Do Not Be Seduced

Revelation 17:1-18

Few weeks back introduced concept of false or counterfeit trinity – dragon, beast, false prophet – that mocks and mimics the real Triune God. Counterfeit works diligently to become to all mankind what the real should be: object of worship and adoration. Also endeavors to overthrow, supplant real Trinity. This the source, reason for spiritual conflict in world – the dragon, Satan, working with full effort to gain and maintain territory/subjects/dominion.

Chapter 19 describes wedding celebration of the Lamb and his bride who is finally ready. Is false bride to go with false Christ, pictured for us in text as great harlot sitting on beast with seven heads, ten horns. Should be no surprise – Satan’s primary tool from beginning: deceit/deception. Jesus: “the devil …does not stand in the truth. …he is a liar and the father of it.”

That said, and not new information ;-), Satan clever enough, God’s people careless or inattentive enough to be seduced, taken in by deception. Hence the warning in our text – beware of what world promises, avoid it like poison it truly is. Don’t have to know all ins and outs of counterfeit, do need to know counterfeits exist and at least basics of how to identify. God in mercy has given both description and explanation here in chapter 17, equipping true Bride of true Christ to avoid Satan’s traps. We read verse 7 with self-conscious smile: “why do you marvel?” “why are you astounded?” Smile because angel seems a little caught off-guard at John’s amazement. Self-conscious because we would be no less astounded than John.

Much of meaning behind language/symbols of Revelation found in Old Testament. First, then, brief background on significance of Babylon, usage of harlotry; then the woman, the beast and horns, followed by outcome of battle, and final caution.

A. OT background

harlot / prostitute — fornication / sexual immorality

ch. 16 (20x) and 23 (14x) of Ezekiel: harlotry/associated concepts used repeatedly to describe Israel’s unfaithfulness to Yahweh

similar in Jeremiah – Jer. 3:6, 9 The LORD said also to me in the days of Josiah the king: “Have you seen what backsliding Israel has done? She has gone up on every high mountain and under every green tree, and there played the harlot. …”So it came to pass, through her casual harlotry, that she defiled the land and committed adultery with stones and trees.”

Babel/Babylon

remember the story – the tower, top reaching heaven, not so they could climb stairway to heaven; really wanted to bring heaven down to earth, perhaps some kind of magical / demonic power

determined to gain access to what would make them invincible; iow, themselves become the objects of worship

put together – entity that seeks to set up alternative system of worship, encourage people to follow it, in total rebellion against God

B. the woman

identity (1, 3, 18)

woman in league with the Beast, parallels Bride who is in unity with true Christ – if Bride is true Church, scarlet woman corresponds to false church

not a single individual, rather a representative of every religious system in every place throughout this age

may have name of church, may exist under some other identity – cults, idols, dead churches, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, more

behavior (4-6)

portrays much that is desirable – pleasure, wealth, things that cater to human desires – yet outside conflicts with inside

offers for refreshment all things that are detestable to God – promising to deliver satisfaction contrary to God’s explicit commands

as “mother of harlots”, is evident she encourages all she can to follow her lead, to worship what is “not God” in conflict with those who worship true God

derives pleasure and satisfaction from causing harm to saints even though often means their loss of life

throne (15)

has pervasive presence throughout world and time – not limited to John’s day or one geopolitical area, spans globe and this age

yes, sits on the Beast; in collusion with Beast, exercises great ruling influence wherever Beast is found – throughout all ten kingdoms, iow, entire world

C. beast and horns

identity (3, 8-11, 12-13)

this the same Beast of chapter 13, a counterfeit Christ who claims universal ruling authority as given to him by the dragon

just as Rome represented the sole superpower of early centuries, Beast represents and has power over superpowers of every period as well as lesser powers

John and contemporaries somewhere in progression of kings/rulers, more still to come before the end, earthly authorities who willingly collaborate with Beast

appears no kingdom is exempt from Beast’s power and influence… with one notable exception – Christ’s kingdom, whose King limits how much damage Beast can do

blasphemy definition – “arrogating the right to dictate in matters of faith and religious worship, and to punish those who dissent from its creed” Bliss, Brief Commentary

unholy alliance between false church and governments results in complete absence of God’s truth in church, excessive overreach in government

according to Rom 13:3-4, civil government exists to encourage righteousness and restrain evil, acting as “an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer”

gets turned on its head under influence of Beast – encouraging evil and punishing the righteous; then added to by intruding into matters of conscience

not limited to government, happens in business, education – shows up in conflict/consequences for belief, not behavior

sensitivity training, financial penalties for those who disagree, attempts to regulate what you believe and accept, pressure to conform to society’s standard

behavior (8b, 16a)

gains great following: those who do not have sanctified sight thoroughly wowed by Beast, his power, his wisdom, all that woman promises

ultimately Beast tires of false church, world’s kingdoms have given their loyalty to him, will finally turn on the woman and destroy her

when idols fail to come through, make good on promises, worshipers turn on idol and destroy it… replaced in this case by Satan… for short time – Satan has no intention of sharing limelight with anyone else

D. outcome

beast – going to perdition (8a, 11)

Beast not only deceiving others, has succeeded in deceiving himself – thinks he will ultimately prevail over Christ and his church

doom is certain – God has decreed his eternal destruction in “lake of fire burning with brimstone” (19:20) with no escape

horns – overcome by the Lamb (14)

kingdoms of the world collectively try to throw off restraints God has placed on them but to no avail – will be totally defeated

Lamb “puts an end to all rule and all authority and power” – is his battle and his alone to “put all his enemies under his feet”

woman – will be done in by her subjects (16-17)

promised luxury, satisfaction for desires, could not pull it off; reality is, had no intention of doing so – purpose only to deceive, not satisfy… gain a following, not do good for followers

E. do not be seduced

“Satan attacks the saints in two main ways. The Beast attacks with power and persecution, endeavoring to destroy the witness of the saints and force them to worship the Beast. Babylon attacks with seduction, endeavoring to destroy the purity of the saints.” Poythress

only an illusion – does not really satisfy

what the world offers that sounds good not real, without true substance – may look really good, even genuine, but is not

even Christians can be taken in by master deceiver if they get careless – must make sure source of whatever influences has deep roots in truth of God’s word

only temporary – does not last

is true of what world offers as good, also true of threats and persecution – must keep both in mind when tempted

world can only offer things belonging to this world, not next; God designed us to be satisfied only in Him, nothing less

satisfaction only lasts till money runs out, high wears off, possession tarnishes or breaks, relationship gets mundane

is ultimately self-destructive

how many examples do we need – can put names, faces to family, co-workers, neighbors, public figures who have or are destroying self and others in pursuit of power, pleasure, possessions

first and greatest desire/loyalty must be for Jesus

ones who will be with the Lamb as he goes out to conquer: “faithful” – not successful, not beautiful, not powerful

first and greatest desire must be like Paul’s: to gain Christ, be found in Christ, know Christ and power of his resurrection, fellowship of his sufferings

Will be increased pressure, coercion, temptation to trust in “not God”; to conform to demands of culture and government; to fit in with crowd of other churches, those who have made peace with ideas from the world. We can make evolution/Science and Bible mesh together, prohibition about alternate lifestyles directed to 1st cent. culture not ours, ok to take lessons from business leaders on how to manage church. Must not give in to pressure, temptation or fear, must not be seduced by world’s way of thinking, prioritizing.

When focus on Christ, confidence in Christ, greatest love for Christ, He will enable us to remain faithful to him and his word – not be seduced by Satan and his agents, not fear threats or hardships or suffering. Jesus will help us continue on in…

“It Is Done”

Revelation 16:1-21

November 24, 1998, PALM HARBOR, Florida (CNN)

James Currens, 77, said he believes he was asleep when he wandered out of his home and stumbled down an embankment into an alligator-infested pond. The frail man with a reconstructed knee awoke to find his legs stuck in the mud and his eyes staring into the faces of several alligators.

Currens said he kept the reptiles, some longer than 3 feet, at bay by poking at them with his cane. A neighbor heard him hollering for help and called police at about 5 a.m.

A Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department spokesman said, at first glance, the officers saw only a crowd of alligators in the water. Currens had to yell to direct their attention toward him.

Police used bright lights to scare off some of the gators, but when Cpl. James Cooper worked his way through mud and brush, he saw eight to 10 alligators just a few feet away from Currens.

Currens held out his cane to the officer and Cooper pulled him to safety. The retired maintenance supervisor was taken to a hospital for treatment of minor cuts and bruises on his arms and legs that he suffered during his fall.

Millions of people in today’s world are sleep-walking, going through life without any consideration for next life. Act as though tomorrow always comes, not much different from today. Will be rudely awakened to face far worse than alligators. When time comes, will have absolutely no means of defense.

As we approach conclusion of Revelation, cameras move from position near beginning of age to vantage point much nearer end. What primarily fills view is detail about final triumph of King of kings and Lord of lords over all his enemies, then what comes after… for both saved.. and lost.

A. the plagues

last chapter: inspired author made clear bad things yet to come are from God, are response of holy and righteous God to sin/evil

voice of command initiates outpouring of final bowls of wrath comes from the temple, place “filled with smoke from the glory of God and from his power” (Rev. 15:8)

as horrific as plagues sound, and in reality will be, to say they are overkill, excessive is to bring charge against God – injustice

bowls are merely symbols – God in justice directing his righteous anger against evildoers… those who would dethrone God and kill his people given opportunity

not an overstatement – each day seeing more of evil that lurks in hearts of men, women, boys, girls in world made livable only by God’s common grace and restraining hand

is important to remember: these are visions / signs / symbols – have reference to reality, not necessarily exactly as we think

will not be some kind of zombie apocalypse, gross and disgusting and destructive things happening like portrayed in movies

reality will be far worse than can imagine – have no frame of reference for these events, only something like what happened in Egypt but worldwide in scope and awful

given what is described, bowls probably poured out in fairly quick succession – estimated duration of Egypt plagues: 3-6 weeks

1 – on the land, sores like boils in 6th plague – described as disease both destructive and painful, causing inescapable intense discomfort and suffering

medical community doesn’t stand chance – overwhelmed by numbers, afflicted themselves, no training to guide treatment

2 – on sea – turns to blood, like first plague of Egypt – major source of food destroyed, transportation disrupted, climate change

3 – on fresh water – same thing, major supply of drinking water unusable; two together bring water cycle nearly to halt

fewer options for alleviating discomfort brought on by judgment as pain and suffering increases, affecting more parts of life

4 – on the sun – not darkening (4th trumpet), an intensifying… of sun’s heat, how much reaches earth (see #3)

reasonable to think bowl 2 & 3 significantly altered water cycle, changing cloud cover / absorbent properties of atmosphere… plus God’s direct action to increase heating effect of sun

5 – darkness – darkness, covering all earth, adding fear and uncertainty to already present discomfort – not simple darkness of night, something far more profound and frightening

Matt 27:45-50 “Now from the sixth hour until the ninth hour there was darkness over all the land.” – no eclipse of sun, impossible when full moon

6 – on the Euphrates, dried up – boundary between civilized / uncivilized, restraint holding heathen back from overrunning Church

removing the boundary/hindrance no guarantee of their success – remember who is defending/protecting his Church from harm

does mean number and violence of attempts to overthrow and silence anything connected with God ramp up significantly

7 – on the air – thunder, lightning, roaring, earthquake, hail – 7th plague plus Calvary (Matt. 27:51, 54)

hail mixed with fire fell on Egypt, earthquake that split rocks at time of Jesus’ death – just as hail unprecedented in Egypt, so this final bowl like nothing earth has ever experienced before

why link to Calvary?

same action on God’s part – his just punishment for sin; difference… a Substitute at Calvary, responsible individuals at the end

as have said before, can expect no less from God at end than what he made his Son endure on the cross

B. the targets

“the men who had the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image.” (2)

God not indiscriminate in how he treats his creatures – ones affected by final judgment are allies of dragon, beast, false prophet

have showed their alliance by how they worship – actively demonstrated loyalty by worshiping “not God” – iow, the ungodly

“they have shed the blood of saints and prophets” (6)

have also shown loyalty by treatment of God’s people – persecuted, harassed, even to point of giving lives because they represent Lord Jesus

Lord Jesus takes it personally – Saul, Damascus Road… Jesus is so united with his people, oneness is such that harm to saints received as assault on Christ himself

commentary from angel: ungodly are receiving no more and no less than what they deserve for their actions – lex talionis

C. the justification

“true and righteous are Your judgments” (7)

not that God needs justification for his actions, but… clear declaration from heaven’s perspective: God is just, doing what is perfectly right and proper

comes from those who had experience: Rev. 6:9-10 When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held.And they cried with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?”

D. their response

“they blasphemed the name of God… they did not repent and give Him glory” (9)

do we need any clearer depiction of hardness of fallen man’s heart? as intensity of judgment climbs, so does intensity of response… raging against only One who could save them

should also correct mistaken views about hell – no repentance after this experience, will certainly be none later

also makes pretty clear – this punishment is real, physical, terrible

“They blasphemed the God of heaven… and did not repent of their deeds” (11)

only one option – attack the One responsible for their pain, like cornered animals – is exactly what Dragon incites them to do

sends out his demonic henchmen – persuade allies and worshipers… now is the time, you can become gods if you seize opportunity overthrow God Almighty

“Men blasphemed God” (21)

even when is absolutely certain – no hope, this is the end – response to curse God, blame God, make God responsible for plight

E. the people of God

not harmed by plagues – Rev. 9:4 “They were commanded not to harm the grass of the earth, or any green thing, or any tree, but only those men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.”

division between people – Ex. 8:22-23“And in that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, in which My people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there, in order that you may know that I am the LORD in the midst of the land.I will make a difference between My people and your people.”

same holds true for bowl judgments – obvious from description of those impacted by judgment

identified specifically – have the mark, worship the image, shed blood of the prophets; blasphemed, did not repent

none of these apply to God’s people – they are shielded from God’s wrath… yet are present: hence caution to keep watching

furthermore: God’s wrath that his people deserve already poured out on Christ, their substitute

must be watchful, will be blessed for watchfulness (15)

no way of knowing for certain when Lord Jesus will return – requires that we be living every moment so as not to be ashamed

iow, blessing promised for those who live so is obvious they are clothed with Christ’s righteousness – “who washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” Rev. 7:14

will be praising God for answered prayer – Rev. 6:10; 8:3-5

those martyred for their faith had asked “Lord, how long before you will judge?” – they have their answer, as God moves into action

F. God himself

“it is done” (7); cf. Rev. 15:1 – God’s wrath on sin on earth is finished, the end… of sin and evil on earth, suffering for God’s people

Christ has fully and finally conquered all enemies, fully and finally delivered his people from sin and suffering

What if that Great Day were to begin in few moments – what would your experience be? Would you be among those blessed for watchfulness? or those shaking their fist at God because of the fury of his wrath? And what about friends and family?

Good news of Gospel still in force: “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” Answer the call to fear God and worship your Creator while still time; then will be in company of blessed.

An Astounding Sign

Revelation 15:1-8

Might be thinking to yourself – given all apostle John has seen, what could he possibly see that would make his jaw drop in amazement? As matter of fact, several things, eventually so overcome he even tried to worship an angel! (22:8) Have to remember, John didn’t live in digital age with special effects – he lived in real life, probably closer to reality than many of us. Talk about being desensitized to violence, can become desensitized to about anything… including things in God’s creation that should cause us to pause in amazement.

Number of years ago, opportunity to visit Grand Canyon. Stopped at one overlook, stood there drinking in beauty of God’s handiwork, thinking how his judgment by Flood could have left landscape featureless, barren, uninhabitable. Instead are surrounded by breathtaking beauty. While there at overlook, car stopped. Young lady got out, walked to one end of area, aimed her smartphone at the canyon, walked to other end of parking area taking video, got back in car and left. Not out of car much longer than takes to tell. Let us never lose our sensitivity to God’s reality. Instead be continually amazed by what God is doing.

Has already seen this age… from First Coming to Second Coming… presented in two series of images – seals, trumpets. Introduced by powerful scene of heavenly worship ch. 4-5 – gathering of countless saints and angels before God’s throne, giving praise and glory to him. Again we see into heaven, how God intends to bring his plan for this age to conclusion – worship given there and judgment that comes from God himself.

Is an important corrective to wrong way of thinking common among even Christians – if it’s bad, must have come from Satan; only good comes from God. Calamities come from God, have a purpose; so does warning of calamity. If God didn’t care, why send Jonah to Nineveh? If God didn’t have plan and purpose, why tell us in Revelation? He does have plan and purpose, he does care, he warns of judgment so people will turn from their sin, run to him first. And so when judgment comes, people will know what God is about.

A. a great and amazing sign v.1

introduction to ch.15 & 16

introduces sequence of judgments described more detail in following chapter, from perspective of heaven’s throne room

also a conclusion – when this sequence is finished, God’s judgment on sin on earth completed, this age will be over

further detail ch. 17-20, no new events not already described in previous visions

third sign – follows two previous: the woman (12:1), the dragon (12:3) and associates

woman and dragon at enmity since Eden – in new Eden dragon has been thoroughly crushed, gone from sight for sake of God and the woman

is thrilling news for woman/the Church – her most determined enemy completely defeated, no possibility ever of another Fall

don’t forget – is a sign – not intended to be understood in woodenly literal way; but… signs and symbols do have corresponding reality even more real and profound than the symbol

also follows counterfeit signs performed by false prophet (13:13-14)

if Satan’s counterfeit signs and wonders intended to persuade and effective in doing so, genuine sign from God profoundly more so

all of ch. 15, 16, 17 included in this “sign” – will clearly demonstrate to all rational creatures without exception who one true God is, that he has absolute power and authority over all his creation

are last plagues

are typical of things God has done before/is doing now to get attention, bring people to repentance

has worked in past because many still believed there was a God who sent calamities for a purpose; now… have outgrown that primitive kind of god, have a friendlier safer one

but… highly likely when these start in earnest, will no longer be opportunity for repentance – will be plain this is the end

like brothers in story of rich man and Lazarus – have Law and Prophets and countless warnings and reminders… to no avail

when the real end comes, every individual still in their sins will not change, have no desire to change, are confirmed enemies of God and his people

B. amazing worship v.2-4

Red Sea / Promised Land allusions

same sea as in Rev. 4:6 “Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal” – placement not a coincidence: God is one issuing orders, God is one being worshiped

worshiped by those who have had victory over Beast – they are on one side of sea, enemies are on other side

reminiscent of ancient Israelites, standing on one side of Red Sea, watching and rejoicing in deliverance as Pharaoh and army drowned by God’s powerful hand while singing song of Moses

Ex. 15:1 “I will sing to the LORD, For He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea!”

remember what God brought them through… and why

series of plagues, much like bowl judgments about to be described

didn’t deliver Hebrew children from Egypt then hammer Egyptians – God intended both believers and unbelievers to get his point

starting with Ex. 7:16 (8:1, 20; 9:1, 13; 10:3) 6x “Let my people go that they may serve me” iow, “that they may worship me”

same true for people of God today – he brings us trhough much tribulation so when we stand on other side of sea, can worship him way were designed

conquered the beast… how?

no uncertainty about who is qualified to worship God in this setting – those who have rejected all the Beast promised and stands for, who refused his mark

not those who were passively non-compliant – were active and public in their resistance, perhaps at great personal cost

following example of Moses – Heb. 11:24-26 “By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter,choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.”

not something anyone accomplishes in own strength or wisdom – requires empowerment from God thru full dependence

martyrs truly victors

often talk/think about what Christian brothers and sisters who serve in foreign places have given up, sometimes losing life for sake of Gospel – super-spiritual because of what they have forfeited

is wrong way of thinking, not anything like Paul thought – “outsider” would say Paul lost much, Paul thought differently

Phil 3.8 “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.”

counted them like things that go into Benson’s compost, worth no more than that, just as happy to see them leave

have everything to gain – victory over the beast and all he stands for… not for this life only, forever!… because of what God has done for us

much material for worship

the great works of God – let’s start with positive one: bringing the dead to life… every time sinner comes to faith in Christ

all of his works are just and true – whether we understand how or not; must be so because God is just and true, does nothing contrary to his character

God alone is holy, worthy of worship, will be worshiped by all nations just as promised to Abraham – through him all families of the earth would be blessed… those blessed by God worship him

C. great judgment v.5-8

sourced in God himself

said at beginning – don’t like to think about calamity coming from God; creation under curse, “subjected to futility” (Rom. 8:20) so must be mother nature acting up when floods/earthquakes/volcanoes/hurricanes/tsunamis and more happen

one reason God sends those calamities – warning of immeasurably worse calamity when he judges rebellious mankind at end

ministering angels who deliver 7 last plagues came out of temple, from God’s immediate presence, place “filled with smoke from the glory of God and his power”

aspects of holiness

God is holy in his being and all his attributes – he is holy, all he does is holy… his executing judgment is action of holy wrath against his enemies: dragon/beast/false prophet, all fallen angels, all those with mark of beast

is God’s holiness, purity, perfection that absolutely requires him to take action against sin and sinners – cannot overlook it

God glorified in justice/judgment as well as grace/redemption

verse 8 again – while 7 angels pouring out 7 bowls of God’s wrath on earth, God actively displays his glory/power in heaven

meanwhile, those beside sea sing song of Moses, of the Lamb, praising and glorifying God for his awesome works and holiness

So where does all this leave those who “have the seal of God on their foreheads”? Think back to experience of Hebrew children, time in Egypt. Some of the plagues caused both Egyptians and Hebrews inconvenience – same will be true for us as end approaches. As family/friends/neighbors/coworkers begin to really feel heat of God’s wrath, will have spillover effect on us.

But remember how story plays out – final plague, angel of death visited Egypt. All who obeyed command of God, spent that night under blood of lamb were spared. Were delivered from Egypt, safely crossed the Sea, stood on other side and watched as God overthrew their enemies. Same holds true for us today – those who are under blood of Lamb of God do not need to fear. That Lamb endured the full wrath of God so all those who trust in him need not experience it.

Our own goodness counts for nothing in God’s sight. Must be goodness of Christ credited to us through faith in him that we rest in for our salvation. Can and will have victory over Satan and sin and death but only in Jesus. If our confidence is in Christ and his righteousness, someday we will sing that song of victory with those who have gone on before us.

 

The Grapes of Wrath

Revelation 14:14-20

Remember promised blessing: “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.” (Rev. 1:3) So how does reading / hearing portions of Revelation like this text bless us? Even in culture desensitized to violence, content is disturbing to careful reader. Especially when we remember what is described is real, not fantasy, will involve people close to us.

From here on, focus narrows down to center on Second Coming and what follows. Don’t forget – primary conflict is spiritual… with physical evidence and consequences. This portion of book makes increrasingly plain just how intense spiritual warfare truly is… when we are engaged in fighting it. Several important concepts bear repeating:

physical death is not the end, not even the worst that could happen – Revelation sheds much light on next life

are not in battle alone – Commander present – know that from Revelation

appearances are deceiving, Revelation helps us discern true reality: Satan is not winning

our sense of timing not same as God’s, his is perfect; Revelation another reminder God not sleeping

we have duty to warn unsaved using God’s word/truth; their duty to respond… as God enables – is essential unsaved see our humility and compassion

the Cross one illustration, Revelation further commentary on how seriously God takes sin – when God punishes sinners, not because he doesn’t like them… he hates their sin and rebellion with perfect hatred

As we come to end of vision that began ch. 12, once again a description of end of this age, return of Christ. A melding of imagery from both Old and New Testaments, perhaps inspired by Joel 3:13 –

“Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, go down; For the winepress is full, The vats overflow; For their wickedness is great.”

See the One coming on the clouds beginning the harvest; when the harvest will occur; two complementing views of what is harvested; result of the harvest.

A. the One harvesting v.14

clouds – see Rev. 1:4-7; Matt. 24:30; Dan. 7:13-14

not a new player in this cosmic drama – is one introduced at beginning of his revelation: (readRev 1:4-7) “he is coming with clouds” v.7

who is he? the one who was “pierced” – used only one other time, John 19:37, where quoted from Zech. 12:10 as proof Jesus’ crucifixion fulfilled prophecy

the One who loved us, who freed us from our sins by his shed blood, that One is coming back for us – know what he’ll do when he gets here

Jesus himself promised it – answered disciples’ question “what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

“Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”

perhaps the Dragon/beast/false prophet collectively rubbing their hands – one more opportunity to prevail against their Enemy

not to worry – he is coming with power, all power, and will absolutely finally eternally prevail over all his enemies and ours without exception

“I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.”

has all the authority, all the power, all necessary resources to accomplish God’s purpose… and he will do so

B. the time of harvest v.15, 18

two parts to this segment of vision, parallel but not exactly – first view of harvest: both wheat and tares; second view: only grapes

at times in the church, almost an obsession to nail down precisely as possible time of Jesus’ return – remember fellow who spent $100m publicizing predicted Rapture 05/21/2011, end of world 10/21/2011

one of many who have made news with such predictions; some started whole movements – Jehovah’s Witnesses, e.g.

Jesus made clear: “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” (Matt. 24:36)

has not revealed the time, has revealed the conditions that will be present when time is right for his return

two kinds of harvest but one set of conditions

harvest of the earth – both wheat and tares – is ripe; grapes are fully ripe… iow, two things have coincided: church is full, so also is meaure of evil in world

God’s perfect timing – all for whom Christ died have come to faith, all the rest have used up God’s patience, converging at point in time when Father has determined Son will return

precedent: Gen. 15:15-16 “As for yourself, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried in a good old age.And they shall come back here in the fourth generation, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete.”

when Canaanites had filled up the measure of their sins, reached level of evil God had preset as enough, God brought judgment

what we see here is similar… but on global scale – worldwide evil has reached point where God says “no more”… forever

C. what is harvested v.16, 19

wheat… and tares/weeds

picture field where both crop and weeds growing side-by-side, close enough together that cannot be separated while in ground

“No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. Then I will tell the harvesters to sort out the weeds, tie them into bundles, and burn them, and to put the wheat in the barn.” Matt. 13:29-30

harvest time arrives, “harvest of the earth is fully ripe” – reaper with sickle cuts down everything in sight, no distinguishing between crops and weeds

sorting between wheat and weeds done after reaping – reality, given who reaper is… King Jesus, won’t be long drawn-out process – will come suddenly, be finished quickly

so what’s the deal, what really being described by imagery of harvest? see Jesus’ explanation – readMatt. 13:36-43

not like popular view of the end – Christians rescued out of world before it gets really tough; according to Jesus’ description the end is the end… for righteous and wicked

Lord Jesus returns to this world when harvest is ripe, perfectly ready to gather, separates his people from all rest at same time

grapes

picture of harvest of grapes differs from previous – here only wicked are in view, not both wicked and righteous

like differing visions of Revelation (seals, trumpets, bowls) harvest of grapes focused on same event, different perspective and purpose

in description of wheat harvest, emphasis placed more strongly on the good stuff, the grain, need for good harvest – no such positive aspect of grape harvest

not a good thing that grapes are ripe for harvest – means the enemies of God have filled their cup of evil to the brim, no room for any more wickedness

God alone knows the measure of that cup, he alone knows when it will reach its capacity – when it does, he will not linger

D. the result of harvest v.20

have Jesus’ own description of outcome of wheat harvest: “gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn. …as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age.” (Matt. 13:30, 40)

righteous have nothing to fear – they will be preserved throughout harvest, kept safe from all harm, being prepared for ultimate destiny: to “shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.”

entirely different outcome for grape harvest – those determined to crush Christ and his church will instead be crushed by him

“This great colossus whose one foot is in the ocean and other foot is on the land (Rev. 10:2) treads out the winepress of God’s judgment on his enemies by himself and the blood flows out in all directions – over the land or over the whole world.” Geoff Thomas

will be no escaping the wrath of God, his intense fury against his enemies – perfect Judge carries out perfect justice

consider how Father treated Son when he was bearing our sin – can he do any less to those who bear their own sin

taking this text seriously should change how we view our own sinfulness, how we view what Savior did for us

We have part along with God in bringing about harvest. God must be one working in hearts of sinful men to make them receptive to Gospel message. Remember: “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” Word of God that we must declare to all who will listen:

“Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.”

fear God, give glory to God, worship your Creator – must not only declare that, must also live by it so our witness is credible

Are you a child of God? Called out of darkness into light by the Father? Redeemed from your sin by Son’s completed work on Calvary? Indwelt and guided by the Spirit? Then… Do Not Be Afraid! Rest in the Father’s loving care of his children. Labor for him like he is coming back today.

If that is not true of you, not a child of God, run to God / fear God / give glory to God / worship your Creator. Then you can say…

It Is Well with My Soul

 

Three Angels, Four Messages

Revelation 14:6-13

People are seriously confused… about lot of things, spiritual things in particular. If you ask friends who profess Christianity to tell what Gospel is, what would they say? How many different answers? How about, what is goal of evangelism? The purpose of missions? or, what is hell like? May have in mind your response, how would friends respond? Now factor in majority of people do not take God seriously. Consequently do not take his Word seriously. Nor do they take idea of eternal torment in literal hell seriously. And is minority of churches where all God’s truth is proclaimed faithfully and unashamedly. Is it any wonder so many struggle to know and communicate the truth?

Problem not with God’s word the Bible. God says what he means, means what he says, has declared truth plainly… far more than we can ever master. Too many don’t read it, don’t know it, don’t buy it. Sadly true of far too many Christians. Apostle John given front row seat to see, then communicate God’s truth relating to now and future – to inform and equip his people.

John sees three angels, each with their own specific message from God. Then hears voice from heaven with fourth message. Messages people in every time and place from 1st century until Second Coming need to hear and can profit by hearing. Communicates to us a message of: missions, justice, warning, blessing

A. message of missions v.6-7

what is work of missions? missio – sent out with authority to do work; hence, Christian missions… sent out to spread Gospel, usually cross-culturally and far away

everlasting gospel

You are asked to summarize the Gospel on Twitter, i.e. in 140 characters or less.

God is holy. We’re not. God loves us anyway and sacrificed his Son to make us holy and restore our relationship — forever to be with him!

The Gospel is good news – I am loved, saved and can live forever in perfect happiness with God, if I live according to His Will.

He came. He taught. He died. He rose from the dead. We’re all forgiven and invited to the party. What are you waiting for?

Jesus fully paid the debt owed to God for our moral crimes against him, so we can have a relationship with God. How do you respond to Jesus?

http://jenniferfulwiler.com/2010/05/the-gospel-in-140-characters-or-less/

how about:

Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.

obviously doesn’t end there, Jesus went on to say was a second command relating to daily life – love your neighbor

proclaim

message is imperative, not interrogative… declarative, not suggestive – at issue is not political correctness, preserving traditions, contextualizing

is series of commands from Creator to be proclaimed to all his creation – proclaimers’ responsibility to say it right and well, hearers’ responsibility to respond appropriately

all nations

we think of nations as 196 places on world map with line drawn around and city designated as seat of government – Bible’s idea is different, relating to people more than geography

πᾶν ἔθνος – pan ethnos, emphasis on people… ethnic groups or people groups – those who have enough in common that are few if any barriers to association

φυλην – phulen, those who have a common recognized ancestor, significant shared heritage, lots to talk about at family reunions

γλωσσαν – glossan, people with common language; from John’s day God had in mind that his truth would be communicated in languages other than Hebrew and Greek

λαον – laon, people or iow the human race; God made one race, people, divided by sin and language, but none left out of Gospel

worship God

at its most basic, elemental level eternal Gospel is (1) fear God, (2) give glory to God, (3) worship your Creator, because judgment is certain

here is goal of evangelism, purpose of missions – proclaim the Gospel so people would worship God their Creator

to stop at making converts is short of God’s goal; to be satisfied with more people in pews is short of God’s goal – God not satisfied with anything less than true worshipers… from every walk of life, every part of the world

requires those who faithfully fearlessly proclaim everlasting Gospel in every part of world, starting in own Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, beyond

start here in Gorham, then Greater Portland, Cumberland County, ends of the earth, beyond Maine, as God providentially supplies opportunity

we do that through personal effort, sending proclaimers of Gospel, supporting those who serve elsewhere, radio ministry

B. message of justice… in time v.8

who: world systems

quoted from Isa. 21:9And look, here comes a chariot of men with a pair of horsemen!” Then he answered and said, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen! And all the carved images of her gods He has broken to the ground.”

Babylon the kingdom that carried Israel off into captivity, top world power at that point of history – representing essence of world power: political, economic, military, religious

name later used for Rome, system of government equally corrupt, determined to persecute / eliminate followers of true God

why: worship “not God”

see Jer. 50:2 ‘Babylon is taken, Bel is shamed. Merodach is broken in pieces; Her idols are humiliated, Her images are broken in pieces.’

encourage trust in human wisdom, military strength, government economic provision and protection – iow, place ultimate trust, i.e. worship, in something / someone not God

pervert justice

use authority granted by God intended to encourage righteousness, discourage/punish wickedness to do exactly opposite

see all real injustice in world much result of rampant sinfulness among leaders… fear not: God will bring about real and final justice even for those who seem invincible

C. message of warning… for eternity v.9-11

hell is real

Jesus: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matt. 10:28)

Sermon on the Mount: “danger of hell fire” Matt. 5:22; “whole body to be cast into hell” – Matt. 5:29, 30

hell is not separation from God

“drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation” – experiencing just wrath of God against sin

“tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb.” – God is omnipresent… including in hell – does not punish sinners by proxy or remote control

hell is forever

not limited duration, until have paid for sins committed on earth and then oblivion – is real conscious torment that never ends

not fair? yes, it is, because every last one in hell, absent restraint of Holy Spirit, continues to sin against God, does so forever – only desire to get even with God, not get right with God

hell is for God’s enemies

those who have lived committed to the beast, opposed to God, and die the same way… in their sins and hopelessly lost

just, pure, righteous, holy God if he is to vindicate (justify) the righteous must punish wicked for wickedness against him, his people

D. message of blessing v.12-13

faithful obedience rewarded

requires steadfast endurance – Christian life not for wimps or sissies

daily faithful obedience to God’s commands, trusting in Jesus only possible as we depend on God and he supplies

will be blessed – never have opportunity to ask God “why did I bother?”

Rom. 8:18 “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”

blessings begin in this life… in very small measure, will continue for all eternity in measure beyond our ability to imagine

rest from labor – Matt. 11:28

“The journey is long, the time but short. And to this end we look not at what we have done, and how far we have gone, but look what remains to be done, and know we have done nothing till we have done all. …But men may say, What, is there no pause ? is there no Sabbath ? I answer, Yes, when we are dead. “Blessed are the dead in the Lord,” Rev. 14:13. It is they that rest from their labors. Heaven is a sufficient reward for all the pains we can any way take here. Besides, the comforts that we have here are many, which none knows but them that enjoy them. And God has promised the continual assistance of his blessed Spirit, that shall encourage us and lead us into all truth.” Richard Sibbes on Phil. 3:14

How is it with you? Will it be said of you that you “died in the Lord” or that you “died in your sins”? And how about loved ones, friends, neighbors, co-workers? Have they heard the Gospel: “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” And have they been warned about the wrath to come? Let us courageously do our part to share the Gospel, warn of dangers of hell, live in steadfast endurance depending on Jesus.

 

The Lamb on the Mount

Rev. 14:1-5

Reminder – what kind of literature, all of it made some sense to original readers/hearers, blessed all who read. Histories of various entities ch. 12-14 give insight – scope… breadth / intensity of spiritual conflict since Satan’s defeat at Calvary. Just because defeat is inevitable, Satan has not given up. May be absolutely no hope of winning game, losing team continues on with every effort. So with Satan, yet more so – never tires, fights more desperately as end approaches. His fight will continue for all eternity, attempting to escape punishment and overthrow God.

People of God best able to resist and endure spiritual conflict when adequately prepared – expecting conflict, able to recognize signs, strengthened and equipped for battle. Large part of purpose – why Revelation included in Bible. Have been wonderfully spared painful experiences of spiritual warfare for many generations. Satan has used other means to gain territory here in America – primary weapon so far… deception and distortion of truth. If church proclaims false Gospel, even better than shutting it down… has become ally of Satan. Same is true when church affirms and promotes what world desires.

Still leaves us, true church, standing firm on God’s word the Bible. Culture around is changing, becoming more ungodly and less restrained. Increases contrast between true people of God, all the rest – means we stand out more, more apt to become targets of persecution. Are by no means unique – has been the lot of God’s people somewhere in world in every generation beginning with Abel. Is especially for us in times like these that message of Revelation is important – that we can “be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,”Phil. 2:15

Once again the scene changes, John describes for readers what he saw – this time real lamb, not counterfeit, along with those who have different mark.

A. the purpose

why this… here

need comfort, hope, encouragement… given descriptions of previous/following chapters, and what is happening in real life

“If the coming days will be filled with as much suffering and death as depicted in chapters 12 and 13, what comfort is there for the faithful? If Satan and his cohorts are able to wreak such havoc on God’s people, is there any hope? Chapter 14 answers those questions through visions of reward for God’s people and punishment on the wicked.” Reddish

need perspective – from heaven, on earth… iow, visible and invisible

listen to media, friends, family, neighbors and field of view funnels down – ultimate focus for unbeliever is self, personal needs/desires

read God’s Word and perspective broadens – big picture from Bible not self, instead is God.. his purpose.. activity in world

to grasp real significance of events, to have hope that endures, need to understand at least some of what God is doing

cancer about more than who dumped chemicals on ground, covered it up; financial hardship about more than guy that sold lemon; child growing up in single-parent home about more than deadbeat dad; chronic pain about more than jerk that ran stop sign

same true about legislation in this country, Russia, elsewhere; beastly behavior of ISIS and others; list goes on and on

all are evidence for / consequences of battle over souls of men/women/boys/girls in all the world in all generations

also things in life of Christian that God uses to test strength of faith/dependence, conform us to image of Christ as are transformed by Word – at same time demonstrating his grace and power

remember Elisha, servant – 2 Kings 6:15-17 – servant arose, went out, an army surrounding the city. “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”“LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” The LORD opened the eyes, he saw, the mountain full of horses and chariots of fire

B. what he sees v.1

who – the Lamb… standing

already acquainted with Lamb, know he is exalted one identified on earth as “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”

something striking about posture: standing; most often think about Jesus as seated at right hand, not standing – what’s up?

turn to Psalm 2 (pg.617) – v.1-3 describe ch.13, activity of beast and false prophet; v.4 God’s attitude toward man’s kingdom; v.5-9 God’s purpose that cannot be frustrated

where – Mount Zion – God’s dwelling place… on earth

God has appointed his king over his kingdom – even though unseen except with eyes of faith, Christ is King of this world

even though unseen, Christ is present with his people – is in Zion, place where God said his name would dwell forever — 2 Chron. 7:16“I have chosen and sanctified this house, that My name may be there forever; and My eyes and My heart will be there perpetually.”

with whom – 144,000

will consider more of their description in few moments – firstfruits (4c), representative of the whole company of redeemed

not one missing from company of God’s elect – all present and in presence of one who is their head, their very life

mark of the Father’s name

acquire a book, take home, first thing: write name in front… show ownership; God does same with his people

clearest way we know who has mark of the Father and mark of the Beast – how person thinks, what they actually believe… because that governs behavior

notice: only two marks / seals referenced in Revelation – one that comes from God, other from Satan; indicate both ownership and destiny

C. what he hears v.2-3

countless multitude from heaven

saints and angels looking on from heaven, giving praise and worship to conquering Lamb who is worthy “to receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!”Rev. 5:12

when we recognize Christ’s victories and sing his praise, are adding our voices to those of saints and angels – every time sin is restrained, righteousness promoted, new believer added to company of God’s people

singing “new song” – song of victory

dragon/beast/false prophet may appear invincible – may look like evil is advancing in world and our culture, cannot be stopped

from heaven’s perspective, Lamb is conquering all his enemies for his own glory and sake of his people

protects his people – never allows more to come their way than what they can bear, as needed provides way of escape

reserved for the saints – all others have been defeated

if you are not numbered among people of God here on earth, wearing name of God, will not be able to sing of victory in heaven

only redeemed can grasp what victory has been won – conquering sin and its agents, what we cannot see directly

and… only redeemed want to learn the song, desire to sing the song – reality is: song of defeat for all who are lost

D. who they are v.4-5

remained pure

throughout Bible, esp. Revelation, marital unfatihfulness applied to matters of faith – chasing false gods equals adultery

these are those who have stayed faithful to the Lamb – keep their distance from things that would cause moral/ethical/theological impurity, stay close to the Lamb

follow the Lamb

willingly follow Jesus – copy his way of thinking and feeling and acting; notice who is in front… and who is keeping close enough distance not to get lost, off track

“wherever he goes” – is Jesus who chooses route we follow, people we encounter, situations we experience, but Jesus there with us

redeemed from among men

do I have to follow anywhere? well, he bought you at cost of his own life, has placed mark on you showing ownership… that answer the question?

besides, why wouldn’t you want to? only if looking more at circumstances than at Jesus, at surroundings than at Cross

authentic – no deceit

clear contrast with beast and his followers who also follow father of lies – people of God are sincere, transparent, known for truth

must be true of Christians if others are to believe their witness; will be true of those who close follow One who is the Truth

blameless

the good news: those who have been redeemed will stand blameless before throne of God – truly no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:1)

E. the take-away

DO NOT BE AFRAID… if you fit the description

first, are you part of that number seen by John? redeemed from the earth, from among men, faithful to the Lamb, following him closely, authentic and blameless before God

no need to be afraid because: “behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand”

no one can take anything of ultimate value away from believer; even life itself only for brief time, and God himself numbers our days

and… if you are not afraid, speak up

out on trail hiking, far from any medical help; see someone stung by bee, discover they are severely allergic; you have epi pen, refuse to give it to them

stakes are truly immeasurably higher: bee sting puts physical life in danger, without the Gospel soul in danger of eternal death

Can “afford” to put our lives on the line because Jesus already gave his for us. Not in the battle alone; Commander in Chief present with us at all times to guide, strengthen, protect. And eventually, lead us all the way home.

Counterfeit Spirit

Revelation 13:11-18

Is easy to be disheartened when considering present world, current culture. Much that is right, to be thankful for, here in our country. Much that is wrong and displeasing to God, too. Seems especially true of upcoming generations.

“Where have America’s young men gone? According to Erik Hurst, an economist from the University of Chicago, they haven’t gone anywhere—they’re just plugged in. In a recent interview, Hurst says that his research indicates that young men with less than a four-year degree (according to virtually all data, that’s an increasing number) are spending their days unemployed and unmarried, but not un-amused. “The hours that they are not working have been replaced almost one-for-one with leisure time,” Hurst reports. “Seventy-five percent of this new leisure time falls into one category: video games. The average low-skilled, unemployed man in this group plays video games an average of twelve, and sometimes upwards of thirty hours per week.” Samuel James, http://www.firstthings.com/blogs/firstthoughts/2016/08/americas-lost-boys

Then there is Pokemon Go, where people work “hard to rid the streets of tiny, furry monsters that only they can see and gather valuable points that can be used for… nothing”. Brendan Smith And if dealing with reality is too hard, some professional somewhere will gladly give you numerous ways to avoid or redefine reality. As I pondered these things, wondered “have we lost our minds?” Another question followed quickly: “how could we possibly make it any easier for Satan to do his job?” When you spend countless hours each day immersed in fantasy and make-believe, is nearly impossible to discern counterfeit from genuine. And the issue is far more pervasive than just among young men, is spreading rapidly.

Good reminder that is much more to reality than only what we can see and hear. Is a whole other dimension, spiritual one, teeming with activity. John’s vision of “beast coming up out of the earth” adds to our basis for comprehending what is really going on. This beast represents third member of unholy trinity – dragon, beast, false prophet – and as we will see tries to counterfeit the Holy Spirit. In our text, given description of appearance and purpose; told how he validates his authority, his method, his work of persecution, and his identity.

A. appearance and purpose v.11-12

looks like a lamb

identifies with Christ – is false representation, same as dragon and first beast; appearance encourages all who encounter him to relax, trust, overlook danger

speaks like a dragon

see unholy counterfeit trinity later – Rev. 16:13 “And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.”

this creature in our text clearly a false prophet – what he speaks contradicts how he appears; speaks only message of the dragon, deceptive lies

not merely deceptive, words are highly destructive – destroys life (abortion), reputation (politics), dignity (evolution), respect (entertainment)

exercises authority

is second-hand authority, has its immediate source in the beast who received from the dragon – is Satan’s authority, broad yet strictly limited, that false prophet exercises

so who is it orchestrating things from behind the scenes in feminist movement, many areas of politics and government, news and entertainment and marketing – Satan and his agents

whoever and whatever encourages people to seek guidance, help, pleasure, satisfaction in other than God is motivated by loyalty to Satan (many times unwittingly)

false prophet uses every channel possible by which knowledge is propagated to push his lies, shaping ideas and beliefs

directs worship

#1 goal of false prophet to cause every living thing to give worship to beast who is image of the dragon… iow, Satan

mimics Holy Spirit – speaking on behalf of another, directing worship to Son and Father

John 16:13-15“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.”

B. validation and method v.13-15a

performs signs like true prophet

certainly not first time Satan has done this: Exodus account – Aaron’s rod => serpent, so the magicians; water into blood, likewise; frogs on the land also

Simon the sorcerer, slave girl in Philippi examples of those who received power to do signs and wonders that amaze people

true prophets had similar validations of their divine mandate: Elijah called down fire from heaven on his enemies; OT prophets, NT apostles performed countless signs and wonders

in every case, purpose of true prophets and apostles to show glory of God, cause people to worship true God

things that wow people most today: technology, special effects, power displayed in sci-fi and fantasy, not real power displayed by Creator of universe

deceives like beast and dragon

purpose to deceive people into giving worship to dragon – even to point of creating image of false savior: “the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived”

who would possibly do that in advanced enlightened culture like ours?? is what takes place whenever God of Bible gets redefined

“my God loves everyone regardless of how they live”; “Jesus accepts me just the way I am” – church after church where is not God of the Bible, Christ of the Bible who is worshiped

not only false religions/cults, they’re easy to spot; others who add something – Jesus plus, or take away – God can’t know, do – just as dangerous and deceptive

mimics Holy Spirit performing signs, mocks Holy Spirit illuminating truth

copies OT prophets, outpouring of Spirit on day of Pentecost for purpose of deceiving the lost into giving worship to Satan

pretends that information equals knowledge, that knowledge is power, but without regard for truth – in fact, will distort truth to promote own agenda

world today on information overload, drowning in sea of data, largely oblivious to truth according to God and his word

C. basis of persecution v.15b-17

worship of the beast

which equals worship of the dragon – those who give greatest accolades to manmade things, who look first to earthly authority or bureaucracy to meet their needs, who think and believe and prioritize the way media or entertainment dictates

those who fail to do so risk losing freedom, livelihood, friends, property, maybe even life, e.g as healthcare decisions get more invasive

mark of ownership and loyalty

is it implanted ID chip? bar code? some other technological gizmo used for identification? only if servants of God have similar seal on their foreheads – see Rev. 7:3; 9:4

mark on hand or forehead same basic principle as Deut. 6:6-9 turn there and read; repeated 11:18-21

means to think and believe according to principles/truths of God’s word, demonstrate that worldview in action

mimics mark of Holy-Spirit-ownership

child of God has been sealed by Holy Spirit (Eph. 1:13) and shows by life who owns them; same is true of one sealed by Satan

D. identity v.18

representing the world, its philosophy, its lostness

“The repetition of six three times seems to indicate what might be called the “completeness of sinful incompleteness” found in the beast. The beast epitomizes imperfection, while appearing to achieve divine perfection. Three sixes parody the divine Trinity of three sevens. …The reason for using sixes instead of sevens to describe the beast in v. 18 is because of the repeated emphasis in vv. 3-14 upon the beast as a counterfeit Christ and the second beast as a counterfeit prophet.” G K Beale

requires wisdom to distinguish Biblical worldview from all the rest, maintain identity as belonging to Christ

God will supply understanding through his word by his Spirit to fill minds and hearts with his truth, and recognize untruth promoted by world and Satan

Satan may try to fake the resurrection but doesn’t attempt the cross. The cross was his undoing, is our hope. More good news: Christ has power and authority to remove mark of the Beast and replace it with his own mark – “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit”

When Cross of Christ fills our view, see ourselves as God sees us, see Savior as only one who can supply and satisfy… nothing else will satisfy. All else pales in significance next to relationship with Christ and service to him. Don’t be fooled by counterfeit trinity. Stay near the cross. Be like apostle Paul – not embarrassed by cross, not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.

 

Counterfeit Christ

Revelation 13:1-10

Decoys a common element of warfare, often used to great advantage. Work because they distract attention from where real action is happening. Useful in hunting as well. Work by attracting intended victim to place they wouldn’t be without incentive of decoy. In both scenarios, decoy works because mimics real thing well enough to escape notice until too late. Satan uses both to his great advantage.

Bear in mind images John describes intended to convey ideas of far more than appearance. Have much more to do with character and purpose. What person of any worldview in right mind would worship monster that appeared as described in our text? Christ is revealing in his word spiritual realities as much or more than physical ones.

Satan from beginning has worked diligently to acquire for himself all that rightly belongs to God. Let’s go back to Garden for minute: at first Adam and Eve genuinely loved God, gave him their highest loyalty. His word was indeed their command. Then along comes the serpent – by manipulating truth, enticed Eve to shift love to self and loyalty to him, shown by obedience to serpent’s suggestiion. What rightly belong to God now devoted to what was not God. Fast-forward to time of Jesus, beginning of his ministry. Satan no longer subtle, appearing as himself not a serpent. Approached issue head-on: “if you will worship me, all this will be yours”. Jesus’ rebuke right on target: “You are to worship the Lord your God and serve only him”.

Attempts continue – now stakes are higher “because his time is short”. Putting all his resources into achieving goal of taking God’s place as sovereign over all things. Present method in this age: counterfeit God himself, including decoys of apparent trinity. Just as there is Father, Son, Spirit, Satan presents dragon, beast and false prophet. Parallels abound as will see in present text portraying a Counterfeit Christ, impersonating second person of Trinity. The character of the beast is revealed; is given worship; has a blasphemous purpose; will indeed be successful in his efforts; finally, what the Christian’s response should be.

A. character v.1-3

brought up out of the sea

a creation, in quotes, of the dragon – another form of evil personified, summoned to appear on world stage by Satan

know from Rev. 11:7 beast only appears to come from sea – true origin is bottomless pit, made war on two witnesses

in the image of the dragon – cf. Rev. 12:3

dragon has 7 heads, 10 horns, crowns on his heads, so also does Beast – is the incarnation of the dragon on the earth

self-identified with name belonging to God, claiming role and prerogatives that are exclusively God’s, expecting people to treat him accordingly

sad truth – unbelievers willingly give him what he wants, Christians can too easily be deceived and tempted

fulfillment of 4 beasts from Dan.7

number of shared features with what Daniel saw – lion, bear, leopard, and fourth horrifying creature – identified as four kings, four kingdoms that will arise on earth

Beast’s identity, then, corrupt worldly powers – kings and their kingdoms that either willfully or in ignorance take place of God… more later

appearance of resurrection from the dead

important to remember where we are in Revelation – beginning to see more of spiritual realities underlying physical ones

John, and we, with renewed minds and functioning spiritual sight can recognize Beast for who he really is… those who worship him cannot see the reality

totally convinced Beast is worthy of following because appeared as if had been raised from the dead – enough to cause profound amazement and honor

parable of rich man and Lazarus – send Lazarus to warn 5 brothers… they have Moses and prophets… no, if one goes from the dead they will repent

Jesus’ telling words: Luke 16:31 ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’

response to dragon and beast clearly demonstrate power of sin and Satan to blind, enslave, distort and deceive

cardinal truth that must be believed for salvation: Rom. 10:9 “if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

rather than believe truth, those who are lost believe an impostor who has neither power nor desire to free his captives

counterfeit

order from chaos as original creation; beast the image of the dragon as Christ the exact image of God; blasphemous names vs. Christ’s worthy names; power, throne, great authority from dragon as Christ from Father; fatal wound that mimics Christ’s resurrection, attracts great following

B. worship v.4

directed to the dragon

probably doesn’t fit mental image of Satan-worshiper: sacrificing chickens or neighborhood cats in middle of woods under full moon, or the like

worship expressed in many ways – who or what receives our highest acclaim, deepest loyalty, greatest dependence… that is what we worship

also to the beast

evil parody of praise that belongs to God – worship and praise due to Father and Son who is image of Father; here given to dragon and beast who is image of dragon

if Satan cannot destroy Christ and his church, will instead strive to set up parallel kingdom and lure/coerce/force as many as possible to give him what is due to God

in awe of his characteristics and (real) power

both rhetorical questions expecting negative response: none like the beast, none able to overcome him; misuse of Scripture here, just like Jesus’ temptation – Psa. 35:10 e.g., “O Lord, who is like you?”

of course real answer is: the Lamb not only is able to make war with him, the Lamb will make war and overcome him

identity – a political power / system as described in Daniel that far exceeds God-given authority and scope

at minimum encourages worship by its policies and practices; at worst, requires worship of citizens even though not explicitly identified as such

clearly present in North Korea, not a great stretch to view Islam that way (blasphemy laws) in sense that reverence is required toward what is not God

are strong tendencies in other places, even here – made much more likely when fail to grasp truth that God has ordained 3 institutions: family, church, state, with defined spheres

behooves us as people of God to properly understand and carry out roles and responsibilities God has given to each, resist encroachment of one on another

C. purpose v.5-7, 10a

put down/discredit true God and anything associated with him

anything God can do, I can do better; anything God can make I can improve; since evil exists, God either isn’t good or all-powerful; Christians are really intolerant; the church is full of hypocrites

across the board, all relates to God is ridiculed, minimized, mocked, criticized, rejected – in politics, entertainment, media… all tools of the dragon and beast

assume all that rightly belongs to God for himself

speaks and acts as though has ultimate authority – right and power to not only dictate behavior but also belief

getting dangerously close even here, government telling citizens what to believe about right and wrong – only God has authority over conscience, Beast tries to exercise same authority… in perverted way, calling evil good and good evil

destroy / overcome all he can who are loyal to God

has two weapons at his disposal that leads to third – imprisonment, sword/death… which leads to fear: many will comply through fear of other two

if regulation and intimidation don’t get desired result, then use force… deadly force if necessary to eliminate all opposition

D. success v.8

no middle ground, no third option – worship either true Christ or counterfeit Christ

John makes powerful (and unpopular) declaration – to worship anyone/anything other than Christ is to worship Satan

and the dragon-beast combination is effective – all worship him except only those whom the Lamb has redeemed

E. Christian response to the Beast v.9, 10b

listen to God’s helpful warning and exhortation

if not for Revelation, would be in the dark about Satan’s tactics; would far more easily be deceived, taken in by his lies

non-compliance will result in persecution

as Satan’s time gets even shorter, will become more and more desperate, turning up heat on committed Christians

yet… must resist pressure/temptation to give loyalty belonging to God to “not God”

must not look first to world or government to solve problems – God and his word must have top priority in all spheres of life

our loyalty, our worship must be given only to God and none other; when genuine, will be evident in all areas of life

remember who our Commander is, use resources he supplies to persevere

our Commander the one who not only can but will prevail over dragon and beast; meanwhile, he supplies all we need to remain loyal to him: his Word, Spirit, Church

All who are written in Book of Life belonging to the Lamb have nothing to fear. Even if it means imprisonment or even death, Christ is greater than all our enemies. He will be present with us in all our trials, he will bring us safely home at time of his choosing. Let’s make sure we are loyal to real Christ, not a counterfeit Christ.

The Woman in the Wilderness

Rev. 12:12-17

Don’t like living in tension, can give a headache! Yet this age – cross to consummation – marked by tension. Right now in the already / not yet portion of history. Already saved but salvation not yet complete. Already in Christ’s kingdom but is not yet present in fullness. Satan already defeated but not yet locked away for eternity. Meanwhile what we know and experience a tantalizing taste of all that is yet to come. Is true for us individually, also true corporately – for Christ’s church, body of believers.

And… since we’re in a war, as time goes by things do change a little. Enemy adapts his tactics, soldiers get tired and discouraged, wonder if it will ever end? Maybe wonder if victory is really all that certain! That’s when we need to re-group: remember who our Commander is, what he said. King Jesus has made it clear what we should expect and how it all turns out.

Saw last week Satan’s defeat – unable to prevail against Michael and his angels, unceremoniously thrown out of heaven and forbidden to return. Then what? Got really ugly, has stayed ugly ever since. Will probably get more intensely ugly when end is finally in sight. Lord Jesus gives important strategy insight – what Satan is up to, who his targets are, what our allies are doing to help.

A. Satan’s time is short v.12

has come down – that’s an understatement!

forcibly thrown down to the earth – Satan’s overthrow both complete and convincing, no hope even for him of a rematch

not good news for those on planet Earth – woe a strong expression: “deep distress or misery, as from grief; wretchedness”

not only that we live in broken world, now also have adversary determined to break and destroy all that he can in the world

having great wrath

even most evil person imaginable has some glimmer left of good – nothing that will lead to repentance/conversion apart from God’s grace, but still appreciation of good on some level

not so with Satan – recognizes what is good and despises it, attempts to pervert it, distort it, destroy it, rejoices in evil he achieves

fueled by intense fury that continually boils over, increased by every frustration, every time God thwarts his purpose

he knows

during Jesus’ ministry, man possessed by many demons – asked Jesus “Have You come here to torment us before the time?” (Matt. 8:29)

knew the end had not come, knew also what awaited them – “they begged Him that He would not command them to go out into the abyss” (Luke 8:31)

if rank-and-file demons know what God has prepared for them, their leader knows at least that much and possibly more

Satan not ignorant of Scripture – knows God’s word well enough to misuse it convincingly; is well aware of truth declared by Paul:

“Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.” Acts 17:30-31

probably does not know how much time left on countdown clock; is convinced it is ticking, inevitably approaching zero moment

growing shortness of his time increases his determination to prevail in spite of what he knows to be true

may even be element of childish temper – if I can’t have it, enjoy it, I’ll break it so you can’t enjoy it either

B. the woman is his target v.13, 15-16

because primary target is now off-limits

lashes out at next closest target – in this case, the one who gave birth to his nemesis, Lord Jesus who is resident and ruling from his throne in heaven

remember: the woman a composite figure, not single individual (NOT mother of God, Queen of heaven as Roman Catholics teach); also not limited to Israel as some would say

comprehensively: the church, both Old and New Testament; true Israel, which gave birth to both Lord Jesus and NT saints

goes after the church (in general)

church one of those words – precise meaning determined by context: building, body of believers, all the saints, activities

Satan’s first target – the church organization: what we think of when talk about matters of church and state or evangelical church

Satan does know that sheep by themselves are unbelievably vulnerable – picking off stragglers from the flock much easier than taking on entire flock

if he can damage or cripple the body, keep it from functioning as a body, separate members from the body, he can gain advantage

impersonating God, so #1 weapon parallels that of God – his word

Satan spews forth multitude of words intended to discredit and deceive – discredit the church before the world, deceive the church about the world

convinces world that – moral truth from God’s word is hate speech; those who stand against immorality are intolerant; say that God has opinion about gender roles, are homophobes; refer to God as “he” is sexist

if that is what church believes, teaches, stands for, then should have no place in 21st century pluralistic society

convinces the church that – world isn’t so bad after all; people’s greatest need is for clean water, dependable food, sustainable energy; Paul exaggerated when he said “I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Cor. 2:2)

see how that works? when focus of church changes so that lesser authorities than God and his word take precedence, other than Gospel is man’s greatest need, Satan has gained ground

C. Satan’s war broadens v.17

targets the rest of her offspring

earth not ruled by Satan, instead follows direction of God to resist Satan’s attack and help keep church from being overcome

frustrated, Satan now enraged with the church, turns his attention to individual believers – the rest of her offspring

not playing games, is furiously making war against anything that belongs to Christ – if he cannot overcome church as an institution, attempts war of attrition, hoping little by little to make gains against Christ

makes war with

those who obey

what first chapter of James is about: tempting that tests our faith – Satan works to make obedience look too hard, disobedience too desirable

he encourages settling for less than what God expects, obeying for wrong reasons/motivation, redefining what God really said into something more doable

those who hold to Christ

settle for a Jesus other than one revealed in God’s word – one who can be your Savior but not necessarily Lord of your life

a Jesus who is content to take you just as you are, leave you that way until heaven

a Jesus who would be really happy if you were different, if more people trusted him, but is powerless to make it happen

only a few of ways Satan will use to attack the church, make believers ineffective in their opposition to him

D. the woman is homeless v.14

her place… in the wilderness

sure, had initial bad spell of idolatry with golden calf, a few times of whining discontent, but 40 years in wilderness by no means all bad

had it pretty good – few enemies, all they could eat (just had to pick it up), no need to go shopping for clothes… why?

God provided in every way – led them in right way at right time, protected from their enemies, abundantly supplied all material and spiritual needs

same Provider watches over his church… when she is in place of His choosing – may look like wilderness, but… place of abundance when God is one supplying

she is nourished, does not put down roots

cared for by God, nourished, sheltered for entire duration of age from Ascension to Second Coming, no gaps or shortages

were absolutely dependent, and did depend on God for everything – is what God expects of his church, his people

didn’t try to build cities, get comfortable in wilderness; held out for promise of what awaited in Canaan when God’s time was right

don’t forget: Rev. 1:12ff

Lord of the Church is present in his church, supporting and sustaining his church… in the wilderness

matters not our circumstances, what matters is we have the right provider – who can and will supply all our need perfectly

means should hold whatever belongs to this world loosely – ready to give it up / give it away for sake of Christ’s kingdom

We live in the wilderness, destination is Canaan… the real one. All that looks good in the desert is a mirage; mirages can be profoundly convincing, luring smart people to their deaths. Genuine protection and provision for God’s people found where God alone can supply.

Don’t count on leaders chosen in next election to fix America’s problems. Don’t expect next visit to counselor or doctor to end your suffering. Don’t trust unbelievers to give good moral or ethical advice. Don’t be surprised when world leaders fail to achieve peace. Whatever you do, do not think that since you can’t do anything else, you will just pray. You should not try to do anything else until you have prayed. Then continue to cry out to God, depend on him for all things. Is just as faithful and trustworthy today as he always has been.

They Overcame Him

Revelation 12:7-12

Is obvious from Revelation… as well as rest of Bible… Christian life is one marked by conflict. For example, read Romans 7:22-25. Often believers give up the fight, try to coast along through life, hoping to somehow survive along with their sin until they get to heaven. Then, of course, Paul’s encouraging text in Ephesians 6:12-13 (read). I’m sure you can think of those who haven’t even showed up for wrestling match, others who have called time out. In all of this, people of God live as though sin and Satan are enemies that cannot be overcome.

Our text declares to us – Satan is defeated foe… still incredibly dangerous, but defeated. War has been fought, did not end in truce but in clear victory for one, defeat for the other. Yes, war fought on spiritual level, among beings we cannot detect with physical eyes. Doesn’t make any less important or real. And outcome of war has great significance for us here and now in 21st century America.

So who are combatants; why are they at war; when did war occur; what was outcome; how was it achieved; finally, what its significance for us.

A. who

war takes place in heaven – how is that possible? doesn’t make sense on many levels, given our image of what heaven is – more in few minutes

Michael and his angels

don’t know a lot about Michael – name means “who is like God”, first mentioned by name Daniel 10:13, 21; 12:1

portrayed as the great prince charged with protecting God’s people, in conflict with their enemies – makes sense, given Ps. 91:11 “For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways.”

Bible doesn’t talk much about angels… for good reason – John the author, should have known better and really did, made mistake twice of trying to worship angel! Rev. 19:10; 22:8

Bible does make us understand were beings created to serve God and his people – can enter visible realm, most often carry out duties unseen by mankind

dragon and his angels

early on in history of creation leader among angels rebelled against authority, brought sentence of judgment on himself and followers

know from Jesus’ own words place is prepared for Satan, those angels and people who are loyal to him: “Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels” Matt. 25:41

just as Michael and his angels primary work to serve and protect the church, so Satan and his angels primary goal to prevent God’s redemptive purpose from being fulfilled, to destroy Christ and his church

dragon; serpent; Devil; Satan; deceives; accuser

learn much from names and description – his character, tactics, agenda; make no mistake, appearances are deceiving, this is not Puff the Magic Dragon even if he presents himself that way

this fallen angel is destroyer in disguise, attempting to impersonate God himself in order to take captives, destroy lives

is the Adversary, actively campaigning and fighting against Christ’s church – has been on prowl since serpent days in Garden

primary tactic/tool/weapon – deception: making evil look good, danger look safe, hiding what will destroy under wraps of what is desirable

his agenda toward God – dethrone God, assume control in his place; will stop at little in order to achieve goal: has “great wrath”, furious anger boiling up and over

B. why

“accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God” – had access to heaven, God’s presence, for a time

see Job 1:9-11; Zech. 3:1-2 appeared before God, challenging God’s right to treat his people as justified/pardoned for sin

battle for souls – hence the accusations

accused Job for only following God for the benefits; sounds pretty familiar, doesn’t it… except not true for Job

standing ready to accuse Joshua high priest standing before the King in dirty clothes – he’s just plain old sinner still in sin

yet really accusations were against God, not his people – condition of God’s people before Calvary: sins had been covered, not yet removed

at that point in time/history the only sacrifice actually offered that of animals… and God knew was only temporary

if animal sacrifice could actually take away sin, would not have to keep doing it; in Satan’s mind, until God’s plan of redemption actually historically complete, was not a done deal; perhaps Satan could prevail

C. when

if God’s redemptive plan could be derailed, then Satan wins

repeatedly throughout human history Satan attempted just that – every attack on God’s people was attack on God’s plan

so long as Satan had access to heaven, had way to be informed of inside information – why do think Joseph ended up in Egypt? 10 spies gave bad report? Philistines harassed Jews? Saul tried to kill David? idol-worship was so attractive? Herod and Judas and Pilate acted as they did?

if at any point line to Christ was broken or Lord Jesus himself disqualified or defeated, Satan wins; even Satan not wise enough to recognize awesome mystery of Gospel

as intelligent as Satan was, couldn’t figure out Jesus’ death a defeat for Satan, not God; did all he could to make sure Jesus’ life ended in defeat

then… accusations would be true, Satan would win, every human being would belong to Satan and none to Christ

until crucifixion

when Jesus said “it is finished”, not only was penalty for sin of his people satisfied, Satan’s access to heaven ended

no more opportunity for accusation – what if sacrifice isn’t paid for these sinners, what then? moot point when redemption was accomplished on cross

we think of Jesus’ return to heaven happening 40 days after resurrection; but… remember his words to fellow next cross to his – “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)

and to his Father – “into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46) is clear he expected his spirit to be present with his Father within moments – “Having said this, He breathed His last.”

from that moment on, Heaven not big enough any longer for conquering Savior and defeated enemy Satan

D. what outcome

cast out/cast down

angel-servants of triumphant Savior eject Satan and all his angels from heaven, no chance of ever returning there

no longer any access to inside information; all he knows – his time is limited, his territory significantly diminished, power restrained

salvation, strength, kingdom and power have come

salvation has been accomplished; God’s power has been demonstrated; Christ’s kingdom is in place, his ruling authority established… all shown for certain in overthrow of #1 challenger

ultimately, rejoicing among the righteous

heaven now secure – no possibility of invasion by any evil force, no possibility of further deception and rebellion of those already resident there

everything in place for final complete defeat and everlasting imprisonment of Satan and all his angels – only a matter of time, God’s time, when rule of sin and Satan will forever end

E. how

achieved by blood of the Lamb

blood of bulls and goats cannot take away sins (Heb. 10:4); blood of Christ is one sacrifice for sins forever – when Christ’s sacrifice is applied to sinner it removes Satan’s power to accuse

by word of testimony

when sinners hear “word of testimony”, truth of Gospel and its transforming power, and then respond in repentance and faith, removes Satan’s power to deceive and enslave

faithfulness to Gospel more essential than life

Christ has overcome Satan, his followers overcome Satan when they put the Gospel first, even when it gets costly

Too many Christians evangelize and live like they believe Gospel has power to save only from hell, not from sin and Satan. As though Gospel only relates to destiny in next life but cannot transform people in this life. Read 1 Thess. 1:5-7

Heard July 9 of Muslim whose view of ideal, best thing possible for Muslim – die as martyr for sake of Islam, then come back so as to die again, and again. Yes, we need to live for Christ, in part so others can hear Gospel and come to faith in Christ. But remember what apostle Paul said: “For me to live is Christ”, we like that part, but he didn’t stop there – “and to die is gain”. Phil. 1:21 Not just words, “For I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.” (Phil. 1:23) If living in light of the Gospel becomes difficult or dangerous, need to keep Paul’s words in mind, also those of the Lord Jesus – “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” Mark 8:35

Task is unfinished – seeing hearts and lives transformed by power of the Gospel. Every follower of Christ is called to be participant in finishing task of spreading good news of new life in Christ. Mission field begins with person closest to you who has not responded to Gospel message in repentance and faith. And moves out from there to encircle the globe. Is a task that can only be carried out in total dependence on God with Christ as our focus. Let’s encourage one another to take up the task of reaching the lost.