds & the 4 corners of the earth 4 corners of the earth from which God gathers Isa 11:12 WEB He will assemble Israel, and gather Judah from the four corners of the earth. 4 winds by which God scatters his enemies Jer 49:36 WEB On Elam will I bring the four winds from the four quarters of the sky , Revelation has 4 angels at 4 corners of the earth holding back judgment Rev 7:1 WEB I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth Rev 9:13-15 WEB (15) The four angels were freed who had been prepared for that hour and day and month and year, so that they might kill one third of mankind. Ten symbolizes limits Relates to anatomy: ten fingers on the human hand Once you’ve counted to ten, you’ve exhausted all of your fingers, and all of your chances Many places in the Bible where one counts to ten and then says: “Enough!” Lesson 1 22
  • 23. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 Ten years was limit of Abram's patience with God's promise Gen 13:16 WEB I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth Gen 16:3 WEB Sarai, Abram's wife, took Hagar the Egyptian, her handmaid, after Abram had lived ten years in the land of Canaan, and gave her to Abram her husband to be his wife. Ten was the limit of God's patience with Sodom Abraham bargained with God to spare Sodom, testing God’s limits till he reached the ten Gen 18:32 WEB “Oh don't let the Lord be angry What if ten are found there?” He said, “I will not destroy it for the ten's sake.” Ten changes in terms was the limit of Jacob's patience with Laban Gen 31:41 WEB These twenty years I have been in your house. I served you fourteen years for your two daughters, and six years for your flock, and you have changed my wages ten times. Lesson 1 23
  • 24. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The Ten Commandments were the limits God set on Israel's conduct Exo 34:28 WEB He was there with Yahweh forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread, nor drank water. He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the ten commandments. God gave people ten chances – as seen in two other events during the life of Moses Ten plagues showed the limit of God's patience with Egypt. Egypt suffers for Pharaoh's refusal to let Israel go In spite of plague after plague, Pharaoh continues to harden his heart The tenth plague results in final judgment on Egypt Ten rebellions test the limits of God's patience with the Exodus generation Num 14:20-23 WEB Yahweh said, because all those men who have seen my glory, and my signs yet have tempted me these ten times, and have not listened to my voice; surely they shall not see the land which I swore to their fathers Lesson 1 24
  • 25. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 The uses of “ten” in Revelation Pergamum would suffer ten days before God said, “Enough!” Rev 2:10 WEB the devil is about to throw some of you into prison and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life. Devil is limited by what God allows him to do! The dragon and the sea beast have 10 horns Rev 12:3 WEB Behold, a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns Rev 13:1 WEB I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns On his horns were ten crowns They have power, (horns), but only the power God gives them – God sets their limits! 10 horns are 10 kings – God sets limits on the beast's power Rev 17:7 WEB I will tell you the mystery of the woman, and of the beast which has the seven heads and the ten horns. Rev 17:12 WEB The ten horns that you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority as kings, with the beast, for one hour. Lesson 1 25
  • 26. The Book of Revelation 03/04/2007 1,000 symbolizes limitlessness Psa 50:10 WEB For every animal of the forest is mine, and the livestock on a thousand hills. God is not exempting the livestock on other hills, nor the livestock in valleys. What he’s saying is that all livestock belongs to him Apply that reasoning to other passages: Deu 7:9 WEB Yahweh your God keeps covenant with them who love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations Message: God loves everyone who loves and obeys him Psa 68:17 WEB The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands of thousands Message: God has immeasurable power And when we come to that text about 1,000 years Time is insignificant to God. Man’s eon is God’s moment Psa 90:4 WEB For a thousand years in your sight are just like yesterday when it is past, like a watch in the night. God’s schedule is not to be judged by man's. 2Pe 3:8 WEB But don't forget that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. Remember the symbolic use of 1,000 when we get to Rev 20:2-7 He seized the dragon and bound him for a thousand years I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus They lived, and reigned with Christ for a thousand years Devil’s power is limited (10 horns), but God’s dominion over him is unlimited (1,000 years) Lesson 1 26