January 7 – Revelation, Pergamum (pt. 1)
Revelation 2:12-17
It looks like I’m going to break this up into two days – there is just that much information to absorb! One of the things that excites me the most about these letters is the fact that we see first century word pictures that meant something to the readers along with the timeless truths that we recognize for our own lives and our church life.
Let me introduce you to the next city along the route. From Smyrna, you would travel north along the coast for 40 miles and then head inland 10 miles. This was the capital city. There was a library here that would have dropped me to my knees, holding over 200,000 volumes.
The city was built on a cone-shaped hill that stood over 1000 feet. The name in Greek means ‘citadel.’ Just at the top of the mountain was the great altar of Zeus. Worship of Zeus, ,Athena, Dionysus and Asklepios (the god of healing) occurred within Pergamum and was also the official center for the imperial cult as well.
Pergamum was the first city to receive permission to build a temple dedicated to the worship of a living ruler – Augustus, in 29 BC.
Jesus identified himself to the church in Pergamum as the one who has the sharp, double-edged sword (Rev. 2:12). This word picture would have been easily recognized by anyone in the province.
Roman officials held power that few others had. The Roman carried a sword that was different from others in the world. Orientals carried a scimitar and Greeks used a cutting sword. But, the Romans used a sword with a sharp point and double edge. It was a cut and thrust sword. This was the symbol of the highest order of authority and the Roman Proconsul (living in Pergamum, since it was the capital) had the power of life or death or ‘just gladii.’ He could execute at will.
When Jesus reminded the people that he had the sharp double-edged sword, he was reminding them that He had ultimate control over life and death.
To the people in the church, though, this was also a strong reminder that the sword of the Spirit was the Word of God. This church desperately needed to be reminded of that power. They were surrounded by religions that attacked the basic structure of their beliefs. At the highest point of the city was a tribute to Zeus.
Read on in Revelation 2. “I know where you live – where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city – where Satan lives.” (Rev. 2:13)
Satan’s throne was visible to the church of Pergamum. That high point in the city - the altar to Zeus was right there in front of them. It was an immense throne. They faced their neighbors and friends who worshiped many different gods and the emperor. Antipas was executed for his faith. He must have been an incredible man to warrant this special notice by Jesus.
They’ve been faithful … nevertheless …
January 6 - Revelation. Smyrna.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Labels:
Revelation
January 6 – Revelation. Smyrna.
Revelation 2:8-11
The second stop this missive made was another harbor city. Smyrna was an important commercial center and one of the main centers for the cult of emperor worship. Under Nero and Domitian, severe persecution of Christians existed. The city continues to exist today, though it is now known as Izmir and is one of the strongest cities in Turkey.
Word pictures were important ways to communicate. For instance, the word Smyrna is taken from the same root as ‘myrrh.’ Given to Jesus at His birth by the Magi, it is a funeral spice, used to preserve the body until it is buried. Jesus presents himself to these people as one who died and came to life (Rev. 2:8).
Smyrna called itself “First of Asia.” They even had coins minted stating that. It was a planned city, the streets and buildings highly organized. The blocks were rectangular and regular, fountains were in the city, beautiful breezes blew from the east and the west to keep it moderate – even in the summer.
The church in Smyrna was poor. They lived amid amazing wealth. Jesus assured them, though that they weren’t. The Bishop of the church in Smyrna was Polycarp. He was martyred there at the age of 86. The Jews living there called for his death and even gathered wood to burn him alive. He would have been listening to these words as they were read to the church. The Jews had completely separated themselves from the Christians by this point and encouraged persecution of this sect that had broken away from them.
Jesus’ next words would have filled them with assurance, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death and I will give you the crown of life.” (Rev. 2:10)
Smyrna was also famous for its games. The crown Jesus’ spoke of was a victor’s wreath. The city was also known as the “Crown of Smyrna” because the buildings were built up around the sides of Mt. Pagus to look like a crown. (see the word pictures?)
The ten days in this verse has been discussed over and over by scholars and there is no definitive answer for its use here. Generally it is thought to mean that there will be persecution, but it will be just for a short time. There will be an end to what they have to face.
“He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.” (Rev. 2:11)
This is another phrase that draws a lot of conclusion. It is explained more fully in Revelation 20:14-15 and Rev. 21:8. The lake of fire is the second death which is where all those that refuse to acknowledge Jesus as Savior will spend eternity.
Overcomers will never see this. The church in Smyrna faced poverty and affliction and were about to face extreme persecution. Jesus assured them He would be with them. He told them in the beginning that He had overcome death. He told them at the end that they would overcome death. He knew this church. He knows you. He will be with you as well.
Revelation 2:8-11
The second stop this missive made was another harbor city. Smyrna was an important commercial center and one of the main centers for the cult of emperor worship. Under Nero and Domitian, severe persecution of Christians existed. The city continues to exist today, though it is now known as Izmir and is one of the strongest cities in Turkey.
Word pictures were important ways to communicate. For instance, the word Smyrna is taken from the same root as ‘myrrh.’ Given to Jesus at His birth by the Magi, it is a funeral spice, used to preserve the body until it is buried. Jesus presents himself to these people as one who died and came to life (Rev. 2:8).
Smyrna called itself “First of Asia.” They even had coins minted stating that. It was a planned city, the streets and buildings highly organized. The blocks were rectangular and regular, fountains were in the city, beautiful breezes blew from the east and the west to keep it moderate – even in the summer.
The church in Smyrna was poor. They lived amid amazing wealth. Jesus assured them, though that they weren’t. The Bishop of the church in Smyrna was Polycarp. He was martyred there at the age of 86. The Jews living there called for his death and even gathered wood to burn him alive. He would have been listening to these words as they were read to the church. The Jews had completely separated themselves from the Christians by this point and encouraged persecution of this sect that had broken away from them.
Jesus’ next words would have filled them with assurance, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death and I will give you the crown of life.” (Rev. 2:10)
Smyrna was also famous for its games. The crown Jesus’ spoke of was a victor’s wreath. The city was also known as the “Crown of Smyrna” because the buildings were built up around the sides of Mt. Pagus to look like a crown. (see the word pictures?)
The ten days in this verse has been discussed over and over by scholars and there is no definitive answer for its use here. Generally it is thought to mean that there will be persecution, but it will be just for a short time. There will be an end to what they have to face.
“He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.” (Rev. 2:11)
This is another phrase that draws a lot of conclusion. It is explained more fully in Revelation 20:14-15 and Rev. 21:8. The lake of fire is the second death which is where all those that refuse to acknowledge Jesus as Savior will spend eternity.
Overcomers will never see this. The church in Smyrna faced poverty and affliction and were about to face extreme persecution. Jesus assured them He would be with them. He told them in the beginning that He had overcome death. He told them at the end that they would overcome death. He knew this church. He knows you. He will be with you as well.
January 5 - Revelation. Ephesus
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Labels:
Revelation
January 5 – Ephesus
Revelation 2:1-7
The seven letters were written to churches in major postal centers in what was called Asia Minor. We would recognize this location as southwestern Turkey. Many of the cities are still recognizable today.
The first verse tells us who the letter is from. “These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.” (Rev. 2:1)
Be assured that Jesus is present among His congregations. No matter what is occuring in your church, Jesus is there. You may not invite Him to participate, but He is most definitely there, waiting to be asked. As He walks among the churches, He is hoping to touch you, to reach you, to get your attention.
The church in Ephesus received good words from Jesus, “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name and have not grown weary.” (Rev. 2:2-3)
The first mention of Ephesus is in Acts 18:19-20:38. Paul left Priscilla and Aquila to build a church there. When he returned, he performed miracles and brought many to Christ. When he wrote the first letter to the Corinthians, he was with Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus. It is believed that John and Jesus’ mother, Mary moved to Ephesus several years after Jesus’ resurrection. There are churches that exist there now that are located where those two lived during the first century.
Ephesus was a wealthy city. It was the only home of Diana (Roman name) or Artemis (Greek name), the goddess of the hunt. (Acts 19:24) The temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The floor of the temple and one pillar remain to this day. The city also began emperor worship with a temple to Julius Caesar, transferring its loyalty to each emperor in turn.
The church in Ephesus was a mature church. If you spend time in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, you will discover that because the church existed in a city filled with heathen temples, Paul called the people to put on the whole armor of God. These people had learned what it meant to live in the world and they were strong.
Yet, Jesus had something important to say to them, “Yet I hold this against you. You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.” (Rev. 2:4-5)
They were so concerned with being strong Christians and standing against the enemy, they had completely forgotten how to love Jesus. They weren’t excited about Him, they were just focused on the work they thought they needed to do. This is not the type of Christian that Jesus wants in His church.
Who are the Nicolaitans? (Rev. 2:6) Well, there is actually no history of them and they no longer exist. We’ll look at this a little more closely when we get to Pergamum.
To the overcomers, Jesus gives the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in th e paradise of God. (Rev. 2:7)
The first time we see this tree is in Genesis 2:9. It is in the garden along with the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Adam wasn’t told to refrain from eating from the tree of life, but once they ate from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they couldn’t be allowed to live forever. So, they were banished.
But, when we get to Revelation 22:2, we find that in Paradise, the tree of life bears great fruit and there is no longer any curse. We are invited to finally eat from that tree.
The word ‘paradise’ comes from the word ‘Paradeios’ derived from a Persian word describing a pleasure garden and park with wild animals built for Persian monarchs.
God placed Adam and Eve in that garden. They were banished for their sin. Jesus promises the overcomer a place in Paradise – the garden – where we will be invited to finally eat from the tree of life.
We just have to overcome.
Revelation 2:1-7
The seven letters were written to churches in major postal centers in what was called Asia Minor. We would recognize this location as southwestern Turkey. Many of the cities are still recognizable today.
The first verse tells us who the letter is from. “These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands.” (Rev. 2:1)
Be assured that Jesus is present among His congregations. No matter what is occuring in your church, Jesus is there. You may not invite Him to participate, but He is most definitely there, waiting to be asked. As He walks among the churches, He is hoping to touch you, to reach you, to get your attention.
The church in Ephesus received good words from Jesus, “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name and have not grown weary.” (Rev. 2:2-3)
The first mention of Ephesus is in Acts 18:19-20:38. Paul left Priscilla and Aquila to build a church there. When he returned, he performed miracles and brought many to Christ. When he wrote the first letter to the Corinthians, he was with Priscilla and Aquila in Ephesus. It is believed that John and Jesus’ mother, Mary moved to Ephesus several years after Jesus’ resurrection. There are churches that exist there now that are located where those two lived during the first century.
Ephesus was a wealthy city. It was the only home of Diana (Roman name) or Artemis (Greek name), the goddess of the hunt. (Acts 19:24) The temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The floor of the temple and one pillar remain to this day. The city also began emperor worship with a temple to Julius Caesar, transferring its loyalty to each emperor in turn.
The church in Ephesus was a mature church. If you spend time in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, you will discover that because the church existed in a city filled with heathen temples, Paul called the people to put on the whole armor of God. These people had learned what it meant to live in the world and they were strong.
Yet, Jesus had something important to say to them, “Yet I hold this against you. You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.” (Rev. 2:4-5)
They were so concerned with being strong Christians and standing against the enemy, they had completely forgotten how to love Jesus. They weren’t excited about Him, they were just focused on the work they thought they needed to do. This is not the type of Christian that Jesus wants in His church.
Who are the Nicolaitans? (Rev. 2:6) Well, there is actually no history of them and they no longer exist. We’ll look at this a little more closely when we get to Pergamum.
To the overcomers, Jesus gives the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in th e paradise of God. (Rev. 2:7)
The first time we see this tree is in Genesis 2:9. It is in the garden along with the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Adam wasn’t told to refrain from eating from the tree of life, but once they ate from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they couldn’t be allowed to live forever. So, they were banished.
But, when we get to Revelation 22:2, we find that in Paradise, the tree of life bears great fruit and there is no longer any curse. We are invited to finally eat from that tree.
The word ‘paradise’ comes from the word ‘Paradeios’ derived from a Persian word describing a pleasure garden and park with wild animals built for Persian monarchs.
God placed Adam and Eve in that garden. They were banished for their sin. Jesus promises the overcomer a place in Paradise – the garden – where we will be invited to finally eat from the tree of life.
We just have to overcome.
January 4 - Revelation. Seven Churches
Monday, January 4, 2010
Labels:
Revelation
January 4 – Seven Churches
Revelation 2-3
Before we dive into the problems and celebrations of the individual churches, I want to spend today looking at the format of these letters. Jesus didn’t use the standard format for a letter, which in the New Testament was: the author and reader are named, a formal greeting, a prayer, the message, a conclusion. He didn’t take the time for all of that formality.
Each letter in the Revelation begins with the characteristic of the sender (Jesus). There are then compliments to the recipient, a criticism of the recipient, a command and then a commitment to all who overcome.
The churches each had something to face and are representative of the church today. I see bits and pieces of these in every church in which I’ve ever been active. Though they were written to each church, this letter made its rounds to all seven. In fact, since each church would have been a postal center, they would have gone out to the smaller congregations in the communities surrounding these centers. Everyone saw the commands from Jesus.
The letters each begin by saying, “To the angel of the church in …” Some scholars believe he is writing to the church leader and calling that person an angel. Others believe this is proof that an angel from God protects the church. It doesn’t really matter what you believe. The Greek word used here is “aggelos” (pronounced ang’-el-os with a hard g). The definition is: a messenger, an envoy, one who is sent, an angel, a messenger from God. These words are to be delivered and transmitted to the people of God.
The other common phrase to each letter is found first in Revelation 2:7, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Jesus used these words before. In Matthew 13:9, he reminds the people that it is their responsibility to hear and understand the message He just taught in a parable. The same phrase is used again in Matthew 13:43, Mark 4:9, 23 and in Luke 8:8 and Luke 14:35. It is the responsibility of the church to hear and understand what is being said to them.
The word that is used here is “akaouo.” It means more than just hearing. It means to hear as a lesson is being taught, to understand and perceive what is being said. It means much more than just, “Listen to me.” It means, “Comprehend what I am telling you. This is a lesson you need to learn.”
As we explore the letters to each church, God intends that these lessons be learned. This is the last chance He will take to get these messages into His canon of the Bible. It is time to pay attention.
Revelation 2-3
Before we dive into the problems and celebrations of the individual churches, I want to spend today looking at the format of these letters. Jesus didn’t use the standard format for a letter, which in the New Testament was: the author and reader are named, a formal greeting, a prayer, the message, a conclusion. He didn’t take the time for all of that formality.
Each letter in the Revelation begins with the characteristic of the sender (Jesus). There are then compliments to the recipient, a criticism of the recipient, a command and then a commitment to all who overcome.
The churches each had something to face and are representative of the church today. I see bits and pieces of these in every church in which I’ve ever been active. Though they were written to each church, this letter made its rounds to all seven. In fact, since each church would have been a postal center, they would have gone out to the smaller congregations in the communities surrounding these centers. Everyone saw the commands from Jesus.
The letters each begin by saying, “To the angel of the church in …” Some scholars believe he is writing to the church leader and calling that person an angel. Others believe this is proof that an angel from God protects the church. It doesn’t really matter what you believe. The Greek word used here is “aggelos” (pronounced ang’-el-os with a hard g). The definition is: a messenger, an envoy, one who is sent, an angel, a messenger from God. These words are to be delivered and transmitted to the people of God.
The other common phrase to each letter is found first in Revelation 2:7, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Jesus used these words before. In Matthew 13:9, he reminds the people that it is their responsibility to hear and understand the message He just taught in a parable. The same phrase is used again in Matthew 13:43, Mark 4:9, 23 and in Luke 8:8 and Luke 14:35. It is the responsibility of the church to hear and understand what is being said to them.
The word that is used here is “akaouo.” It means more than just hearing. It means to hear as a lesson is being taught, to understand and perceive what is being said. It means much more than just, “Listen to me.” It means, “Comprehend what I am telling you. This is a lesson you need to learn.”
As we explore the letters to each church, God intends that these lessons be learned. This is the last chance He will take to get these messages into His canon of the Bible. It is time to pay attention.
January 3 - Revelation. I See Jesus! (pt. 2)
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Labels:
Revelation
January 3 – Revelation. I See Jesus! (pt. 2)
Revelation 1:12-16
We will finish with the description of Jesus today. One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Revelation 1. After years of thinking he would never see his friend face to face, John stands before Him one more time. John is nearly overwhelmed by what he sees, but he is able to transmit the information so that we can all be a part of his vision.
- Feet like bronze, voice like the sound of rushing waters.
From Micah 4:13, “Rise and thresh, O Daughter of Zion, for I will give you horns of iron; I will give you hoofs of bronze and you will break to pieces many nations.”
Jesus comes with great power to break apart nations who refuse to submit to Him.
In Ezekiel 43:2 we read, “I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with his glory.”
The voice of Jesus rises above the noise of our every day lives with a sound like rushing water.
- He held seven stars. A sharp double-edged sword came from his mouth. His face was like the sun.
The seven stars are explained in Revelation 1:20 as the angels of the seven churches, while the lampstands are the churches themselves. That they seven stars are in his right hand means that they are in his protection.
In Hebrews 4:12 we read, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
I grew up with parents that differed in their manner of punishment. Dad had grown up in a large family, punishment was swift and harsh while mom grew up as an only child and was terribly spoiled. The two of them compromised when it came to blending their methods for raising children. Dad would insist on strong punishment, but mom managed to temper it to fit the deed and the need of the child.
This is what Jesus did. He is the tempering force of God’s punishment. The sharp sword of truth must be used, but it is always tempered by the reality of the Lamb’s sacrificial love.
- His face was like the sun.
When Moses met with God in Exodus 34:29-30, he came away from that experience with a radiant face. He had to put a veil over his face because it shone so brightly. He frightened the Israelites!
1 John 1:5 says, “God is light, in him there is no darkness at all.” The light from God’s presence is strong. Moses’ face radiated that light when he left God’s presence. Jesus is continually in the Father’s presence and His face will always shine.
After John finishes describing what he saw, he tells us that he fell down as though he were dead. But, his friend – the man he had spent 3 very important years with and whose teaching he had shared with the world, reached to touch him and to say, “Do not be afraid.”
The power of God is in our Messiah’s hands. He brings judgment, He shines with the light from God’s throne. Yet, He is our Savior and with a touch of the hand, He assures us – Do not be afraid.
Revelation 1:12-16
We will finish with the description of Jesus today. One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Revelation 1. After years of thinking he would never see his friend face to face, John stands before Him one more time. John is nearly overwhelmed by what he sees, but he is able to transmit the information so that we can all be a part of his vision.
- Feet like bronze, voice like the sound of rushing waters.
From Micah 4:13, “Rise and thresh, O Daughter of Zion, for I will give you horns of iron; I will give you hoofs of bronze and you will break to pieces many nations.”
Jesus comes with great power to break apart nations who refuse to submit to Him.
In Ezekiel 43:2 we read, “I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with his glory.”
The voice of Jesus rises above the noise of our every day lives with a sound like rushing water.
- He held seven stars. A sharp double-edged sword came from his mouth. His face was like the sun.
The seven stars are explained in Revelation 1:20 as the angels of the seven churches, while the lampstands are the churches themselves. That they seven stars are in his right hand means that they are in his protection.
In Hebrews 4:12 we read, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
I grew up with parents that differed in their manner of punishment. Dad had grown up in a large family, punishment was swift and harsh while mom grew up as an only child and was terribly spoiled. The two of them compromised when it came to blending their methods for raising children. Dad would insist on strong punishment, but mom managed to temper it to fit the deed and the need of the child.
This is what Jesus did. He is the tempering force of God’s punishment. The sharp sword of truth must be used, but it is always tempered by the reality of the Lamb’s sacrificial love.
- His face was like the sun.
When Moses met with God in Exodus 34:29-30, he came away from that experience with a radiant face. He had to put a veil over his face because it shone so brightly. He frightened the Israelites!
1 John 1:5 says, “God is light, in him there is no darkness at all.” The light from God’s presence is strong. Moses’ face radiated that light when he left God’s presence. Jesus is continually in the Father’s presence and His face will always shine.
After John finishes describing what he saw, he tells us that he fell down as though he were dead. But, his friend – the man he had spent 3 very important years with and whose teaching he had shared with the world, reached to touch him and to say, “Do not be afraid.”
The power of God is in our Messiah’s hands. He brings judgment, He shines with the light from God’s throne. Yet, He is our Savior and with a touch of the hand, He assures us – Do not be afraid.
January 2 - Revelation. I See Jesus! (pt. 1)
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Labels:
Revelation
January 2 – Revelation – I See Jesus! (pt. 1)
“On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, which said: ‘Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.’ I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me.” (Revelation 1:10-12a)
John hadn’t seen Jesus in many years. Yet, when the voice spoke to him, the first thing he did in response was to turn around to see who was there.
I found a cassette of one of my mother’s sermons and Max ripped it to the computer so that I could listen to her voice again. After 20+ years, I remembered that voice. It was a powerful link to my memories of her, of all that she taught me. Can you imagine how John must have reacted when he heard the voice of the man who had transformed his life?
What did John see? These next verses are exciting to me (Revelation 1:12-16). They’re very symbolic lead into the seven letters that come in Revelation 2-3.
- Seven Golden Lampstands.
In Exodus 25:31, God gave Moses instructions to make the original lampstand for the Tabernacle. Its purpose was to light the room. There were seven of these and they were all lit. The illumination had to have been staggering.
- Dressed in a long robe with a golden sash.
We find the description for the priestly robes in Exodus 28:31 and in Exodus 28:39, we read that the sash is to be the work of an embroiderer.
In Luke 8:43-48 a woman touched the hem of Jesus’ robe and received healing. He carried so much power that it flowed through his clothing.
- Head and hair were white like wool, white as snow. Eyes like blazing fire.
John knew that passages like this would resonate with his readers. They would immediately recognize the Isaiah passage:
“Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” (Isaiah 1:18)
Forgiveness and sacrifice all wrapped up in one sentence. Jesus Christ stands as the Lamb of God.
In Daniel 7:9, we find the same words used here, “As I looked, thrones were set in place and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool.”
In Daniel 10:6, he had a vision of a man. “His body was like chrysolite, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude.”
Before we finish with this, Deuteronomy 4:24 says, “For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.”
His eyes burn like flaming torches. He desires that no one else have our hearts except Himself.
We will finish with the description of Jesus tomorrow. But, today, spend time reading the first chapter of Revelation. Nearly every strange image comes from scripture. These brought comfort to the first century church. Their Messiah would return. Our Messiah will return.
“On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, which said: ‘Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.’ I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me.” (Revelation 1:10-12a)
John hadn’t seen Jesus in many years. Yet, when the voice spoke to him, the first thing he did in response was to turn around to see who was there.
I found a cassette of one of my mother’s sermons and Max ripped it to the computer so that I could listen to her voice again. After 20+ years, I remembered that voice. It was a powerful link to my memories of her, of all that she taught me. Can you imagine how John must have reacted when he heard the voice of the man who had transformed his life?
What did John see? These next verses are exciting to me (Revelation 1:12-16). They’re very symbolic lead into the seven letters that come in Revelation 2-3.
- Seven Golden Lampstands.
In Exodus 25:31, God gave Moses instructions to make the original lampstand for the Tabernacle. Its purpose was to light the room. There were seven of these and they were all lit. The illumination had to have been staggering.
- Dressed in a long robe with a golden sash.
We find the description for the priestly robes in Exodus 28:31 and in Exodus 28:39, we read that the sash is to be the work of an embroiderer.
In Luke 8:43-48 a woman touched the hem of Jesus’ robe and received healing. He carried so much power that it flowed through his clothing.
- Head and hair were white like wool, white as snow. Eyes like blazing fire.
John knew that passages like this would resonate with his readers. They would immediately recognize the Isaiah passage:
“Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” (Isaiah 1:18)
Forgiveness and sacrifice all wrapped up in one sentence. Jesus Christ stands as the Lamb of God.
In Daniel 7:9, we find the same words used here, “As I looked, thrones were set in place and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool.”
In Daniel 10:6, he had a vision of a man. “His body was like chrysolite, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude.”
Before we finish with this, Deuteronomy 4:24 says, “For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.”
His eyes burn like flaming torches. He desires that no one else have our hearts except Himself.
We will finish with the description of Jesus tomorrow. But, today, spend time reading the first chapter of Revelation. Nearly every strange image comes from scripture. These brought comfort to the first century church. Their Messiah would return. Our Messiah will return.
January 1 - Revelation, Names of Jesus, pt. 2
Friday, January 1, 2010
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Revelation
January 1 – Revelation. Names of Jesus, pt. 2
There are a few more names that identify Jesus in Revelation 1.
Son of Man. (Revelation 1:13)
Jesus came into the world as a human being. He was God – made man. We are comfortable with this knowledge. We read throughout the Gospels that Jesus was the Son of God and the Son of Man. But, what exactly does this mean?
Yes, it means that he was born of a woman and lived a life among humanity. But, to the early Christians it meant even more than that.
Daniel 7:13-14 says, “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
Exactly! It is Jesus. He had to suffer and die. Isaiah and Zechariah prophesy about this as well. Daniel says that he would be given authority, glory and sovereign power. Everyone would worship him. And his kingdom would be everlasting, it will never pass away and never be destroyed.
This verse in Revelation shows the fulfillment of that prophecy. Daniel also said that the one like a son of man would come with the clouds of heaven. Revelation 1:7 fulfills that portion as well.
In Luke 21:27-28, we find that we have a response to His coming in the clouds. We are to Stand up! Lift up our heads! Our redemption draws near.
The First and Last. (Revelation 1:17)
Jesus says he is the first and last – the Alpha and Omega. These actually mean different things. First and last are measurements of time while Alpha and Omega encompass everything. The Greek for first is ‘protos’ (like prototype) and the Greek for last is ‘eschatos.’ The study of end times is called eschatology. It is the finality of time as we know it.
The Living One. (Revelation 1:18)
In Greek, the word that is used for ‘living’ is the same that is used for ‘alive’ just a few words later in the sentence. The word is ‘zao’ and it means to enjoy real life. Not just plain and ordinary life, but real life. It also means to live, breathe and be among the living. In other words, Jesus is alive and living among us.
In John 4:1-26 we find the story of the Samaritan woman at the well. The verses I want to specifically look at are found in John 4:10-14.
“If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”
The word for ‘living’ here is also ‘zao.’ Really alive! Jesus promised that the living water would well up to eternal life.
John 7:38, “If a man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.”
There is so much more to the words of Jesus than we read in the English language. Zao! Really alive! That is the water that flows from us when we believe in Jesus.
But the story is just beginning. In Revelation 22, we find the river of water flowing from the throne of God and of the lamb. Talk about living water. This will bring healing for the nations.
The curse is lifted, the water is healing and we will see his face.
The names that identify Jesus are filled with symbolism. It is exciting to me to see how He reveals Himself to us.
There are a few more names that identify Jesus in Revelation 1.
Son of Man. (Revelation 1:13)
Jesus came into the world as a human being. He was God – made man. We are comfortable with this knowledge. We read throughout the Gospels that Jesus was the Son of God and the Son of Man. But, what exactly does this mean?
Yes, it means that he was born of a woman and lived a life among humanity. But, to the early Christians it meant even more than that.
Daniel 7:13-14 says, “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
Exactly! It is Jesus. He had to suffer and die. Isaiah and Zechariah prophesy about this as well. Daniel says that he would be given authority, glory and sovereign power. Everyone would worship him. And his kingdom would be everlasting, it will never pass away and never be destroyed.
This verse in Revelation shows the fulfillment of that prophecy. Daniel also said that the one like a son of man would come with the clouds of heaven. Revelation 1:7 fulfills that portion as well.
In Luke 21:27-28, we find that we have a response to His coming in the clouds. We are to Stand up! Lift up our heads! Our redemption draws near.
The First and Last. (Revelation 1:17)
Jesus says he is the first and last – the Alpha and Omega. These actually mean different things. First and last are measurements of time while Alpha and Omega encompass everything. The Greek for first is ‘protos’ (like prototype) and the Greek for last is ‘eschatos.’ The study of end times is called eschatology. It is the finality of time as we know it.
The Living One. (Revelation 1:18)
In Greek, the word that is used for ‘living’ is the same that is used for ‘alive’ just a few words later in the sentence. The word is ‘zao’ and it means to enjoy real life. Not just plain and ordinary life, but real life. It also means to live, breathe and be among the living. In other words, Jesus is alive and living among us.
In John 4:1-26 we find the story of the Samaritan woman at the well. The verses I want to specifically look at are found in John 4:10-14.
“If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”
The word for ‘living’ here is also ‘zao.’ Really alive! Jesus promised that the living water would well up to eternal life.
John 7:38, “If a man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.”
There is so much more to the words of Jesus than we read in the English language. Zao! Really alive! That is the water that flows from us when we believe in Jesus.
But the story is just beginning. In Revelation 22, we find the river of water flowing from the throne of God and of the lamb. Talk about living water. This will bring healing for the nations.
The curse is lifted, the water is healing and we will see his face.
The names that identify Jesus are filled with symbolism. It is exciting to me to see how He reveals Himself to us.
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